Hittin' the Ground Running

Dear Parents,

We're back!  Did you miss us?  It's time to begin the second half our students' music education with a few reminders and yes, even a couple events.  Also included is a new segment: "What Should Your Student Practice?"

After going to the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, I had a lot to share with the students, and this first week back gave me a chance to share stories and introduce new warm-ups.  I was also reminded through numerous speakers at the clinic that the #1 indicator of student success is how well they practice these skills at home.  Yes, practicing.  This simple, sometimes loathsome task has such an influence on their growth as musicians.  Parents, I appreciate everything you do at home to help your students succeed in their music education.  Your support never goes unnoticed.

Upcoming Events

January 24: Jazz Workshop, 9 AM-1 PM, CMS.  This event is sponsored by the Mile High Jazz Band and features clinics from three guests jazz educators in our area: David Bugli, Larry Engstrom, and Lee Warner.  This event is mandatory for jazz band.  Anyone else interested in jazz should also attend.  The event is completely free

January 27: Jazz Extravaganza, 7:00-9:00 PM, Community Center.  This event features the Mile High Jazz Band, Carson High School Jazz Band, and the CMS Jazz Band, all under one roof.  This event is mandatory for jazz band.  Call time, concert dress, and other details will be discussed shortly.

February 5-6: Honor Band, All Day in Fallon.  All honor band students will need to be at CMS by 7:00 AM both mornings for the bus.  We will rehearse in Fallon all day that Thursday, arriving back home by 5 PM.  On Friday, students will stay in Fallon all day, with the concert at 7 PM.

February 7: Jazz in the Schools Festival, 10 AM-4 PM, UNR.  Jazz Band students will be performing at UNR with other Northern Nevada middle and high school jazz bands.  Following their performance, they will have a feedback clinic/workshop.  This event is mandatory for jazz band.

February 26: Band-O-Rama, Details TBD.

March TBD: Chili Bingo Night - I am attending the PTA meeting this week to get more information, which I will pass on to you shortly.


What Should Your Student Practice?

Concert Band: Dramatico, Imperium, Band-O-Rama, Sound Innovations #133-144
Intermediate Band: Lip Benders 3-4, Rhythm Chunks, Festivo
Advanced Band: Festivo, Whale Warriors, Band-O-Rama
Advanced Strings: Janie Be Good, Fantasia 2000
Beginning Band: Dramatico, Imperium, Band-O-Rama, Sound Innovations #89-99
Beginning Strings: Abigail's Tune, Classic Bits and Pieces
Jazz Band: Manteca, All Blues, Go Tell It On The Mountain

As we progress on these pieces, I will start to include specific measures and sections of each song in each ensemble as focal points.  In addition to telling them in class, I will post those here.

Have a great week!