Friday is upon us and that means one thing: another update! After a short week of classes, here's how each group is doing:
Jazz Band finished learning their 4th...yes, 4th song! Next Friday, we will perform our first montly Jazz in the Commons performance from 7:20-7:40 AM. Feel free to come listen/watch this powerhouse of an ensemble. They will not disappoint!
Intermediate Band continues to work on fundamentals. They're beginning to sound like a band! We're starting our work on our parade song and they are eager to get outside and march.
Beginning Bands can now play their first note and read whole notes, quarter notes, and rests. Keep reminding them about how to practice correctly. This is the most critical point in their music education. If they practice well, it will set them up to be outstanding musicians.
Concert Band is a wonderful group of curious 6th graders who have such great questions. We're working together to improve their musical foundation and they are with me every step of the way. I helped them with practice techniques, note names, and rhythms this week and they received their first sheet music.
Advanced Band is memorizing the parade piece and beginning work on their honor band audition music. We have practiced sight reading by trying out music that I have planned for the fall concert, Band-O-Rama, and our spring festival season. This band will blow you away when you hear them!
Practicing
Students in each class will have weekly playing tests. Practicing at home ensures their success. It's expected that they take their instruments home whenever possible (preferably daily), have their music out with their practice log right next to it, and go through all the goals for each day. Our mission is for them to always learn our parts at home so they can learn how everything fits together during class.
If you haven't heard music at home yet, please ask your student how practicing works. I also encourage you to take a minute, sit down with your student, and ask them what they need to practice this week. Ask them to show you their music, how their instrument works, and how practicing works. Even if you know nothing about music, let them teach you. If they can explain it, they're well on their way to having a solid foundation for a great year!
Also on Fridays, we'll have in-class playing tests. They will play an excerpt from what they've practiced over the week and I will score them on certain goals (correct notes, rhythm, articulations, dynamics, etc). The better they are at practicing, the better they'll do on their in-class tests, and the better they'll be as a band. All students are always welcome to come in and redo a playing test for a higher grade.
I will also be open after school most Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays for any students who want extra help from me. I'll pull out an instrument and play alongside them, help them practice, and encourage them to always improve.
Upcoming Rehearsals/Events
September 13: Percussion Workshop, 2:30-4:00 PM (those trying out for Advanced Band will audition from 4:00-4:30)
September 20: Marching Band Rehearsal, 2:30-4:30 PM (Intermediate and Advanced Band; optional for Concert Band)
September 24: Car Wash Fundraiser at Grocery Outlet, 9 AM-1 PM.
That is all for this week!
-Mr. Jacques-
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