Giving Thanks...

Dear Parents,

This week, I have been reminding all students in all ensembles how thankful I am to have them in my classes.  I have been pushing your student to be their best, not only in how they play, but in terms of teamwork, camaraderie, leadership, time-management, integrity, and respect. I am pleased to say that each of these ensembles has become more than just a class; they are now a community  Your kids are truly amazing, and the results you'll hear in the next month will showcase exactly that.  I'm so thankful for this wonderful job, amazing kids, and very supportive parents.

Honor Band Results
Every year during this time, we have honor band auditions and the results are in. 17 students from CMS were invited to join the honor band!  1/4 of the Advanced Band made it into this group, as well as 3 members from Intermediate Band, 1 from Concert Band, and believe it or not, 1 from Beginning Band!  This year, out of all area middle schools, CMS has the most students participating in the Northern Zone Honor Band!

We have four events coming up that will involve all performing groups.  Please note that these events are mandatory for the performing groups involved.

December 1: Empty Bowls fundraiser - Part of the tree lighting festivities
This event features the Advanced Band as they perform Christmas music at City Hall as part of the Empty Bowls fundraiser.  We will rehearse after school until 5 PM, be fed at City Hall from 5:15-6:00, watch the tree lighting together, and perform from approximately 6:15-6:45 PM.  I encourage students to wear an ugly Christmas sweater, decorate their instruments, and HAVE FUN!

December 2: Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade
This event features Intermediate Band and Advanced Band.  Call time for students is 9:00 AM in the band room.  The parade begins at 1 PM on Victorian Ave. in Sparks.  Following the parade, students will be given time to explore Meadowood Mall before returning to CMS by approximately 5 PM.  Sign up here to help out!

December 11, 13, 15: Elementary School Winter Assembly Tour
On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, Advanced Band will visit the area elementary schools to perform a concert for all students and staff. These visits will take place during Advanced Band's rehearsal time. Let me know if you're available mid-morning on these days and you'd like to chaperone.

December 19: Winter Concert
This concert features all performing groups: Beginning Band, Concert Band, Intermediate Band, Advanced Band, Jazz Band, and Handbells.  Call time is 5:30 PM for Advanced Strings  and 6:00 PM for everybody else at the Carson City Community Center.  The concert begins at 6:00 PM and should end by 8:00 PM.  I'll have a signup posted after our parent meeting.

*Your Jazz Band, Intermediate Band, and Advanced Band students will be fitted into their concert dress that includes tuxedo shirts, black dress pants, cummerbund, and bow tie within the next 2 weeks. This uniform will be allowed to go home.

Practice Logs
All students have their new practice charts with what needs to be looked over during the break. This is a great time of the year for your student to perform for families that may be coming in from out of town.  Encourage them to show off their winter concert music and give everyone in the family something else to be thankful for!

After School Rehearsals
There is one more marching band rehearsal.  We will be continuing the Tuesday rehearsal tradition for the Advanced Band to help them prepare for the winter assemblies.

November 21: Advanced Band Rehearsal, 2:30-4:30 PM
November 28: Marching Band Rehearsal, 2:30-4:30 PM
December 1: Advanced Band Rehearsal, 2:30-5:00 PM (leads directly into dinner/performance that night)
December 5: Advanced Band Rehearsal, 2:30-4:30 PM


It's time for the holiday season.  I look forward to a fun and festive few weeks.  Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Mr. Jacques