Marching Band, Practicing, and...Popcorn?

Dear Parents,

That's right! All three of these things relate to your student's week in band.  More on the third item later, but first: some reminders about practicing and marching band, a heads-up on our first playing test, and some class updates.

PRACTICING
On Friday, students submitted their first practice log of the school year. Although many students did well, a few students did not practice or did not accomplish many of their goals for the week. One of the most common mistakes is simply mis-reading the chart.  Each day, students are asked to accomplish 5-6 goals. We don't have a daily time requirement like many other schools. This is because each student has different needs, and it allows them the flexibility to do what it takes. On day 1 for example, students will look to the left to see what the item (practice element) is for the week, then read down the column to see how the goal should be accomplished. This means that each day has a total of 5 possible goals. If they practice each day of the week, they will earn a total of 35 goals, or "boxes" to enter into their weekly practice log (done in class). If they're stuck, all they have to do is use a "practice strategy" at the bottom of the page to help them through the rough spots.

If your student is still stuck, or they just want to practice during the school day, I'm open during my lunch. I also hold open practice sessions after school. This week, I'm offering it on Wednesday until 4:00 PM.

MARCHING BAND
Marching Band had a successful and productive first rehearsal last Tuesday, with many students showing up to try it out.  This Tuesday is once again open to all interested students who would like to try out. Concert Band and Intermediate Band students will play the parade piece passed out last week, and results will be posted after school.

• September 11, 2:30-4:30* Tryouts for those not in Advanced Band.
• September 18, 2:30-4:30
• September 25, 2:30-4:30
• October 2, 2:30-4:30
• October 9, 2:30-4:30
• October 16, 2:30-4:30
• October 20, 9:00-4:00: Rehearsal and barbecue reward party.
• October 23, 2:30-4:30
• October 27: Nevada Day Parade
• October 30, 2:30-4:30
• November 6, 2:30-4:30
• November 11: Veterans Day Parade
• November 13, 2:30-4:30
• November 27, 2:30-4:30
• December 1: Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade

CLASS UPDATES
Jazz Band has received their method books, as well as their second song. They also received their first practice chart on Friday. We are also looking for two more trombone players, 1 tenor sax player, and 1 guitarist. 

Advanced Band can play through their first festival selection, as well as their marching band song. As a matter of fact, I'm going to rewrite American Spirit March because the song is too easy for them! They're going to spend additional time this week on their hardest song.

Concert Band is relearning how to sit with a great posture, make their best tone, breathe correctly, read music, and practice.  Phew! Do you see why music students are some of the best students?

Intermediate Band has begun working on the parade song. Even though they will not all be marching in the parade, they will all be performing this song at a special in-school assembly.

Beginning Bands can play their first note and now, they're learning how to read music. This week, they will learn how to play their first three notes.

PLAYING TESTS
This week, students will take their first playing test. Since it is their first one, I will have them volunteer to play on their "block" day, and we will finish up with everyone else on Friday or Monday next week. Playing tests are worth 100 points, and I score them on tone quality, note accuracy, rhythm accuracy, articulations, dynamics, and tempo. Students are always welcome to retake these tests at lunch or after school when I'm open.  Here's what each class will be doing:

Jazz Band: Improvised solo using blues scale
Advanced Band: American Spirit March
Intermediate Band: #21 (chromatic scale)
Concert Band: #22 (first five note review)
Beginning Bands: First three notes

POPCORN
On Friday, our students will begin a popcorn fundraiser that will benefit the entire band program. I will share more information once we get through the week. The proceeds from this fundraiser will go towards much-need storage and instruments for the students as our program continues to grow. Have a great week!

-Nick Jacques-