Being Thankful...

Dear Parents,

This week, I'm 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.

PRACTICING OVER BREAK
Students must take home their instruments on Tuesday.  Their video practice log will be due on Sunday, November 25. Directions are posted on their Google Classrooms.  They are also encouraged to play for families during the break. Whether you're visiting them or they're visiting you, be sure your student prepares to play some of their music to relatives.  What they do brings joy to so many people, so ask them to share that with everyone they can.  To help encourage practicing at home, here's a funny video taken from the instrument's perspective: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3d0f8GoQhY

HONOR BAND AUDITIONS
Tuesday, November 20 is the last day for your student to sign up to audition for honor band. Auditions will begin on Monday, November 26 and continue throughout the week. Results will be posted during the first week of December. I encourage every student to take home the music, prepare it, and try out for this wonderful opportunity.

CLASS UPDATES
Beginning Bands have been working on Name That Christmas Carol. They also learned how to play with dynamics (loud versus soft) and began working on eighth notes.
Concert Band began working on their first song for the winter concert: Chopsticks for Christmas. Students who have not retested for an 80% or higher will receive music on Tuesday so they can begin practicing it over winter break.  Students who have not scored 80% or higher will have a chance each day at lunch and during class to practice, retake the test, and show me that they are ready for this more advanced music.
Intermediate Band received their 3rd song for the winter concert and is almost ready to perform 2 of their pieces if the concert was to be held this week!  They are becoming a solid band with a well-balanced sound.
Advanced Band has their 4 winter concert songs that are almost ready to perform if the winter concert was to be held this week! They are now ready for their other songs that will be included for their performances at elementary schools, the Empty Bowls fundraiser, and our school assembly.
Jazz Band has been doing a wonderful job on their 3 songs, including their more ambitious piece: A Chili Pepper Christmas. They will be performing these new songs at the next Jazz in the Commons on Friday, November 30.
Marching Band is one rehearsal away from marching through their new parade song from memory. We have a marching rehearsal on Tuesday from 2:30-4:00 PM. 

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Between Marching Band, honor band auditions, and upcoming winter performances, we have a complex schedule. Please read below and mark the dates that apply to your student.
November 20: Marching Band, 2:30-4:00
November 26-29: Honor Band auditions (students have signed up for a time in the band room)
November 27: Marching Band, 2:30-4:00
December 4: Advanced Band, 2:30-4:30
December 11: Concert Band, 2:30-4:30

UPCOMING EVENTS
November 30: Jazz in the Commons (Jazz Band)
December 1: Sparks Christmas Parade (Marching Band)
December 5: Fremont Elementary School Performance (Advanced Band)
December 7: Empty Bowls Fundraiser Performance (Advanced Band)
December 12: Mark Twain Elementary School Performance (Advanced Band)
December 18: Winter Concert in gym (ALL ENSEMBLES)
December 19: Bordewich Bray Elementary School Performance (Advanced Band)
December 20: Fritsch Elementary School Performance (Advanced Band)
December 21: Jazz in the Commons (Jazz Band)

Winter Concert reminder
The winter concert is on December 18 and begins at 6:00 PM in the CMS Gym.  Be sure you save the date for this event, which is mandatory for all students in all groups. This event will also include a bake sale. Students may decorate their instruments or wear holiday-themed hats, and the entire evening is a lot of fun.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving week!

-Mr. Jacques-