The Fundamentals

Dear Parents,

Week 1 has come and gone, and in any band program, the first week is filled with excitement, enthusiasm, and anticipation of the incredible memories that we will make throughout the rest of the year. This week was also filled with the logistical side of life as a music teacher: collecting payments and contracts, renting instruments, issuing concert attire, assigning lockers, and distributing music folders. With week 2 underway, it's on to the fun part: making music!  Here are a few reminders and announcements as we move into our next phase: making music.

Handbook Agreement Form
Be sure you and your student have read through the Band Handbook located at the top of this page and filled out the Handbook Agreement Form, due Friday, August 30.

Band Fees
Thank you to everyone who has paid their band fees. All band fees are due on Friday, August 30.  If you are on a monthly payment plan or need financial assistance, speak with Mr. Jacques to discuss a method that works best for you and your family.

Band Shirts and Polos
Due to our overwhelmingly high numbers of students in band, several sizes of polos and t-shirts are out-of-stock. We will be purchasing more of these and they will be back in stock by the middle of September.

MUSIC ACTIVITIES

Percussion Workshop on August 27
On Tuesday, I will have a percussion workshop from 2:30-4:00 PM. This workshop is for all percussionists and will include a review of fundamentals, what items they need to be a successful percussionist, and for those participating in marching band, a chance to try the marching instruments.

Marching Band
On Tuesday, September 3, all students with at least 1 year of experience on their instrument are invited to try out Marching Band. We will rehearse after school until 4:30 PM. If your student is interested and able to attend all future rehearsals (always on Tuesdays), I will give them additional information and music.

Jazz Band
Our award-winning Carson Middle School Jazz Band is looking for piano players, trombone players, and trumpet players!  If your student plays any of these instruments and is able to make it to school by 7:00 AM, they are invited to come give it a try.  Let Mr. Jacques know if your student will be attending.

Chili Bingo Night Planning Meeting
This year's family Chili and Bingo Night will be on Friday, November 22.  That's right...this event will now take place in the fall!  We have our first planning meeting on Wednesday, September 4, at 6:30 PM in the CMS Band Room.  All parents are welcome to attend. We need all available volunteers to begin asking local businesses for donations as we plan our major fundraiser for the school year.

I hope that your student is having a wonderful start to the school year and that band is something that they are looking forward to each day.  I will send another update this weekend with information about SmartMusic and practicing. Have a great week!

-Mr. Jacques-