The Best Practice

Dear Parents,

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-

Practice Makes Perfect

Dear Parents,

Two weeks down and a 3 day weekend ahead! I thought I'd announce some after school rehearsals, update you on your student's progress, and introduce practicing, a skill that they will use for the rest of their lives in music.

Class Progress

Jazz Band as a class...wow, what a difference! This time last year, Jazz Band didn't even meet yet, and this year so far, they have learned how to play 2 songs, and sight read a 3rd song today. They can all improvise on a simple blues scale, as well.

Intermediate Band has reviewed music fundamentals in class, and they have received their parade piece. We also went outside and learned some basic marching techniques. Their next step: learning the parade piece and receiving fall concert music. They have so much potential and I can't wait to see what they will be capable of in just a couple short months.

Beginning Band has learned how to put together their instruments, put them away, take care of them, sit properly, breathe correctly, hold instruments correctly, play their first note, and practice...phew! There's a reason why it's a proven fact that students who are in band are the best kids ever!

Concert Band is reviewing fundamentals.  There's a lot to remember: sitting properly, breathing, pressing down the right keys, maintaining a proper embouchure, listening while watching the director, all while making sure that the tongue starts the note properly. As I said before, best kids ever!

Advanced Band reviewed fundamentals, learned the parade piece, and sight read some music that we'll use later in the year. Their next step: mastering marching and memorizing Tribute to America. After working with them for just a few days, it's clear to me that they will continue to be one of the best middle school bands in the state of Nevada. They're a fine group of people and I have some big plans for them this year!

After School Rehearsals

• September 6: 2:30-4:00 PM, Percussion Workshop. This is open to any percussionist (yes, even beginners!) and we will introduce students to the exciting world of rudiments and other rhythmic fun.
• September 13: 2:30-4:00 PM, Percussion Workshop. Just like the first one, this is open to all percussionists. Intermediate Band percussionists will also have a chance to audition for the Advanced Band's percussion section at the end of this workshop. The top performer will receive the invitation.
• September 20: 2:30-4:30 PM, Marching Band Rehearsal for Intermediate Band and Advanced Band. These rehearsals will continue on a weekly basis (always on Tuesdays) until the Nevada Day Parade. Concert Band members are welcome to tag along and give marching band a try.

Practice Logs Begin

Students will begin practicing today.  I have given all groups except Jazz Band a sheet that maps out everything they need to do.  Feel free to look this over with the kids.  Digital copies are always available on the website.  Their practicing is based on goals accomplished, not minutes practiced. This means that their time may vary from as little as 5 minutes to as much as 30+ minutes, depending on each student's needs. They will have an online practice log to complete between September 8 and 9, and they will always have laptop time during band if they choose to use it. There is also extra credit available if they practice every day. They will get more information on this next week, but if you want a sneak preview, click "This week's practice assignment" link on the CMS Bands homepage.

That is all for now.  Enjoy your long weekend!

-Mr. Jacques

To-Do List

Dear Parents, 

We are just about ready to start making music, but before we do that, I wanted to take a moment and share this information with you.

Everything you need to know about band program will be posted on www.cmsbands.org and updated regularly.  Here's a rundown of band fees, required materials, and important due dates. 

Every student is responsible for providing the following paperwork/fees by Friday, August 26: 

1) Class Contract, signed by both parent and student. 

2) Required Fee: $25 Lab Fee for all ensembles (due Friday)*

3) Optional Fees: 

• $9 for a method book. We use Sound Innovations and I encourage them to pre-order a book through me (due Friday)*
• $15 for a Jazz Band method book. We use Standard of Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method which they can pre-order through me (due Friday)*
• Instrument Rentals
  • $100 to rent through me, applications due ASAP (bottom half of class contract)*
  • $75 to rent through me if you have free/reduced lunch, applications due ASAP (bottom half of class contract)*
  • You may rent through a local music store, and may of them have "rent-to-own" programs. A complete list of local music stores is available online.
  • If you order an instrument online, please talk to me first so I can help you with price/quality of instruments available.

*If any of these fees create a financial hardship on your family, I accept late payments and we can even work out installment plans. I also have limited financial assistance available. 

Every student is responsible for providing the following supplies by Friday, September 2:

1) Instrument

2) Band book: Sound Innovations (make sure to get the book that matches your instrument) 

3) Portable Music Stand (for practice at home) 

4) Pencil (keep a pencil in your instrument case, we will use them daily!) 

5) Accessories for individual instrument: 

• Flute -Cleaning rod (normally included with instrument) -Swab for rod (any rectangular piece of cotton is fine) -Polishing cloth 
• Clarinet/Saxophone -Reeds (1 box, Rico brand- minimum size 2.5) -Cleaning Swab -Cork Grease -Neck Strap (sax only) -Polishing cloth (sax only)*
• Trumpet/Baritone -Valve Oil -Slide Grease -Polishing Cloth*
• Trombone -The items below are not needed for P-Bones, only metal trombones -Slide Cream/Oil -Mini Water Spray Bottle -Polishing Cloth*
• Percussion -Bell Kit for practicing at home (I have a limited supply available for rental), drum sticks.

*I have limited quantities of reeds, cork grease, valve oil, and slide cream available for sale. Students may purchase these items through me if it is difficult for you to make it to a local music store.

Feel free to email me if you have any questions. I check it regularly throughout the week.  I look forward to working with you all!

-Mr. Jacques

A New Year, A Fresh Look

Dear Parents,

Over the summer, the music program experienced several major changes.  Just wait until you and your students get a chance to experience them in person!

• The Band Room received a major face lift, including brand new carpet and installation of the new storage cabinets. 
• Our district was able to fund the purchase of new instruments! We now have the ideal inventory of up-to-date, quality woodwind, brass, percussion, and string instruments for your students. Some of you may end up renting an instrument that is brand new and has never been played!
• Carson City School District hired a full-time orchestra director, who will teach strings at all area schools.  As sad as I am to no longer be conducting strings, I am happy to see that the band and orchestra program has grown to the point of being able to support another full time position!
• Jazz Band is an official "0" period class, which will begin at 7:00 AM.
• This fall, CMS will now have 2 Beginning Band classes, which means better student-to-teacher ratios and more direct instruction for the students.

There are also a few other changes that you will just have to come and see for yourself! My favorite phrase to the students, "Make every rehearsal better than the last," will now be able to be extended to the school year. This school year WILL be better than the last, and last year set the bar incredibly high. I will be available to answer any questions next week in person at the CMS Sneak Peak:

• 6th Graders: August 17, 4-6 PM
• 7th & 8th Graders: August 18, 4-6 PM

Welcome back! I cannot wait to get back to work with your phenomenal students!

-Mr. Jacques-

The Final Week

Dear Parents,

Happy Memorial Day!  I hope you're all enjoying the weather and getting in some quality time with your families.  It has been quite a run of musical events this month, and it's always bittersweet to see everything wind down. We have just three days of school left, so this update serves as a reminder of what needs to be done to wrap-up the school year.

To-Do Items

Uniform Returns will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday.  If your student borrowed any uniform items over the school year, please have them bring it back by June 1.  I will ask the office to post a fee to student accounts if they aren't returned by this time.

School Instrument Returns
Advanced Strings: May 31
Beginning Strings: June 1
Band members not participating in Jazz Camp: June 2
Band members participating in Jazz Camp: June 10 (June 14 if performing at concert)

Summer Rentals
This offer is returning this year!  6th and 7th grade students who want to have an instrument over the summer will be able to keep their instrument until August!  See Mr. Jacques for a summer rental application and return it by the instrument return date listed above.  When you return the instrument in August, you will need to have had the instrument taken to a local repair shop for a basic maintenance.

8th Grade Promotion
This is mandatory for all 6th and 7th grade band members.  Students will meet in the band room after school on June 2 for setup.  The ceremony begins at 1:00 PM and ends no later than 2:00 PM.  Students will be excused once all equipment has been returned to the band room and all school instruments are either turned in or reissued for the summer.

Advanced Band auditions, Jazz Band and Advanced Strings placements
Advanced Band auditions will wrap up on Tuesday and Wednesday.  If a student feels like they want to do better, I will have a limited number of spots open at lunch for anyone wishing to retest.  With the new schedule for Jazz Band, students just need to give me a verbal confirmation that they wish to participate, and I will have more information once I build the class and put together a formal curriculum later in the summer.  I have a list of interested students for Advanced Strings, and I will have our school counselors place them into the correct class this summer.

More Band for your Buck!

Jazz Camp
Jazz Camp is right around the corner, and I'm excited to be hosting this for all area student musicians.  The camp runs from June 6-10 from 9 AM-10:15 AM for beginners, and 10:30 AM-12:00 PM for those with jazz experience.  Please sign up by June 2 so I know how much music I can purchase, as well as what type of music we can play.   Click here to register!

I'll post another update with pictures and video links soon. In the meantime, enjoy your weekend!

-Mr. Jacques-

Quick Update

Dear Parents,

While I'm out for the next few days for Advanced Band's performances in southern California, students will have a substitute teacher who has experience with teaching music.  Here are a few important notes for you and the students:

• There is no Jazz Band Thursday and Friday. 
• Practice logs are due for Beginning Band and Concert Band on Friday. No other classes have them this week.
• The last day for students to make up any playing test grades will be Thursday, May 26.
• Extra credit opportunities: 
• Attend the entire concert on the day that your student does not perform (for example: if this student performs next Tuesday, they will come watch the Wednesday performances).
• Turn in all "music money" on May 26 for 1 extra credit point each.

Concert Information

Students received informational handouts for next week's concerts and we discussed all details in each class today.  One change for Advanced Strings on Tuesday: call time is now 5 PM.  All other times are located in the below newsletter update (in the event that this didn't make it home).

We are having a bake sale and considering the possibility of root beer floats on May 25. Sign up for something delicious below:

Sign up to bring a bake sale item to the concert on May 24: www.SignUpGenius.com/10C094EABA82EA6F85

Sign up to bring a bake sale item to the concert on May 25:  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/10C094EABA82EA6F85-spring4

That is all I have for now. I'll be happy to answer any questions that you may have.  I'll be in touch again later this weekend.

-Mr. Jacques-

May Happenings and Jazz News!

Dear Parents and Students,

It's strange to think that in less than 3 weeks, the school year will be over.  There are so many accomplishments to celebrate, and yes, one final group of performances to enjoy.  I also have an announcement about Jazz Band that you won't want to miss!  Read below, find the ensemble that is important to you and your student, and take a look at their progress, as well as final events. Please note: all concerts are located at CMS.

Jazz Band
I am excited to announce that Jazz Band is now going to be a "0" period class!  Beginning next August, we will meet each morning at 6:50 AM and rehearse for 50 minutes.  As a class, students will be able to earn an academic grade for their participation, and they will be required to be on time.  As a result, this program, which is already strong, will become unstoppable!
In the meantime, they will have a fantastic, high-energy set of songs to perform for you at their final concert.  Call time on May 24 is 5:45 PM and the concert begins at 6:00 PM. I will provide handouts with more details next week.

Concert Band
Concert Band is performing a high-energy set of movie theme songs that you won't want to miss! They will also perform the songs that earned them "Superior" ratings earlier in the spring. We also include the 5th grade band members, who perform at the beginning of the concert.
Their concert is on May 25th. It begins at 5:30 PM with the 5th grade bands.  Call time is also 5:30 PM.  They are also performing on June 2 for 8th grade promotion.  Call time for that is immediately after school, and they will be done at 2 PM. Attendance at both functions is mandatory, and I will have a handout with more details next week.

Intermediate Band
They are performing a high-energy set of movie theme songs that you won't want to miss! They will also perform the songs that earned them "Superior" ratings earlier in the spring. Their concert is on May 24th. It begins at 6:00 PM and their call time is 5:30 PM. The 6th and 7th graders in this band will also be performing on June 2 for 8th grade promotion. Call time for that is immediately after school, and they will be done at 2 PM.  Attendance at both functions is mandatory, and I will have a handout with more details next week.

Beginning Band
These students have been having a great time learning fun music all week! They will also perform the songs that earned them "Superior" ratings earlier in the spring. We also include the 5th grade band members, who perform at the beginning of the concert. Their concert is on May 25th. It begins at 5:30 PM with the 5th grade bands.  Call time is also 5:30 PM.  They are also performing on June 2 for 8th grade promotion.  Call time for that is immediately after school, and they will be done at 2 PM. Attendance at both functions is mandatory, and I will have a handout with more details next week.

Advanced Strings
Along with the songs that earned them "Superior" ratings at their spring festivals, you will be treated to something never done in the schools in Carson City: a full orchestra!  Band musicians are joining forces with Advanced Strings to put together a full orchestra arrangement of music to Harry Potter. It takes amazing students to even think about pulling this off. You won't want to miss this!  Their concert is on May 24 at 6:00 PM.  Call time for the students is 5:45 PM.  Attendance at both functions is mandatory, and I will have a handout with more details next week.

Advanced Band
It's truly incredible what these kids can do. In just a month, they have learned 5 new songs, including 3 movie theme songs. They will also perform the songs that earned them "Superior" ratings earlier in the spring at their festivals. Their concert is on May 24th. It begins at 6:00 PM and their call time is 5:45 PM. The 6th and 7th graders in this band will also be performing on June 2 for 8th grade promotion. Call time for that is immediately after school, and they will be done at 2 PM.  Attendance at both functions is mandatory, and I will have a handout with more details next week.

Beginning Strings
This group is learning a fun new piece that you will all recognize! They will also perform the songs that earned them "Superior" ratings earlier in the spring. Their concert is on May 25th. It begins at 5:30 PM.  Call time is also 5:30 PM.  Attendance at both functions is mandatory, and I will have a handout with more details next week.


Next week, I'm off to southern California for some fun in the sun and great performances with Advanced Band members.  Look for detailed information in handouts next week, and I'll update everyone once I'm back from the trip.  Let me know, as always, if you have any questions.

-Mr. Jacques-