Syllabus: Syl.la.bus 1. An outline of the subjects in a course of study. 2. A list of goals and topics to be covered in a class.
The middle school band is a performing ensemble that will teach you to read music and understand musical terms, play and care for your instrument, and be an important member of a group.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Learn to read and understand music
2. Perform in an ensemble
3. Understand the history behind our musical selections
4. Learn to work together, and respect each other, for a unified group
Pre-Requisites
SIXTH GRADE: Anyone who has the desire to play an instrument
and can meet the materials requirements is invited to join the sixth grade band.
SEVENTH & EIGHTH GRADE: Students should have been in the band since sixth grade OR have taken private lessons on their instrument to join. You may join if you don't meet this requirement, but you must work very hard in order to catch up.
Materials
1. Instrument (Flute, Clarinet, Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, or Snare Drum)
2. Method Book
3. Music Folder and Pencil
Assignments & Participation
Students need to practice their instrument to be successful in band. It is recommended that they practice at home for 30 minutes at least 5 times a week. Participation in class is extremely important! Students must have all of their materials for class, try their best at all times, always behave appropriately, and follow class rules in order to get a good grade in participation.
Assessment and Grading
Participation/Behavoir 60%
Concert Attendance 20%
Spot Check Tests 20%
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Final Band Grade 100%
PARTICIPATION/BEHAVOIR: These two are the most important expectations for band students. Good behavior sets the stage for the whole group to learn to create beautiful music. In order to participate fully, students must be prepared with their materials, have practiced their music, and be ready to play when class begins. This will allow us more time to play and work towards excellence.
CONCERTS: Concerts are the culminating event for the band. It is our way of demonstrating how hard we have worked. Band is a group effort and everyone is important. All students need to be present for ALL concerts. A note from home must be presented for any absence.
SPOT CHECKS: Tests are an important way to make sure that all students are working to their potential. Students will know what they will have to play in advance. Tests are done during class and a student may ask to take it after school. Spot checks are graded pass/fail. Students may re-take the test after school as many times as it takes to pass it before grades close for the semester. Always ask for help if you need it! I don't give private lessons, but will be happy to spend some time with you for extra help.