Subject: Middle School Instrumental Music

I. MAJOR UNITS/TOPICS OF STUDY IN THIS SUBJECT: 

A. Students will prepare for two performances: 
· Winter Concert (Band and Chorus)  (Auditorium) 
· Spring Concert (Band and Chorus)  (Auditorium) 

B. Students will learn techniques for good performance: 
· Good practice routines 
· Proper posture 
· Controlled breathing techniques 
· Proper playing techniques 

II. TEXT/MAJOR MATERIALS USED FOR THIS SUBJECT: 

A. Students will have intensive rehearsal of band music for the concerts. Music is chosen to challenge students in various areas. i.e. Rhythm, accidentals, range, meter, etc...
B. Instruments may be bought privately or leased through the school. 
C. All members are required to wear black pants, black shoes, black socks, and a solid color dress shirt for every concert. NO SNEAKERS OR JEANS ARE ALLOWED AT A CONCERT.

III. PERFORMING GROUPS

Middle School Concert Band

The Middle School Concert Band is open to all students in grades 6 through 8 by audition. Student must be able to play the music to be a part of the Concert Band. The ensemble strives to present instrumental literature that allows students to play proficiently and comfortably in various styles and genres.  Several concerts are performed during the school year.  All performances are mandatory.  Rehearsals are held once a cycle on DAY A throughout the school year.  Additional weekly after school rehearsals are held from the end of September through the spring concert in May.

Middle School Wind Ensemble

The Middle School Wind Ensemble is comprised of approximately 50 instrumentalists who are chosen by the band director from the members of the Middle School Concert Band. The middle school band director will audition students yearly. The ensemble strives to present higher-level instrumental literature that allows advanced students to challenge and evolve their playing abilities. Selections are based upon instrumental tone quality, music reading skills, and rhythmic skills. Rehearsals are held once a cycle on DAY C with occasional after school rehearsals.  The Middle School Wind Ensemble will perform at the middle school concerts.

IV. ATTENDANCE

Band is an Extra Curricular Activity and is not graded, however student participation requires the following: 

• Student preparation and effort for lessons and Concerts 
• Attendance at lessons 
• Attendance at rehearsals 
• Attendance at ALL Concerts 
• Attitude and cooperation

V. TEACHER NOTES

After school rehearsals supplement the in school rehearsals. It is very important that students attend the scheduled rehearsals after school.   See participation policy!