So, practice, particularly after you've attained a job, any kind of job, like playing with a four piece band, that's... an opportunity to develop. - Buddy Rich
Mr. Bell's curriculum night band info is here.
The goals of the band program are to:
- Perform on pitch, in rhythm, with appropriate dynamics and timbre, and maintain a steady tempo
- Perform expressively a varied repertoire of music representing diverse genres and styles
- Perform in groups, blending instrumental timbres, matching dynamic levels, and responding to the cues of a conductor
- Perform independent instrumental parts while other students play contrasting parts
- Perform accurately and independently, alone and in small and large ensembles, with good posture, good playing position, and good breath, bow, or stick control
August 15, 2011
Dear Pleasantdale Middle School Band and Orchestra Students and Parents,
Welcome back to another year of Instrumental Music at Pleasantdale Middle School! Hopefully everyone enjoyed a fun, safe, and relaxing summer. It’s time to make music again! I look forward to working with each of you as the school year progresses.
Pleasantdale Bands and Orchestras all enjoyed had a great year last year. It is my hope for nothing less than a repeat performance this year!
I would like to extend a special welcome to all 5th grade Band and Orchestra students! If you thought your first year playing your instrument was fun, just wait! The more you play, the more you’re able to play, and the more fun it gets!
As the 2011-2012 school year begins, there are some noteworthy items:
Lesson Schedule
Starting the week of August 30, each student will receive a small group lesson once a week during the school day. Lessons will be on a rotating schedule. Schedules will be posted and announced by Friday, August 26.
Before and After School Rehearsals
Before and after school rehearsals will begin the week of September 7. Please note this is immediately following the Labor Day weekend; Tuesday will feel like Monday!
Middle School Band (grades 6-8) will rehearse on Tuesdays and Thursdays before school at 7:30 AM.
Middle School Orchestra (grades 6-8) will rehearse on Mondays and Wednesdays before school at 7:30 AM.
Jazz Band (grades 6-8) will rehearse on Fridays before school at 7:30 AM.
Fifth grade band will rehearse after school on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:20.
Fifth grade orchestra will rehearse after school on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:20.
Band and Orchestra Bus
There will be an early bus provided for any student needing a ride to the 7:30 AM rehearsals. Please return the attached form to Mr. Bell by Friday, August 26 to allow time to schedule bus routes. Your child will then receive information regarding bus pick-up times and bus stop locations before your child’s first rehearsal.
Please note: Depending upon the number of students who sign up, there may or may not be an early morning bus on Mondays.
Also, fifth graders participating in after school rehearsals may ride the after school activity bus at 4:30
Evaluation & Grading
Students’ grades in band and orchestra will be based on the following criteria:
1. Lesson and Rehearsal Attendance
2. Playing tests
3. Theory worksheets
4. Attitude/behavior
5. Effort/practice sheets
6. Concert/performance attendance and effort
Playing Tests
Playing tests will be administered throughout the year, at least one per quarter. The value of each playing test will depend on the amount of material covered. Test material shall consist of scales, exercises, band/orchestra music, and sight-reading. Tests will be given during lessons.
Concerts and Performances
Each concert and performance (including field trips) shall be considered equivalent to a test or final exam.
Year-Long Events Permission Slip
Due to the large number of field trips, concerts, and out-of-school performances, the contract at the end of this mailing will serve as a permission slip for all instrumental music events in which your child is involved. Music ensemble field trips are unlike those of other subjects because of whole group participation; therefore a field trip involving a concert depends on everyone’s participation. By signing and returning the attached contract, parents are granting permission for their children to participate in all instrumental music events for the 2011-2012 school year. An e-mail reminder will be sent to parents of all children involved in any given music event two weeks in advance. Of course, if an emergency or conflict arises, please let Mr. Bell know as soon as possible.
Practice
Every musician - from beginner to professional - needs to practice. Practicing an instrument keeps musicians “in shape” just like athletes on a team. Parents should make every effort to provide a suitable practice area for their child - clean, quiet, good lighting, a good chair, folding music stand, and free of distractions. Parents should also show their support by encouraging practice and helping their child stick to a practice schedule. Students should practice every day. Through practicing, good mental, physical and musical habits are formed. It is better for students to practice 15-30 minutes each day than to try to cram 2-3 hours the evening before their lesson.
Practice Sheets
Practice sheets will be available as a way for students to keep track of their time spent practicing their instrument. Practice sheets are also a great way to earn points. Practice sheets will be distributed at the beginning of each trimester.
Concert Attire
For all performances (except as otherwise indicated), concert attire shall be as follows:
White shirt without lettering; Boys shirts must have a collar.
All students will also be required to wear black pants or skirts. In addition, dark (preferably black) shoes and socks will be required at performances.
Girls may also choose to wear a black and/or white dress.
Students will perform only if they are wearing the proper attire for each performance. Jeans, gym shoes and flip-flops are not appropriate.
Guidelines of Conduct
1. When the director is on the podium, all eyes are forward, instruments are ready, and there is no talking. Listen to the director, the ensemble, and to yourself.
2. Your actions as a musician reflect on the entire ensemble. Because of this, it is important to behave in a respectful, exemplary manner as musicians.
3. If a fellow student is having trouble, do not hesitate to help. Also, put forth the effort needed to keep your music room the nice place it is.
4. Gum, candy, food and pop are not allowed during rehearsals or performances.
5. Please arrive on time to all lessons and rehearsals (see “Lesson and rehearsal grading scale”). Students who arrive late will affect the group in a negative way.
6. When performing away from school, each student represents their ensemble, the Pleasantdale student body, and the community. It is of most importance to behave responsibly and set our best feet forward.
7. Always give 100%. Keep a positive attitude. Musical ensembles are also “teams”. The big difference, though, is that everyone is on the starting lineup; no one sits on the bench. Everyone plays an equally important part in any musical ensemble. Do not allow yourself to be the weak link - always try your hardest and do your very best.
8. Remember - this is your band and orchestra! These ensembles will only be as good as you allow them to be!
Discipline
Students who choose to behave inappropriately will be subject to the disciplinary regulations set forth in the Pleasantdale Student Handbook. This also applies to any performance or activity taking place off school property.
PTA Music Committee
The parent group for the entire Pleasantdale music program is an active committee of the Pleasantdale PTA. We are always looking for volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, please give me a call at school.
Conclusion
Enclosed you will find an early morning bus form, a calendar of this year’s events, parent group information, and a student/parent contract. All forms should be returned to Mr. Bell by Friday, August 26. Please mark the scheduled music events on your calendar.
Once again, it’s great to be back. I look forward to working with everyone this year.
Sincerely,
Fred Bell
Band and Orchestra Director
Pleasantdale Middle School
708-246-7375
2011-2012 Band & Orchestra Events
Middle School Orchestra Festival
@ Pleasantdale Middle School North Gym
(Grades 7,8) Fri. February 10
LT Jazz Workshop (Grades 6,7,8) Wed. February 22
Beginning Band & Orchestra Concert (Grade 4) Thurs. February 23
All About Us Wednesday, March 7
LT Solo & Ensemble Festival Sat. March 10
4th & 5th Grade Music Event May - TBD
Concert at Elementary School (Grades 6,7,8) May – TBD
Spring Choir Concert (Grades 5,6,7,8) Tues. May 8
Spring Orchestra Concert (Grades 5,6,7,8) Wed. May 9
Spring Band Concert (Grades 5,6,7,8) Thurs. May 10
Great America Music Festival (Grades 6,7,8) Fri. May 11
Spring Beginning Band & Orchestra Concert (Grade 4) Tues. May 15
8th Grade Graduation (Grades 5,6,7 Band) Tues. June 5
This schedule is subject to change.
**Please be aware that performance opportunities may arise during the school year and will be scheduled appropriately.
Please scroll down for sign-up forms! Thank you!
Instrumental Music Contract and Events Permission Slip 2011-2012
I have read the Instrumental Music Newsletter and I agree to follow the rules and regulations associated with the Pleasantdale Middle School Instrumental Music Program. I am also aware of the dates on which I will perform. I understand the dress code for performances. I am fully committed to being a positive addition to the Pleasantdale Middle School Instrumental Music Program for the entire school year.
Please return this page to Mr. Bell by Friday, August 26.
By signing and returning this contract, parents are granting permission for their children to participate in all instrumental music events for the 2011-2012 school year. Please see the enclosed list of events.
Student Name_________________________________________________________________
Instrument____________________________________________________________________
Parent Signature________________________________________________________
Parents’ E-mail Address – to be used for communication and reminders about upcoming events
____________________________________________________________________________
Home Phone Number __________________________________________________________
Mobile Phone Number__________________________________________________________
Work Phone Number___________________________________________________________
A.M. Bus Route
(grades 6,7&8 only)
_________Yes, please schedule me on the morning rehearsal bus route. Please note: The Monday bus will operate only with sufficient ridership.
Address:_______________________________________________________
_________No, I will provide my own transportation to the morning rehearsals.
Jazz Band
Jazz Band is open to all middle school band members in grades 6, 7, and 8. Jazz Band rehearsals are at 7:30 A.M. on Fridays. The main Jazz Band instrumentation includes saxophones, trumpets, trombones, baritones, percussion, and bass (string bass and/or bass guitar).
________Yes, I am interested in Jazz Band.
Name______________________________
Instrument__________________________
(created 03/11/10)