6th Grade PLC

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Targets:

(Drums)  I can play a single stroke, double stroke, and five stroke roll. I can play flams and flam taps

Wind and bells: I can play a concert Bb major, Eb major, and F major scale with arpeggio

I can play Don't Stop Believin' at a 3 on our 4 point rating scale

I can Freedom of Finale at a 3 or a 4 on our music rating scale.

I can play Eye of the Tiger at a 3 or a 4 on our music performance rating scale.

Here is our plan:

1) I will greet you at the door and remind you that you need "Don't Stop Believin'" There will be extra copies on the file cabinet if you need one. Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

2) Brief review of PACK norms.

3) Warm Ups! - Scales and rudiments

4) Brief Review: The Pyramid of Sound! What is balance and how do we get a good one!

5) After warming up we will focus on Don't Stop Believin'. Essential question: Can we apply the pyramid of sound to our performance of  Don't Stop Believin? If so, how?  What instrument in the original recording plays the Trombone part? 

6) We will close with "Freedom Finale!"

7) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

8th Grade PLC

Learning Objectives:

I can play Viva La Vida (our student selected piece!) at a 3 on our music department rating scale

I can play all  of Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence.

I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.

I can define what "good balance" means for our band. I can define the "pyramid of sound" and know where my instrument is in the balance. 

I can play the Bb, Eb, and F Major Scales. I can play the chromatic scale in one octave. Drummers can play the single stroke roll, the double stroke roll, the 5 stroke roll, the flam, and the paradiddle rudiments. 

Today we will warming up with Western Region style scales. 

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we want to make sure both of our current pieces are at least at the "3" level so that we can successfully start our student selected pieces 

Today's Plan:

Western Region Scales - Rehearsal technique: Pyramid of Sound exercise. Balance.

"Viva La Vida"
   Rehearsal techniques: Teacher and peer modeling. Accompaniment only. Melody only. Applying the pyramid of sound. Chanting parts.

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"
     Rehearsal techniques: Bopping. Rehearsing accompaniment only. Applying the pyramid of sound to ever section. Chanting parts.

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"
    Rehearsal techniques: Bottom up (starting with the bass line)

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

7th Grade PLC!

Today our focus is Star Wars The Force Awakens. Student selected pieces should be here in a week. One is already here and we will pass it out if there is time today.

I can play Viva La Vida (our student selected piece!) at a 2 on our music department rating scale

I can play all  of Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence.

I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.

I can define what "good balance" means for our band. I can define the "pyramid of sound" and know where my instrument is in the balance. 

Today we will warming up with Western Region style scales. 

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we want to make sure both of our current pieces are at least at the "3" level so that we can successfully start our student selected pieces 

Today's Plan:

Western Region Scales - Rehearsal technique: Pyramid of Sound exercise. Balance.

"Viva La Vida"
   Rehearsal techniques: Teacher and peer modeling. Accompaniment only. Melody only. Applying the pyramid of sound. Chanting parts.

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"
     Rehearsal techniques: Bopping. Rehearsing accompaniment only. Applying the pyramid of sound to ever section. Chanting parts.

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"
    Rehearsal techniques: 

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Band

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Targets:

(Drums)  I can play a single stroke, double stroke, and five stroke roll. I can play flams and flam taps

Wind and bells: I can play a concert Bb major scale and Eb major with arpeggio

I can play Don't Stop Believin' at a 2 on our 4 point rating scale (we are starting our student selected piece today!!)

I can Freedom of Finale at a 3 or a 4 on our music rating scale.

I can play Eye of the Tiger at a 3 or a 4 on our music performance rating scale.

Here is our plan:

1) I will greet you at the door and hand out copies of Don't Stop Believin' while you walk in! I am so excited to start our student selected piece!

2) Brief review of PACK norms.

3) Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

4) Warm Ups! - Scales and rudiments

5) Brief Review: The Pyramid of Sound! What is balance and how do we get a good one!

6) After warming up we will focus on Don't Stop Believin'. This is really exciting for low brass and for drummers! Everyone gets to play set now!

7) We will close with "Freedom Finale!" Essential question: Can we apply the pyramid of sound to our performance of Freedom Finale? If so, how? Did we do a good job?

8) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

7th Grade Band

Today our focus is Star Wars The Force Awakens. Student selected pieces should be here in a week. One is already here and we will pass it out if there is time today.

I can play all  of Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence.

I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.

I am aware of the two student selected pieces we are going to be receiving next rehearsal.   

I can define what "good balance" means for our band. I can define the "pyramid of sound" and know where my instrument is in the balance. 

Today we will warming up with Western Region style scales. 

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we want to make sure both of our current pieces are at least at the "3" level so that we can successfully start our student selected pieces 

Today's Plan:

Western Region Scales - Rehearsal technique: Pyramid of Sound exercise. Balance.

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"
     Rehearsal techniques: Bopping. Rehearsing accompaniment only. Applying the pyramid of sound to ever section. Chanting parts.

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"
    Rehearsal techniques: 

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Band

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Targets:

(Drums)  I can play a single stroke, double stroke, and five stroke roll. I can play flams and flam taps

Wind and bells: I can play a concert Bb major scale and Eb major with arpeggio

I can Freedom of Finale at a 3 or a 4 on our music rating scale.

I can play Eye of the Tiger at a 3 or a 4 on our music performance rating scale.

I can define what "balance" means and what a good balance sounds like


Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

3) Warm Ups! - Scales and rudiments

4) The Pyramid of Sound! What is balance and how do we get a good one!

5) After warming up we will focus on "Freedom Finale!" We will play Freedom Finale with student conductors and I will reinforce sections.We will also do mini lessons with sectionals. Essential question: Can we apply the pyramid of sound to our performance of Freedom Finale? If so, how? 

5) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

8th Grade Band

Today our focus is Star Wars The Force Awakens. Student selected pieces should be here in a week or two.

I can play all  of Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence.

I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.

I am aware of the two student selected pieces we are going to be receiving next rehearsal.   

Today we will warming up with Western Region style scales. 

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we want to make sure both of our current pieces are at least at the "3" level so that we can successfully start our student selected pieces 

Today's Plan:

Western Region Scales

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

7th Grade Band

Welcome to band rehearsal!

Learning Targets: 

I can play the Bb, Eb, and F Major scales with a minimal number of errors and with confidence. I can play the chromatic scale with a moderate number of errors, and know what I need to practice at home. 

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence up until measure 25. I can play with a moderate number of errors, and know I what I need to practice at home, up until the end.

I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.  

We will be warming up with a new scale sheet today.

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we will be receiving our selected pieces poll via Google and getting a reminder about Western Region. 

Today's Plan:

WRMS Scales. 

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Post

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Targets:

(Drums)  I can play a single stroke, double stroke, and five stroke roll.

Wind and bells: I can play a concert Bb major scale with arpeggio

I can Freedom of Finale at a 3 or a 4 on our music rating scale.

I can play Eye of the Tiger at a 3 or a 4 on our music performance rating scale.


Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

3) Warm Ups! - Scales and rudiments

4) After warming up we will focus on "Freedom Finale!" We will play Freedom Finale with student conductors and I will reinforce sections.We will also do mini lessons with sectionals.

5) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

8th Grade Band

Today our focus is Star Wars The Force Awakens. Student selected pieces should be here in a week or two.

I can play all  of Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence.

I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.  

Today we will warming up with Western Region style scales. 

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we will be receiving our selected pieces poll via Google and getting a reminder about Western Region. 

Today's Plan:

Western Region Scales

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Band

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Target:

I can play the beginning of Freedom of Finale to the end with confidence and with a minimal number of errors.

I can play Eye of the Tiger at a 3 or a 4 on our music performance rating scale.


Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

3) Warm Ups! - In the interest of time we are skipping the red book warms ups today. We will warm up with run throughs of the Eye of the Tiger. Drummers: Auditions for the Eye of the Tiger Drum set parts will take place Wednesday Nov. 16th during band.

4) After warming up we will focus on "Freedom Finale!" We will play Freedom Finale with student conductors and I will reinforce sections.We will also do mini lessons with sectionals.

5) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

8th Grade PLC

We have a VERY short rehearsal today due to conferences, so it is important to take advantage of every second. Please get down to the band room promptly! Today our focus is Star Wars The Force Awakens.

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence up until measure 25. I can play with a moderate number of errors, and know I what I need to practice at home, up until the end.

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today's Plan:

Reminder about due dates for Western Region. We will make sure everyone who wants to audition is registered. 

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

7th and 8th Grade Band

Today our focus is Star Wars The Force Awakens. We will also be getting the results of our student survey for student selected pieces!

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence up until measure 25. I can play with a moderate number of errors, and know I what I need to practice at home, up until the end.

Learning Targets: I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until the end.  

In the interest of time we will be warming up with The Blues Brothers today and skipping the traditional warm up. I want to spend as much of our 40 minutes as possible working on Star Wars

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we will be receiving our selected pieces poll via Google and getting a reminder about Western Region. 

Today's Plan:

Reminder about due dates for Western Region. Forms are due tomorrow. 

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Band

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Target:

I can play the beginning of Freedom of Finale to measure 10 -31 with confidence and with a minimal number of errors. I can play from measures 31 to the end with only a moderate number of errors and I know what I need to practice to make this section perfect at home.

I can play Eye of the Tiger at a 3 or a 4 on our music performance rating scale.


Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

3) Warm Ups! - In the interest of time we are skipping the red book warms ups today. We will warm up with run throughs of the Eye of the Tiger. Drummers: Auditions for the Eye of the Tiger Drum set parts will take place Wednesday Nov. 16th during band.

4) After warming up we will focus on "Freedom Finale!" We will play Freedom Finale with student conductors and I will reinforce sections.We will also do mini lessons with sectionals.

5) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

7th Grade Band

Today is our first stand alone 7th Grade Band Rehearsal in two weeks. We had two very successful rehearsals combined with the eighth graders. Today, given the small group, I want to try and achieve more.

Learning Targets: I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until measure 60. I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits with only a moderate number of errors, and know what I need to practice at home, up until the end.  

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence up until measure 25. I can play with a moderate number of errors, and know I what I need to practice at home, up until the end.


Our warm up will be out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week! I have extra copies of 14 Weeks to a Better Band on top of the cabinet. Please take an extra copy for yourself if you need one.

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we will be receiving our selected pieces poll via Google and getting a reminder about Western Region. 

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review.

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece) - Reminder about permission forms and  due dates. 

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Band

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section.

Our Learning Target:
I can play all of Eye of the Tiger straight through with only a moderate number of errors. I know what I need to practice to make Eye of the Tiger perfecct.

I can play the beginning of Freedom of Finale to measure 10 with confidence and with a minimal number of errors. I can play from measures 10 - 31 with only a moderate number of errors and I know what I need to practice to make this section perfect at home.

I will vote in our Google poll for student selected pieces if I have not voted already.

Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Please find materials extra materials for the rehearsal lined up on top of the cabinet. If you forgot your music you will find extra copies there.

3) Warm Ups!

4) We are starting with "Freedom Finale!" We will play Freedom Finale with student conductors and I will reinforce sections.

5) We will close with "Eye of the Tiger."

6) Instructions on how to vote in the Google Poll

7) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

8th Grade Band

Today is our first stand alone 8th Grade Band Rehearsal in two weeks. We had two very successful rehearsals combined with the seventh graders. Today, given the small group, I want to try and achieve more.

Learning Targets: I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until measure 60. I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits with only a moderate number of errors, and know what I need to practice at home, up until the end.  

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence up until measure 25. I can play with a moderate number of errors, and know I what I need to practice at home, up until the end.


Our warm up will be out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week! I have extra copies of 14 Weeks to a Better Band on top of the cabinet. Please take an extra copy for yourself if you need one.

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we will be receiving our selected pieces poll via Google and getting a reminder about Western Region. 

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review.

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece) - Reminder about permission forms and  due dates. 

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

7th and 8th Grade Combined Rehearsal

Due to the day off on Tuesday, 8th grade band was cancelled. We are going to be making up that rehearsal by having a combined 7th and 8th grade rehearsal today.

Learning Targets: I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits successfully and with confidence up until measure 37. I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits with only a moderate number of errors, and know what I need to practice at home, up until measure 60

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with a minimal number of errors and with confidence up until measure 12. I can play with a moderate number of errors, and know I what I need to practice at home, up until measure 25


Our warm up will be out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week! I have extra copies of 14 Weeks to a Better Band on top of the cabinet. Please take an extra copy for yourself if you need one.

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared! Extra materials are out on top of the chorus cabinet.

Today we will be doing student selected pieces and discussing Western Region. 

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review.

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece) - Reminder about permission forms and  due dates. 

Student selected pieces. 

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

7th and 8th Grade Combined Rehearsal

Due to the Henry Abbot Tech presentation on Tuesday, 8th grade band was cancelled. We are going to be making up that rehearsal by having a combined 7th and 8th grade rehearsal today.

Learning Targets: I can play the Blues Brothers Greatest Hits with only a moderate number of errors up until measure 37

I can play Star Wars The Force Awakens with only a moderate number of errors up until measure 21

I can identify what parts of each piece need the most practice for myself. 

Our warm up will be out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week! I have extra copies of 14 Weeks to a Better Band on top of the cabinet. Please take an extra copy for yourself if you need one.

I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared!

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review.

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece)

Discussion of Western Region Auditions. Hand out of Western Region permission slips. Discussion of Western Region due dates. 

We will be using student conductors for everything!

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

"The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Band Rehearsal!

Hello and welcome to our rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section. Sections will be labeled.

Our Learning Target:
I can play all of Eye of the Tiger straight through with only a moderate number of errors. I know what I need to practice to make Eye of the Tiger perfecct.

I can play the beginning of Freedom of Finale to measure 10.

I will vote in our Google poll for student selected pieces by Friday

Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Who needs something to be successful? (School instruments. Copy of a method book. Reeds etc.?) I will always ask this question before EVERY piece we rehearse, but you must try and come prepared, especially as you get used to the schedule.

3) Warm Ups!

4) Your new piece is on your stands! You will find Freedom Finale out for you when you walk in.

5) We are starting with "The Eye of the Tiger!" We will play Eye of the Tiger with student conductors and I will reinforce sections.

6) Instructions on how to vote in the Google Poll

7) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

7th Grade Band Rehearsal

Today we will be introducing Star Wars the Force Awakens! We will also be working on the Blues Brothers. Before we do this though we are going to be working out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week!

Today you will need your blue book, 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and your instrument. I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared!

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review. 

We will be using student conductors for everything!

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

 "The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece)

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

6th Grade Student Selected Pieces

Great rehearsal today 6th grade! Remember, if you have a suggestion for a student selected piece I need those emailed to my by Friday! We will get our Google poll next week so we can vote!

Mr. A

6th Grade Band Rehearsal

Hello and welcome to our second playing rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section. Sections will be labeled.

Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Who needs something to be successful? (School instruments. Copy of a method book. Reeds etc.?) I will always ask this question before EVERY piece we rehearse, but you must try and come prepared, especially as you get used to the schedule.

3) Warm Ups!

4) Your new piece is on your stands! We are starting with "The Eye of the Tiger!" We'll start by listening to it once. We will use student conductors and I will play with sections. Remember the expectation is that you bring your music with you every week now!

5) Student Selected Pieces

6) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

8th Grade Band!

We are going to be discussing our student selected pieces today! I am very excited.

But first we need to rehearse! We will be working on the Blues Brothers and Star Wars the Force Awakens. Before we do this though we are going to be working out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week!

Today you will need your blue book, 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and your instrument. I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared!

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review. 

We will be using student conductors for everything! 

 "The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece)

"Star Wars the Force Awakens"

Discussion of Student Selected Pieces!

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

3rd 7th Grade Playing Rehearsal

We are going to be discussing our student selected pieces today! I am very excited.

But first we need to rehearse! We will be working on the Blues Brothers. Before we do this though we are going to be working out of 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and Tradition of Excellence Book 2. If you do not have these books yet it is very important that you get them! We are going to be using them every week!

Today you will need your blue book, 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and your instrument. I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared!

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review. 

We will be using student conductors for everything! 

 "The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

"The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece)

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal!

2nd 6th Grade Playing Rehearsal

Hello and welcome to our second playing rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section. Sections will be labeled.

Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Who needs something to be successful? (School instruments. Copy of a method book. Reeds etc.?) I will always ask this question before EVERY piece we rehearse, but you must try and come prepared, especially as you get used to the schedule.

3) Fun review: I know that many of you have not played all summer. Please do not be nervous. It will come back to you quickly. We are going to be focusing today on reviewing what you played last year and giving you your first practicing assignment. For each song we will also be offering the opportunity for student conductors.

4) Your new piece is on your stands! We are starting with "The Eye of the Tiger!" We'll start by listening to it once. We will use student conductors and I will play with sections.

5) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

Band Schedule

The band schedule this year will be based on the excel rotation. Students will be scheduled for band for either one trimester or one semester. For the remainder of the year they will be coming down during excel for small group lessons. The schedule for these lessons are below. All parents and guardians in each class will get an email in the coming days explaining exactly when in the coming week students have band lessons.

B2	6th A and B off semester
A2	6th C and D off semester
B3/4	8th B Off Trimester
A 3/4	8th C Off Trimester
B5	7th A Off Trimester
A5	7th D Off Trimester
D1	Team
C1	Team
D2	6th (A and B) off semester
C2	6th (C and D) off semester
B 3/4	8th B Off Trimester
C 3/4	8th C Off Trimester
D5	7th A Off Trimester
C5	7th D Off Trimester

   

8th Grade Band Rehearsal

This is our second full band rehearsal, but for many of you this will be your first time in band for the year due to Naviance testing last week. It is going to be very important that we get down to band quickly and get set up quickly because of the more limited band time this year. Those of you who missed our warm up activities last rehearsal will get an opportunity to do those during the band mini class. We really need to get playing today! I am really looking forward to getting started with you!

We are getting our first  piece today! It's from the Blues Brothers! The music is lots of fun. When you come into band you will find the music already there for you on your music stand. This is to save time. Please don't forget to take your music home with you so you can practice.

Today you will need your blue book, 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and your instrument. I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared!

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders, Bb Major Scale, and the Chorale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review. 

We will be using student conductors for everything! 

Introduction to "The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

Introduction to "The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece)

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal! 

Band Parents Meet and Greet!

Please click here for a copy of the presentation from tonight's meet and greet! 

Second 7th Grade Rehearasal

This is our second full band rehearsal, but for many of you this will be your first time in band for the year due to Naviance testing last week. It is going to be very important that we get down to band quickly and get set up quickly because of the more limited band time this year. Those of you who missed our warm up activities last rehearsal will get an opportunity to do those during the band mini class. We really need to get playing today! I am really looking forward to getting started with you!

We are getting our first student selected piece today! It's from the Blues Brothers! The music is lots of fun. When you come into band you will find the music already there for you on your music stand. This is to save time. Please don't forget to take your music home with you so you can practice. 

Today you will need your blue book, 14 Weeks to a Better Band, and your instrument. I will have as many extra resources as possible, but PLEASE bring your materials to band every week. It is part of our core values to be prepared!

Today's Plan:

Blue Book page 42. Chop Builders and Bb Major Scale only

Warm Up: 14 Weeks To a Better Band Exercise 1. This will include eighth note counting review. 

We will be using student conductors for everything! 

Introduction to "The Blues Brothers Greatest Hits!"

Introduction to "The Edge of the Precipice"  (our Orchestra Audition Piece and the Western Region Band Audition Piece)

I'm looking forward to a great rehearsal! 

First 6th Grade Playing Rehearsal!

Hello and welcome to our first playing rehearsal for 6th grade!

We only have 40 minutes, so it is very important to get her as quickly as you can at the beginning of the period so we can play as long as possible. Please sign in quickly and find your seat in your section. Sections will be labeled.

Here is our plan:

1) Brief review of PACK norms.

2) Who needs something to be successful? (School instruments. Copy of a method book. Reeds etc.?) I will always ask this question before EVERY piece we rehearse, but you must try and come prepared, especially as you get used to the schedule.

3) Fun review: I know that many of you have not played all summer. Please do not be nervous. It will come back to you quickly. We are going to be focusing today on reviewing what you played last year and giving you your first practicing assignment. For each song we will also be offering the opportunity for student conductors.

4) Practicing assignments!

I look forward to seeing you for PLC!

First 7th Grade Band Rehearsal

Welcome to our first full band rehearsal! Hopefully now that a full week has almost gone by you are starting to see how the schedule will work, and when your band classes will be. Today we are going to take the time to make sure all of you are 100% comfortable with how the schedule will work. There is no need to have instruments today. Today is about becoming comfortable with the schedule, and band routines and procedures.

Our Plan:

1) Welcome!

2) "Switch Spots! Quick!"

    This will be a fun game. The band room chairs are all stacked away and there are just enough set up for us to have room. We are going to form a circle, move around, and get to know one another a bit.

3) Snowball fight!

     I love this activity. It's a way for me to get know you guys a bit. It is an activity that allows you to anonymously share information about what your hopes and fears are about the upcoming band year, and helps me to address the band members' needs.

4) Band Room Norms: after we run around and have some fun getting to know each other we are going to be spending some time discussing the norms of the band room. Your feedback will go into creating the norms.

5)  Onto Google Classroom! We’re going to fill out the “about me” form. This is where you can share with me those things that you really want me know for the school year, including what you’d like to learn and what you’d like to play. It is a way for me to get to know each of you personally a bit and hopefully help meet your individual needs.

A Day Lessons!

Welcome to lesson 3 for those of you in the band mini! Here is our plan.

Welcome! 

Brief review of core values and norms.   

Each student last class shared with me their goals for their instrument. We are going to be conferencing today on those goals and setting up a plan for each of you. 

Each of you should have your method book and your instrument at this point and should be ready to go. Today we will begin with whole class instruction and then break into individualized instruction. While I am conferencing with each of you one on one, the remainder of the class will be practicing the specific page assigned.

Time to play together! After conferencing and individual planning are complete, we will return to whole group instruction and play together.. 

Practicing assignment two: Each student is expected to practice at home about 15 to 20 minutes a day. Practice assignments will be logged in Google Classroom. Parents will be invited to keep up with student practicing assignments via Google Classroom.

First Sixth Grade Band Rehearsal

Welcome to our first full band rehearsal! Hopefully now that a full week has almost gone by you are starting to see how the schedule will work, and when your band classes will be. Today we are going to take the time to make sure all of you are 100% comfortable with how the schedule will work, and we will be doing some "getting to know you" games. For about half of you, this will be your first time in band class. There is no need to have instruments today. Today is about becoming comfortable with the schedule, and band routines and procedures.

Our Plan:

1) Welcome!

2) "Switch Spots! Quick!"

    This will be a fun game. The band room chairs are all stacked away and there are just enough set up for us to have room. We are going to form a circle, move around, and get to know one another a bit.

3) Snowball fight!

     I love this activity. It's a way for me to get know you guys a bit. It is an activity that allows you to anonymously share information about what your hopes and fears are about the upcoming band year, and helps me to address the band members' needs.

4) Band Room Norms: after we run around and have some fun getting to know each other we are going to be spending some time discussing the norms of the band room. Your feedback will go into creating the norms.

5)  Onto Google Classroom! We’re going to fill out the “about me” form. This is where you can share with me those things that you really want me know for the school year, including what you’d like to learn and what you’d like to play. It is a way for me to get to know each of you personally a bit and hopefully help meet your individual needs.

First Sixth Grade Band Lesson

Today, 9/6/2016, is our first band lesson for sixth graders who are not in my class this trimester.

1) Sign in and hello! (Sign in sheets are by the door)

2) Who has instruments? This is our first lesson, and it is OKAY if you forgot your instrument do not have your instrument yet! Do not worry, you won't be in any trouble! We will take care of this today and tomorrow at your first band rehearsal.

3) Depending on the  number of students with instruments for this first lesson we will either a) play (begin review of most important songs in the red book) or b) engage in our warm up ice breaker activities today instead of tomorrow. Warm up ice breaker activities include "switch spots quick" and "snowball"

4) We will be discussing band room norms and core pack values and how they relate to band today. We'll take about what you can expect in band this year (it is very much like last year!)

5) Closure: class discussion of what you learned today!

Month of September Rehearsal Schedule

Band Rehearsals for Month of September:

Mondays during excel 8th Grade Band

Wednesdays during excel 6th Grade Band

Thursdays during excel 7th Grade Band

Lessons for students not currently in classes:

9/9: 7th and 8th graders not in first trimester classes.

9/6: 6th graders not in first semester class

9/13: 7th and 8th graders not in first trimester class

9/16: 6th graders not in first semester class

9/20: 6th graders not in first semester class

9/23: 7th and 8th graders not in first trimester class

9/27: 7th and 8th graders not in first trimester class

9/30: 6th graders not in first semester class

Our Second "A" Day

Welcome to day 2! Today will also be an "A" day so this will be some students second class. Here is our plan. 

Welcome! 

Brief review of core values and norms.   

Onto Google Classroom! (every student should be logged into our classroom)

Band survey! Each student this year will be creating band goals and sharing them. We are going to personalize our learning objectives so that I can help each child meet their individual learning goals.

Loaner instruments (if necessary)

Loaner books (if necessary)

Time to play! We will be playing songs from the method book we remember from last year as part of our review. 

Practicing assignment one: Each student is expected to practice at home about 15 to 20 minutes a day. Practice assignments will be logged in Google Classroom. Parents will be invited to keep up with student practicing assignments via Google Classroom.

Welcome to band class! This year you will be getting a band lesson for 1/3rd of the year during the "band mini" if you are in 7th or 8th grade, and ½ of the year if you are in 6th grade. The remainder of the year you will have your lesson during excel. I always post the lesson plan for the next day on the blog, so you can know what to expect. Those of you who have the band mini this week don't need your instruments. This week the lesson plan is the same for every band "mini."

Our Plan:

1) Welcome!

2) "Switch Spots! Quick!"

    This will be a fun game. The band room chairs are all stacked away and there are just enough set up for us to have room. We are going to form a circle, move around, and get to know one another a bit.

3) Snowball fight!

     I love this activity. It's a way for me to get know you guys a bit. It is an activity that allows you to anonymously share information about what your hopes and fears are about the upcoming band year, and helps me to address the band members' needs.

4) Band Room Norms: after we run around and have some fun getting to know each other we are going to be spending some time discussing the norms of the band room. Your feedback will go into creating the norms.

5)  Onto Google Classroom! We’re going to fill out the “about me” form. This is where you can share with me those things that you really want me know for the school year, including what you’d like to learn and what you’d like to play. It is a way for me to get to know each of you personally a bit and hopefully help meet your individual needs.

6th Grade PLC!

Hello, and welcome to our 6th Grade Band Rehearsal!

I am very excited for today's rehearsal. Today I want to make sure that EVERYONE who wants to try out for a solo has a chance. Today's rehearsal and next two rehearsals are the last three days we can effectively do auditions.

Today we'll be working on all three of our wonderful songs! Last rehearsal we learned that Radetzky March was not quite as strong as we thought! We are going to run through that one first after warming up to make sure our learning from last rehearsal "stuck." 

These may be of help: 

Pirates: http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/media-player.jsp?&type=audio&productID=10034521

Radetzky March: http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/media-player.jsp?&type=audio&productID=10032893

The Hanging Tree: http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/media-player.jsp?&type=audio&productID=10521227

Lesson Plan:

1) Sign in

2) Warm up - Tradition of Excellence Book 2. You should all have the book. Today we are going to be talking about lip slurs, long tones, the chromatic scale, the Bb major scale, and the concept of a chorale. We are going to learn the entire first chorale. Drummers we are going to be working on playing multiple bounce rolls softly. 

3) Just like last rehearsal we will run through an imaginary concert to see what needs work. We will make mental notes of what it is we need to practice, and just let the "train wrecks" happen (if there are any). Do you have everything you need for each song? If not, now is the time to get it. 

4) After run through discuss: what needs the most work and why? Is it Radetzky March, or did we remember everything from last rehearsal?  Based on our discussion we will decide what piece we are going to focus on first. 

5)   This will be our third time doing steps 1-4. Hopefully we get through the concert quickly because today I want to hear as many auditions as possible. 

6) Discussion. Was there growth? If yes, why? If not, why not?

7) Exit ticket and closure. 

7th Grade PLC!

You will need your instruments and music. Today we will be working on Les Miserables, Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park, our three chorales and a new steady beat / rhythm game.

Our goal today is to keep Les Mis polished and start polishing Lord of the Rings, and Jurassic Park.

We will be covering 3 major scales and the chromatic scales in warm ups, and making sure we have Smart Music and Embouchure / technique goals set for everyone, and that you know what those goals are! There is a TON to do. Drummers, we need to make sure our 6 essential rudiments are memorized and that our multiple bounce rolls sound "tight" and controlled.

This may help:

Our Plan:

1) Welcome!

2) PACK and Band! (review)

     a) BRIEF review of our norms

     b) IMPORTANT. Is there anything you need today to be successful.

3) Yale New Haven Trip - What did you like? What would you change? What did you learn? Brief discussion of what I learned..

4) Warm Ups and Tune - "Tradition of Excellence Book 2 - Page 2 and page 42. Explain Bb, Eb, and F Concert major scales, the chromatic scale, the chorales.

5) Run entire concert. Discuss strengths and weaknesses. Prioritize agenda based on agenda.

6) After we discuss agenda and begin rehearsal techniques will include direct instruction, teacher modeling, and sectionals.

7) Run entire concert again. Was there growth? If yes, why? If not, why not? Use feedback discussion to drive next rehearsal.

8) Email Mr. Akter for exit ticket.

6th Grade PLC

Hello, and welcome to our 6th Grade Band Rehearsal!

I am very excited for today's rehearsal.

Today we'll be working on all three of our wonderful songs! I want to begin with the songs we are excellent at already (The Hanging Tree and Radetzky March) and focus our energies on Pirates after we warm up with the stuff we know well. We will be beginning and ending today's rehearsal with a run through of the entire concert!

These may be of help: 

Pirates: http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/media-player.jsp?&type=audio&productID=10034521

Radetzky March: http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/media-player.jsp?&type=audio&productID=10032893

The Hanging Tree: http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/media-player.jsp?&type=audio&productID=10521227

Lesson Plan:

1) Sign in and field trip discussion. What did you think of the trip? What did you like? What did you not like as much? What did you learn? Sharing of the band blog and the lesson I learned. 

2) Warm up - Tradition of Excellence Book 2. You should all have the book. Today we are going to be talking about lip slurs, long tones, the chromatic scale, the Bb major scale, and the concept of a chorale. 

3) Just like last rehearsal we will run through an imaginary concert to see what needs work. We will make mental notes of what it is we need to practice, and just let the "train wrecks" happen (if there are any). Do you have everything you need for each song? If not, now is the time to get it. 

4) After run through discuss: what needs the most work and why? Is it Pirates that needs the most work again, or did we remember everything from last rehearsal?  Based on our discussion we will decide what piece we are going to focus on first. 

5) We did not get to this agenda item last rehearsal so we need to get it to today: we are going to be using student conductors to practice Pirates by section. I also have a challenge for you on student conductors. Can we use student conductors on this song for concert? Why or why not? 

6) Continue solo auditions where solos are available. 

7) Run the concert again. Was there growth? If yes, why? If not, why not?

8) Exit ticket and closure. 

Trip to the NHSO and Yale University!

This week the bands and orchestra at New Fairfield Middle School went to see the amazing Daniel Bernard Roumain perform at the historic Woolsey Hall in New Haven with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. It was an amazing performance!

After the performance our students were treated to a wonderful lunch at the Yale Commons Dining Hall.

We were very well taken care of by Yale University's dining services. After an amazing lunch in a beautiful setting we were treated to tours of Yale University courtesy of Yale Visitor's Center. Our tour guides were all current Yale undergraduate students!

You can find pictures of our tour below, but I wanted to take a moment to share with all of you the words of wisdom from one of these Yale tour guides that struck me. One of the students in my tour group asked "isn't this school very hard to get into?"

Our tour guide gave the most amazing and powerful answer:

"Here's my advice. First, apply. Everyone who gets in here feels like they aren't really good enough to be here. Don't sell yourself short. But you need to do three things first. Are you ready? You do these three simple things, you can get into Yale.

Three things:
1) Go to class. Don't miss. Be alert and attentive while there. Just show up. That puts you ahead of 50% of your classmates right there. Sounds harsh, but it's true.

2) Do all the work assigned. All of it. That puts you ahead of 75% of your classmates. You guys know that's true, right? So show up, and do the work.

But if you really want to get in here and be ahead of 90% of your classmates you have to do one more thing. Ready?

3) Ask for help when needed. Advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it.

That's it.... That's all it takes.

Oh... And be PASSIONATE about something. And then actually do that thing. Don't just be passionate about engineering, build something. Don't just be passionate about music, write some and perform it."

This answer struck me as so profound and important that I wanted to share it in this blog along with the pictures of our tour. It is great advice, not just for school, but for work and life as well.

I need to thank  Mrs. Baldelli for her support and encouragement of us every year and for all the flexibility she shows in allowing us and helping us participate in these enriching activities. Mostly, though I need to thank the parent chaperones who worked very hard on this trip. The Yale University leg of this trip was new, and parent chaperones shouldered a lot of responsibility in helping keep our students safe and having a good time. It is a labor intensive trip and their efforts are very much appreciated!