Beginning Band and Concert Band Course Descriptions
Beginning Band:
This class is designed primarily for students who are new to a particular band instrument. The ultimate goal is to be ready to join the 6th Grade Concert Band by January. No prior musical experience is necessary.
The instruments offered are: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, and Percussion. Students are given the opportunity to try the different instruments before they choose one to focus on.
Students will be supplied with lesson books but will need to provide their own instruments that are in working condition. Rental and purchase options will be discussed in class.
The number of percussionists will be limited and decided on during the 1st month of class.
The main focus of beginning percussionists will be on learning the xylophone. Students will perform in at least two concerts during the year.
Concert Band:
These classes are designed for students who have been playing a woodwind, brass, percussion, or string instrument for at least one year. (These groups do not include piano or guitar.)
Students will start by reviewing material they learned in the previous year and then work on expanding their playing ranges. Students will work on new notes, rhythms, dynamics, time signatures, key signatures, and major scales.
Students in the 6th Grade Band will perform in at least two concerts during the year. Students in the 7th/8th Grade Band will perform in at least 3 concerts during the year and will have the opportunity to participate in the Great East Music Festival.