What the student will learn/Assessment:
A fundamental goal of the four year high school band program is to develop students who are musically independent. In addition to individual technical development the students learn how the following relate to the ensemble/band: Tone (beauty, blend, clarity), Intonation (individual & ensemble), Balance, Technique (facility, articulation, accuracy, rhythm, precision), Interpretation (expression, phrasing, tempo & style), Musical Effect (artistry & fluency), and Other Factors (appearance, stage presence, & discipline). Grades are determined from the points possible for each student compared to the points earned using the following % scale:
93=A, 90 = A-, 88 = B+, 83 = B, 80 = B-, 78 = C+, 73 = C, 70 = C-, 68 = D+, 63 = D, 60 = D-, and below 660 = F.
Points are earned through a variety of experiences including: rehearsals, performances, evaluations and lessons. Specific types of assessments you may expect are:
(1) DAILY POINTS: 10 pts. possible for each class period. Points are earned for following directions/procedures, having required equipment/instrument, and having all required music and/or handouts. If you should miss a class period(s) you may make it up with your lesson instructor. You are allowed one day for each day absent to complete the work (extensions are possible for extenuating circumstances).
(2) PERFORMANCES: Each performance may earn up to 50 pts. Points are earned for satisfactory participation, being on time, wearing the correct uniform/dress as announced, and cooperation.
(3) LESSONS: Each student will be scheduled for lesson appearances each semester. Each lesson is worth 50 points based on accuracy of the given assignment. (See separate lesson rubric) In addition, the following will also be held during one or more of the lesson times:
FALL AUDITION is a skills test measuring tone, intonation, instrument/body positioning, intervals, articulation, rhythm, tempo, expression, and sight-reading.
MUSIC CHECKS(100 pts.) are held each quarter, depending on the concert schedule, and is a playing evaluation of music studied in class. The lst quarter check will be based on the street piece. It is to be played from memory to a taped version played by the band. Checks for 2nd, 3rd, & 4th quarters will be on concert music (not from memory).
(4) SEMESTER FINALS (100 pts.): All classes are required to use semester exams which are held during the final week of the semester. Exams may be written and/or played covering material/concepts presented during the semester.
Specific Behavioral Expectations of this class: In addition to the school rules (no hats, no eating/drinking,etc.) students are not to chew gum during playing class periods. Students are to be quiet and pay attention to anyone who is directing the group. Students may talk between numbers, only. Students are expected to exhibit appropriate care for their uniform, instrument(s), and music.
General Comments: Following the Fall Audition, students are divided into two concert bands: Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band. Any additional requirements/expectations for these ensembles will be presented during the first rehearsal. In order to encourage musical growth the following extra credit opportunities are offered: help lessons on band music (5), extra method lessons(5-50), private instruction outside of school(30 max. per qtr), contest solos and additional ensembles(15/10), other performances/ensembles approved by the director(s).
