| Music Curriculum 2007-2008
Course: Middle School Band, Grades 7 and 8
Teacher: Vince McCool
Materials: Standard of Excellence Comprehensive Band Method
By Bruce Pearson
Publisher: Kjos
Edition: 1993
Basics of Rhythm
By Garwood Whaley
Publisher: Meredith Music Publications
Edition: 1984
Just Jazz Real Book
Publisher: Warner Bros.
Edition: 2002
Description:
Students who have chosen an instrument and have become proficient on that
instrument for at least a year, will begin developing technical skills
including music notation and tone production using an introductory band
method. They will study and perform a variety of new and familiar
compositions. Technique, music theory, and ensemble playing will be
important components of this course. Private lessons are recommended.
Practicing at home is mandatory for the development of skills. All 7th &
8th Grade band students rehearse four times a week.
Curriculum: Basic Instrumental Skills: Fingering/Embouchure,
Tone Quality, Breath Control/Support,Tone Production
Musical Concepts: Notation, Phrasing, Dynamics
Prerequisites: One year prior playing experience is recommended.
Evaluation: First Semester Evaluation Performance: December 5,2007
Second Semester Evaluation Performance: May 15, 2008
Grading: Students will receive a quarterly grade for Middle School Band
based on the student’s ability to improve and maintain various concepts of
music and more specifically, aspects of band performance.
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Welcome to the Middle School Band’s website!
FURTHER INFORMATION FOR BAND STUDENTS AND THEIR
FAMILIES:
Instruments and Accessories:
Each brass and wind player will need to obtain an instrument for
practice in rehearsal and at home. I recommend that students rent their
instruments from one of the music stores listed at the end of this letter.
If you are borrowing an instrument, please be sure to take it to a
competent repairperson for inspection and possible repairs. You may
also want to consider purchasing a new or used instrument.
A limited number of flutes, clarinets and saxophones are available
through the school. Students who play the school’s trumpets or baritone
horn must provide their own mouthpiece for the instrument. If your child
is interested in borrowing a school-owned instrument, please contact
me as soon as possible.
Additional accessories and instrument requirements include:
1. Reeds: All clarinet and saxophone players need to have a minimum
of three playable reeds at all times. Rico Number 1 1/2 or 2 strength
reeds for beginners and 2 or 2 1/2 strength for novice players are
suggested.
2. Cork Grease is used on clarinet and saxophone corks to prevent dry
rot and keep them lubricated for easier assembly.
3. Valve oil or slide oil/cream: Brass instruments need lubrication to
function properly. Valve oil is used on all brass instruments except for
trombones, which use slide oil cream.
4. Rental instruments usually come with some cleaning equipment.
Flute players should request a plastic cleaning rod (not metal) and have
a handkerchief for cleaning the outside of the instrument.
Clarinets and saxes need to have a soft rag (large handkerchief or a
small pillow sheet) available that is attached to a string without the
metal weight at the end. (Do not purchase giant Q-Tips for sax. They put
the spit right back into the instrument.)
Brass players will need a cleaning snake.
5. Instrument case labels: All instruments must have a nametag for
proper identification in case of loss.
6. Percussionists are required to have their own stick bag with a
minimum of one pair of snare drum sticks (Vic Firth General SD1 are
best) and a drum key. These supplies can be obtained at a local music
store and on line.
7. A pencil is also expected at every rehearsal.
Other necessary supplies will be discussed in rehearsal as warranted.
Instruction will be given on the proper maintenance procedures for all
instruments. In the case of equipment failure, students and parents will
be responsible for having the instrument repaired.
When applicable, please send a note with your child indicating how long
the repairs expect to take.
Performance Information:
Middle School Band students will have opportunities to perform during
Middle School Community Meetings and in seasonal concerts.
Rehearsal Expectations:
- Be prompt for rehearsal.
- Keep socializing to a minimum during rehearsal.
- Stay seated during rehearsal, unless directed to stand.
- Absolutely no gum, candy, drinks or food is allowed during rehearsal.
- Bring all necessary equipment and music to every rehearsal.
- Do not touch or play other members' instruments or music.
RECOMMENDED SOURCES OF INSTRUMENTS
AND INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION
L & L Music Windshop, Inc., Gaithersburg: 301-948-7273
Music and Arts Centers (www.musicarts.com)
Rockville: 301-881-6440; McLean: 703-365-9394
House of Musical Traditions, Takoma Park: 301-270-9090
Dale Music, Silver Spring: 301-589-1459
Washington Music Center (www.wmcworld.com), Wheaton (serves
Metro area): 301-946-8808
The Levine School of Music (www.levineschool.org)
Kensington: 301-933-0929
Washington (Van Ness/UDC): 202-686-9772
Washington (Bruce Place, SE): 202-610-2036
Arlington: 703-237-5655
The Washington Conservatory (www.washingtonconservatory.com)
Bethesda: 301-320-2770
North Potomac School of Music: 301-838-5594
Silver Spring Brass (serves Metro area): 301-565-3559
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