"Music is a defining element of character." ~ Plato
Course Description:
This course will explore various aspects of instrumental performance, including but not limited to technique, articulation, intonation, breathing, tone development, sight-reading, musical expression, and music theory.
Rationale:
The purpose of this course is to prepare students with the necessary skills and methods to become effective performers alone and within an instrumental ensemble. This course will also look at various elements of music to enable the student to understand and appreciate music.
Objectives:
By the end of this course, the student will be able to:
1) Play instrumental music correctly with good tone and posture
2) Breathe correctly with good posture and apply to performance
3) Read and perform band music of various difficulty levels within an ensemble
4) Read and perform solo music of various difficulty levels
5) Use appropriate expression to perform band and solo music
6) Identify elements of music theory within the repertoire being performed
Course Content:
Music will be chosen from different genres and eras of music history. Theory will be incorporated through classroom rehearsal and discussion.
Methods of Instruction:
Methods of instruction will include demonstration, class participation, listening and analysis, and digital presentations of theory and playing skills.
Text and Materials:
Each student will provided one (1) band folder and one (one) copy of music. Students will be expected to purchase materials such as reeds, valve oil, and cleaning supplies for their instruments.
Instruments:
Students may use their own instruments or school instruments. Students using school instruments are expected to maintain the instrument that they have checked out. Repairs beyond normal wear-and-tear must be paid for by the student. Students who abuse school instruments will receive a warning on the first offense and will have the instrument taken away on the second offense.
Lettering:
High school (9-12) students may earn a Letter for music participation. Certain events will count towards earning a Band Letter; students will be given different opportunities throughout the school year to earn points. An unexcused absence from a performance will eliminate any chance of lettering.
Evaluation:
Each student will earn daily participation points for successful solo and group rehearsal. Playing tests will be required at least once per grading period; testing will be either solo or in small ensembles. Playing tests will demonstrate proper playing techniques and improvements and will include scales and performance pieces. Written work to evaluate music theory skills will be required each grading period and will be included in the cumulative music grading.
Performance Evaluation:
Students will be required to perform at all scheduled public performances. ANY absence from performance will be evaluated by video/audio recording allowing the student to sing or play the required music from the performance for evaluation on an individual basis.
Opportunities:
Every year, band students may choose to participate in several extra- and co-curricular instrumental events including: Instrumental Music Contest, PVC High School Honor Band, NWMSU 4-State Honor Band, NWMMEA Junior High and Middle School Honor Bands, NWMMEA High School All-District Band.