2014-2015 goddard band handbook - amazon s3 goddard band handbook challenger intermediate school...
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2014-2015
Goddard Band Handbook
Challenger
Intermediate School
Challenger Intermediate:
5th Grade Monday and Wednesday
6th Grade Tuesday and Thursday
Dane Danielsen and Brett Morrison Directors
Jess Herbig Principal
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to the Goddard Instrumental Music Program! This booklet is designed to
provide vital information about procedures, grading policy, required materials and
important dates for 2013-2014 Goddard Intermediate Band Program. It is very
important that both student and parent familiarize themselves with this content.
After doing so, please detach the final page, fill out the form and return it to me by
September 9th.
My goals for the program are centered on providing an exciting and challenging
musical experience for every student. We will build technical skills and ensemble
awareness while exploring the expressive nature of music. To ensure a positive
experience for all students, respectful and responsible behavior is required at all
times.
High expectations for students are mirrored in what I believe should be expected
from a teacher. I am committed to each student and will work hard with their best
interest guiding each decision I make. There is NO reason that ANY student who is
willing to work hard and follow the established instructional system cannot be
successful in band.
If there are questions or concerns at any time, please do not hesitate to contact
me! I am always excited to meet parents, offer extra instruction or help solve
problems.
Sincerely,
Dane Danielsen Brett Morrison
[email protected] [email protected]
Check the website (through “faculty pages” at www.goddardusd.com) for additional info and updates!!!
Table of Contents
Grading Policy 4
Grading Breakdown (by quarter) 6
Pass-Off System 7
E.T.’s 8
Example Practice Log 9
Extra Credit Opportunities 10
Example Outside Concert Form 11
Concert Procedures 12
Required Materials 12
Practice Tips 13
Example Practice Routines 14
Music Wishlist 15
Equipment Wishlist 16
Band Agreement Form 17
Booster Email Sign-Up Form 18
Grading Policy 5th Grade
Grade Breakdown: Daily Grade – 5 points
- Required Materials: Instrument, Pencil, Book and punctuality are each worth 1 point daily - 1 point earned with daily participation - If student is absent for any reason, a score of 0 is assigned. - Points can be made up (Please see, “Extra Credit Opportunities”).
Theory Worksheets – 10-15 points each (points may vary, see next page)
- All theory worksheets will be completed in class. Corrections may be completed at home. - We will complete approximately 1 worksheet per week. - ALL WORK MUST BE COMPLETED IN PENCIL! - Students who score under 100% will have the option to fix mistakes for full credit. Students who
score under a 90% are REQUIRED to fix mistakes for full credit. Practice Logs – 5-15 points each
- Starting the week of September 9th, one practice log is required per week - Practice logs are due each Thursday (6th grade) or Wednesday (5th grade) - To receive full credit, the student will:
o Practice a minimum of 40 minutes each week o 10 minutes of practice is the MAXIMUM amount that can be credited per day o Student name and code are each written clearly o Parent signature is present and log is turned in by the end of school on
Thursday/Wednesday. Pass-Offs – Points will vary (see next page)
- This is the most direct assessment of student achievement - To receive full credit, the student will:
o Play assigned exercise by him/herself o Perform with a steady beat (no stops/hesitations/restarts) o Execute proper posture, hand position and breathing technique o Perform correct pitches and rhythms
- For more information, please see “The Pass-Off System” “In-formance”/Concert Attendance and Participation – Point value will vary (see next page)
- As a performance based class, our concerts are the most important aspect of what we do - Concert attendance is REQUIRED - Students will only receive full credit if they arrive on time, in concert attire, with their instrument
and music. Student grades will also reflect the level of participation. - For more information, please see “Concert Procedures” and “Grading Policy”
Grading Policy Grade Breakdown: Daily Grade – 5 points
- Required Materials: Instrument, Pencil, Books (2) are each worth 1 point daily - 1 point earned with daily participation - If student is absent for any reason, a score of 0 is assigned. - Points can be made up (Please see, “Extra Credit Opportunities”).
Theory Worksheets – 10-15 points each (points may vary, see next page)
- All theory worksheets will be completed in class. Corrections may be completed at home. - We will complete approximately 1 worksheet per week. - ALL WORK MUST BE COMPLETED IN PENCIL! - Students who score under 100% will have the option to fix mistakes for full credit. Students who
score under a 90% are REQUIRED to fix mistakes for full credit. Practice Logs – 5-15 points each
- Starting the week of September 9th, one practice log is required per week - Practice logs are due each Thursday (6th Grade) or Wednesday (5th Grade) - To receive full credit, the student will:
o Practice a minimum of 40 minutes each week o 10 minutes of practice is the MAXIMUM amount that can be credited per day o Student name and code are each written clearly o Parent signature is present and log is turned in by the end of school on
Thursday/Wednesday. Pass-Offs – Points will vary (see next page)
- This is the most direct assessment of student achievement - To receive full credit, the student will:
o Play assigned exercise by him/herself o Perform with a steady beat (no stops/hesitations/restarts) o Execute proper posture, hand position and breathing technique o Perform correct pitches and rhythms
- For more information, please see “The Pass-Off System” Concert Attendance and Participation – Point value will vary (see next page)
- As a performance based class, our concerts are the most important aspect of what we do - Concert attendance is REQUIRED - Students will only receive full credit if they arrive on time, in concert attire, with their instrument
and music. Student grades will also reflect the level of participation. - For more information, please see “Concert Procedures” and “Grading Policy”
Grade Breakdown by Quarter 5th Grade
This is meant to serve as a guide. Actual point totals may vary.
First Quarter (Sept. 9 - Oct. 18): 17 Daily Grades 5 points each 85 pts.
9 Theory Worksheets 10 points each 90 pts. 5 Practice Logs 5 points each 25 pts. 5 Pass-Offs 40 points each 200 pts. 1 In-formance 100 points 100 pts. Total Possible 500 pts.
Second Quarter (Oct. 21 – Dec. 20): 19 Daily Grades 5 points each 95 pts. 9 Theory Worksheets 15 points each 135 pts. 8 Practice Logs 15 points each 120 pts. 10 Pass-Offs 15 points each 150 pts. Total Possible 500 pts. Third Quarter (Jan. 7- March 13): 20 Daily Grades 5 points each 100 pts. 10 Theory Worksheets 10 points each 100 pts. 9 Practice Logs 10 points each 90 pts. 10 Pass-Offs 21 points each 210 pts. Total Possible 500 pts. Fourth Quarter (March 25 – May 22): 22 Daily Grades 5 points each 110 pts. 2 Theory Worksheets +Test 10 points each +20 40 pts. 8 Practice Logs 5 points each 40 pts. 2 Pass-Offs 50 points each 100 pts. 2 Concerts 105 points each 210 pts. Total Possible 500 pts. Extra Credit Opportunities: Worksheets (in student binder) 2 points each 40 pts. Before School Practice 5 points each 50 pts. (per quarter) Memorized Scales 10 points each 60 pts. Extra Pass-Offs 10 points each no limit Outside Concert Attendance/Report 50 points each 100 pts. (per quarter) Total Possible +280 pts.
It is theoretically possible for a student with a 34% to raise his/her grade to an A- by earning the maximum available extra credit.
Grade Breakdown by Quarter 6th Grade
This is meant to serve as a guide. Actual point totals may vary
First Quarter (Sept. 9 - Oct. 18): 18 Daily Grades 5 points each 90 pts.
9 Theory Worksheets 15 points each 135 pts. 5 Practice Logs 15 points each 75 pts. 5 Pass-Offs 40 points each 200 pts. Total Possible 500 pts.
Second Quarter (Oct. 21 – Dec. 20): 20 Daily Grades 5 points each 100 pts. 9 Theory Worksheets 10 points each 90 pts. 8 Practice Logs 10 points each 80 pts. 10 Pass-Offs 13 points each 130 pts. 1 Concert 100 points 100 pts. Total Possible 500 pts. Third Quarter (Jan. 7- March 13): 20 Daily Grades 5 points each 100 pts. 10 Theory Worksheets 10 points each 100 pts. 9 Practice Logs 10 points each 90 pts. 10 Pass-Offs 21 points each 210 pts. Total Possible 500 pts. Fourth Quarter (March 24 – May 22): 22 Daily Grades 5 points each 110 pts. 2 Theory Worksheets +Test 10 points each +20 40 pts. 8 Practice Logs 5 points each 40 pts. 2 Pass-Offs 50 points each 100 pts. 2 Concerts 105 points each 210 pts. Total Possible 500 pts. Extra Credit Opportunities: Worksheets (in student binder) 2 points each 40 pts. After School Practice 5 points each 50 pts. (per quarter) Memorized Scales 10 points each 60 pts. Extra Pass-Offs 10 points each no limit Outside Concert Attendance/Report 50 points each 100 pts. (per quarter) Total Possible +280 pts.
Pass-Off System
The Pass-off System was developed by master teacher, Dr. Marguerite Wilder. A growing number of programs all over the country are implementing these strategies and teaching from Ms. Wilder’s method book, “Do it!”. One of the greatest benefits of this system is the ability for students to progress at their own pace while still being held accountable for knowledge and skills.
So… What IS a Pass-off? A Pass-off is an individual assessment of student ability. Students will be required to perform an exercise from their method book alone or in small groups (team pass-offs).
How do I successfully “pass-off” an exercise? To pass-off an exercise, the student will:
- Execute correct rhythms and pitches - Perform with a steady beat (no stops/hesitations/or restarting) - Demonstrate correct posture, hand placement and breathing technique
How am I graded? Each individual Pass-off is an “all or nothing” situation. There is no partial credit. Each student will complete a number of pass-offs each quarter (See “Grading Policy” for details)
What do we have to “pass-off”? 6th grade: Selected exercises will qualify for pass-offs from the Do it! Book 1 & 2, memorized scales and warm-
ups, learning a song by ear, exercises from the supplemental packet and concert excerpts. 5th grade: Selected exercises from Do it! Book 1, memorized scales and warm-ups, learning a song by ear and
concert excerpts (to be selected by the instructor).
Other important details: - Pass-offs must be completed in order (unless stipulated by a classroom game) - Students can “buy” a second chance at a pass-off by using an extra turn (E.T.) coupon - There is practically no limit to the number of times a student may attempt a pass-off - The required number of pass-offs per quarter is the MINIMUM. There is NO MAXIMUM! Additional
pass-offs are worth extra credit, E.T.’s, candy and/or prizes! - Additional Pass-offs are NOT credited to subsequent quarter - Pass-off opportunities will occur at least once per week. Usually at least once per day.
E.T.’s
What is an E.T.? Extra Turn Coupons or E.T.’s, are a way for students to “buy” a second chance at a Pass-off if they make a mistake.
How do I get E.T.’s? E.T.’s ARE awarded for:
- Three, full credit practice logs turned in consecutively - Outside concert attendance with report - Memorized scales
E.T.’s CAN be awarded for: - in-class behavior - extra Pass-offs - helping fellow students - being prepared for class - modeling good posture, breathing, etc. - positive attitude
Other facts about E.T.’s: -Students are responsible for keeping E.T.’s -Students choose if/when to use E.T.’s -Damaged E.T.’s are NOT accepted -Lost E.T.’s are NOT replaced -Leftover E.T.’s can “buy” extra credit or prizes at the conclusion of each quarter
What does an E.T. Look like?
Extra Credit Opportunities
The Goddard Intermediate Band Grading Policy was designed to hold students accountable for learning the knowledge and skills associated with this class. Understanding that everyone is forgetful, makes mistakes or is too busy to practice from time to time, there are many extra credit opportunities available to allow students to make-up missed points. Each student will receive a packet of extra credit worksheets during the week of September 3rd.
Important information about Extra Credit: - Students can choose if/when to complete extra credit - All extra credit must be turned in 1 week PRIOR to the end of a grading period - Damaged, unreadable, un-coded or no name papers will not receive credit - All worksheets must be completed in pencil - Work must be accurate to receive credit - Extra credit is the responsibility of the STUDENT
Details of how many points are available and a list of each activity are listed in “Grading Policy”. Please refer to that page before contacting the instructor with questions.
Concert Procedures
Call Time: - This is when performers are required to be ready to start warming up before a concert. Generally,
we will meet 30 minutes prior to a performance.
Concert Dress: - Girls: White blouse, black skirt (below the knee when sitting) or pants and nice shoes (NO flip-
flops). - Boys: White shirt, black pants (no shorts or jeans) and nice shoes (no flip flops). A tie is optional but
would be appropriate.
Problems or concerns, please contact Mr. Schapker
Required Materials
Instruments Each student must have an instrument (owned or rented). All instruments, including
school owned, must be maintained by the student.
Textbook 5th Grade: “Do it!” Book 1 (with CD) 6th Grade: “Do it!” Book 1 and 2 (with CD), Supplemental Packet (from teacher)
Cleaning and Maintenance Materials (instrument specific) Music Stand for home practice, Holiday tour and use at Mass band concert in May. 1” 3-ring binders (EACH STUDENT WILL NEED TWO!!!) -5th grade: Black binders -6th grade: Blue binders Pencil with eraser
Practice Tips for the Developing Musician
…Because it’s not magic!
We are all developing musicians.
Those who achieve the fastest/greatest growth are the ones who maintain productive and efficient practice
routines. The following suggestions have been scientifically proven and should be utilized as often as
possible!
1. Practice Every Day! Every day that you practice your instrument you will improve. Every day you do not practice, your skills
actually diminish! It is better to practice a small amount every day than to practice for a long time a few times per week!
2. Start with Long Tones or Rudiments! Long tones (for wind players) and rudiments (for percussionists) are the best way to improve the quality of
your sound! No matter how fast, high or loud you play, if you are not making a beautiful sound, no one will want to listen to you! Tone is the most important aspect of what we do!!!
3. Practice Smart! Use your practice time to work sections that are difficult. The least effective practice technique is to play
from the beginning to the end of a piece. Isolate problems and fix them!!!
4. Use a Metronome and Start Slow! These are invaluable tools to the developing musician. A metronome supplies a steady beat so you can
check your rhythms. It also helps you play slowly and enables you to gradually increase the speed of
difficult sections. Slow and perfect are always better than fast and wrong!
5. Develop Your Own Routine and HAVE FUN!!! The back of this page offers some very general suggestions of practice routines. It is important to find what
works best for YOU. However, the most successful musicians incorporate each of these suggestions
somewhere in their routine.
REMEMBER: Playing music is FUN! Practicing, while not as exciting as performing, should also be FUN! The more we enjoy something the more we do it! Practice with friends, create games, challenge yourself
by setting goals. The more you put in, the more you get out!
“The only secret to greatness is failing and trying again
enough times. You know, practicing.”
Example Practice Routines:
Woodwinds:
1. Long tones
2. Scales and slur exercises
3. Exercises from method book
4. Concert Music
5. Other Music
6. Cool Down Long tones
Brass:
1. Lip Slurs/Mouthpiece Buzzing
2. Long Tones
3. Scales
4. Exercises from method book
5. Concert Music
6. Other Music
7. Cool Down Long Tones
Percussion:
1. Loud, Relaxed and Even 16th notes – Snare drum
2. Long buzz roll – Snare drum
3. Rudiments – Snare drum
4. Scales – mallets
5. Exercises from method book – both
6. Concert music
7. Other music
8. Long buzz roll – Snare drum
9. Cool Down LRE 16th notes
Mr. Danielsen and Mr. Morrison’s
Literature Wishlist
Music is a very large expenditure, but composers continue to write innovative, exciting and fun music every day!!! Please contact
Mr. Morrison and Mr. Danielsen if you are interested in assisting us with this need!
African Folk Trilogy Anne McGinty $45.00 Ahrirang Robert Garofalo $40.00 Castles and Kings Bruce Pearson $40.00 Fanfare for a King W. Duncombe/Balent $50.00 A Prehistoric Suite Paul Jennings $40.00 The Battle Pavane Bob Margolis $85.00 A Shaker Hymn John O’Reilly $40.00 Ancient Voices Michael Sweeney $40.00 A Childhood Hymn David Holsinger $45.00 Fitzwilliam Suite Philip Gordon $55.00 In Dulci Jubilo John Zdechlik $40.00 Joy Frank Ticheli $85.00 Korean Folk Rhapsody James Curnow $50.00 Little Suite for Band Clare Grundman $95.00 Prelude and Dance Anne McGinty $50.00 Portrait of a Clown Frank Ticheli $80.00 The Red Balloon Anne McGinty $45.00 Red River Valley Pierre La Plante $48.00 A Tallis Prelude Doug Akey $52.00 Interruption Overture Steven Bryant $95.00 Crystals Thomas Duffy $85.00 Down a Country Lane Copland/Patterson $60.00 Kentucky 1800 Clare Grundman $90.00
Llwyn Onn Brian Hogg $130.50 Jeanette Isabella William Ryden $75.00 Two English Dances John O’Reilly $42.00 Clouds Anne McGinty $45.00 Cumberland Cross Carl Strommen $55.00
Mr. Danielsen and Mr. Morrison’s
Equipment Wishlist
You know what they say about asking… If you would like to assist the program with any of these needs,
please contact Mr. Danielsen and Mr. Morrison!
Challenger Intermediate Xylophone
Xylophone Mallets Vibraphone
Vibraphone Mallets Crash Cymbal Stand
Timpani Mallets Marimba Mallets
Triangle Clip Triangle Beaters Temple Blocks
Cymbal bag Music Stand Rack
Any used instruments- especially trombones Brass Mouthpieces
Reeds – clarinet, saxophone (Rico, VanDoren preferred brands) Extra Method Books (new or gently used)
Any instrument accessories (neck straps, mouthpiece caps, ligatures, etc.)
Band Agreement Form
General Information
1. Band instruction is offered to 5th and 6th grade students. A one-year commitment to the band
program is required. During the year, if the student and/or parent feel that band is no longer
beneficial to the student, a conference with Mr. Morrison and Mr. Danielsen is necessary to
change enrollment.
2. Parents are not required to pay a participation fee for band; however, parents are required to
provide an instrument, instruction book and supplies (as needed). A limited number of school
instruments are available to check out to students. Students are required to purchase a
mouthpiece and are responsible for maintenance.
3. Students in band earn a grade just like any other part of the curriculum. Please see the handbook’s
“Grading Policy” section for details.
4. Available instruments for instruction include:
Woodwinds: Flute, Clarinet (Saxophone is available on a limited basis requires instructor approval)
Brass: Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone (Tuba is available on a limited basis)
Percussion: is available on a limited basis, requires try out and instructor approval
Please separate the bottom half of this page and return to Mr. Danielsen and Mr. Morrison by Sept. 12th
______________________________________ (please print) is enrolling in 5th/6th grade band. I understand
that this class issues an official school grade and is an equal part of the curriculum. By signing below, I signify
that I have read, understood and agree to the policies within the Goddard Intermediate Band Handbook.
My child will:
1. Participate in band for a full school year
2. Attend all band classes, rehearsals and performances (excluding extenuating circumstances)
3. Properly maintain his/her instrument and bring required materials to each rehearsal
Student Name (printed) ______________________________________________________________
Student Signature __________________________________________ Date ____________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ___________________________________________Date_____________
Please feel free to write any comments on the back of this form! THANK YOU!!!