Beginning Band Information for Parents and Students
Black Days 4th Block
Syllabus 2014 - 2015
I am thrilled to be making music with your kids. This is going to be an exciting adventure! We have a great time learning our instruments and playing music together in this class. Students also gain important skills such as self-discipline, self-confidence, cooperative learning and teamwork, how to read music, music history and theory. Many studies have shown that learning to play an instrument helps your brain develop in ways nothing else can and music performance can improve a student’s skills in math and language arts as well. It's an awesome place to meet great people and develop lasting friendships. We will have several performance opportunities throughout the year such as the Winter and Spring concerts, Tree Lighting, and PSUs Mid-America Music Festival. Band students are utilized in carrying the banner for the 7-12 Band at parades (PSU Homecoming, and Pittsburg Christmas Parade); the selection process is based off of attitudes, preparation for class, and participation. Band students will be able to read music and play many tunes on their instruments by Christmas! This is an amazing process and I love teaching this class. We strongly recommend students stick with it for at least a year, but if they decide they would rather do something else, they may transfer to a different class after the first semester.
Frontenac has a limited number of the instruments (Tenor Saxophone/Baritone/Tuba/Oboe/Baritone Saxophone/French Horn) available for check out through the school each year. An excellent place to rent instruments is: Palen Music (Joplin), Ernie Williamsons' Music (Joplin), or www.rentmyinstrument.com. Instrument rental night will be held on Tuesday September 2 in the band room; Ernie Williamsons' Music will come to Frontenac with instruments for you to rent or purchase, after filling out some paperwork. We like to get started playing as soon as possible, so renting the instruments and buying the books and supplies early is recommended. (Also, the best quality instruments tend to be rented quickly) Some of the more difficult instruments like oboe, bassoon and french horn are also an option; please talk to me about the challenges of these instruments.
Beware of inexpensive instruments; sadly these instruments are usually not bargains. In many cases, the instruments are of poor quality and parts cannot be replaced. Local music stores will often not be able to repair them. Students with poor quality instruments tend to do poorly in band and get frustrated because they don’t sound as good as the other students which makes them want to drop out. The bitterness caused by poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price. An evaluation on any used instrument is highly suggested prior to purchase. Please feel free to ask me about any instrument you may wish to purchase.
Books: We will be using "Standard of Excellence, Book One" (the red book) which costs $6.95 (without CD) or $9.95 (with CD) for most instruments and are available at Rental night or at Kutz Music in downtown Pittsburg or through J. W. Pepper, an online store.
http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/search.jsp?keywords=Standards+of+excellence+book+one
1. Instrument care: review the first few pages of the band book Standard of Excellence with your students and remind them to clean and care for their instruments daily. Instruments are fragile and extremely expensive to repair. Students will be responsible to pay for any repairs needed on school instruments that are beyond the normal wear and tear of the instrument. The instrument repair technician will notify the district if repairs are not from normal usage.
2. Home Practice (25%of the band grade)
a) It is best to establish a practice time and place that is consistent each day.
b) Always make sure students practice with their CD’s, if you have purchased the book with the CD. (Standard of Excellence Book, with CD $9.95) The CD’s show good tone, rhythm, note length and pitch, and are fun to play with. Students should listen, model and match pitch.
c) Remind students to stay focused and use their time wisely; play correct notes and rhythms and always use good tone and good posture (sit up straight, feet on floor, back away from chair etc.)
d) Parent signed practice cards will be required the first (Black day, 4th block) band day of each week.
10 minutes a day is an ‘A’. Students who do not practice, but indicate their practice time will be exposed during playing tests within class.
Late cards will receive lower grades (- 5% each band day it is late).
d) Always encourage your kids: learning a new instrument is hard!
3. Private lessons are the best way to ensure success and keep your kids motivated. They are not required but highly recommended, unless your student has chosen percussion as their instrument; lessons for those students are REQUIRED in order to play percussion. (There are a few instruments like oboe, bassoon and french horn that take extra teaching so if your child chooses one of these instruments, they really need to take private lessons or they will likely become frustrated. I do give lessons after school (231-7550/ [email protected] or you can enroll in the Music Preparatory program at PSU (Call PSU Music Department 235-4466/ http://www.pittstate.edu/department/music/music-preparatory-school.dot. Whomever, you choose to have your student take lessons from, from what is listed above, please make sure it is an individual that is a reputable teacher or one approved by the music director, Linda Evans.
4. Students will be graded on:
a) Behavior and participation (Daily Points 15%)
*Bonus points MAY BE given for effort, respect, good attitudes, following rules, being prepared and listening.
*If the student becomes a discipline problem, the may be asked to withdraw from band class.
b) Practice cards (20%)
*Practice cards need to be signed by a parent and are due at the beginning of each week.
*The best way to ensure success is daily practice.
*Ernie Williamsons' or Palen Music in Joplin or JWPepper.com has fun solo books that you may want to purchase. Books like “Disney Favorites” or “Patriotic Songs” can be excellent motivators once kids master the basics.
c) Quizzes, playing tests, written work, etc... (20%)
d) Performances (45%)
*Performances include: Winter Concert, Spring Concert, H.S. Graduation, 8th Grade Graduation, and Mid-America Music Festival
*Bonus points will be given for students performing solos and small ensembles at PSU's Mid-America Music Festival
Grades will be available through powerschool and will be updated every two or three weeks, depending upon how many points each class period is given.
5. The Greek philosopher Plato once said, “Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education.” Music, has been shown, trains the brain for higher forms of thinking. It has been scientifically proven that students involved in music ensembles throughout their school career, have higher grade point averages, score an average of 20 - 40 points higher on SAT tests (verbal and math), and are generally higher academic achievers than those students who don’t participate in music classes. So encourage your students to stay in band: the benefits could be enormous.
6. Extra Help and After School Practice: I am available to help students briefly after school or students can just hang out in the band room and play music with their friends or practice on their own. This practice time does count on practice cards as long as the time is used well.
7. Concerts: Our two Sunday Afternoon concerts and two graduation ceremonies are pre-scheduled for the year. These are like a final exam for band class and participation IS required. If there is a conflict, I need to know a minimum of two weeks in advance. Band is like a team sport and every player is essential to our success. Students should be from 30 to 45 minutes early to warm up and tune and should be in concert dress (Black dress slacks {no jeans}, a white dress shirt {no t-shirts} and black dress shoes. Concerts begin at 3:00 p.m. and will last no longer than 1 1/2 hours. Please keep an eye on this website for updates regarding concerts, contests, graduations, and other performance opportunities. We participate in the Frontenac Christmas Tree Lighting, but dress is weather appropriate. Please refer to the calendar that you child has brought home and to this website!
I would also like to stress that your child may participate in band and sports at the same time and I will work hand in hand with the coaches.
Thank you for supporting your kids musically. Always feel free to e-mail: [email protected] or call me (231-7550 ext. 145) with questions or concerns. I like to communicate as much as possible through e-mail, so if you have an e-mail address, please write it below. I like to know how you and your students are feeling about band. We asks that you join Frontenac music on the Frontenac Music Department Facebook group
Parental involvement is very welcome and often makes a big difference in a student’s success, as well as the music department of Frontenac. If you are interested in participating in the Music Boosters Association please indicate below. Please make sure your child gives you a syllabus agreement and that it is returned no later than Friday August 29; this will be for a grade.
Linda Evans
Additional Information for your peruse:
You may expect instrument rentals to run approximately as follows:
Flute = $ 25.00 - $ 30.00 monthly
Oboe = $ 135.00 monthly
Clarinet = $ 27.00 - $38.00 monthly
Alto Saxophone = $ 60.00 - $ 68.00 monthly
Tenor Saxophone = $ 75.00 - $126.00 monthly
Trumpet = $ 32.00 - $82.00 monthly
French Horn = $153.00 monthly
Trombone = $ 35.00 - $91.00 monthly
Baritone/Euphonium = $ 84.00 - $96.00 monthly
Drum/Bell Kit = $30.00 monthly
7 ~ 12 Band (Marching, Concert, & Pep)
Syllabus 2014 - 2015
White Days 4th Block
Course Description:
A full year course designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of Band music. The instruction and improvement of instrumental quality, intonation, ability to read music, ability to sight-reading, and the overall development of musicianship is stressed in conjunction with the learning of each piece of music. The Band performs at concerts, graduation and other special events. Attendance at these performances and dress rehearsals are course requirements.
Frontenac High School’s curriculum and instruction are aligned to the State of Kansas and NAfME National Standards
Course Objective:
After the completion of Band, all students will have had instruction, practice and performance utilizing all of the elements of study outlined in the course description. The successful completion of all the activities will provide the student with a detailed view of the foundations of performance and study in playing an instrument.
Daily Rehearsals:
Rehearsals typically consist of a warm-up period of exercises and scales and exercises strengthening sight-reading and ear training, followed by rehearsal of music being studied in conjunction with the next scheduled performance.
Each piece of repertoire will be selected with attention to developing concepts/skills in the following areas:
1) Instrumental production 2) Musicianship 3) Critical analysis of music 4) Aesthetics 5) Music history
Through classroom discussion and musical performance the student will, by the end of the year, be able to:
1) Play with acceptable tone quality. 2) Maintain accurate intonation and pitch in a group setting.
3) Respond with appropriate musicianship in rehearsal and performance.
Performances:
Band performances include: Winter Concert in December, numerous Football and Basketball Games (including playoff games), Parades during Fall Semester (PSU Homecoming, Pittsburg Christmas Parade, & Mulberry Homecoming Parade in May after school is out), Frontenac Tree Lighting Ceremony, Spring Concert in April, League Music Festival in March, Regional and State Solo and Small Ensemble (H.S. Only) and Large Ensemble Festivals & PSU's Mid-America Music Festival (Jr. High Only) in April, and performances at graduations in May (See Calendars). Concert Dress and Attendance at all performances and dress rehearsals are required in order to PASS this course. "Work" related absences are considered unexcused and will result in a grade of a 0, with NO chance to make up the grade. Other absences, such as forgetting or just not showing up also constitute a grade of a “0”. Other performance opportunities will become available and the director will attempt to give a two-week notice if at all possible. However, if the two-week notice is not possible, absences due to work will be excused.
Materials Needed:
*Instrument (personal or school {minimal school instruments are available})
*Flip Folder for marching band and Lyre (may be purchased through Ernie Williamsons' or Palen Music in Joplin or Kutz Music in Pittsburg)
*Paper Folder for concert band (will be supplied)
*Music (will be supplied)
*A pencil (will be part of the daily grade)
*Music Department T-shirt
Up to XL - $10.00; XXL - $11.50; XXXL - $13.00)
Required as part of the Marching Band and Pep Band Uniform
Shirts WILL NOT be ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than August 29, 2014
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
*1 box of tissues (to be shared)
Marching Band Dress (Checked out to individual students and checked in at end of Semester):
¨ Band Uniform, Band Shako (hat), Garment Bag, Rain-Coat, String Back-Pack
¨ Music Department T-shirt (see above)
¨ Black Socks (ankle length or shorter not allowed)
¨ ALL Black Tennis Shoes (Wal Mart, JC Penney's, PayLess Shoes carry ALL black tennis shoes)
¨ ****If student wears shoes with color on them, they will be spray painted black!!!!****
Concert Dress
*H.S. students:
All Black dress shirt (no tank tops or T-shirt)
All Black dress pants (no Jeans)
All Black dress shoes
Black dress socks (or hosiery for women)
* Jr. High Students:
All Black or White dress shirt (no tank tops or T-shirts)
All Black dress pants (no Jeans)
All Black dress shoes
Black dress socks (or hosiery for women)
Evaluation
Mid-Term Grading Period:
“Active” Participation in Class ~ 40% (includes written exams, practice cards, daily points, daily paperwork, homework, reports, etc...)
Participation at Performance in Proper Concert/Marching Dress ~ 60%
End of Semester Grade Period:
“Active” Participation in Class~ 40% (includes written exams, practice cards, daily points, daily paperwork, homework, reports, etc...)
Participation at Performances in Proper Concert Dress ~ 60%
For continual up-dated information refer to this website or to the Frontenac Music Department Facebook Group
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 29, as well as payment for Music Department T-shirt properly completed. If forms are not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures.
Vocal and Music Studies (A.K.A. Choir)
Syllabus 2014 - 2015
(Black Days 1st and 2nd Block)
Course Description:
A full year course designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of choral music. The instruction and improvement of voice quality, intonation, ability to read music, ability to sight-sing, and the overall development of musicianship is stressed in conjunction with the learning of each piece of music. The Chorus performs at evening concerts, graduation and other special events. Attendance at these performances and dress rehearsals are course requirements.
Frontenac High School’s curriculum and instruction are aligned to the State of Kansas and NAfME National Standards.
Course Objective:
After the completion of Chorus, all students will have had instruction, practice and performance utilizing all of the elements of study outlined in the course description. The successful completion of all the activities will provide the student with a detailed view of the foundations of performance and study in choral singing.
Daily Rehearsals:
Rehearsals typically consist of a warm-up period of vocalizes and scales and exercises strengthening sight-singing and ear training, followed by rehearsal of music being studied in conjunction with the next scheduled performance.
Each piece of repertoire will be selected with attention to developing concepts/skills in the following areas:
1. Vocal production 2. Musicianship 3. Critical analysis of music 4. Aesthetics 5. Music history
Through classroom discussion and musical performance the student will, by the end of the year, be able to:
1. Sing with acceptable tone quality. 2. Maintain accurate intonation in a group setting.
3. Respond with appropriate musicianship in rehearsal and performance. 4. Execute diction with accurate vowel and consonant sounds.
Performances
Choir performances include: National Honor Society, Winter and Spring Concerts, Christmas Tree Lighting, Veteran’s Day Assembly, All Home Basketball Games (including Home Playoff and Tournament games), League Music Festival, Regional Solo and Small Ensemble and Large Ensemble Festivals, and H.S. Graduation May. Concert Dress and Attendance at all performances and dress rehearsals are required in order to PASS this course.
Work related absences are considered unexcused and result in a grade of a 0. Other absences, such as forgetting or just not showing up also constitute a grade of a “0.”
Other performance opportunities will become available and the director will attempt to give a two-week notice if at all possible. However, if the two-week notice is not possible, absences due to work will be excused.
Please make sure to refer to the music department calendar frequently in order to stay abreast of performances.
Materials Needed
*Music and binder (will be supplied)
*A pencil (first pencil of the year will be supplied)
*Music Department T-shirt
Up to XL - $10.00; XXL - $11.50; XXXL - $13.00)
Required as part of the Casual Performances and performing at Home Basketball Games
Shirts WILL NOT be ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than Friday August 23
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
*1 bottle of antibacterial hand-sanitizer (to be shared)
Concert Dress:
ALL Black dress shirt
ALL Black dress pants (No Jeans)
ALL Black dress shoes (No shoes with other colors on them)
ALL Black dress socks (or hosery for women)
Evaluation
Mid-Term Grading Period
“Active” Participation in Class ~ 40% (includes written exams, written work, attitudes, homework, etc...)
Participation at Performance in Proper Dress ~ 60%
End of Semester Grade Period
“Active” Participation in Class~ 40% (includes written exams, written work, attitudes, homework, etc...)
Participation at Performances in Proper Concert Dress ~ 60%
For continual up-dated information refer to the Music Department Website and the Frontenac Music Department Facebook Group
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 29, as well as payment for Music Department T-shirt properly completed. If forms are not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures.
Junior High Choir (Advisory)
Course Description:
A full year course designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of choral music. The Chorus performs at concerts, graduation and other special events. Attendance at these performances and dress rehearsals are course requirements. Frontenac Public School’s curriculum and instruction are aligned to the State of Kansas and KMEA National Standards.
Course Objective:
After the completion of Chorus, all students will have had instruction, practice and performance utilizing all of the elements of study outlined in the course description. The successful completion of all the activities will provide the student with a detailed view of the foundations of performance and study in choral singing at upper levels.
Daily Rehearsals:
Rehearsals typically consist of a warm-up period of vocalizes and scales and exercises strengthening sight-singing and ear training, followed by rehearsal of music being studied in conjunction with the next scheduled performance.
Each piece of repertoire will be selected with attention to developing concepts/skills in the following areas:
1) Vocal production 2) Musicianship 3) Critical analysis of music 4) Aesthetics 5) Music history
Through classroom discussion and musical performance the student will, by the end of the year, be able to:
1) Sing with acceptable tone quality. 2) Maintain accurate intonation in a group setting.
3) Respond with appropriate musicianship in rehearsal and performance. 4) Execute diction with accurate vowel and consonant sounds.
Performances
Chorus performances include: Winter Concert, Christmas Tree Lighting, Veteran’s Day Assembly, Spring Concert, Mid-America Music Festival, and 8th Grade graduation
Concert Dress and Attendance at all performances and dress rehearsals are required in order to PASS this course. Other performance opportunities will become available and the director will attempt to give a two-week notice if at all possible.
Materials Needed
*Black 3 ring Binder (Will be supplied)
*Music (will be supplied)
*A pencil (1st Pencil will be supplied)
*Music Department T-shirt
Up to XL - $10.00; XXL - $11.50; XXXL - $13.00)
Shirts WILL NOT is ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than August 29
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
*1 bottle of antibacterial hand-sanitizer or 1 box Tissues (to be shared)
Concert Dress:
ALL White dress shirt (No T-shirts)
ALL Black dress pants (No Jeans)
ALL Black dress shoes
Black dress socks (or hosiery for women)
Evaluation
This course is a graded course. If students do not participate in class or at performances they will receive a Failing grade. There may be an opportunity to make the grade up (see school handbook for policy) and is at the discretion. Please make sure to refer to the calendar frequently to stay abreast of required Music Department activities.
For continual up-dated information refer to the Music Department Website or the Frontenac Music Department Facebook Group
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 31 properly completed. If not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures. T-shirt Order Forms and Money is also due no later than August 23.
Music Appreciation
2014 - 2015 Syllabus
White Days, 2nd Block
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND OBJECTIVES:
Fall Semester:
The music theory portion of the course is the study of the materials and components that create and organize music. Music theory encompasses the study of notation, types and uses of scales, melodic and harmonic analysis, intervals, chord progressions, rhythm, ear training, and site singing. Music theory is the “nuts and bolts” of the construction of music in any style or genre. Projects using Garageband, a recorder, and other music generating equipment "may" be utilized.
Spring Semester:
Music Appreciation, History, and Theory will educate the student in the classical music genres of Western music, classical and popular forms of music from America such as folk, blues, jazz, forms of rock n’ roll, as well as music from around the world. The composers, performers, and their music are showcased in relation to the social, political, and religious events happening at the time the compositions were created and performed.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Listening Journal: do the listening lesson activities and worksheets. Participate in class discussions. Complete assignments on music composers, compositions, style periods, music, and music vocabulary.
2. Each student will present one project to the class each grading period. With teacher guidance and approval, these projects will be planned by the student.
Examples of projects:
3. Complete Unit lessons in theory workbook(s) and hand in unit reviews and any worksheets and assignments. Use supplemental material to enhance the learning of theory skills.
4. If the class has the opportunity to go on a music field trip (evening performances), the student will be responsible for attending the event. The instructor will try to give the students plenty of time to plan it into their schedules. The event may have an assignment such as a critique of a performance in aspects of style, performance, or theory elements. The school will provide transportation.
GRADING PROCEDURES:
Individual Projects: 15%
Assignments: 45%
Absentee Policy:
See the school hand-book for this policy. You do need to do make-up work, which includes coming in on your own time to do the listening examples. This includes school excused absences.
Late Work Policy:
I will accept late work however, 10 points per school calendar day will be deducted that it is late. If the students find themselves in a time crunch, please inform the instructor so we can work together to create a time line that is ideal for the class and the student. Plan ahead, know your calendar, and know your commitments.
Plagiarism Policy:
Plagiarism is representing someone else’s ideas or work as your own. To avoid plagiarism when you use someone else’s data, arguments, designs, words, ideas, project, music, etc., you must make it clear that the work originated with someone else by citing the source. (Make sure to sign the agreement). Any papers that are written will be written in the MLA format.
Music Appreciation, History, and Theory Curriculum Main Sources
Shirts WILL NOT be ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than Friday August 29
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
If you have any questions about Music Appreciation, how I grade, my expectations or anything else please contact me. The band room is located by the near the High School Competition Gym. My phone numbers in the band room: 620.231.7550 ext 145 or e-mail me at [email protected]
For continual up-dated information refer to the Music Department Website: http://raidermusic.weebly.com/
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 29 properly completed. If not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures. If ordering a T-shirt, form and money is also due by August 29.
Black Days 4th Block
Syllabus 2014 - 2015
I am thrilled to be making music with your kids. This is going to be an exciting adventure! We have a great time learning our instruments and playing music together in this class. Students also gain important skills such as self-discipline, self-confidence, cooperative learning and teamwork, how to read music, music history and theory. Many studies have shown that learning to play an instrument helps your brain develop in ways nothing else can and music performance can improve a student’s skills in math and language arts as well. It's an awesome place to meet great people and develop lasting friendships. We will have several performance opportunities throughout the year such as the Winter and Spring concerts, Tree Lighting, and PSUs Mid-America Music Festival. Band students are utilized in carrying the banner for the 7-12 Band at parades (PSU Homecoming, and Pittsburg Christmas Parade); the selection process is based off of attitudes, preparation for class, and participation. Band students will be able to read music and play many tunes on their instruments by Christmas! This is an amazing process and I love teaching this class. We strongly recommend students stick with it for at least a year, but if they decide they would rather do something else, they may transfer to a different class after the first semester.
Frontenac has a limited number of the instruments (Tenor Saxophone/Baritone/Tuba/Oboe/Baritone Saxophone/French Horn) available for check out through the school each year. An excellent place to rent instruments is: Palen Music (Joplin), Ernie Williamsons' Music (Joplin), or www.rentmyinstrument.com. Instrument rental night will be held on Tuesday September 2 in the band room; Ernie Williamsons' Music will come to Frontenac with instruments for you to rent or purchase, after filling out some paperwork. We like to get started playing as soon as possible, so renting the instruments and buying the books and supplies early is recommended. (Also, the best quality instruments tend to be rented quickly) Some of the more difficult instruments like oboe, bassoon and french horn are also an option; please talk to me about the challenges of these instruments.
Beware of inexpensive instruments; sadly these instruments are usually not bargains. In many cases, the instruments are of poor quality and parts cannot be replaced. Local music stores will often not be able to repair them. Students with poor quality instruments tend to do poorly in band and get frustrated because they don’t sound as good as the other students which makes them want to drop out. The bitterness caused by poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price. An evaluation on any used instrument is highly suggested prior to purchase. Please feel free to ask me about any instrument you may wish to purchase.
Books: We will be using "Standard of Excellence, Book One" (the red book) which costs $6.95 (without CD) or $9.95 (with CD) for most instruments and are available at Rental night or at Kutz Music in downtown Pittsburg or through J. W. Pepper, an online store.
http://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/search.jsp?keywords=Standards+of+excellence+book+one
1. Instrument care: review the first few pages of the band book Standard of Excellence with your students and remind them to clean and care for their instruments daily. Instruments are fragile and extremely expensive to repair. Students will be responsible to pay for any repairs needed on school instruments that are beyond the normal wear and tear of the instrument. The instrument repair technician will notify the district if repairs are not from normal usage.
2. Home Practice (25%of the band grade)
a) It is best to establish a practice time and place that is consistent each day.
b) Always make sure students practice with their CD’s, if you have purchased the book with the CD. (Standard of Excellence Book, with CD $9.95) The CD’s show good tone, rhythm, note length and pitch, and are fun to play with. Students should listen, model and match pitch.
c) Remind students to stay focused and use their time wisely; play correct notes and rhythms and always use good tone and good posture (sit up straight, feet on floor, back away from chair etc.)
d) Parent signed practice cards will be required the first (Black day, 4th block) band day of each week.
10 minutes a day is an ‘A’. Students who do not practice, but indicate their practice time will be exposed during playing tests within class.
Late cards will receive lower grades (- 5% each band day it is late).
d) Always encourage your kids: learning a new instrument is hard!
3. Private lessons are the best way to ensure success and keep your kids motivated. They are not required but highly recommended, unless your student has chosen percussion as their instrument; lessons for those students are REQUIRED in order to play percussion. (There are a few instruments like oboe, bassoon and french horn that take extra teaching so if your child chooses one of these instruments, they really need to take private lessons or they will likely become frustrated. I do give lessons after school (231-7550/ [email protected] or you can enroll in the Music Preparatory program at PSU (Call PSU Music Department 235-4466/ http://www.pittstate.edu/department/music/music-preparatory-school.dot. Whomever, you choose to have your student take lessons from, from what is listed above, please make sure it is an individual that is a reputable teacher or one approved by the music director, Linda Evans.
4. Students will be graded on:
a) Behavior and participation (Daily Points 15%)
*Bonus points MAY BE given for effort, respect, good attitudes, following rules, being prepared and listening.
*If the student becomes a discipline problem, the may be asked to withdraw from band class.
b) Practice cards (20%)
*Practice cards need to be signed by a parent and are due at the beginning of each week.
*The best way to ensure success is daily practice.
*Ernie Williamsons' or Palen Music in Joplin or JWPepper.com has fun solo books that you may want to purchase. Books like “Disney Favorites” or “Patriotic Songs” can be excellent motivators once kids master the basics.
c) Quizzes, playing tests, written work, etc... (20%)
d) Performances (45%)
*Performances include: Winter Concert, Spring Concert, H.S. Graduation, 8th Grade Graduation, and Mid-America Music Festival
*Bonus points will be given for students performing solos and small ensembles at PSU's Mid-America Music Festival
Grades will be available through powerschool and will be updated every two or three weeks, depending upon how many points each class period is given.
5. The Greek philosopher Plato once said, “Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education.” Music, has been shown, trains the brain for higher forms of thinking. It has been scientifically proven that students involved in music ensembles throughout their school career, have higher grade point averages, score an average of 20 - 40 points higher on SAT tests (verbal and math), and are generally higher academic achievers than those students who don’t participate in music classes. So encourage your students to stay in band: the benefits could be enormous.
6. Extra Help and After School Practice: I am available to help students briefly after school or students can just hang out in the band room and play music with their friends or practice on their own. This practice time does count on practice cards as long as the time is used well.
7. Concerts: Our two Sunday Afternoon concerts and two graduation ceremonies are pre-scheduled for the year. These are like a final exam for band class and participation IS required. If there is a conflict, I need to know a minimum of two weeks in advance. Band is like a team sport and every player is essential to our success. Students should be from 30 to 45 minutes early to warm up and tune and should be in concert dress (Black dress slacks {no jeans}, a white dress shirt {no t-shirts} and black dress shoes. Concerts begin at 3:00 p.m. and will last no longer than 1 1/2 hours. Please keep an eye on this website for updates regarding concerts, contests, graduations, and other performance opportunities. We participate in the Frontenac Christmas Tree Lighting, but dress is weather appropriate. Please refer to the calendar that you child has brought home and to this website!
I would also like to stress that your child may participate in band and sports at the same time and I will work hand in hand with the coaches.
Thank you for supporting your kids musically. Always feel free to e-mail: [email protected] or call me (231-7550 ext. 145) with questions or concerns. I like to communicate as much as possible through e-mail, so if you have an e-mail address, please write it below. I like to know how you and your students are feeling about band. We asks that you join Frontenac music on the Frontenac Music Department Facebook group
Parental involvement is very welcome and often makes a big difference in a student’s success, as well as the music department of Frontenac. If you are interested in participating in the Music Boosters Association please indicate below. Please make sure your child gives you a syllabus agreement and that it is returned no later than Friday August 29; this will be for a grade.
Linda Evans
Additional Information for your peruse:
You may expect instrument rentals to run approximately as follows:
Flute = $ 25.00 - $ 30.00 monthly
Oboe = $ 135.00 monthly
Clarinet = $ 27.00 - $38.00 monthly
Alto Saxophone = $ 60.00 - $ 68.00 monthly
Tenor Saxophone = $ 75.00 - $126.00 monthly
Trumpet = $ 32.00 - $82.00 monthly
French Horn = $153.00 monthly
Trombone = $ 35.00 - $91.00 monthly
Baritone/Euphonium = $ 84.00 - $96.00 monthly
Drum/Bell Kit = $30.00 monthly
7 ~ 12 Band (Marching, Concert, & Pep)
Syllabus 2014 - 2015
White Days 4th Block
Course Description:
A full year course designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of Band music. The instruction and improvement of instrumental quality, intonation, ability to read music, ability to sight-reading, and the overall development of musicianship is stressed in conjunction with the learning of each piece of music. The Band performs at concerts, graduation and other special events. Attendance at these performances and dress rehearsals are course requirements.
Frontenac High School’s curriculum and instruction are aligned to the State of Kansas and NAfME National Standards
Course Objective:
After the completion of Band, all students will have had instruction, practice and performance utilizing all of the elements of study outlined in the course description. The successful completion of all the activities will provide the student with a detailed view of the foundations of performance and study in playing an instrument.
Daily Rehearsals:
Rehearsals typically consist of a warm-up period of exercises and scales and exercises strengthening sight-reading and ear training, followed by rehearsal of music being studied in conjunction with the next scheduled performance.
Each piece of repertoire will be selected with attention to developing concepts/skills in the following areas:
1) Instrumental production 2) Musicianship 3) Critical analysis of music 4) Aesthetics 5) Music history
Through classroom discussion and musical performance the student will, by the end of the year, be able to:
1) Play with acceptable tone quality. 2) Maintain accurate intonation and pitch in a group setting.
3) Respond with appropriate musicianship in rehearsal and performance.
Performances:
Band performances include: Winter Concert in December, numerous Football and Basketball Games (including playoff games), Parades during Fall Semester (PSU Homecoming, Pittsburg Christmas Parade, & Mulberry Homecoming Parade in May after school is out), Frontenac Tree Lighting Ceremony, Spring Concert in April, League Music Festival in March, Regional and State Solo and Small Ensemble (H.S. Only) and Large Ensemble Festivals & PSU's Mid-America Music Festival (Jr. High Only) in April, and performances at graduations in May (See Calendars). Concert Dress and Attendance at all performances and dress rehearsals are required in order to PASS this course. "Work" related absences are considered unexcused and will result in a grade of a 0, with NO chance to make up the grade. Other absences, such as forgetting or just not showing up also constitute a grade of a “0”. Other performance opportunities will become available and the director will attempt to give a two-week notice if at all possible. However, if the two-week notice is not possible, absences due to work will be excused.
Materials Needed:
*Instrument (personal or school {minimal school instruments are available})
*Flip Folder for marching band and Lyre (may be purchased through Ernie Williamsons' or Palen Music in Joplin or Kutz Music in Pittsburg)
*Paper Folder for concert band (will be supplied)
*Music (will be supplied)
*A pencil (will be part of the daily grade)
*Music Department T-shirt
Up to XL - $10.00; XXL - $11.50; XXXL - $13.00)
Required as part of the Marching Band and Pep Band Uniform
Shirts WILL NOT be ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than August 29, 2014
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
*1 box of tissues (to be shared)
Marching Band Dress (Checked out to individual students and checked in at end of Semester):
¨ Band Uniform, Band Shako (hat), Garment Bag, Rain-Coat, String Back-Pack
¨ Music Department T-shirt (see above)
¨ Black Socks (ankle length or shorter not allowed)
¨ ALL Black Tennis Shoes (Wal Mart, JC Penney's, PayLess Shoes carry ALL black tennis shoes)
¨ ****If student wears shoes with color on them, they will be spray painted black!!!!****
Concert Dress
*H.S. students:
All Black dress shirt (no tank tops or T-shirt)
All Black dress pants (no Jeans)
All Black dress shoes
Black dress socks (or hosiery for women)
* Jr. High Students:
All Black or White dress shirt (no tank tops or T-shirts)
All Black dress pants (no Jeans)
All Black dress shoes
Black dress socks (or hosiery for women)
Evaluation
Mid-Term Grading Period:
“Active” Participation in Class ~ 40% (includes written exams, practice cards, daily points, daily paperwork, homework, reports, etc...)
Participation at Performance in Proper Concert/Marching Dress ~ 60%
End of Semester Grade Period:
“Active” Participation in Class~ 40% (includes written exams, practice cards, daily points, daily paperwork, homework, reports, etc...)
Participation at Performances in Proper Concert Dress ~ 60%
For continual up-dated information refer to this website or to the Frontenac Music Department Facebook Group
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 29, as well as payment for Music Department T-shirt properly completed. If forms are not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures.
Vocal and Music Studies (A.K.A. Choir)
Syllabus 2014 - 2015
(Black Days 1st and 2nd Block)
Course Description:
A full year course designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of choral music. The instruction and improvement of voice quality, intonation, ability to read music, ability to sight-sing, and the overall development of musicianship is stressed in conjunction with the learning of each piece of music. The Chorus performs at evening concerts, graduation and other special events. Attendance at these performances and dress rehearsals are course requirements.
Frontenac High School’s curriculum and instruction are aligned to the State of Kansas and NAfME National Standards.
Course Objective:
After the completion of Chorus, all students will have had instruction, practice and performance utilizing all of the elements of study outlined in the course description. The successful completion of all the activities will provide the student with a detailed view of the foundations of performance and study in choral singing.
Daily Rehearsals:
Rehearsals typically consist of a warm-up period of vocalizes and scales and exercises strengthening sight-singing and ear training, followed by rehearsal of music being studied in conjunction with the next scheduled performance.
Each piece of repertoire will be selected with attention to developing concepts/skills in the following areas:
1. Vocal production 2. Musicianship 3. Critical analysis of music 4. Aesthetics 5. Music history
Through classroom discussion and musical performance the student will, by the end of the year, be able to:
1. Sing with acceptable tone quality. 2. Maintain accurate intonation in a group setting.
3. Respond with appropriate musicianship in rehearsal and performance. 4. Execute diction with accurate vowel and consonant sounds.
Performances
Choir performances include: National Honor Society, Winter and Spring Concerts, Christmas Tree Lighting, Veteran’s Day Assembly, All Home Basketball Games (including Home Playoff and Tournament games), League Music Festival, Regional Solo and Small Ensemble and Large Ensemble Festivals, and H.S. Graduation May. Concert Dress and Attendance at all performances and dress rehearsals are required in order to PASS this course.
Work related absences are considered unexcused and result in a grade of a 0. Other absences, such as forgetting or just not showing up also constitute a grade of a “0.”
Other performance opportunities will become available and the director will attempt to give a two-week notice if at all possible. However, if the two-week notice is not possible, absences due to work will be excused.
Please make sure to refer to the music department calendar frequently in order to stay abreast of performances.
Materials Needed
*Music and binder (will be supplied)
*A pencil (first pencil of the year will be supplied)
*Music Department T-shirt
Up to XL - $10.00; XXL - $11.50; XXXL - $13.00)
Required as part of the Casual Performances and performing at Home Basketball Games
Shirts WILL NOT be ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than Friday August 23
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
*1 bottle of antibacterial hand-sanitizer (to be shared)
Concert Dress:
ALL Black dress shirt
ALL Black dress pants (No Jeans)
ALL Black dress shoes (No shoes with other colors on them)
ALL Black dress socks (or hosery for women)
Evaluation
Mid-Term Grading Period
“Active” Participation in Class ~ 40% (includes written exams, written work, attitudes, homework, etc...)
Participation at Performance in Proper Dress ~ 60%
End of Semester Grade Period
“Active” Participation in Class~ 40% (includes written exams, written work, attitudes, homework, etc...)
Participation at Performances in Proper Concert Dress ~ 60%
For continual up-dated information refer to the Music Department Website and the Frontenac Music Department Facebook Group
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 29, as well as payment for Music Department T-shirt properly completed. If forms are not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures.
Junior High Choir (Advisory)
Course Description:
A full year course designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of choral music. The Chorus performs at concerts, graduation and other special events. Attendance at these performances and dress rehearsals are course requirements. Frontenac Public School’s curriculum and instruction are aligned to the State of Kansas and KMEA National Standards.
Course Objective:
After the completion of Chorus, all students will have had instruction, practice and performance utilizing all of the elements of study outlined in the course description. The successful completion of all the activities will provide the student with a detailed view of the foundations of performance and study in choral singing at upper levels.
Daily Rehearsals:
Rehearsals typically consist of a warm-up period of vocalizes and scales and exercises strengthening sight-singing and ear training, followed by rehearsal of music being studied in conjunction with the next scheduled performance.
Each piece of repertoire will be selected with attention to developing concepts/skills in the following areas:
1) Vocal production 2) Musicianship 3) Critical analysis of music 4) Aesthetics 5) Music history
Through classroom discussion and musical performance the student will, by the end of the year, be able to:
1) Sing with acceptable tone quality. 2) Maintain accurate intonation in a group setting.
3) Respond with appropriate musicianship in rehearsal and performance. 4) Execute diction with accurate vowel and consonant sounds.
Performances
Chorus performances include: Winter Concert, Christmas Tree Lighting, Veteran’s Day Assembly, Spring Concert, Mid-America Music Festival, and 8th Grade graduation
Concert Dress and Attendance at all performances and dress rehearsals are required in order to PASS this course. Other performance opportunities will become available and the director will attempt to give a two-week notice if at all possible.
Materials Needed
*Black 3 ring Binder (Will be supplied)
*Music (will be supplied)
*A pencil (1st Pencil will be supplied)
*Music Department T-shirt
Up to XL - $10.00; XXL - $11.50; XXXL - $13.00)
Shirts WILL NOT is ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than August 29
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
*1 bottle of antibacterial hand-sanitizer or 1 box Tissues (to be shared)
Concert Dress:
ALL White dress shirt (No T-shirts)
ALL Black dress pants (No Jeans)
ALL Black dress shoes
Black dress socks (or hosiery for women)
Evaluation
This course is a graded course. If students do not participate in class or at performances they will receive a Failing grade. There may be an opportunity to make the grade up (see school handbook for policy) and is at the discretion. Please make sure to refer to the calendar frequently to stay abreast of required Music Department activities.
For continual up-dated information refer to the Music Department Website or the Frontenac Music Department Facebook Group
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 31 properly completed. If not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures. T-shirt Order Forms and Money is also due no later than August 23.
Music Appreciation
2014 - 2015 Syllabus
White Days, 2nd Block
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND OBJECTIVES:
Fall Semester:
The music theory portion of the course is the study of the materials and components that create and organize music. Music theory encompasses the study of notation, types and uses of scales, melodic and harmonic analysis, intervals, chord progressions, rhythm, ear training, and site singing. Music theory is the “nuts and bolts” of the construction of music in any style or genre. Projects using Garageband, a recorder, and other music generating equipment "may" be utilized.
Spring Semester:
Music Appreciation, History, and Theory will educate the student in the classical music genres of Western music, classical and popular forms of music from America such as folk, blues, jazz, forms of rock n’ roll, as well as music from around the world. The composers, performers, and their music are showcased in relation to the social, political, and religious events happening at the time the compositions were created and performed.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Listening Journal: do the listening lesson activities and worksheets. Participate in class discussions. Complete assignments on music composers, compositions, style periods, music, and music vocabulary.
2. Each student will present one project to the class each grading period. With teacher guidance and approval, these projects will be planned by the student.
Examples of projects:
- Student plays a solo or small ensemble song with other classmates by a composer the class is studying. Practice it to the best of their ability. They can get additional help from the teacher learning their music during and outside of class time, This same piece of music could be appropriate for other performances outside of this class such as contest, civic groups, or college and honor band auditions. The students need to give a presentation to the class on the information they have researched on this particular piece of music.
- Research a style period, composer, or music topic that is relevant to the current classroom discussion and topic and present it to the class.
- Compose or arrange a piece of music for themselves, or their classmates. Direct it and/or perform it.
- Transpose parts to fit desired instrumentation. (Example: Change a flute duet to a flute and clarinet duet by transposing the flute part to the key sign of the clarinet. Perform it with a classmate or the instructor for the class. Explain to the class how they created the transposition.)
- Students may suggest projects not on this list and they will need to meet with the teacher to formulate the project.
3. Complete Unit lessons in theory workbook(s) and hand in unit reviews and any worksheets and assignments. Use supplemental material to enhance the learning of theory skills.
4. If the class has the opportunity to go on a music field trip (evening performances), the student will be responsible for attending the event. The instructor will try to give the students plenty of time to plan it into their schedules. The event may have an assignment such as a critique of a performance in aspects of style, performance, or theory elements. The school will provide transportation.
GRADING PROCEDURES:
Individual Projects: 15%
Assignments: 45%
- Theory unit reviews, composer/composition or style period reviews. Assignments created by the teacher regarding composers, compositions, style periods, music theory, music vocabulary, and field trip assignments.
- Includes cooperation, behavior, and work ethic.
Absentee Policy:
See the school hand-book for this policy. You do need to do make-up work, which includes coming in on your own time to do the listening examples. This includes school excused absences.
Late Work Policy:
I will accept late work however, 10 points per school calendar day will be deducted that it is late. If the students find themselves in a time crunch, please inform the instructor so we can work together to create a time line that is ideal for the class and the student. Plan ahead, know your calendar, and know your commitments.
Plagiarism Policy:
Plagiarism is representing someone else’s ideas or work as your own. To avoid plagiarism when you use someone else’s data, arguments, designs, words, ideas, project, music, etc., you must make it clear that the work originated with someone else by citing the source. (Make sure to sign the agreement). Any papers that are written will be written in the MLA format.
Music Appreciation, History, and Theory Curriculum Main Sources
- Music: An Appreciation (provide - textbook)
- Accent On Composers
- The Music and Lives of 22 Great Composers w/ Listening CD, Review, tests, and supplemental materials, Alfred Publishing Co., Inc., 2001.
- Alfred’s Complete “Essentials of Music Theory”: Lessons, Ear Training, Workbook.
- Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought)
- Meet The Great Composers, Book One and Two
- Meet The Great Jazz Legends: Short Sessions on the lives, times & music of the great
- One Page Composer Bios: 50 Reproducible Biographies of Famous Composers
- Theory Time worksheets
- Finale Theory worksheets
- Videos with Worksheets
- Spiral notebook to serve as journal
- A pencil or pen (Black or Blue) and a Red pen (no other colors are allowed and will affect the grade of assignment)
- Music Department T-shirt, (opt.)
Shirts WILL NOT be ordered for student or student's family unless paid for in advance.
Money due by no later than Friday August 29
Checks may be made out to "Frontenac Music Boosters"
- 1 bottle of antibacterial hand-sanitizer (to be shared) AND 1 box tissues
If you have any questions about Music Appreciation, how I grade, my expectations or anything else please contact me. The band room is located by the near the High School Competition Gym. My phone numbers in the band room: 620.231.7550 ext 145 or e-mail me at [email protected]
For continual up-dated information refer to the Music Department Website: http://raidermusic.weebly.com/
Please return the Syllabus and Calendar agreement by no later than Friday August 29 properly completed. If not returned by this date, an ESD (Extended School Day) will be assessed, and will continue to be assigned until form is returned with appropriate signatures. If ordering a T-shirt, form and money is also due by August 29.