PART ONE

TOWNVIEW "BIG D"

BAND

HANDBOOK

 

 

 

TOWNVIEW

"BIG D" BAND SYLLABUS

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

TOWNVIEW "BIG D" BAND HANDBOOK

Pages 1-21

II. Table of Contents 2

III. Purpose 3

IV. Administration 4-7

a) Consequences Applied by Student Administration 8

V. Contract Consideration 9

 VI. General Rules / REHEARSAL RULES 10-11

 VII. Attendance / Tardiness 11-12

 VIII. Behavioral Consequences Applied by Band Directors 12

 IX. Grading 13

 X. Instruments Uniforms And Equipment 13-14

 XI. Band Auxilary 15-16

 XII. Fund Raising 17

XIII. Band Recognition Awards 17-19

 XIV. Lettering 20

 XV. Summer Band / Private Lessons 20

XVI. Signatures 22

 

 

PART II

TOWNVIEW BAND SYLLABUS

Pages 22-29

I. OVERVIEW OF CLASS STRUCTURE 25

 II. BAND STUDENT LEVEL 26

 III. TIMELINE 27-28

 IV. STRATEGIES 29
    V. BAND GRADING POLICY

    VI. Auxiliary Grading Policy 31

 

 

III. PURPOSE OF HANDBOOK

 

The by-laws and guidelines of the TOWNVIEW "BIG D" BAND spelled out in this handbook

are based on two premises that every successful band member must accept and adopt:

1) As a band member, you accept an extra responsibility to, not only, represent

yourself and your personal standards, but also the standards of the Townview Band.

Your behavior at all times reflects the image of the Townview Band.

2) As a band member, you accept an extra responsibility to strive for excellence.

Your goals when preparing for any or various musical endeavors, with the band, must

be perfection.

 

SIGNATURE OF AGREEMENT

 

Signature Date

Please retain for your records

 

This handbook also spells out other related responsibilities in promptness and

preparedness for rehearsals and performances, care and upkeep of band property

and materials assigned to you, and rules for maintaining the band hall and

its productive environment.

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IV. ADMINISTRATION

DIRECTORS

The Band Director and Assistant Director, along with the school Executive Principal, governed by Dallas Public Schools determine the policies and procedures that govern the Townview Band. Band policies have been discussed modified and approved by a council comprised of Band Directors, Drum Majors and Squad Leaders. Concerns about policy should be expressed at band student council meetings presided over by Head Drum Major or First Lieutenant, in his/her absence. An appeal to any negotiable element of band policy must be presented in the form of petition to the above student officer(s), or directly to the Band Director(s), in the event that a band student council meeting cannot be held. All policy must reflect a high standard of excellence and a winning attitude.

STUDENT ADMINISTRATION Offices, Responsibilities, Powers and Prerequisites. Positions will be filled by audition.

-may be filled by appointment if necessary.

DRUM MAJOR (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better and attend a Prescribed Drum Major Camp during the Summer)

  1. Highest authority over the Marching Band other than the Band Directors- maintains discipline of the entire band every day, on the field and in the band hall, before school, after school and whenever present at band hall.

  2. Attends all band meetings and band student council meetings.

  3. Upholds and maintains the highest standard, tradition and spirit of the band, throughout the year of appointment.

  4. May conduct field or band hall rehearsals per the instructions of the Band Director(s).

  5. Serves as bus chairperson on each trip.

  6. Checks the condition of the Band room after each band rehearsal (may direct EQUIPMENT MANAGERS).

  7. Must lead by example. Drum Major must ensure that the philosophy of the Band Director(s) is adhered to and that the integrity of the band is not compromised.

 

 

 

 

Administration continued- Lieutenant Drum Major

FIRST LIEUTENANT DRUM MAJOR (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better)

(Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better and attend a Prescribed Drum Major Camp during the Summer)

  1. Highest authority over the Marching Band under the Band Directors and head Drum Major- maintains discipline of the entire band every day, on the field and in the band hall, before school, after school and whenever present at band hall.

  2. Attends all band meetings and band student council meetings and presides in the absence of Head Drum Major.

  3. Upholds and maintains the highest standard, tradition and spirit of the band, throughout the year of appointment.

  4. May preside over and conduct field or band hall rehearsals per the instructions of the Band Director(s).

  5. Serves as bus loading foreman on each trip.

  6. Serves as bus chairperson on each trip.

  7. Is in charge of the field crew; checks the condition of the field area after each band rehearsal (may direct EQUIPMENT MANAGERS).

  8. Must lead by example. Lieutenant Drum Major must ensure that the philosophy of the Band Director(s) is adhered to and that the integrity of the band is not compromised.

SECOND LIEUTENANT (MAJOR) (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better)

  1. In authority over the Marching Band, under the Band Directors and higher ranked band officials- maintains discipline of the entire band every day, on the field and in the band hall, before school, after school and whenever present at band hall.

  2. Serves as rehearsal hall monitor

  3. Inspects band equipment, music etc.

  4. Inspects band lockers for appropriate order and upkeep.

  5. Serves as bus chairperson on each trip.

  6. Inspects uniforms and accessories before and after each performance.

  7. Serves as bus chairperson on each trip.

 

 

 

Administration continued- Lieutenant Drum Major; Squad Leader; Section Leader

THIRD LIEUTENANT (MAJOR) (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better)

  1. In authority over the Marching Band, under the Band Directors and higher ranked band officials- maintains discipline of the entire band every day, on the field and in the band hall, before school, after school and whenever present at band hall.

  2. Receives attendance and tardiness reports as recorded by Squad Leaders and gives a written account to band director(s).

  3. Oversees and ensures the Squad Leaders’ correct handling of attendance and tardiness.

  4. Handles band correspondence, posting band rehearsals, band student achievements, thank you notes to band boosters, etc.

  5. Attends all band student council meetings serving as a recorder minutes.

SQUAD LEADER (Must Maintain 2.0 GPA or better)

  1. Serves as Drill instructor over a particular squad.

  2. Is accountable for the squad’s execution of marching fundamentals and the routine.

  3. Occupies the "guide right" position of squad when forward marching- responsible for straightness and proper position of line.

  4. Gives account to Third Lieutenant (or higher rank in his/her absence) of the absences and tardies within squad.

  5. Maintains discipline and spirit of the squad.

 

SECTION LEADER (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better)

  1. Serves as tutor for section.

  2. Gives an account to Squad Leader or higher authority of missing sheet music (if applicable), instruments, reeds, mouthpieces and conditions that prevent proper musical execution of section.

  3. Maintains discipline during musical rehearsal.

  4. Duties apply to Marching and Concert Band.

  5. Squad Leader may also be Section Leader.

 

 

 

 

 

Administration continued

LIBRARIAN

  1. May Function as Class Director in absence of Class Director or Assistant Class Director.

  2. Has control of the music library and is responsible for its condition.

  3. Keeps record of who has received parts.

  4. Issues only one free copy of required music.

  5. Reports lost or damaged music.

Note: you will be charged for lost or damaged music

EQUIPMENT MANAGER (10 Positions)

  1. All Report to Band Director before each field trip or traveling event.

  2. Has authority over how students may handle band equipment.

  3. Is responsible for how stands, chairs and other band equipment are left after rehearsal or performance.

  4. Is accountable for all necessary equipment to arrive at public performances.

CLASS DIRECTOR (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better)

  1. Calls Concert Band class to order.

  2. Directs band warm up; May initiate tune-up.

  3. Helps maintain discipline in band class.

ASSISTANT CLASS DIRECTOR (Must Maintain 2.5 GPA or better)

Functions as class director in absence.

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IV. a) CONSEQUENCES APPLIED BY STUDENT ADMINISTRATION

Certain student offices of authority may apply consequences for off-task behavior as follows:

verbal correction; the requirement for push-ups or running laps; extra drills or practice beyond

what those on task are required to do; being pulled out of rehearsal (minus 50 points). Consequences

will be no more strenuous than the limits of a Physical Education class. The Band Directors

encourage this student help in fostering on-task behavior, self discipline and pride in one's self

and the organization. We believe that every student can attain the level of self-willed striving for

excellence and that military espirit de corps is a proven way to develop this quality.

PHYSICAL HAZING (PUNCHING, SLAPPING, PUSHING, ETC.) IS NOT STATED OR IMPLIED AS A RIGHT OF STUDENT

LEADERSHIP. IT WILL NOT BE TOLERATED TO ANY DEGREE. STUDENTS ARE ACCEPTED INTO THE BAND PROGRAM

BY THE BAND DIRECTORS, AND NOT BY ANY OFFICIAL OR UNOFFICIAL INITIATION BY STUDENTS.

Please note in the space on the signature page any physical conditions that would restrict your child from any of

the consequences mentioned.

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The following student officers may apply consequences:

Information is listed in Band Handbook

 

 

 

 

 

V. CONTRACT CONSIDERATION

Further information is listed in Band Handbook:


All students must remember that when performing with the Band-each individual is representing

the Dallas Independent School District, Townview Magnet Center and the Townview Band. Any form

of questionable conduct will result in disciplinary action. Accountability as a mature

young adult and musician will be expected throughout the year. We expect interested, courteous,

patient students willing to sacrifice some personal wants and desires, for the best interest of

the full group. Students must be quiet, attentive, and courteous during all rehearsals, sectionals,

and public performances. The authority of the Band Directors or members with appointed authority

must be respected. REMEMBER: A student may choose whether or not to be in Band, but, once chosen,

may not decide to disregard rules of the band.

 

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VI. GENERAL RULES

1. Class attendance rules and those rules concerning tardiness will be enforced in accordance with existing school district policies.

2. No student may be in the band hall away from another class, study hall or lunch, unless the student has a rehearsal pass.

3. After school is dismissed, students should leave the band hall area unless scheduled for a sectional or other activity as approved by one of the directors.

  1. Before school begins in the morning, students may drop off large instruments needed for Band, but may not remain in the band hall area unless they are involved in a band or a sectional rehearsal.

  1. Personal friends and acquaintances that are not in the band or orchestra should not enter the Band Hall. Ask them to wait outside.

6. When allowed to talk, do so at an appropriate level. Refrain from talking or noise immediately when asked by someone in authority.

  1. Books, coats, and other personal items should be kept in lockers. Periodic Clean Up Details will remove any of these items left in the band room.

8. The telephone is available for student use only in "emergency" situations and after night performance activities. Students must arrange for rides ahead of time for regularly scheduled rehearsals. DO NOT USE THE PHONE WITHOUT PERMISSION ! ! !

9. All instruments should be stored in assigned lockers. Large instruments without assigned lockers may be temporarily stored in rehearsal hall on Band class or rehearsal days. Do not store instruments in practice rooms.

10. No open beverages or food in the band hall.

11. No "horse playing" in the band hall.

 

 

 

 

 

GENERAL REHEARSAL RULES

1. Zero Period starts at 7:35 a.m. Roll call is d 7:40a.m.

2. After school starts at 4:10 p.m. Roll call is at 4:15 p.m.

3. If you are "pulled" from indoor or marching rehearsal for inappropriate behavior, your grade is 50 for that day.
  1. Purchase reeds or other items before or after rehearsals.

5 . All students should remain in the rehearsal area only. Do not wander into offices, the library, or practice rooms without permission

13. Respect the podium. Stop all activities whenever someone steps onto the podium.

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VII. ATTENDANCE / TARDINESS

ATTENDANCE

A performance is the culmination of the classroom learning experience and therefore represents a major part of any music class. It is of vital importance that all members participate in as many performances as humanly possible. Likewise, rehearsal attendance is of great importance: it is during rehearsal that we seek to polish and perfect our musical presentation.

NOTE: Rehearsal schedules and performance schedules for all band activities will be announced as far in advance as possible. It is the student's responsibility to avoid scheduling of work, medical appointments, private lessons (piano, dance, etc.), commitments to

 

 

 

 

 

clubs or other organizations at the same time as Band activities. An excused absence from a rehearsal or performance is one that would be accepted by the school attendance office (i.e. personal illness or death in the family). All absences should be approved in advance (if possible) by submitting a request in writing one week prior to any performance in question. If a last minute, emergency arises, one of the Band Directors

must be contacted, either in person or by phone, if at all possible. The student is expected to bring a written explanation of his/her absence upon his/her return to school. The absence will still be subject to school policy on absences.

If two rehearsals are missed during the week of a performance, excused or unexcused, the opportunity to perform is forfeited.

 

An unexcused absence from a performance can result in suspension from Band for two weeks.

 

TARDINESS

Two tardies in a week equal one absence. A tardy to a performance jeopardizes the performance and the image of the band. Plan ahead for all performances!

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VIII BEHAVIORAL CONSEQUENCES APPLIED BY BAND DIRECTORS

Students that will not adhere to the organizational and institutional guidelines will face the following:

1. Teacher student-parent conference.

2. Office referral.

3. Loss of performance and participation privilege for specific length of time.

4. Temporary suspension from Band

5. Dismissal from Band

 

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IX. GRADING

34% Participation in daily rehearsals, weekly sectional rehearsals, and performances

33% Playing- meeting minimum skills requirements for experience level on objectives for 6 weeks period.

33%Written Assignments or Listening

See Part II Band Syllabus for more details

 

Being pulled from rehearsal for refusal to properly participate results in a deduction of 50 points from daily grade.

 

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X. UNIFORMS INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT

UNIFORMS
  1. Write and store the number(s) of the uniform assigned to you. Memorize the number, as well, in order to keep up with and return the correct uniform issued to you.
  2. You must pay the replacement cost for lost, stolen or damaged uniform components:
    1. Coat $90
    2. Trousers $65
    3. Shirt $30
    4. Cummerbund $20
    5. Bow Tie $15

 

Failure to pay replacement costs will result in band student remaining on the Townview Not Clear List, and receiving all restrictions and consequences that apply.

 

 

 

 

3. The correct uniform must be checked in at the end of the year or upon transferring from Townview or the Townview Band.

4. A garment bag is required for proper protection and labeling of uniform. If not worn, bring uniform in a protective, clearly labeled garment bag on performance days.

 

INSTRUMENTS

1. Keep personal and school instruments in proper playing condition. Students are held accountable for misuse of personal or school instruments that affects student’s ability to play the entire range of instrument with appropriate characteristic sound.

  1. Restrictions from food and drink while playing apply to school and personal instruments. All misuse may adversely affect the quality of the Townview Band.

  1. Clean instruments properly after playing and perform routine maintenance periodically.

  1. Properly store both school and personal instruments to prevent damage or theft.

 

EQUIPMENT

1. Vandalism to any band equipment, student’s personal property, building fixtures or structural parts is considered a very serious offense that may result in prosecution and all fines that apply, and removal from Band. As mentioned, equipment managers may enforce proper care of equipment and orderliness in arrangement of chairs, stands, etc. Theft is directly harmful towards the Band and/or its members. Stealing will absolutely not be tolerated.

 

 

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XI. BAND AUXILARY

The Band Auxiliary (includes Majorettes and Flags)

Majorettes and Flags serve a complimentary role to the Marching Band, adding visual appeal and choreographic art to the field presentation. Members of the Auxiliary also have independent roles as school representatives.

Auxiliary members should exhibit class leadership and the following characteristics :

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUXILIARY LEADERSHIP

To obtain and maintain an Auxiliary leadership office, ie. Captain, a member must exhibit the above positive attributes plus be exemplary in HARD WORK, SELF MOTIVATION, SELF CONFIDENCE, IMAGINATION, COMMUNICATION SKILLS, ABILITY TO GUIDE AND ASSIST, INTEGRITY.

Leaders share in the individual success of all class mates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COOPERATIVE LEARNING

Auxiliary provides the ultimate experience of Cooperative Learning. Cooperative Learning is an instructional format in

which students work together to achieve a particular goal or complete a task. Students are not simply placed in groups

and given some interesting materials or problems to solve. Students work as learning teams and exhibit positive

interdependence, face-to-face interaction, individual accountability, use of interpersonal and small group skills, and effective communication of facts and opinions. Students need to also understand that they are in a collaborative learning situation, where the success of the group is interdependent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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XII. FUND RAISING

Band activities such as trips, festivals and banquets are intended for all participants in Band. Fund raising to prepare financially for these activities can not be considered "optional." All Band students are expected to participate in fund raising activities. All parents should feel free to attend Band Booster meetings and become active Band Boosters. The Band Boosters play a predominant role in determining fund raising activities for band students.

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XIII. BAND RECOGNITION AWARDS

Band students are auspiciously recognized for their outstanding accomplishments for the Band year at the annual Band Banquet / Band Ball. Awards are issued according to set criteria. Marching Band awards are issued in a ceremony at the close of marching semester.

Marching

Outstanding Drum Major

Outstanding Squad

The criteria include attendance and promptness, enthusiasm, effort (hustle), espirit de corps (proud posture, intense discipline at attention and when marching, respect for self and organization), precision in vocalizing, precision in marching, and musicianship.

Competition

All City Band- Achieve a chair in the Band or alternate ranking at All City competition.

All Region Band- Achieve a chair in the Band or alternate ranking at All Region competition.

 

 

 

 

All Region Jazz Band- Achieve a chair in the Band or alternate ranking at All Region Jazz competition.

Dallas Public Schools Solo and Ensemble- Achieve a 1st division rating on a solo or in an ensemble

at DPS Solo and Ensemble competition.

Region Solo and Ensemble- Achieve a 1st division rating on a solo or in an ensemble at Region Solo

and Ensemble competition.

Area / State- Achieve superior performance beyond regional level.

Outstanding in Class Awards

Outstanding Male Freshman

Outstanding Female Freshman

Outstanding Male Sophomore

Outstanding Female Sophomore

Outstanding Male Junior

Outstanding Female Junior

Outstanding Male Senior

Outstanding Female Senior

 

 

Participating in the listed areas of competition as well as required participation in full band

evaluation events will earn a student Bonus Points beyond regular participation in rehearsals,

sectionals and performances. Grades from regular participation in rehearsals, sectionals and

performances will extend beyond the six weeks grading system and be recorded in a cumulative points

system. To be considered for an Outstanding in Class Award, a student must maintain a high standard

for participation in rehearsals, sectionals and performances throughout the year, plus participate in

as many areas of competition as possible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Most Improved Awards

Most Improved Male Freshman

Most Improved Female Freshman

Most Improved Male Sophomore

Most Improved Female Sophomore

Most Improved Male Junior

Most Improved Female Junior

Most Improved Male Senior

Most Improved Female Senior

Most improved awards are subjective, and are awarded upon the Band Directors’ reflection on which

students displayed extraordinary efforts in overcoming hardships and performance obstacles in order

to improve musically.

 

Outstanding on Instrument Award

Outstanding Upper Woodwind

Outstanding Lower Woodwind

Outstanding Upper Brass

Outstanding Lower Brass

Outstanding Percussion

Outstanding Upper Brass

Rhythm Section Instrument

 

This award is based more on musicianship than general participation. It is awarded to the student

musicians who display consistent outstanding musicianship on their category of instrument.

Outstanding Officers

Student Director

Section Leader

Equipment Manager

Librarian

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XIV. LETTERING

Lettering is qualifying to purchase and wear a Townview "Big D" Band Letter Jacket.

Qualifying must be accomplished the year prior to the issuing of the jacket. In order to letter, a student must:

  1. Participate in two of the performing groups (Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble or Jazz Combo)
  2. Attend All major performances of performance groups in which student is participating.
  3. Achieve a chair in All-Region or All-City or a first division rating at solo and ensemble (City or Region).
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XV. SUMMER BAND / PRIVATE LESSONS

A Band student should consider enrollment in band to be a commitment to become a better musician.

Think of the Summer as a time to improve or at least maintain good musicianship. A major competition,

All Region Jazz happens very early in the first semester of school. It is wise to come back to school ready

to compete, if possible. The Townview "Big D" Band offers a Summer Band Camp with emphasis on both jazz

performance and traditional performance. This is a good way to help maintain or develop your musicianship over

the Summer break.

If at all possible, remain under the constant instruction of a private instructor.

There is no proven better way to become a better musician.

Keep in mind that a number of Townview Band students will receive Band Scholarships to major

colleges which will help with tuition and other costs, even if they plan to major in a field

other than music.

 

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XVI. SIGNATURES-Big D Band Handbook

I have read and understand the rules and guidelines of the Townview "Big D"

Band as pointed out in the TOWNVIEW "BIG D" BAND HANDBOOK. My signature

indicates my solemn agreement to be subject to the Townview Band rules and regulations

spelled out in the TOWNVIEW "BIG D" BAND HANDBOOK.

Student’s name

 

 

Student’s Signature Date

 

I have read and understand the rules and guidelines of the Townview "Big D" Band

as pointed out in the TOWNVIEW "BIG D" BAND HANDBOOK. My signature indicates my

solemn agreement for my child’s subjection to the Townview Band rules and regulations spelled

out in the TOWNVIEW "BIG D" BAND HANDBOOK.

 

Parent’s name

 

 

Parent’s Signature Date

Medical conditions that will limit your child’s physical activity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART TWO

 

 

TOWNVIEW

BAND

SYLLABUS

 

 

 

 

 

Part II TOWNVIEW BAND SYLLABUS

 

 

I. OVERVIEW OF CLASS STRUCTURE

Each Instrumental Performance class, Concert Band, Jazz Band and Marching band class in a Band Hall setting

will consist of up to three segments in the category of Music Theory:

Sight Reading: May allow approximately 10 minutes each class; may consist of rhythm theory, an analyzing

of rhythmic passages for patterns; applying mnemonics to correctly interpret recognized patterns, sub-dividing to the smallest

rhythm to interpret mixed rhythm patterns

2) Scales and Arpeggios: May allow approximately 10 minutes; Theory-as preparatory to scales study

rules of key signatures, cycle of fourths; 1/2-whole step construction of scales

    Listening Examples (Music Literature): May allow approximately 10 minutes; Play listening examples that

    will foster specific learning experiences, that are exemplary and should be modeled by students.

    Non-homogenous Classes- Although not preferable, classes may contain mixed

    levels and not be homogenous. Classes of mixed levels and instrumentation may do instrumental playing jointly or divide

    into sections of like instruments or like levels. A team teaching procedure between director and assistant director will

    accommodate teaching of mixed levels and mixed instrumentation.

     

     

    Group Study-

    Classes will regularly be divided into like-instrument sections for intensive analysis, study and rehearsal of

    music. Strategies for reading and understanding music are taught on a more individual basis in group study

    settings. Not regularly but occasionally, like-instrument sectionals will be directed by section leader and

    supervised by directors for specific time intervals.

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    II. BAND STUDENT LEVEL

    All students will be on a timeline for learning specific content

    according to their determined level.

    Criteria For Determining Band Student Level:

    Beginning:

    Assessed as attaining 40% or less of total proficiency.

    Goals: 3 major scales, one or two octaves, depending on instrument, at 80% accuracy; Sight read quarter notes and

    rests, eighth notes and rests, dotted quarter-eighth patterns, sixteenth notes and rests, dotted eighth sixteenth

    patterns, 4/4, 3/4 and 2/4 time signatures; Articulation and styling distinguishing Swing from Rock/R&B;

    Sonata form and Chorus form in Jazz/Pop music; preparing, performing in band programs, (competing in band competitions

    if applicable).

    Intermediate:

    Assessed as attaining between 40%-79% of total proficiency.

    Goals: All 12 major scales, and accompanying 1-3-5 arpeggios one or two octaves, depending on instrument, at 90% accuracy; Sight read quarter notes and rests, eighth notes and rests, sixteenth notes and rests, dotted quarter-eighth patterns, dotted eighth-sixteenth patterns, 4/4, 3/4 and 2/4 time signatures; Articulation and styling distinguishing Swing from Rock/R&B; Sonata form and Chorus form in Jazz/Pop music; preparing, performing in band programs, competing in band competitions.

    Advanced:

    Assessed as attaining between 80%-100% of total proficiency.

    Goals: All 12 major and minor scales, and accompanying 1-3-5 and 1-3-5-7 arpeggios between one and 3 octaves,

    depending on instrument, at 90% accuracy; Sight read quarter notes and rests, eighth notes and rests, sixteenth

    notes and rests, dotted quarter-eighth patterns, dotted eighth-sixteenth patterns, 4/4, 3/4, 2/4, 6/8 time

    signatures and odd meter, triplets, quintuplets and other tuplets; Articulation and styling distinguishing Swing

    from Rock/R&B; Sonata form and Chorus form in Jazz/Pop music; preparing, performing in band programs, competing

    in band competitions.

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    III. TIMELINE

    FALL 1999

    AUGUST 16-20

    C Maj and F Maj tonality; basic ABA (Sonata of Chorus) form;

    AUGUST 23-27

    Bb Maj tonality; reading and perfecting beginning level music

    AUGUST 30-SEPTEMBER3

    Eb Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate level music (if applicable)

    SEPTEMBER 7-10

    Ab Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate level music (if applicable)

    SEPTEMBER 13-17

    Db Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable)

    SEPTEMBER 20-24

    Gb (F#) Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable)

    SEPTEMBER 27-OCTOBER 1

    B Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable)

    OCTOBER 4-7

    E Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable); sightread in any prior key including E Maj

    OCTOBER 11-14

    A Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable); sightread in any prior key including A Maj

    OCTOBER 18-22

    D Maj tonality; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable); sightread in any prior key including D Maj

    OCTOBER 25-29

    G Maj tonality; Chromatic scale; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable); sightread in any prior key including G Maj

    NOVEMBER 1-23

    Review any or all major and chromatic scales; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable); sightread in any prior key; express emphasis on All-City tryout materials (intermediate to advanced level music)

    NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER17

    Review any or all major and chromatic scales; reading and perfecting intermediate to advanced level music (if applicable); sightread in any prior key; express emphasis on All-Region tryout materials (intermediate to advanced level music)

     

     

     

     

     

     

    SPRING 2000

    JANUARY 5-7

    C Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    Solos or ensembles for Solo and Ensemble competition (beginning to advanced level music)

    JANUARY 10-14

    F Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    JANUARY 18-21

    Bb Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    JANUARY 24-28

    Eb Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    JANUARY 31- FEBRUARY 5

    Ab Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    FEBRUARY 7-10

    Db Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    FEBRUARY 15-18

    Gb Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    FEBRUARY 21-25

    B Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    FEBRUARY 29 MARCH 3

    E Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    MARCH 13-17

    A Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    MARCH 27- 31

    D Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    APRIL 3 - 7

    G Maj tonality- ascending and descending diatonic 3rds; arpeggios (if applicable)

    APRIL 10-MAY 19

    Review all prior tonalities. Introduce minor tonality if applicable.

     

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    IV. STRATEGIES

    Note-taking, reading and written assignments will normally normally take place during a 10 minute Music Theory segment of Band class, 10 minute Sight Reading segment of Band class or during a 10 minute Music Literature segment of Band class. Reading, writing and math TAAS objectives will be accomplished, during these segments, in the context of necessary musical instruction.

    Cross-curricular activities will take place mostly in the context of instruction in music performance and occasional out-of-class assignments.

    Science- 1) develop a strategic method to master technically difficult passages in music, such as using a metronome as a tempo regulator and measurer of progress 2) conduct an ergonomic study to find the best out of several alternative fingerings, embouchure adjustments and physical movements to help master difficult passages.

    World Languages- learning the meaning of expressive musical terms traditionally written in Italian, French and occasional German.

    Mathematics- 1) learn the relationship of various note values to the master beat, for example: the frequency of eighth notes to quarter notes; quarter to half; sixteenth to quarter or eighth; triplets to quarter; etc. To be learned statically and in "real time" (with an active moving and sometimes fluctuating beat). 2) Dividing compound rhythms into smaller rhythms to make them countable.

    Physical Education- develop motor skills using from large to small muscles in a range of activities from marching or dancing to setting and applying a proper embouchure.

    Social Studies/Other Arts- aesthetic decisions, how loud to play, what timbre, how much vibrato, how hard to articulate, etc. Must be made on an individual level and in the group context of how it will affect blend and balance.

    Reading and writing- reading definitions of required musical terms. Reading announcements and usual written communication. Additional reading and writing: 1) write a paragraph relating to goals and musical expectations. 2) Retrieve at least two articles, from the Internet, on Music Pedagogy pertaining to each student’s main instrument. For example:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    http://x5.dejanews.com/getdoc.xp?AN=383694231&CONTEXT=904318971.942080087&hitnum=3

    http://www-personal.umich.edu/~mhopkins/table.html

    http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~leonid/gomain.htm

     

    Or search the Usenet area for "Music Pedagogy Saxophone", for example, with dejanews search engine. Do a written summary of at least two useful articles.

    Music Theory- Music Theory will center on the Cycle of 4ths in Semester I, as a global reference point in learning all of the Major scales (and relative minors for Advanced level) and key signatures. Key centers will be taught in the order of the cycle, one key per week. The cycle of 4ths will be referred to and reviewed in each Theory segment.

    Rhythms- will be taught with the strategy of sub-dividing rhythms and recognizing rhythm patterns.

    Music Literature- (basic musical form) Sony Classical Film and Video, Marsalis on Music Series- "Listening For Clues" :construct 10 pertinent questions and provide answers as a result of viewing video. "Sousa to Satchmo": " :construct 10 pertinent questions and provide answers as a result of viewing video.

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    V. GRADING POLICY

    34% Participation- Participation involves attendance and actively contributing to 1) rehearsals, 2) sectionals and 3) performances. A lack of participation in one or more of these areas will affect participation grade.

    • Activities beyond required participation contributes to student’s credit in Band bonus point system. Participation in: All- City Band competition, All-Region Band competition, DPS Solo & Ensemble, UIL Solo & ensemble, DPS competing Concert band or UIL competing Concert Band adds 1 point per event. Achievement of a chair or a 1st division rating adds 5 points per event. Achievement of 1st chair adds 10 points per event. Bonus points determine recipients of Outstanding in Class Awards.

    33% Playing proficiency- Grade is determined by performance on playing tests. Ability to perform under audience pressure (in front of others) is factored into this grade.

    33% Other assignments (including reading and writing)- These may be in or out of class assignments. The most prominent out of class assignment will be to practice. Other assignments will be minimal.

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    VI. AUXILIARY GRADE WEIGHT AND OBJECTIVE SKILLS

    Objective Points

    1. Attitude 10

    2. Attention 10

    3. 8-5 Marching 10

    4. Precision 10

    5. Effort 10

    6. Personality 10

    7. Following through on steps 10

    8. Lagging 10

    9. Defiance of leadership 10

    10. Chewing of gum 10

    11. Group defiance 10

    12. Toe pointing 10

    13. Concentration 10

    14. Perfection 10

    15. Listening skills 10

    16. Response to Leadership 10

    17. Field formation 10

    18. Parade Formation 10

    19. Entrances and Exits 10

    20. Ability to coordinate 10

    21. Execution 10

    22. Counter march 10

    23. 360 10

    24. Fanfare 10

    25. 180 10

    26. Field Formation 10

     

    Total - 260

    After Six Weeks = 1.560

     

     

     

     

     

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