Philosophy
The Tohickon Middle School Band Program, with the support of our principal, Ms. Karen Wychock, operates under the following philosophy:Our middle school band program is designed to promote the learning of musical and performance skills. We seek to foster personal responsibility and positive interaction through shared goals. We feel a strong responsibility to serve our school and community. Through the love of music and performance, we encourage continued music education in high school and beyond.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Parents: Please help your child make room in their daily routine for practice. Students who are practicing on a regular basis are fulfilling their responsibility to themselves and to the band. Students who are improving will have the most fulfilling experience in music.Twenty minutes a day is recommended for most band students in the middle school program. This will prepare students for success on band tests and performance. Those students with aspirations for performing in an advanced ensemble should increase that time.
"Only those who have the wisdom to do simple things perfectly will acquire the skill to do difficult things easily."
Students should practice slowly and carefully making sure they can play a piece or exercise perfectly at a reduced speed before going at the proper tempo. They should isolate problem areas and not be concerned with going straight through a piece of music until the “wrinkles” are “ironed” out.
REHEARSAL RULES
Be at the edge of your seat.
Anchor your feet to the floor.
No talking or moving around.
Do your best!
CONDUCT OF OUR PERFORMERS
As a performing band program, there will be many opportunities for band members to represent both the band and Tohickon Middle School in public. We are proud that our students maintain the highest standard of behavior both in public as well as within Tohickon Middle School.
GRADING POLICIES
Nine-week averages are based on grades in five categories:
1. Class Participation 25% - Students must have all materials, actively participate in class, demonstrate care for school and personal equipment, and abide by the rehearsal rules as stated above.
2. Assignment Sheets 20% – Students are asked to complete a number of playing assignments per week. These assignments will be taken primarily from the Essential Elements 2000 books. Students are required to be up-to-date with all playing assignments. Assignments requiring self, peer, or parental feedback must be completely filled out and signed for credit.
3. Performance Assessments 25% (Teacher Graded)- Playing Assignments will be held throughout the nine-week grading period. Playing exams may also be on scales, rudiments, or current band music. Students who need improvement on a playing exam can re-test up to the final-week of the marking period.
4. Rehearsal Attendance 10% – Students are required to attend occasional rehearsals outside of the school day. These rehearsals are listed in the calendar section of this website.
5. Concert Attendance 20% - Students are required to participate in concerts. The concerts are a culmination of our individual and corporate effort. Concerts are listed in the calendar section of this website.
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