Using the Studio Habits of Mind

Develop Craft: I can learn, practice , and demonstrate new rhythms, pitches, or other musical or instrumental skills as required for a song.

Engage & Persist: I can demonstrate grit, determination, and willingness to work through challenges to improve my own performance.

Express:  I can apply the skills and knowledge I have acquired during band classes to my performance.

Understand the Art World: I can conduct myself appropriately in a setting where I share the stage with other performers.

Understand the Art World: I can perform my instrument as part of a cultural celebration in my community.

Advanced Band went on a field trip to the DePaul University School of Music in February. DePaul music education students worked with AACA students in small group lessons to give targeted instruction for each instrument on their spring concert music. Then, we came back together to rehearse as a group, where the college students conducted and played side-by-side with Advanced Band students. Our students enjoyed meeting and working with the DePaul students, and it was a fun and productive visit for all!

Using the Studio Habits of Mind

Observe: I can demonstrate focused listening skills to identify successes and challenges in individual and ensemble performance.

Engage & Persist: I can demonstrate grit, determination, and willingness to work through challenges to improve my own performance.

Understand the Art World: I can demonstrate engaged participation in sectionals and rehearsals with a guest conductor and can conduct myself in a way that contributes to the good of the group.

REFLECT: What has been your favorite song this trimester?

"I really liked playing We Wish You a Merry Christmas because it was nostalgic to play it again."

"Pirates of the Caribbean, because of how much I love the movies and it is very fun to play songs you love."

"Byzantine Dances, because it had very unique sounds and was very fun to play."

"Pirates of the Caribbean is the most well-known, and it's pretty fun to brag that I can play Jack Sparrow's leitmotif."

ENGAGE & PERSIST: What skill or song has challenged you this trimester?

"Southampton March was hard because of the low notes and how low they go."

"Byzantine Dances was difficult for me because it was fast."

"Pirates of the Caribbean, because the constant fast notes back and forth are hard to transition between."

"All the different key signatures have challenged me."

"Playing a lot of eighth notes really fast was very challenging for me."

"Pirates of the Caribbean has challenged me because The Kraken has many different notes and it is very fast.

ENVISION: What do you want to improve on in band during the third trimester?

"I want to improve on my high range."

"I want to improve my accuracy with notes, making sure I hit every note every time."

"I want to improve section blend."

"I want to work on getting better at playing fast measures and making sure I look at the key signature."

"I want to improve getting my fingers down in the right place faster and controlling my air for a stronger sound."