Concert Band

Mrs. Stortenbecker directs a concert band for 7th grade and 8th grade students. The 7th and 8th Grade Band rehearses everyday. In addition, musicians have an individual 15 minute band lesson once each week. Please click below to view the band handbook, which all band members receive at the beginning of the school year. It contains information regarding the goals, guidelines, and the calendar of events for band. The handbook on the left is the English version; the one on the right is the Spanish version.  

In 7th and 8th grade band, students increase their understanding and appreciation of music, as well as their knowledge of their instrument by participating in large group rehearsals, individual lessons, and performances. They strive to advance their technical skills pertaining to instrument technique in the areas of posture, embouchure, breath support, range, and coordination. Improving rhythm, articulation, tone quality, intonation, symbol interpretation, and musicianship (dynamics, style, phrasing, and emotional involvement) is also emphasized. In addition, band members work to enhance their communication skills, listening skills, critical thinking skills, creativity, and self-discipline, while further developing collaborative and cooperative skills. Students demonstrate their productivity and practice appropriate audience etiquette by participating in a winter concert and a spring concert. Band members may opt to participate in jazz band, honor bands, as well as solo and ensemble festival. Following the spring concert, band members participate in a marching band unit.