Newsletter
Have a great summer! 6/3/2024
Dear SCMS orchestra families,
It was my pleasure to have your child learn, work, and play together. We made a huge improvement and had an excellent experience collaborating and working together.
I have two recommendations for everyone.
Please return your school-loaned instrument by Wednesday, June 5, for the inventory next school year.
Please continue to learn during the break by attending music camp, taking private lessons, and performing.
I have a list of teachers who can teach and help during the break. I also offer a private, group, and music program during the break.
Also, if you want to hold a loaned instrument while practicing during the break, please let me know so I can make an arrangement. I will need proof of registration for music camp or taking lessons.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me anytime over the break.
I hope everyone has a wonderful summer break, and see you all in the new school year.
Happy New Year! SCMS Orchestra Families 1/2/2024
I hope you all had a fantastic break and are easing back into school tomorrow! I have a couple of important reminders for the next few weeks.
1. Quarter 2 Date - The last day for students to turn in eligible late work will be Friday, January 19, 3 days before the end of the quarter.
2. January 3, 2024, is an A day. Remember to bring your instrument tomorrow. I'll see you tomorrow!
Orchestra Winter Concert Dec. 12, 7 pm 12/11/2023
Dear SCMS Orchestra families,
Greetings!
SCMS orchestras are excited to announce their Winter Concert. The event is at 7 PM on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at the cafeteria. SCMS orchestra invites your family and friends. Please come and support us.
All the orchestra students call time and meet in the cafeteria for the stage rehearsal at 4:30 PM.
Bring or wear concert attire in the morning: black bottom and white top.
Family and friends can attend the concert at 7 PM.
Orchestra students are encouraged to stay after school dismissal through the concert.
Between 3:45 PM and 4:15 PM, a slice of pizza will be provided to the orchestra students.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
2023-2024 CMS Honors Orchestra Audition 11/20/2023
Congratulations to our members who made it an audition
SCMS orchestra students participated in the 23-24 CMS honors orchestra audition on Saturday, Nov. 18.
The audition excerpt was challenging this year; the SCMS orchestra students were well-prepared and made their auditions. We are very proud of you all! They are scheduled to perform at Palisades High School on Feb. 3, 2024.
Gannon, Graycen (6th grade Violin), Kang , Dain (6th grade Violin),
Kuncoro, Justin (7th grade Violin), Li, Sophia Qingshu (8th grade Viola), Liu, Alexander (8th grade Cello)
COOKIN' at Knight Theater 11/1/2023
Orchestra field trip is on Thursday, Nov. 2.
We are leaving SCMS at 9:10 a.m. and returning to SCMS at 12:30 p.m.
Wear orchestra shirts
Report to the orchestra room by 9:03 a.m.
Free ticket request for Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 2
When: 10/20/2023 - 10/22/2023
Where: Knight Theater, 430 S Tryon St.
"Brilliant pianist" (The New York Times) Orli Shaham performs Chopin's lyrical and poetic Piano Concerto No. 2 in a program culminating in the bluesy "Afro-American" Symphony by William Grant Still.
Christopher James Lees, conductor
Orli Shaham, piano
MAYER Faust Overture
CHOPIN Piano Concerto No. 2
DVOŘÁK The Noonday Witch
Free ticket request for JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR 10/9/2023
Students are encouraged to attend a professional performance.
2023-24 BROADWAY EXTRAS - JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
Saturday, Oct 14 at 8:00 pm
Belk Theater
130 N. Tryon Street
Charlotte, US-NC 28202
Due to the limited number of tickets, it's first come, first served.
Parent's contact information 10/2/2023
Please fill out the parent's contact information for the communication, etc, newsletter.
Last day for the late assignment Q1 9/25/2023
October 31st is the last day of late assignments will be accepted. Please check all the assignments on the canvas.
Shoulder Rest 9/18/2023
Violin and Viola players are required to have a shoulder rest. Please purchase your shoulder rest and keep it with the instrument every time.
Field Trip to Musical COOKIN" 9/18/2023
Dear Parents of SCMS Orchestra Class Students,
We are thrilled to inform you that our orchestra class will be attending a special musical performance of "Cookin'." This exciting event offers a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience live music and gain inspiration for their own musical journeys.
Here are the important details for the outing:
Date: November 2nd
Time: 9 am to 12:30 pm
Venue: Blumenthal Knight Theater
Dress Code: SCMS Orchestra Shirts
Permission Slips: Each student will be provided with a permission slip that needs to be signed by a parent or guardian and returned to the school promptly. It's crucial that we have all permissions and emergency contact information on record.
Chaperones: If any parents are available and interested in chaperoning the trip, please let us know as soon as possible.
Transportation: CMS School Bus
Performance Etiquette: We kindly request that you discuss proper concert etiquette with your child before the event. This includes being respectful, staying quiet during the performance, and applauding at appropriate times.
Preparation: In preparation for the event, we encourage you to discuss the musical, "Cookin'," with your child. You can explore its themes and significance, which will enhance their understanding and appreciation of the performance.
After the performance, we will hold a discussion in class to gather the students' impressions and thoughts about the show. We believe that this experience will be both educational and inspiring for our orchestra class.
We look forward to sharing this wonderful musical experience with our students and appreciate your support in making it happen. If you have any questions or concerns about the trip, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Thank you for your continued support of our orchestra program.
Warm regards,
Reminder of the Grading Policy 9/18/2023
The orchestra class, a year-long class, will follow the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 2023-2024 Grading Plan.
PREPARE - 20% - 9 assignments - included in class preparation and quizzes.
REHEARSE - 30% - 5 assignments - included in playing test
PERFORM - 50% - 3 assignments - included in performance and playing test.
50% should be assigned as the lowest grade for any attempted assignment. However, 0% will be given for never attempted assignment.
LATE work assignments will be accepted as
Prepare/Rehearsal
Until one week (5 school days) after the “Perform” date.
Late penalties will be deducted 10 points per week (5 school days) will be deducted. Assignments submitted up to one week after the “Perform” date will receive a 50%.
Performance (No Late Work will be accepted)
Students can earn up to 80% on the reassessment when completing re-learning opportunities.
● One reassessment opportunity will be given for each Perform assessment.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with Mr. Namkoong at ryan1.namkoong@cms.k12.nc.us
Practice Log 9/11/2023
Filling out a practice log is an excellent way for parents to help their children stay organized and committed to regular practice. Here's a step-by-step guide on how parents can assist their child in filling out a practice log:
Step 1: Use SCMS Orchestra Practice Log
Step 2: Establish a Practice Routine
Work with your child to establish a consistent practice routine. Determine the best time of day and the ideal practice duration that suits their schedule and concentration level.
Step 3: Set Practice Goals
Help your child set practice goals for each session. Goals could include mastering a specific piece, improving a particular technique, or simply meeting a certain amount of practice time.
Step 4: Daily Entry
Each day, sit down with your child and review what they plan to practice during the session. Discuss their goals and what they want to achieve during that practice time.
Step 5: Practice Session
During the practice session, have your child use the practice log to record their activities. They should note the date, start and end times, and a description of what they worked on.
Step 6: Reflect and Assess
After each practice session, encourage your child to reflect on their progress. Ask them what went well, what challenges they encountered, and any insights they gained during practice.
Step 7: Parental Involvement
Parents can play an active role by occasionally sitting in on practice sessions to offer guidance, encouragement, and feedback. Be supportive and positive in your interactions.
Step 8: Consistency and Accountability
Help your child stay consistent with their practice routine. Remind them of their goals and the importance of regular practice in improving their skills.
Step 9: Weekly Review and Signed.
At the end of each week, review the practice log together. Discuss achievements, areas that need more work, and any adjustments needed in the practice routine.
Step 10: Adjust Goals
Based on the progress made, adjust practice goals as necessary. Celebrate achievements and set new challenges to keep your child motivated.
Step 11: Keep the Log Organized
Ensure that the practice log is kept in an organized and easily accessible location. This will make it easier to track progress over time.
Step 12: Encourage Independence
As your child becomes more self-disciplined and accustomed to the practice routine, encourage them to take ownership of filling out the practice log independently.
Remember that the practice log is a valuable tool for tracking progress, staying motivated, and maintaining discipline in musical studies. By actively participating in this process, parents can provide crucial support to their child's musical development.
ASTA All-State Honors Orchestra 9/7/2023
ASTA All-State Honors Orchestra audition is video submission and due by Sep. 15.
Preparing for the ASTA (American String Teachers Association) All-State Honors Orchestra is a prestigious and challenging endeavor. Remember that preparing for an All-State Honors Orchestra audition is a journey that requires dedication and persistence. Embrace the process, stay motivated, and keep striving for improvement.
Practice at home 9/7/2023
Dear Parents,
We understand that nurturing your child's musical talent is a collaborative effort, and practicing at home plays a vital role in their growth as musicians. Here are some ways you can encourage and support your child's practice at home:
Designate a Practice Space: Set up a designated practice area at home where your child can focus without distractions. Ensure that their instrument and music materials are easily accessible.
Consistent Schedule: Establish a regular practice schedule that works for your child and your family. Consistency helps build good practice habits.
Set Goals: Work with your child to set achievable practice goals. Whether it's mastering a specific piece, improving technique, or meeting weekly practice time targets, having goals provides motivation.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child's efforts and achievements. Positive feedback and encouragement go a long way in keeping them motivated.
Be Involved: Show interest in their practice sessions. Ask them about what they're working on, and occasionally listen to their progress. Your involvement demonstrates your support.
Provide a Quiet Environment: Ensure a quiet and peaceful environment during practice times. This helps your child concentrate and get the most out of their practice.
Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate their musical milestones, whether it's mastering a challenging piece, performing in a recital, or achieving a certain level of proficiency. Recognizing their achievements boosts their confidence.
Practice Together: If possible, engage in music practice together. Play along with them or encourage them while they play. It can be a bonding experience.
Use Technology: Explore apps and online resources that can make practice more engaging and interactive. There are many educational tools available to aid in learning music.
Stay Patient: Understand that learning an instrument can be challenging, and progress may not always be linear. Encourage perseverance and patience.
Remember, the support and encouragement you provide at home play a significant role in your child's musical journey. Your involvement not only helps them excel in music but also instills discipline and a love for the arts that can last a lifetime.
Thank you for your commitment to your child's musical education. Together, we can help them reach their full potential as musicians.
Warm regards,
Instrument Loan 8/28/2023
Dear Orchestra Family,
We are excited to let you know that, thanks to our partnership with the SCMS, you now have the opportunity to obtain a loaned instrument for your musical journey with the orchestra. This initiative is aimed at making music education more accessible and enjoyable for all of you.
Here are the key details regarding the instrument loan program:
Instrument Selection: You will have the chance to select from a range of instruments that are available for loan, including violins, violas, cellos, and basses.
Application Process: We will provide you with an application form you'll need to complete.
Loan Period: The loan period for the instruments will typically align with the duration of your school year in the orchestra. You'll be responsible for taking care of the instrument throughout this time, actually.
Maintenance and Repairs: The SCMS orchestra will guide instrument maintenance and repair procedures. It's important to treat the loaned instruments with care to ensure they remain in good condition.
Return Policy: At the end of your involvement with the orchestra, you will need to return the loaned instrument in the same condition as when it was given to you.
If you have any questions or require further information about the instrument loan program, please contact Mr. Namkoong at ryan1.namkoong@cms.k12.nc.us
We are excited to see you all thrive as musicians and look forward to making beautiful music together.
Warm regards,
Greetings! 8/28/2023
Hello, dear parents of our talented orchestra class students!
We wanted to take a moment to extend our warmest greetings and heartfelt appreciation to you for your support and encouragement. Your dedication to your child's musical journey is truly invaluable.
Your role as parents in nurturing their love for music, attending concerts, helping with practice, and providing the necessary instruments and resources is instrumental (pun intended!) in their growth as musicians. We are honored to have your children as part of our orchestra, and we're excited to share their progress with you.
Please know that you are always welcome to join us during our performances and events to witness the amazing progress your children are making. Your presence means a lot to them and to us.
Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of teaching and mentoring your children in the world of music. Together, we'll continue to inspire and cultivate their passion for the arts.
Warm regards,