Concert Band

Concert Band Course Description

Step onto the stage of musical excellence with the Jones College Prep Concert Band course. Designed for students passionate about instrumental music and eager to develop their skills as well-rounded musicians, this course offers a dynamic and engaging exploration of the concert band genre.

Throughout the academic year, students will embark on a musical journey that spans various periods, styles, and cultures, enriching their understanding of music's profound impact on society and self-expression. The course will focus on fostering technical proficiency, ensemble cohesion, artistic interpretation, and a deep appreciation for the art of ensemble performance.

Key Course Elements:

• Instrumental Technique: Students will receive comprehensive instruction tailored to their specific instruments, covering fundamental techniques, breath control, articulation, tone production, and advanced playing skills. Regular practice routines and guided exercises will be provided to support individual growth.

• Ensemble Playing: Through collaborative rehearsals, students will learn the art of ensemble playing, honing skills such as listening, blending, balance, intonation, and dynamic control. They will engage in the meticulous process of crafting polished performances as a unified musical unit.

• Repertoire Exploration: Students will explore a diverse repertoire of concert band music, spanning classical, contemporary, and multicultural selections. Analyzing historical context, musical structure, and composer intent will deepen their musical insight and interpretation abilities.

• Music Theory and Literacy: A solid foundation in music theory, notation, and score reading will empower students to grasp the intricacies of the music they perform. This knowledge will enhance their ability to communicate musically and contribute to the ensemble's overall proficiency.

• Aural Skills: Developing keen listening skills and the ability to identify pitch, rhythm, harmony, and timbre will heighten students' musical sensitivity and improve their capacity to blend and respond within the ensemble.

• Performance Opportunities: Regular concerts, recitals, and community performances will showcase students' progress and allow them to share their musical achievements with a wider audience. These experiences will foster confidence, stage presence, and a sense of accomplishment.

• Musicianship and Interpretation: Emphasizing expressive phrasing, dynamic contrasts, and musical storytelling, students will delve into the deeper layers of interpretation, transforming notes on a page into emotionally compelling performances.

• Music History and Cultural Context: Exploring the historical and cultural contexts of the music they play will provide students with a broader perspective on the evolution of concert band music and its connections to society at large.

By the end of the Jones College Prep Concert Band course, students will have developed advanced instrumental skills, ensemble proficiency, and a comprehensive understanding of the concert band genre. They will emerge as well-rounded musicians ready to contribute meaningfully to the world of music, whether pursuing higher education in music, performing in community ensembles, or simply enjoying a lifelong appreciation for the art form. This course is open to instrumentalists of all levels, from intermediate to advanced, who are dedicated to embracing the joys and challenges of collective musical expression.

Fees: $40 

Prerequisites: Audition with instructor 

Each successive year requires successful completion of the previous year