Elementary Band

Elementary Band Information

Mrs. Sczepanski

Class Description

Band is open to all fifth and sixth graders.  Both bands meet separately twice a week for 30 minutes during the school day. The teachers have arranged their schedules so your child will not miss any classroom instruction during band time

Small Group Lessons

Each band member will receive a 10-15 minute private or semi-private lesson once a week. These lessons take place during the regular school day. During lessons your child will receive individual attention and technical instruction specific to your child’s instrument that cannot be taught during the full band rehearsal. Lessons contribute greatly to each student’s individual musical achievement and to the performance of the entire ensemble. Students MUST have their instrument and lesson book with them for all lessons. 

Curriculum

The band curriculum will focus on proper instrument techniques as well as music reading skills.  Students will learn proper rehearsal behaviors and students will gain a solid foundation in performance fundamentals such as:

• Tone production

• Intonation

• Rhythm

• Articulation

• Blend and balance

• Phrasing

• Dynamics

Class Expectiations, Daily Practice and Performances

• Attend band rehearsals - twice a week

• Attend band lessons - once a week

• Attend Concerts - three performances per year

  • • Elementary Holiday Concert Tuesday, December 12 (afternoon and evening performances)

    • May Concert,  TBD 

• Home Practice -  Goal of 120 minutes per week.

I acknowledge that students are involved in many extra curricular activities and finding time to practie at home can be difficult. Some helpful practice tips include:

• • Schedule your practice time and post your practice schedule in a visible place.

  • Establish a practice routine

  • Eliminate distractions. (family/siblings, television, iPods, video games, etc.)

  • Practice to improve (assess mistakes and try to correct them)

  • Take pride in your practice time-the band is counting on you!