Practice - Practice makes improvement! Progress and success depends heavily on the practice time students put in at home. Students should aim to practice a minimum of 100 minutes weekly, broken into roughly 20-30 minute daily increments. Practice materials can be found on Google Classroom, which is updated weekly. Please help your child find a practice time and space that fits into your schedule and is free of distractions. Your encouragement is key in creating strong practice habits, and fostering an appreciation for building this craft.
Grading - All assignments will be posted on Google Classroom, announced in class, and are expected to be completed and submitted by the due date. The largest part of your child’s grade(approximately 60-70%) is their participation in class. This means they should be physically prepared (instrument, supplies), as well as musically prepared (regular practice). It is expected that all students will give their best effort to participate in class to the fullest of their abilities. Forgetting to bring instruments to school or to take them home will affect your child’s grade. The remaining portion of the grade is based on completing assignments/HW, very occasional playing quizzes, and performing at the concert.
Violin/Viola Students - Violin and viola students are expected to bring their instruments to school on their lesson day. Attending classes without an instrument result in a loss of half participation points for the day. In addition, failure to take instruments home shows me that your child has not been practicing outside of class.
A Guide for Parents in Fostering Musical Growth-
The Benefits
You have made a priceless investment in your child’s future by providing them with the chance to learn a musical instrument. Children will have the ability to express themselves and be part of a team while playing in orchestra. With your support, your child will find ways to make music a lifelong companion. Benefits of participating in orchestra for your child include thinking creatively, problem solving, being a team player, self-expression, fine motor skills, memorization, concentration, stage presence, and learning dedication and discipline.
Encouraging Practice and Good Habits
Help your child to schedule a consistent time and quiet place for daily practice.
Praise your child for hard work and persistence.
Encourage performing for family and friends!
Attend musical events outside of school. Let me know if you need a recommendation.
Remind your child the night before a lesson at school to remember their instrument.
Be sure your child’s instrument is maintained well (See Instrument Care below).
Ask your child how lessons are going at school. I am always open to any concerns or suggestions you or your child may have.
Instrument Care
Here are some rules to keep your instrument in good condition:
Do not let anyone else play or repair your instrument besides your teacher or a repair person.
Handle with care! Always take your instrument out in a safe environment, where it cannot be moved or knocked over.
Wash your hands before playing.
Wipe your instrument clean of rosin, fingerprints, etc. with a cloth
Never leave your instrument in extreme temperatures where it can be too hot or cold. Refrain from putting your instrument in storage or leaving it in the car for too long.
Never place your instrument on a radiator or vent.
Store your instrument in the case when you are not playing it.
Avoid touching bow hair.
Student Expectations
As a student, you are expected to…
Practice at home!!!
Be kind and respectful to classmates and teachers
Participate and show effort in class. Participation is the most important part of a student's orchestra grade