The Freshman Concert Band serves as a transitory band between the EGMS Concert Band and the Upperclassman Symphonic Band, as well as an entry level high school band for those without prior experience. This band was established in the 2014-2015 school year and has continued to help 9th Graders develop their skills as they take the next step in their musical career. Although prior participation in the EGMS Concert Band is recommended, any student with a great attitude and desire to learn is welcome in this ensemble.

All freshmen concert and marching band members are required to register for 4th period Concert Band. Here is some key info:

• During the 1st 9 weeks, ALL 4th period Concert Band members will learn fundamental exercises and musical repertoire being used by the Spartan Marching Band. While this material is "marching band" focused, it has been carefully selected to improve and build on all band members' skills and musicality regardless of whether or not they are participating in extra-curricular marching band. This grading term will also feature weekly written reflection/assessment assignments based on each week's marching band performances. This gives all students the opportunity to observe and critique a musical performance as it develops over time.

• Beginning in the 2nd 9 weeks, ALL 4th period Concert Band members will learn winter holiday musical repertoire which will be performed in parades and winter holiday concerts. This term will also feature the introduction of Ratings Performance Assessment and Spring Concert Repertoire.

• The 3rd 9 weeks is our most intensive term for developing our concert repertoire. Students will be highly engaged in developing their individual and ensemble performance skills.

• The 4th 9 weeks features some of our most prominent concert performances including Ratings, Spring Trip (If Applicable), Spring Concert, and Graduation/Commencement Ceremony.

SmartMusic

SmartMusic is an amazing online application that we will be using to assist us as we work to take our musical skills to the next level. This tool provides practice and assessment assistance for our marching and concert repertoire as well as our fundamental technique. Individual performance assessments for Concert Band as well as Marching Band will take place through SmartMusic, so it is important that all students have a registered account. To setup your account, visit https://admin.smartmusic.com/join and enter the class code TK4ZV-FVDKE for 4th Period.