Technique Lessons & Sectionals

INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUE LESSONS

Every instrumental music student is to attend a technique lesson weekly on a rotating basis.  If a student must be excused from a lesson due to a major test in another class, the student must notify the music teacher of the absence before first period on the day of the lesson.  All absences from a small group lesson will result in a make-up time scheduled before or after school.  All students must report to 1st period lessons by 8:05 a.m.

MORE DETAILS ABOUT TECHNIQUE LESSONS...

Instrumental music students at Madison Junior High are excused from class one period per week to attend a technique lesson.  The lesson group they attend generally remains the same day of the week, but rotates throughout school periods.  This way students will not miss the same class every week in order to attend their small group Band or Orchestra lesson.

Before coming to a technique lesson, students are to report to their academic class attendance and to receive their homework assignments.  Students should not send a friend, but must report to the academic class personally.  The proper way of checking in is to say (for example), “Mr. Smith, I have a scheduled band/orchestra lesson.  I have turned in my homework.  Do you have any materials or assignments for me?” 

In the event that a student has a test during the period of their instrumental technique lesson, they must reschedule the technique lesson before first period on or before the lesson day.  Should a student forget to attend their small group lesson, the absence will be considered unexcused and the student may need to complete compensatory work before or after school. Parents will be notified of chronic unexcused absences.  Students having a technique lesson during first period are to report to their lesson by 8:05 a.m. immediately after attendance is taken in their regular first period class.

This program requires positive interaction of all Madison staff and music students to be successful.  The entire Madison community contributes to the success of the music program by supporting our lesson program, communicating needs, and encouraging our music students to be responsible.

CHORAL SECTIONAL REHEARSALS

In addition to large group rehearsals, every 6th, 7th and 8th Grade Chorus student is assigned to a sectional rehearsal that meets once a week during Supervised Study and is in addition to our two regular full rehearsals. Sectional dates do not rotate and are the same each week.  (This applies only to those students who do not have Band and/or Orchestra rehearsals at that time.)  A detailed schedule will follow; students will be reminded weekly of their sectional through Canvas and Infinite Campus. 

EXPECTATIONS

Music performance classes require a unique blend of behavioral discipline and energy!  Students are expected to be in their seats with their music and/or instruments when the bell rings.  They are also expected to sit quietly and attentively when the teacher is speaking and to display their best possible musical efforts at all times.  If there are any problems in this regard, parents will be contacted.

EXTRA HELP

Music teachers are available to provide extra help after school.  Students are encouraged to seek their assistance; however, arrangements should be made with teachers ahead of time.