About the Band
The New Richmond Middle School Band Program consists of two 6th Grade Bands, a 7th Grade Band, and an 8th Grade Band, as well as, 8th Grade Jazz Band and the Summer Marching Band.
Other events throughout the year, mostly for 7th or 8th grade include, Shell Lake Honors Band, SCVMEA Honors Band, Solo and Ensemble, and District Large Group Festival. Usually every 2 years, 7th and 8th grade also take a trip to Madison to perform at the state capital and see the UW Varsity Band Spring Concert!
Here are some outstanding opportunities for NRMS Band Students:
If you would to know more about any opportunities, please contact Mrs. Byom.
Band Lessons:
Each band student will have 4-5 lessons per quarter for 15-20 minutes. Lessons consist of groups of students with like instruments. During lessons we use the method book, Tradition of Excellence, and our concert songs to work toward learning targets. We also work on sight-reading to improve our skills. Practice records may be checked and recorded if a students begins to fall behind. If a lesson is missed, a make-up lesson is available, but just talk to Mrs. Byom to find a time. Make-up lessons count for full credit and may be used as extra credit if all lessons have been attended.
Marching Band
All current 7th and 8th Grade Band members are welcome to be involved in the marching band. It is a voluntary group of musicians that enjoy playing in parades and other events throughout the summer and fall. Current 6th and 7th grade students will receive information in May about joining for the summer.
Solo/Ensemble Festival
7th and 8th Grade Band students are eligible to participate in the District Solo/Ensemble Festival. This festival gives students the opportunity to perform a solo, duet, or in a small ensemble. Interested band students will prepare a song to perform in front of a judge and receive feedback and a rating. It is an excellent opportunity to increase playing skills and listen to other performances as well. Music chosen for this festival is selected from the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) state music lists. Music will be selected at the end of December, and sign-up for the festival in early January.
Shell Lake Honors Band
New Richmond Middle School 8th Grade Band students will be nominated to participate in the Shell Lake Middle Level Honors Band. This is a day-festival at the Shell Lake Arts Camp where students will be in one of three different bands and have the opportunity to work with guest clinicians. Students will be selected based on their abilities and strengths as a band member.
8th Grade Band Awards
At the end of the school year, three 8th grade band students will be awarded for their dedication, leadership, participation, and attitude in band. The following awards will each have one recipient: Outstanding Band Musician Award, All-Star Award, and Outstanding Jazz Ensemble Member Award.
Band Fundraiser
Once again this year, the band will do our annual fundraiser. We sell a variety of gift items and food items to help support the band through Clubs Choice. The fundraiser will take place in September and October. Please watch for the packet of information to come home late September.
Spring Band Trip to Madison
The band trip to Madison happens every other year. 7th and 8th grade band students will have the opportunity to travel to Madison next school year. The trip will consist of seeing the UW-Varsity Band Concert, playing at the state capitol, and staying at a hotel!