Senior Band

Senior Band

Here are some facts about the program:

• This group is for students who have at least one year of previous experience playing their instrument. Exceptions may occur. 

• Band classes will be on a pull-out basis, so students will miss regular class time. They are responsible for making up any class work which is missed. It's good practice to have a classroom buddy who will let them know what they may have missed (notes, deadlines, test announcements, etc.) Most teachers post important information to their Google Classrooms or homework pages so that is a great way to keep on track as well.

• It is expected that students will miss one class a week (the band schedule runs from Monday to Friday, not on the 7 day schedule, and is posted weekly on this website). The schedule changes from week to week so to avoid students missing the same class every week. I try to keep their band days on the same day of the week (Senior Flutes and Clarinets on Mondays for example). Students should let me know if they are unable to attend band class. If there is a scheduling problem, I will work with the student to find a solution. If they find that they are missing another class consistently (always during Home Ec. for example) they should let me know so I can schedule around such a conflict.

Important Note: I often have students tell me they do not wish to continue in band because they fear their marks may suffer due to missed class time. Research indicates that quite the opposite is true! Students who participate in music studies are more likely to excel in other subject areas due to their musical involvement. To play in school band is an incredible opportunity to enrich a student's education. It is a pathway, not an impediment, to overall achievement. Here's a short video that demonstrates this point:

• Students are expected to practice at home. Playing their instrument once a week at school will not allow the students to develop as musicians or to contribute to the ensemble. Students should consider practicing their band assignments as part of their homework. Even 10-20 minutes a day can make a huge difference. 

• All Senior Band students have been invited to join our Senior Band Google Classroom. This is a great way for us to communicate and share resources.

I am really proud of the dedication shown by our students last year. Let's hope this year brings much of the same. I am really looking forward to working with them again this year.

Craig Follett