Course Descriptions

6th Grade Beginner Band

No experience expected before joining the band, but a desire to work hard and be patient as students learn the basics of how to make a good sound on their chosen instrument while developing an understanding of how to read notes and rhythms. Students will demonstrate their understanding through a Winter Performance, a Spring Performance and an End of School Year Performance. The emphasis will be on creating a solid foundation so students can excel in their 7th and 8th grade years. Student’s will be expected to practice independently based on the guidance that occurs during rehearsal.

7th Grade Band

The expectation is a student will have had at least one year of experience in band or an equivalent. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the director. Students will build upon the fundamentals they learned in year one developing a deeper understanding of their instrument and of music fundamentals. Students will demonstrate their musical growth through performances in the Fall, Winter, Spring and at the End of the year. More performances may occur depending on what opportunities arise. Student’s will be expected to practice independently based on the guidance that occurs during rehearsal.

8th Grade Band

The expectation is a student will have at least two years of experience in band or an equivalent. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the director. Students will work on refining their musical skills and become more independent musicians. Students will participate in performances in the Fall, Winter, Spring and End of the School Year. More performances may occur depending on what opportunities arise. The goal is to prepare students to continue playing their instrument in High School.

6th Grade Orchestra

No experience expected before joining the orchestra, but a desire to work hard and be patient as students will learn the basics of how to make a good sound on their chosen instrument while developing an understanding of how to read notes and rhythms. Students will demonstrate their understanding through a Winter Performance, a Spring Performance and an End of School Year Performance. The emphasis will be on creating a solid foundation so students can excel in their 7th and 8th grade years. Students will be expected to practice independently based on the guidance that occurs during rehearsal.

7th Grade Orchestra

The expectation is a student will have had at least one year of experience in orchestra or an equivalent. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the director. Students will build upon the fundamentals they learned in year one developing a deeper understanding of their instrument and of music fundamentals. Students will demonstrate their musical growth through performances in the Fall, Winter, Spring and at the End of the year. More performances may occur depending on what opportunities arise. Student’s will be expected to practice independently based on the guidance that occurs during rehearsal.

8th Grade Orchestra

The expectation is a student will have at least two years of experience in orchestra or an equivalent. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the director. Students will work on refining their musical skills and become more independent musicians. Students will participate in performances in the Fall, Winter, Spring and End of the School Year. More performances may occur depending on what opportunities arise. The goal is to prepare students to continue playing their instrument in High School.

New for 2022-2023 School Year!

Jazz Band

This class will meet before school from 8:40-9:20AM. An informational meeting will take place shortly after next school year beings to determine which days work best. If transportation is a problem, please let me know and I'll see if we can work out a carpool to help get students to Clay IC by 8:40AM.

All students in band and orchestra with at least some playing experience are welcome to join (including orchestra instruments).