Grading

In a performance-oriented class, it is very important for all students to be present at all concerts and performances, have a working instrument, exhibit proper behavior, and to put forth 100% effort. Grades will be determined based on the following:

• Weekly Assignment (Practice Records with a goal of 120 minutes/week)

• Playing Tests

• Class Participation (Effort, Preparation, Attitude & Discipline)

• Concert & Performance Participation (Attendance, Effort, Attitude & Discipline)

PRACTICE RECORDS - Practice is an essential part of each students' musical development and is their weekly homework assignment. All band students should turn in a practice record each Monday with a goal of practicing 120 minutes for the previous week. The record must be filled out completely, including the students name, appropriate dates, and a parent/guardian signature. You may obtain a practice record from the wall mount in the PA room, print one out from the website, or create your own. The goal is 120 minutes per week!

See the "Documents" section of our website to print out a copy of the Band Practice Record.

CHECK-OFFS - Check-Offs are weekly playing tests where the student plays individually for the teacher on predetermined pieces (see below). They must demonstrate correct notes, rhythms, and articulations while maintaining the beat by tapping their foot. Once the student has met those standards they may then move on to the next check-off piece.

**Student's goal is to pass fifteen (15) Check-Offs per trimester**

Advanced Band Playing Tests: Check-Offs: 

Depending on where the student left off in previous years, check-offs for intermediate and advanced students will start somewhere in either the Standard of Excellence, Book 1 (red book) or Book 2 (blue book). The starting check-off will be determined by the instructor. If the student passes all the check-offs in Book 1 and 2, they may then move on to the Standard of Excellence - Book 3.

Beginning Band Playing Tests:

Standard of Excellence, Book 1 (red book). Beginning with #7 (Band on Parade) and continuing with all the coined pieces shown in the book.

If the student passes all the check-offs in Book 1, they may then move on to the Standard of Excellence - Book 2 and then Book 3.