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Class overview
Middle School General Music is an interactive, project-based course designed to help students discover, create, and analyze music from various genres and eras. Rather than focusing solely on traditional notation or performance ensembles (like band or choir), this class focuses on hands-on music-making (ukulele, keyboard, percussion), digital audio production, and understanding how music connects to history, culture, and media.
About me
Sam Hood serves as the Music Teacher and Band Director at Smith County Middle School, where he leads the school's music program and band ensembles. Now in his second year of teaching, Mr. Hood brings a passion for music education and brass performance to the Smith County School community.
Mr. Hood holds Bachelor’s degrees in Music Education and Trumpet Performance from Tennessee Technological University. Dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment, he guides middle school students in developing fundamental musicianship, strong instrumental technique, and a lifelong appreciation for music. Through ensemble rehearsals, hands-on instruction, and performances, he works to build confidence, teamwork, and artistic growth in every student who enters his classroom.
Classroom expectations
1. Respect the Gear
1. Respect the Gear
Handle with care: Treat all instruments, keyboards, ukuleles, computers, and headphones gently.
Hands off until instructed: Only play instruments or touch equipment when given permission.
Leave it better than you found it: Return all equipment, cables, and music stands to their proper storage spots at the end of class.
2. Respect the Sound Space
2. Respect the Sound Space
Eyes and ears up when the teacher speaks: When the music stops or the teacher is giving instructions, instruments and side conversations pause immediately.
Control your volume: Keep playing and singing at appropriate levels for individual practice or group work.
Support your peers: Performers and presenters deserve your full attention and respectful applause—never judgment or mockery.
3. Be Willing to Take Risks
3. Be Willing to Take Risks
Mistakes are part of making music: You don’t need to be a professional musician to succeed; you just need to try.
Keep an open mind: Be willing to listen to and learn about styles, instruments, and musical traditions from around the world that may be new to you.
4. Bring Your Best Effort & Attitude
4. Bring Your Best Effort & Attitude
Be present and prepared: Arrive on time, bring your class materials, and log in/set up promptly.
Participate fully: Engage in group drumming, singing, keyboard practice, and class discussions.
Teacher's schedule
In class (6th Grade Science): 8:00 - 9:30
7th Grade Music: 9:35 - 10:20
6th Grade Music: 10:30 - 11:15
Lunch Duty: 11:20 - 11:50
Lunch: 12 - 12:30
8th Grade Music: 12:35 - 1:15
Planning: 1:20 - 2:15
5th Grade Music: 2-15 - 3
Band Schedule
7th and 8th Grade: Wednesday and Friday during Specials
5th and 6th: Friday during Specials
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