Osprey Band

Osprey Band - (Beginning Band)

Course Description

This two-semester course counts as one elective credit toward middle school promotion. It is open to all 7th and 8th grade students. No prior experience is required for Beginning Band. Instruments are provided free of charge, although there are some minor costs associated with playing a reed or percussion instrument. Students are given the opportunity to learn how to properly assemble, play, and care for their choice of the following instruments:

FLUTE, OBOE, BASSOON, CLARINET, SAXOPHONE, TRUMPET,

FRENCH HORN, TROMBONE, BARITONE, TUBA, AND PERCUSSION

The director and student work together to select an instrument which is appropriate for the student. There are a limited number of each instrument available. ALL INSTRUMENTS ARE IMPORTANT FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE BAND!

Course instruction includes fundamentals in reading music, tone production, proper breathing, hand position, listening skills, and performance etiquette. The Beginning Band participates in at least two concerts per year. With the director’s recommendation, students who show very high ability in Beginning Band may move up to Advanced Band in the Spring Semester!

Please note that home practice is required of all band members. Parent support is needed and appreciated. Please read the PRACTICE PLAN

BAND UNIFORMS!

All bands wear uniforms. It is part of an age-old tradition and shows pride and unity.

UNIFORMS ARE WORN AT ALL BAND PERFORMANCES. Please be reminded that the Band Handbook describes the concert dress requirements for all band members. These include a Hilltop Middle Band Shirt, Black Pants (must be long enough to cover your ankles, no shorts please) and Black Shoes and Socks. If your student doesn't already have these items, please contact Ms. van Ginkel so she can provide these items for your student. We want all our musicians to look their best! Thank you for your support.

LESSONS BEGIN SOON for all new students!

Students will be introduced to all the band instruments over the first 2 weeks. Then they will get to choose which instrument is the right one for them. Please keep in mind that there are limits on how many instruments are available. In some cases, students might not get their first choice (if we run out of trumpets, for example). I promise that every student will receive a quality instrument they will enjoy playing! Thank you very much for your understanding and support at home.

Remember that HOME PRACTICE IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS! Encourage your student to make a PRACTICE PLAN so they reserve time at home for practicing their lessons!

Students, have fun and stay on top of your lessons!