Band Notes for 10/14/2016

Here are the Band Notes for this week: 
 
All Bands
 
*Grades are posted!  Woo hoo!
 
*We started a new rhythm reading program, and I’m very excited about the possibilities it has for the kids.  Every day in band, we’ll start the class with some sightreading exercises with the goal of improving sightreading across the all three bands.  Our first day with it was very promising, so I can’t wait to see how far the kids progress.  
 
*We have several students who are forgetting to bring pencils to class.  I recommend keeping a pencil in your instrument case so it’ll be there when you have band class.  
 
*Practice logs are due October 28th.  You can find due dates and other dates on the calendar on the band website.  You can find the October practice log on the band website, as well.  Logs need to have a parent signature with 200 minutes logged.  
 
*Band Projects are due December 2nd.  Please have students see me if there are any questions about them.  
 
*The Southwest Washington Wind Symphony will be in concert on Oct. 23rd at 3 p.m. at Union High School.  Check out their website for more details.  This will be a FREE event, and eligible for a Band Project concert report!
 
6th Grade Band
 
We’ve been making some great sounds!  Different instruments have different challenges, so to that end, here are a few things that each section can practice:  
 
*ALL INSTRUMENTS should play along with the DVD that comes with their band book.  Some books have a website to visit instead of the DVD, so be sure to check for the address.  It’s really a great resource and helps add some variety to their practice sessions.  Give it a shot!
 
*ALL INSTRUMENTS should practice in short sessions every day instead of one long session once or twice a week.  
 
*ALL INSTRUMENTS should practice with a metronome.  It’s best if you have a metronome that you purchase from one of our local music stores, but there are several apps and free online metronomes that work well.  
 
*Flutes should start practice sessions on their headjoints before they put together their full instruments.  Make sure that there’s a pure, clear tone before practicing on the full instrument.  When the headjoint sounds good, the flute will sound good.  If the headjoint isn’t quite there yet, then the flute tone won’t be clear.  Headjoint work is the best thing that flutes can do for themselves!  Also, practice in front of a mirror.  Make sure that you’re not pointing/puckering your lips:  lips should be relaxed and you should allow air to come out from the middle of them.  
 
*Clarinets/alto sax should focus on continuing to get that great tone they’ve been getting!  
 
*Trumpets, horn, and trombones should focus on mouthpiece work:  sirens are a great way to help your playing overall.  Each time, try to go a little higher and a little lower.  Practice in front of a mirror and make sure you’re not making “kissing lips” when you play.  
 
*Be sure to read the band website this weekend, esp. the part about grading.  We’ve gone over it in class a few times, but it helps if students take a few minutes to read it over.  I’m always happy to answer questions if you aren’t finding the information you need on the website or if something is not clear.  
 
*6th graders started practice logs and Band Projects at the beginning of this month.  Again, please read the band website for any questions about the grading policy.  
 
7th and 8th Grade Band
 
*Please be sure to turn in your practice logs on time for October!  There were students who didn’t turn them in for September, and their T1 grades have suffered as a result.  
 
*We’re still awaiting the results from the honor band.  I’ll let you know as soon as I hear back from the honor band hosts.  
 
Closing
 
Have a great weekend, and be safe out there:  it sounds like it’s gonna be stormy!