6th Grade Band

In sixth-grade band class, students are introduced to fundamental concepts of music performance and instrumental proficiency. They are required to demonstrate a high standard of musicality by performing with characteristics such as tone quality, correct notes, rhythms, dynamics, phrasing, sticking, and articulation. This not only emphasizes technical accuracy but also the expression and interpretation of music.

 Students are expected to demonstrate and maintain correct posture and playing position for their instruments. They are tasked with performing various musical pieces, including Major scales (“Concert” Bb, F, C, G), and a one-octave chromatic scale. The class offers opportunities for students to showcase their skills by participating in events like the Holiday Concert, Holiday Assembly, Spring Concert, and even in small ensemble performances during the solo and ensemble concert.

 To prepare for advancement to the seventh-grade band, students are encouraged to understand and answer a set of thought-provoking questions. These questions cover topics like maximizing one's potential as an instrumentalist, the importance of a strong foundation in musical vocabulary, the role of good practice habits in becoming a better performer, the relationship between posture and tone production, the benefits of rehearsing and practicing concepts, the impact of articulation symbols on performance, and what constitutes a significant and meaningful musical performance. This class serves as a critical foundation for their continued musical journey in seventh grade and beyond.

7th Grade Band

In seventh-grade band class, students continue to explore fundamental concepts of music performance and instrumental proficiency. They are required to demonstrate a high standard of musicality by performing with characteristics such as tone quality, correct notes, rhythms, dynamics, phrasing, sticking, and articulation. This not only emphasizes technical accuracy but also the expression and interpretation of music.

 Students are expected to demonstrate and maintain correct posture and playing position for their instruments. They are tasked with performing various musical pieces, including Major scales (“Concert” Eb, Bb, F, C, G, D), and a one-octave chromatic scale. The class offers opportunities for students to showcase their skills by participating in events like the Holiday Concert, Holiday Assembly, Spring Concert, Jazz Band, Indoor Percussion, and even in small ensemble performances during the solo and ensemble concert.

 To prepare for advancement to the eighth-grade band, students are encouraged to understand and answer a set of thought-provoking questions. These questions cover topics like maximizing one's potential as an instrumentalist, the importance of a strong foundation in musical vocabulary, the role of good practice habits in becoming a better performer, the relationship between posture and tone production, the benefits of rehearsing and practicing concepts, the impact of articulation symbols on performance, and what constitutes a significant and meaningful musical performance. This class serves as a critical foundation for their continued musical journey in seventh grade and beyond.

8th Grade Band

In eighth-grade band class, students continue to explore and build upon concepts of music performance and instrumental proficiency. They are required to demonstrate a high standard of musicality by performing with characteristics such as tone quality, correct notes, rhythms, dynamics, phrasing, sticking, and articulation. This not only emphasizes technical accuracy but also the expression and interpretation of music.

 Students are expected to demonstrate and maintain correct posture and playing position for their instruments. They are tasked with performing various musical pieces, including Major scales (“Concert” Ab, Eb, Bb, F, C, G, D, A), and a two-octave chromatic scale. The class offers opportunities for students to showcase their skills by participating in events like the Holiday Concert, Holiday Assembly, Spring Concert, Jazz Band, Indoor Percussion, and even in small ensemble performances during the solo and ensemble concert.

 To prepare for advancement to the high school, students are encouraged to understand and answer a set of thought-provoking questions. These questions cover topics like maximizing one's potential as an instrumentalist, the importance of a strong foundation in musical vocabulary, the role of good practice habits in becoming a better performer, the relationship between posture and tone production, the benefits of rehearsing and practicing concepts, the impact of articulation symbols on performance, and what constitutes a significant and meaningful musical performance. This class serves as a critical foundation for their continued musical journey in seventh grade and beyond.

Instrumental Music Teacher

Peter Vincenti