December 17, 2012

Grade 6:

This week our goals are again to work on "Shalom" and "Alleluia". We will also continue reading and playing patterns of do-mi-sol on the staff and learn new pitch "la".
During our first class of the week, we will work on the ending of "Shalom". If ready, we will record ourselves and reflect on our performance, identifying the elements at which we are successful and the elements which we need to improve.
During our second class of the week, we will review do-mi-sol patterns using movable do and add "la"  to the patterns we read and sing. We will continue to practise our choir music and record ourselves again if ready.

Grade 7:

This is week 6 in term 1. Students should be practising twice this week and should have 12 practise record sheet signatures by the end of the week.
Our goals for this week are to complete Jingle Bells playing tests and learn to read and play songs 15-20 from our book. 
During our first class of the week, we will begin with note and rhythm reading drills and review Staff Songs 4. We will complete remaining Jingle Bells tests. Then students will learn new fingerings which are required for songs 15-20 and add them to their scale fingering charts. We will read and play songs 15-18.
During the second class of the week, we will begin with a scale warm up to review the new notes learned last class and review songs 15-18. When ready, we will begin songs 19 and 20.
Homework: Learn songs 15-20 in book 1 Tradition of Excellence.

To use the Tradition of Excellence interactive practise studio (online activities from your method book) go to www.kjos.com/ips  and follow the instructions for downloading the software. The licence code is inside the back cover of the book below the CD. Pull back the flap that says "IPS USER LICENCE" and copy the authorization code. Follow the remaining steps for downloading the software and using the online resources.

Grade 8:

This is week 14 in term 1. Students should be practising twice this week and should have 28 practise signatures by the end of the week.
Our goals for this week are to complete "Jingle Bell Rock" and to complete our Peace Song Poster Projects.
During our first class of the week, students will present their poster projects which demonstrate an understanding of how the elements of music are used in music they hear and an the context/history for the peace song they chose.

Homework:Complete any remaining research for your peace song poster and prepare to present it to the class. Practise "Jingle Bell Rock".

December 10, 2012

Grade 6:
This week our goals are to complete "Shalom" and "Alleluia" and record them for our website. We will also continue reading and playing patterns of do-mi-sol on the staff and learn new pitch "la".
During our first class of the week, we will review "Alleluia" and finish "Shalom". If ready, we will record ourselves and reflect on our performance, identifying the elements at which we are successful and the elements which we need to improve.
During our second class of the week, we will review do-mi-sol patterns using movable do and add "la"  to the patterns we read and sing. We will continue to practise our choir music and re-record if ready.
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Grade 7:
This is week 5 in term 1. Students should be practising twice this week and should have 10 practise record sheet signatures by the end of the week.
Our goals for this week are to demonstrate an understanding of performance success criteria and use those criteria to achieve a level 3 or higher of their Jingle Bells playing test this week.
During our first class of the week, we will begin with note and rhythm reading drills. Then students will co-create the success criteria for performers, set performance goals for themselves, and learn about some practise strategies which will help them to reach their goals.  They will have time in class to apply these strategies. If time permits, we will review the scale and Staff Songs 4.
During the second class of the week, students will demonstrate their reading and playing ability by performing "Jingle Bells" with a partner and reflecting on the performances they hear, and their own practise and performance.
Homework: complete goal-setting sheet and prepare for the "Jingle Bells" playing test.

Grade 8:
This is week 13 in term 1. Students should be practising twice this week and should have 26 practise signatures by the end of the week.
Our goals for this week are to complete "Jingle Bell Rock" and to complete our Peace Song Poster Projects.
During our first class of the week, students will form groups of 4 and share the peace songs they wrote about for homework. As a group, they will select their favourite peace song. Using the Poster Project handout, groups will agree upon tasks/roles for each member and complete/print their portion of the poster project for homework. This poster will be finished in class and presented orally at the end of class or during the following period. (One member will be printing and analyzing the message(s) communicated by the lyrics and sharing that information, one member will be researching the history and context of the song and sharing that information, one member will be analyzing the musical elements which create a song of peace and sharing that information, and the last member will find and print a graphic which represents the mood/moral of the song and analyze how the visual elements (shape, line, rhythm, etc.) relate to the lyrics and the message of the song to present to the class.
Homework:Complete the research for your peace song poster and prepare to present it to the class. Practise "Jingle Bell Rock".

December 3, 2012

Grade 6
This week we will continue our work on reading and performing from written notation using choir songs Shalom and Alleluia, and our original compositions using do-mi-sol.
During our first class of the week, we will continue learning the ending of Shalom. We will review tones do-mi-sol and perform our own patterns using these tones.
During our second class we will continue our choir work and will explore moving do-mi-sol to new places on the staff.

Grade 7
Our goals for this week are to demonstrate expressing, fluid, reading and playing skills using 4 or more pitches and a variety of durations. Using "Jingle Bells, students will co-create success criteria for their first performance test and prepare to perform.
During the first class of the week we will begin with Mad Minute and Carmen Sandiego reading drills and then a scale warmup. We will review Staff Songs 4 and hear some student performances.
During our second class of the week, we will explore success criteria for a performance of Jingle bells and learn about how to use dynamics (volume) to add expression to a performance.
Homework: learn all of Staff songs 4 and prepare a version of Jingle Bells for a performance test.

Grade 8
Our goals for this week are to complete "Tempest" and play "Jingle Bell Rock" fluidly. We will form groups to begin our project on the Music of Peace.
During our first class of the week, we will review the songs which will be recorded for our website. We will discuss the peace project,  and will be asked to select a Peace Song on the internet to share during our second class.
During the second class of the week, students will be working in groups to share Peace Song information and select one song to study in depth and present to the class.
Homework: Peace song project

November 26, 2012

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week are to continue the last section of "Shalom", perform our Do-mi-sol compositions for the class, and learn about reading scale when it is or higher or lower pitches on the staff.
During our first class of the week, we will review "Shalom" and continue learning the ending section. We will hear final solos and begin to hear students read their own do-mi-sol compositions.
During our second class of the week, we will again work on "Shalom", experiment with reading pitches in new places on the staff, and hear the remaining performances.
No homework is assigned this week.

Grade 7:
This is week 3 in term 1. Students should have 6 practise signatures by the end of the week.
Our learning goals for this week are to complete Staff Songs Sheet 2 and 3, learn a partial scale warmup which includes some new notes required to play more complex songs.
During our first class of the week, we will begin with note reading drills and a warm up, and will learn about websites which can help us improve our note reading:

The Rhythm Trainer    http://www.therhythmtrainer.com
Speednote Reading Tutor   http://www.vicfirth.com/education/keyboard/speednotegame.php
Note Trainer   http://www.childrensmusicworkshop.com/musictheory/trainers/html/id82_en.html

We will review Staff Songs Sheet 2 and the criteria for Question and Answer songs. We will receive Staff Songs Sheet 3 and begin learning to play eighth notes and slurs. (We will add these terms to our glossaries.)
During our second class of the week, students will receive a copy of the scale sheet which will be used to record note names and fingerings for our scale warm up and will be kept as a resourse for fingerings when learning new songs. Students will review the songs on Staff Songs 3 and begin Staff Songs 4 including a new note.
Homework: Practise Staff Songs 3 and part of Staff Songs 4

Grade 8:
This is week 11 in term 1. Students should have 22 practise signatures by the end of the week. Our learning goals for htis week are to complete "Tempest" and begin "Jingle Bell Rock", and form our groups for composing a peace hymn using our knowledge of harmony.
During our first class of the week, we will review Tempest to measure 63 and then learn the ending. We will select a section to learn in "Jingle Bell Rock":
During our second class of the week, we will review "Jingle Bell Rock" and expand our knowledge of the score. We will plan our harmony for our group hymn composition.
Homework: Practise all of "Tempest" and the selected section(s) of :"Jingle Bell Rock"

November 19, 2012

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week are to complete last week's unfinished work due to the field trip (composing, reading and performing a melodies using do, mi and sol), and continue learning Shalom in parts.
During our first class, students will get their marked projects back. Then, we will review the first section of Shalom focusing on the rhythm, and begin the second section. We review using do, mi and sol using C as do, and compose a simple melody using at least 8 pitches.
During the second class of the week, students will practise and perform their melodies. Students will learn about movable do and how to read and perform simple patterns with do in different places.

Grade 7:
This is practise week 2 in term 1. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class and having a parent or teacher sign their practise record sheet. Our goals for this week are to complete our form composing performances, learn Staff Songs 2 and be able to read/play fluidly using the 3 letter names learned.
During our first class, remaining groups will perform their composition on form for a mark. If time permits, we will review Staff Songs 1 and the dotted note. We will begin Staff Songs #2.
During our second class of the week, we will begin with Mad Minute reading drills and then complete staff songs 2 using the dotted half note. If time permits, students will receive Staff Songs 3 and should learn the first song for homework.
Homework:
Students should practise Staff Songs 1 and 2 focusing on problem solving and fluidity.

Grade 8:
This is practise week 10 in term 2. Students should have 20 practise record sheet signatures by the end of this week. Our goals for this week are to complete our war performances, know Tempest measures 1-44, and understand how composers use passing/non-chord tones.
During our first class of the week, remaining groups will perform their war compositions. Students will demonstrate their knowledge of Tempest measures 1-32 or more. We will review chords and play peaceful chords we created during last class. If time permits, we will discuss passing tones.
During our second class of the week, students will have a performance test on Sousa and we will learn about passing tones by playing Abide with Me and identifying the non-chord tones.
Homework: Prepare for the playing test on Sousa and review identifying chord and passing tones. Practise ms 32-60 of Tempest.

November 12, 2012

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week are to continue learning "Shalom" using what we have learned about duration and pitch, and begin learning to read pitch from the staff using simple drills and patterns.
Student should hand in their Music in My World projects during the first class of the week, and solo performances for this project will be completed. We will begin the second section of "Shalom"
During our second class of the week, we will continue "Shalom" and begin simple note reading drills using a variety of rhythms and the pitches sol, mi and do. Students will create their own patterns and perform them.
Homework: Students have no music homework this week.


Grade 7:
Our goals for this week are to improve our note reading speed and be able to use our knowledge of reading rhythm and pitch onn the staff to perform all of the songs on Staff Songs #1 and 2.  All students should have a mouthpiece to use in class or should have come to speak to me about using a school mouthpiece.
We will begin with a review of vocabulary and the theory worksheet assigned for homework. We will use games and drills to review reading rhythm and pitch, warm up on our instruments, and then use the 4 practise steps to accurately perform the songs on Staff Songs 1.
During the second class of the week, we will do reading and playing warm-ups and begin staff songs 2. Students will learn about question and answer songs and dotted notes.
Homework: Students should practise the assigned songs on Staff Songs 1 and 2 and be able to play all of the songs smoothly and accurately.


Grade 8:
This is week 9 in term 1. Students should have 18 signatures for practise outside of class by the end of this week.
Our goals for the week are to complete the war section of "War and Peace", begin learning about music for peace, and playing at least the first 32 measures of Tempest.
During our first class, we will complete war composing performances and reflect on what we learned.  reviewing "Abide With Me" and learning about chord tones and neighbour notes. We will review Tempest if time permits.
During the second class of the week, we will focus on peace and our study of harmony by exploring diads and triads (groups of notes played at the same time) to determine which intervals (distances between scale two notes) are harmonious. We will draw triads using every note of our concert Bb scale and perform them.
Homework: Learn measures 1-32 or more of The Tempest.

November 5, 2012

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week are to continue our solo performances and discuss how we might act like "soloists" when singing in a group to improve our performance of "Alleluia".
During our first class of the week, we will review terms covered in class and do a rhythm and pitch reading warm-up. After singing Alleluia, we will discuss ways to improve our performance and apply those ideas to our performance.
We will begin a new choral selection during our second class.

Grade 7:
This week's goals are to develop an understanding of pitch through listening, writing and performance.
We will begin our first class by completing our group compositions which include a steady tempo, an written form in which all players perform their rhythm at once on their 2-4 different timbres. Students will receive a
During the second class of the week, students will learn about pitch notation on the staff and will complete a theory sheet for practise naming notes on the treble and bass staves. They will receive Staff Songs sheets 1 and 2 and begin reading and playing melodies using the 4 practise steps:
     Clap and say the rhythm
     Say the pitch letter names aloud in time
     Say the pitch letter names aloud in time while fingering
     Play the song

Homework: Students should be able to play songs 1-3 on Staff Songs 3 by next class. Those students who have achieved a 75 or higher on their written test, have returned their signed Instrument Assignment Forms and demonstrated an understanding of 3 notes for staff songs 1, and the sign out procedures may take instruments home.

Grade 8: This is week 8 in term 1. Students should have 16 signatures for practise outside of class by the end of this week. Our goals for this week are to complete our war compositions and reflect on our work to complete the creative process, and begin our exploration of Music for Peace.
During our first class, students will complete and perform their group compositions and then reflect on their work using the War Reflections sheet. This will be collected.
During our second class, we will create a word web for peace. Then we will play the hymn "Abide With Me" and discuss whether it is an example of music for peace; we will analyze the elements used in the composition. Students will also receive copies of two new songs: "Tempest" and "Jingle Bell Rock".

Homework: Students should decode their score, and learn at least 8 measures of section of "Tempest" and "Jingle Bell Rock"..

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week are to continue exploration of "Music in My World" by sharing information about their "greatest song" using language and musical performance.
During the first class of the week, some students will perform part of their "greatest song". All students will hand in their completed "Greatest Song" worksheet which describes the musical elements used and some of the qualities from our checklist that make it great. This will act as an outline for the CD Remix project. We will review the end of Alleluia.
During the second class of the week, students will continue to perform part of their "greatest song".  Students will receive assignment information and templates for their CD project. If time permits, students will begin a new choral piece.
Homework: Work on CD project due in one week.

Grade 7:
MUSIC INSTRUMENT RENTAL NIGHT will take place on Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7:00 p.m. in the music room.  A representative from Harknett Music will be at Willowdale Middle School to assist families wishing to rent an instrument for their child.
This week's goals are to demonstrate an understanding of beat, rhythm, tempo, timbre, duration and form through performance.
During the first class of the week, students will demonstrate their understanding of rhythm, beat, duration, by performing their 4 measure Composition #1 in class for a mark. If time permits, they will work with a partner to create a duet and/or quartet which they will perform to demonstrate independence.
During the second class of the week, students will receive a music glossary and will review the terms covered to date. They will continue to work on their duet/quartet, adding timbre and form, and perform it to demonstrate independence.
Homework: STUDENTS ARE ASKED TO ACQUIRE A MOUTHPIECE FOR THEIR ASSIGNED INSTRUMENT BY THE END OF THE WEEK. Students should be able to perform their rhythmic composition #1 alone and in groups independently.

Grade 8:
This is practise week 7 in term 1. Students should be practising twice outside of class.
Our goal for this week is to complete "Sousa Times Twosa" by increasing the tempo, and adding dynamic contrast. Students who would like to perform this piece at the Remembrance Day Assembly must demonstrate their musicianship in class by the end of the week. In addition, students will be using their war sounds to plan and rehearse their original war compositions.
During our first class, students will be assessed on their playing of "Sousa Times Twosa" and will work on using an increased tempo and contrasting dynamics. If time permits, students will rejoin their composing groups to begin planning their war composition.
During our second class, students will work in groups to select and organize their war melodies/sounds to create a composition which communicates a message with a clear beginning, middle and end. Students will use the steps in the creative process to complete their project and be prepared to perform next week.
Homework: practise Sousa with new tempo and dynamics.

October 22, 2012

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week are to improve our ability to perform from a vocal score by using the rhythmic notation and melodic contour as we sing, and to improve our ability to analyze music using our knowledge of the elements of music and the greatness indicators.
While listening to songs during our first class, student groups will use a place-mat to describe the elements of music list indicators of greatness. Groups will then share their ideas with the class. (Our goal is to describe what we hear using proper terms, and support our opinions.) We will co-construct success criteria for our "great song" solos and assign the first 4-5 performers for next class.
During our second class of the week, we will hear some "great song" performances, and will will continue  working on "Alleluia".
Homework: Students will receive a graphic organizer and should select one song from their song list and analyze what they hear using their knowledge of elements and greatness indicators.

Grade 7:
Our goals for the week are to finalize our instruments and develop an understanding of beat and rhythm through listening, performance and composition.
During the first class of the week, we will take up the instrument test from last week. Then, we will play "musical chairs" where we will place ourselves in particular chairs based upon our instrument choice(s), and support that choice through performance. Final instrument assignments will be made by the end of the week and students will receive an "Instrument Assignment Letter" to take home.
During the second class of the week, students will work with "House Rhythms" manipulatives to explore the concepts of beat, rhythm, and about a variety of durations. A composing assignment using those durations will be handed out and is due next class.
Homework: complete Composition #1 and share Assignment letter with parents.

Grade 8:
Our goals for the week are to finish our solo performances and note learning for "Sousa Times Twosa", and begin our group composing for War.
During the first class of the week, students will play through sections A through the end of "Sousa" and receive feedback on their performance. Then, they will work on developing a "bank" of sounds which they can contribute toward a sound composition on the theme of War. Each student will be responsible for creating 3 "war" sounds using their traditional instrument and 3 sounds using non-traditional instrument(s), and entering them on their War Composing Sound-Bank sheet.
During the second class of the week, students will perform "Sousa" again, to demonstrate improvement based upon feedback. Then, students will join with other group members to share, organize, and plan their war composition which should be performed for the class in one week.
Homework: Complete sound bank worksheet, and practise Sousa based upon feedback.

October 15, 2012

Grade 6
Our goals for this week are to continue our work on "Alleluia" and begin "Agnus Dei" for Remembrance Day. and continue our Great-Song List assignments.
During our first class of the week, students will be asked to submit the written portion of their Great-Song List assignments. Students will co-create the success criteria for the performance part of the assignment and some students will be asked to perform during the second class of the week. We will review " the 2 parts of Alleluia and begin Agnus Dei.
During the second class of the week, we will continue working with our choral scores and share some Great-Song List presentations. Student who perform will complete a self-evaluation based upon the success criteria determined in class one.


Grade 7
Our goals for this week are to determine each student's final instrument based upon interest, ability, availability and teacher recommendation.

During our first class, students will complete instrument 4 and if invited, may have the opportunity to try an additional instrument(s) before selecting their first, second and third choice of instrument. A brief review for the test will complete our exploration period. Final instrument assignments should be completed by the end of the week.
    Saxophone tryouts will be on Wednesday (7A,7B,) and Thursday (7C,7D,7E) mornings from 8:15-8:45  
         by invitation.
    Percussion tryouts are on Wednesday(7A, 7B) and Thursday (7C,7D, 7E) after school from 3:15-3:45
         by invitation.
    French Horn tryouts are on Wednesday at 11:50 by invitation.
    Tuba tryouts are on Thursday at 11:50 by invitation.
Students will have a unit test on the 4 instruments studied this far during the second class of the week.
During our second class, students will perform one last time on their first (or other) instrument to finalize instrument assignments.  Letters will go home to parents indicating final choices and our Instrument Rental Night date.
Homework: prepare for the test on flute, clarinet, trumpet and trombone.


Grade 8
This is week 4 in term 1.  Students should have 8 signatures by the end of this week for practise outside of class. Our goals for this week are to learn the B section of Sousa Times Twosa with appropriate articulation, and continue our study of music of war and peace by composing for non-traditional notation.

During our first class of the week, we will review the A section of Sousa Times Twosa and play through the B section, focusing on articulation. Students should be prepared to demonstrate their knowledge of the B section on their instrument.

During our second class of the week, we will explore "sounds of war" using language, vocal sounds and found sounds. Using a graphic score, students will create simple compositions based upon the theme of war.
Homework: prepare the C section of Sousa.

October 8, 2012

Grade 6
This week our goals are to continue to read and perform from a choral score, add to our music vocabulary, and use our voices to sing in tune in unison and in parts.
During the first class of the week, students will review musical terms related to reading music which were introduced last class and add them to their music vocabulary list. After a vocal warm-up to develop use of the head voice, breathing and tone production, students will review the first section of "Alleluia" and begin to learn part 2.
During the second class of the week, students will review parts one and two and will be assigned a vocal part for singing in unison and parts. Students will be expected to demonstrate the ability to sing their part using the techniques covered in class.
Homework: Students should be working on their Great-Song Lists assignment which is due next class.


Grade 7
Our goals for this week are to begin instrument 4 and learn the assembly, tone production, holding position, rest position, playing position, and our 3-note song on this final instrument.  Dates for auditions on additional instruments such as alto sax, french horn, percussion, tuba and oboe will be announced.
Homework: Students should complete their Instrument Response Sheet for instrument 4.


Grade 8
This is week 3 in term one. Students should practise twice outside of class and record their practise on their tracking sheet. Our goals this week are to perform the A section of Sousa Times Twosa smoothly and confidently and incorporate balance, articulation and dynamics.
During the first class of the week, students will receive their tests and write their marks in their planners. Solo performances will continue from the method book and then all students will perform the A section of Sousa, focusing on staccato, tenuto and accent articulations. Students will reflect upon ways to improve their own playing, and to work as a team to perfect the group performance. The B section will be assigned for homework.
During the second class of the week, we will continue solos and will review the A section with improved articulation and speed.
Homework: Learn the B section of Sousa Times Twosa.

October 1, 2012

Grade 6: 
Our goals for this week are to revisit the elements of greatness and agree upon a list of "greatness indicators" and begin to apply them to music we sing, hear and perform.

During our first class of the week, students will complete posters. Then students will discuss their choices for the "Indicators of Greatness" and come to consensus on a final list for use as we analyze music.  We will apply the list to some of the songs we listed as "great songs" using this list as our guide.

During our second class of the week, students will receive "My Great Song-list" and will be expected to complete it for homework. We will begin part of our first piece of vocal music, "Alleluia, I Will Sing", and learn how the elements are written/recorded by composers.

Homework: complete "My Great Song-list"

Grade 7:
This week's goals are to review the important facts about our second instrument and to learn about our potential on our third instrument.

During the first class of the week, we will take up our homework. Students who have completed homework will begin to learn about the assembly, playing position, rest position, tone production, and playing of 2 notes on their third  instrument.
During the second class of the week, we will learn a song using 3 notes, cleaning, care, dis-assembly and all other aspects of instrument three.

Homework: complete the responses for instrument 3 on your worksheet.


Grade 8:
This is week 3 in term 1.  Students should be practising twice this week and recording their practise on their Practise Record Sheet.

Our goals for this week are to demonstrate an understanding of the new material in "Sousa Times Twosa" by performing accurately.  The new symbols/concepts include: the overall form of the composition, the effect of accidentals and key signatures, first and second endings, and dotted quarter - eight rhythms. 

During our first class of the week, we will continue hearing solos and review the 16 measures assigned so far. Then we will focus on the new concepts that appear in the score. 
During the second class of the week students will have a quiz where they will demonstrate an understanding of these new concepts.

Homework: Study for the quiz. Be able to perform the entire A section of the piece using both endings.

September 24, 2012

Grade 6:
This week's goals are to continue our study of the elements of music by identifying the elements through listening and performance.  We will listen and analyze the elements in some of our favourite songs and explore ways to use them in music we sing or play.

During our first class of the week, we will complete our Elements of Music sheets. We will brainstorm a list of our favourite, "great" songs and listen to some, analyzing the elements of music. We will discuss and agree upon a list of "indicators" of greatness. Students will receive "Elements of Greatness" sheet to record their preferences.

During the second class, we will complete our musical elements posters. If time permits, we will begin planning/creating a composition which demonstrates our understanding of the elements of music.

Grade 7:
This week's goals are to review the important facts about our first instrument and to learn about our potential on our second instrument.

During the first class of the week, we will take up our homework. Students who have completed homework will begin to learn about the assembly, playing position, rest position, tone production, and playing of 2 notes on their second instrument.

During the second class of the week, we will learn a song using 3 notes, cleaning, care, disassembly and all other aspects of instrument 2.
Homework: Students should complete the second column of their Instrument Response Sheet.

Grade 8:
This is practise week 2 in term 1.  Students should be practising twice outside of class and recording their practise on their Practise Record. This week's goals are to continue our song performances and to continue our study of the Music of War and Peace.

During the first class we will finish viewing the presentation on war and peace, hear some solos, and decode our scores for "Sousa Times Twosa". We will listen to a recording of the piece and play through the entire piece, focusing on the 8 measures selected for practise.

During the second class of the week, we will continue our solo performances and review "Sousa", improving and expanding upon our previous performance.
Homework: Students should set a 16 measure goal for "Sousa" and be prepared to perform it in class.

September 17, 2012

Grade 6:
Our goals for this week to complete our surveys and to begin building our music vocabulary  beginning with the terms and symbols we have learned through singing and playing. We will add the terms for the elements of music.  
Students will receive an "Elements of Music" introducing them to the musical elements. 
Students will listen to examples and discuss how the elements are used differently in a variety of pieces. Students will create charts describing the elements of music and use them to respond to, analyze, or create music in class. 

During our second class, we will begin our unit "Music In My World" by brainstorming titles of familiar songs and listening for how the elements of music are used. We will discuss why some songs are, or are not, "great" songs, and decide upon a final set of indicators on our "Signs of Greatness Checklist". 

Grade 7:
Our goal for this week is to complete instrument #1.  Students should be familiar with assembly, holding/playing position, rest position, producing a tone, care/cleaning, dis-assembly, and the three note song taught in class.

Homework: Students should complete the self-evaluation form column for the instrument they played in class. Students who missed a class or more on this instrument should arrange for extra time on this instrument before or after school.

Grade 8:
This is practise week 1 in tern 1.  Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.  Our goal is to become aware of some of the forms and types of music composed for war, and begin a simple march composed by John Philip Souza, "The March King".

During our classes this week we will continue hearing some individual performances from book 1 and providing feedback on the success criteria discussed in class (posture, hand position, breathing, intonation, tone, rhythmic and pitch accuracy, phrasing, dynamics, articulation) We will watch a presentation on the music of war and will receive a copy of "Souza Times Twosa" for band. 

Homework: Students are expected to select and be able to play 8 measures from "Souza Times Twosa".

September 10, 2012

Grade 6: This week our goals will be to begin reading from rhythmic notation using the notes used in our name rhythms and to begin using our head voice to sing simple melodies
During our first class, we will identify rhythm patterns we see and hear, and will compose a pattern using the rhythms found in family names. Finally, we will combine our rhythm patterns with others to create a musical composition.
During our second class we will learn a simple song "Long Way Home" and use simple ostinati to accompany it.
Homework: complete your Music Survey

Grade 7:
Our goals for this week are to produce a tone, set up and play 2-3 notes on our first instrument (flute or trumpet)
We will begin by reading through "Why We Learn Music" and discussing it's contents and collecting surveys.  Then we will practise buzzing and learn to make a tone in the mouthpiece of our first instrument. During our second class we will set up the entire instrument and learn to play 2 or 3 different notes.  We will use these notes in a simple melody.
If time permits, students will receive there Instrument Response Sheet and should fill in the sections for our first instrument.
Homework: complete Instrument Response #1 if it has been handed out

Grade 8:

Our goals for this week are to continue reviewing notes using simple melodies from Tradition of Excellence Book 1. We will review the Bb major scale and the songs learned last class and choose a new song to study from song 40 higher to perform alone.
Homework: complete your Music Survey and practise your new song.

September 3, 2012

Welcome back everyone!  I hope that you've had a fabulous summer and that you will have a great time learning lots of new things at Willowdale this year. I am looking forward to helping you to reach your musical goals and expand your musical horizons.  Break a leg!

Grade 6: This week's goals are to get to know each other and begin working together to solve musical challenges. We will explore vocal sounds, compose patterns and create performances incorporating our names, and begin a survey which may be completed for homework.

Grade 7: This week's goals are to get to know each other and become familiar with the instrumental program at Willowodale. After a brief name activity, students will receive a copy of the Willowdale Instrumental Music Handbook  to read and share with parents, an interest survey and a name card which should be brought to their next class.
Homework: Students need to bring a 1" binder to class with all handouts inside.

Grade 8: This week's goal is to re-acquaint ourselves with our instruments and reading/playing from musical notation. After a short youtube video, students will review assembly/care information included in the new method book, warm up using notes from the concert Bb scale, and select a song to learn alone or with their instrument team mates.  After a practise period, students will play for each other and reflect on their performances and the performances of others.
Homework: Students should bring their mouthpieces/reeds and music binder from last year including fingering charts, scale sheets, glossaries and elements sheets. Students should return their instrument assignment forms handed out today.

June 18, 2012

Grade 7:
This week our goals are to complete a composition for 2 instruments using Finale software in the lab.  Our compositions should be for 2 instruments and include a melody and harmony.

During our first class, students will complete their 8 bar melody and then choose matching harmony chords.  Then they will create an interesting pattern for their harmony, add dynamics, articulation and other expression markings.

During our second class, students will share their compositions and then work in pairs to complete a blues scavenger hunt on the internet.

ALL HARKNETT RENTAL INSTRUMENTS MUST BE RETURNED ON MONDAY

Grade 8:
This week our goals are to complete our STOMP routines and receive feedback from the class on the final product.  We will also inventory all instruments, and prepare them for next year by cleaning them, oiling and lubricating moving parts, replacing used swabs and cork wax, etc.


During the first class of the week, students will rehearse and then perform their STOMP routines for feedback.
During the second class of the week, some students will be assisting with inventory and and cleaning of instruments.

HARKNETT RENTAL INSTRUMENTS MUST BE RETURNED ON MONDAY

June 11, 2012 

Grade 7:
Our goals for this week are to take up the test on the blues and complete our study of the blues.  We will discuss information about final report card marks.
During the first class of the week, we will review the test and all students will be asked to perform an improvised blues solo using the notes of the blues scale while other students play a blues background (harmony).
During the second class of the week we will learn how to apply our knowledge of chords to create a simple melody and harmony using Finale in the computer lab.

Grade 8:
Our goals for this week are to take up the STOMP test and complete the creation of our 3 sections for STOMP. We will discuss information about final report card marks.
During the first class of the week, we will review the test and all students will have time to finish the first two sections of their STOMP routines.
During the second class of the week, students will add a homophonic section and rehearse in preparation for being marked on their STOMP routine during the first music class next week.

June 4, 2012


Grade 7: Goals for this week: Demonstrate an understanding of, and ability to perform the blues.  Students will begin by performing their 12 bar blues harmony using a simple "swinging" rhythm pattern of their choice.

We will review all components if the blues by combining their 12 bar blues harmony, an improvised 12 bar blues solo using the blues scale, and a verse or two of blues lyrics to create a blues performance.

During the second class of the week, students will have a written test on the blues.  They should study the information and notes taken on their "blues soup" sheet, harmony sheet, scale sheet and lyric sheet.


Homework: Practise improvising using the blues scale, practise the blues harmony using the 12 bar blues chords. Study for the test.


Grade 8: Goals for this week: Complete and polish the polyphonic and monophonic sections of their STOMP group performance. All groups should have selected their "instrument", finished creating their setting/characthers/story line, and should be working on the performance.


All members should have mastered and memorized the patterns being performed in the polyphonic section, added movement and created the rhythm for their monophonic section.
Steps 10-20 in the booklet should be complete.


During the second class of the week, students will have a written test on the music/dance concepts, elements, rhythms, and terms used in STOMP.

Homework: Practise individual patterns for STOMP and memorize them. Study for the test.

May 28, 2012

Grade 7: Our goals this week are to become comfortable chanting lyrics, and learn about the 12 bar blues harmony.
During our first class of the week, students will review the elements of 12 bar blues lyrics and perform their original blues verse to fit with12 bars of music. They will receive a blues harmony worksheet which introduces blues chords.
During the second class of the week, students will create and perform a simple blues harmony. Using chords from their harmony worksheet, students will select notes from the required chords to create their own "Whole Note Blues" pattern. The harmony will be performed with other students in class. If time permits students may apply jazzy rhythm patterns to their measures.

Homework: Practise whole note blues and add jazzy patterns to create an interesting background.

Grade 8: Our goals for this week are to complete the first section of our STOMP and to review some of the STOMP vocabulary in preparation for a test in about one week.
During the first class of the week, students will work in their groups on the polyphonic section of their routine, perfecting the movements, rhythms and drama elements.
During the second class of the week, students will begin their second section, the monophonic part of their STOMP performance.  A review of some important vocabulary will take place during this class.

Homework: Study STOMP vocabulary.

May 14, 2012


Grade 7: 
Congratulations to all grade 7 students who participated in our Arts Night performances! BRAVO!!
The goals for this week are to increase our knowledge of blues history and our ability to play in a blues style.  During the first class of the week students will receive their marked journal assignments and will be learning about the factors which contributed to the growth of the blues after the civil was and the abolition of slavery. We will review playing "Frere Jaques" in  traditional and blues styles, and add improvisation using the blues scale.
During the second class of the week, we will complete our history overview and learn about the other genres of music which were inspired by the blues.  Students will receive a research topic related to the blues and a handout to be completed for homework.  Each student's information will be added to a blues timeline.
Homework:
Complete your blues topic worksheet

Grade 8:
Congratulations to all grade 8 students who participated in our Arts Night performances! BRAVO!
The goals for this week are to develop the movement, drama and musical skills required to begin our STOMP compositions.  We will begin by exploring how movement and mime can help tell a story.  In a large group, students will learn how to compose a polyphonic rhythmic piece and perform it accurately.  Later, students will compose a polyphonic piece in their small STOMP groups, practise performing their parts, and then decide upon a type of "instrument" they will use for their final group performance.
Homework:
Practise counting and performing your polyphonic pattern.  Be sure that you have your "instrument" for next class.

May 7, 2012


Grade 7: The goals for this week are to learn about the context of the blues and become familiar with the many   sounds of the blues through videos, recordings and text.  We will begin by reviewing the blues scale and improvising simple patterns.  We will watch the video "Going Home" which chronicles the 120 year history of the blues, it's journey after slavery from the Mississippi Delta to northern cities in the USA, and the birth of rock'n roll and other modern genres.  We will listen to additional recordings and will read a short summary of  blues history. Students will begin listing the important historical points on their Blues Soup sheet.  During the second class of the week, students will learn about the form and topics of blues lyrics and be asked to compose a verse or two in traditional blues style.If time permits, we will play "Frere Jaques Blues" by altering some notes  - changing them to "blue notes" in our method books.
Homework:
Complete the blues lyrics sheet and compose your own blues verse(s). Practise the traditional and blues versions of "Frere Jaques"


Grade 8:
The goals for this week are to review the elements of dance and explore ways to incorporate them when performing simple 4 beat rhythm patterns,  and in groups of 8, begin composing the polyphonic section of our final STOMP routines.
We will begin with a period of movement and then will discuss forming groups which focus on their strengths as "STOMPERS".  Once groups are formed, students will select roles and begin composing their first musical section and practise performing it with lummi sticks.
Students will decide upon the object which will become their instrument for the project.  Each student will be required to have that object for the next class.
Homework:
Bring object (instrument) next week.  Practise clapping/performing their pattern (A, B, C or D) from memory.

April 30, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 13 in term 2.  Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

During the first class of the week, students will hand in their final journal question for a mark.  We will complete our exploration of music in the pentatonic by performing our short compositions for the class. We will learn the blues scale.

During the second class of the week, students will begin our unit on THE BLUES by listening to a variety of pieces to determine whether they are in a blues style. Discussion will focus on why each selection is, or is not, the blues. A definition of the blues and an overview of the unit will be shared. If time permits, we will begin watching the youtube video "The Blues - Feel Like Going Home".

Homework:
Review the blues scale and begin improvising with it at home.


Grade 8: This is week 13 in term 2.  Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.


During the classes this week we will discuss the music and dance elements used in STOMP. We will review clapping durations and rhythms introduced last week.  Using some of the patterns they composed, students will use words and counting numbers to label the sound patterns and practise performing them for a partner. In groups, they will explore sound options around the room, describe them, and select one sound to use when performing their pattern(s).

During the second class of the week, students will work in small groups to organize and combine their 16 beat patterns into a pentatonic performance pieces.  They will perform their 3 part polyphonic composition for the class to demonstrate a steady beat, rhythmic accuracy and independence.


Homework: Practise performing your 16 beat pattern from your worksheet to perform with your group.

April 23, 2012

Grade 7: 
This is week 12 in term 12.  Students should be practising twice this week.
Our goals for this week are to complete our final journal which will be marked and to create and perform a pentatonic composition using the 8 beat patterns composed last week.

During our first class of the week, we will listen to "The Great Gate of Kiev" by Modest Moussorgsky.  We will use class time to begin our reponse, which requires you to list elements used, and analyze how these elements help you to imagine the gates at the entrance to the city.

During the second class of the week, we will listen to "The Great Gates of Kiev" again and complete our journals. Then, we will form groups of 2, 3 or 4, and create and perform a pentatonic composition which has 2 or more sections (A and B) and uses the 8 beat patterns composed last week.  The compositions can include improvisation and may have homophonic, polyphonic and monophonic textures.

Homework: practise playing your 8 measure pentatonic pattern as a loop and complete your final journal by typing and spell-checking it at home.

Grade 8:This week's goals are to complete any remaining video presentations and to begin STOMP with a review/study of rhythm (durations).

We will begin by viewing portions of the video STOMP OUT LOUD, and review whole, half, quarter, eighth, and sixteenth durations. Using the chart provided, students will relate the written notation to word rhythms and brainstorm other patterns that can be created using these durations/rests.

Students will create a variety of 4 measure rhythm patterns using information from the Rhythm Chart.  If time permits, students will perform them for a partner and choose one to perform in a group polyphonic composition.

Homework: practise clapping patterns using a variety of durations; compose 5 measures of rhythm on your Rhythm Sheet.

April 16, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 11 in term two. Students are expected to practise twice outside of class.

Our goals for this week include finishing "Guantanamera", reviewing the elements of music in preparation for our final marked journal, and learning to perform and create patterns using the pentatonic scale.

During our first class of the week, we will take up the journal entry for "My Favourite Things", and review "Guantanamera", focusing on accuracy in measures 17-25 and 33-46. We will learn to play the pentatonic scale and use these notes to make up (improvise) patterns.

During our second class, we will continue improvisation using the pentatonic and create a 2 or 4 measure ostinato which can be performed alone or in a group.

Homework: Finish learning Guantamera. Compose a pentatonic ostinato.

Grade 8: This is week 11 in term two. Students are expected to practise twice outside of class.

Our goals for this week are to complete "My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic and view the remaining incidental music videos.

During the first class of the week, we will continue to perfect measures 33-52 of the Titanic theme. Then we will view some more Incidental Music Projects.

During the second class of the week, we will work on the final section of Titanic, and complete remaining projects.

Homework: Learn to play all of "My Heart Will Go On" with accurate rhythms and pitches. (WATCH OUT for the change in key signature at measure 45!!!)

April 9, 2012

Grade 7: This is week ten in term 2. Students should be practising twice outside of class this week.

Our goals for this week are to be able to identify the use of rhythm and texture in music we listen to and perform, and to perform "Guantanamera" accurately from measure 17-46.

During our first class of the week, we will discuss last week's listening and the journal question. We will work on Guantanamera measures 17-46 to ensure that the rhythms and articulations are accurately performed.

During the second class of the week, we will listen for our final 2 musical elements - texture (the way melodies and harmonies are organized) and rhythms (the duration or length of the notes).

Rhythms:

O Pastor Animanum

Blue Danube Waltz

Sandunga

Syncopation

The Lazy Song

Texture:

The Climb

O Pastor Animanum

Homework: Journal Question - Describe how John Coltrane uses the elements of music in "My Favourite Things" and how it makes you feel. Practise Guantanamera measures 17-46.

Grade 8: This is week ten in term 2. Students should be practising twice outside of class this week.

Our goals this week are to have students present as many of their Incidental Music Projects as possible and learn measures 33-45 of "My Heart Will Go On".

During the first class of the week, we will review measures 1-33 in the Titanic theme, and explain the change of key signature at measure 45 and play 41-53. We will hear at least 2 or 3 group presentations. During our second class, we will finish presentations.

Homework: Practise measures 1-33 and 41-53 in "My Heart Will Go On".

April 2, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 9 in term 2. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

Our goals for this week are to understand the musical elements metre and form through listening and performance.

We will begin by listening to a variety of pieces related to metre (how the beats are grouped - twos or threes) and form (how long sections that repeat or contrast are organized during a piece):

Duple Metre: Prelude from "Carmen" by Georges Bizet

Triple Metre: "Elephants" by Camille Saint Saens

"Morning" by Edvard Grieg

Form: "Somebody That I Used To Know" Gotye

"Sabre Dance" by Aram Khachaturian

We will perform some examples of these elements in songs from Essential Elements and our band pieces.

Homework: Journal Question - As you listen to Chopin's "Waltz in C Sharp Minor":

How does Frederic Chopin use the elements of music (Form, Metre, Tone Colour, Dynamics, Tonality, Tempo) in "Waltz in C sharp minor, Op. 64, No. 2" to create a feeling of dancing.

Practise "Morning" from Essential Elements in triple metre and measures 1-25 in Guantanamera.

Grade 8: This is week 9 in term 2. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

Our goals for this week are to begin watching and evaluating the success of some of the Incidental Music projects, and be able to accurately perform the notes and rhythms in "Titanic" measures 1-33.

Incidental Music Assignment Artist Statements will be collected, and we will begin viewing Incidental Music Projects.

For Titanic, we will begin by completing a decode of the score and identify/perform the scale(S) used to compose the piece. We will also complete a rhythm study of measures from "Titanic" to prepare for the challenging measures in this piece. Students will write counting under these measures, clap them and then practise playing them apart from the rest of the score.

Homework: Practise measures 1-33 of "Titanic" focusing on the challenging rhythmic sections.

March 26, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 8 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

Our goals for this week are to demonstrate our ability to perform measures 21 to the end of Star Wars and to be able to play measures 1-17 in "Guantanamera".

Most classes will only have one music class this week because of trips to Mono Cliffs. Students will be marked on their performance of measures 21-the end of "Star Wars". They will also work on measures 1-17 of Guantanamera.

Homework: Practise "Star Wars" for the performance test and learn measures 1-17 of Guantanamera.

Grade 8: This is week 8 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

During our classes this week, we will continue working in the computer lab to create a Powerpoint or Movie-maker presentation on a controversial topic. The presentation should communicate a clear point of view using images, text and music. The final presentation (due next week) should include the video and a completed artist's statement which explains how music was selected based upon the elements of music and the intended message of the video.

If time permits, we will begin to learn the theme from "Titanic".

Homework: Students should be selecting/creating music, text or images to contribute to their video presentation and completing their artist's statement.

Grade 7: This is week 7 in term 2. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

Our goals for this week are to complete performances of our William Tell compositions, review "Star Wars" with dynamics, and begin "Guantanamera".

During the first class of the week, students will complete remaining William Tell performances. We will listen to recordings of our new band piece, "Guantanamera", learn about it. In instrument groups, students will do a decoding activity to better understand the notes for each part. Students will select 8 measures to learn for next class.

During the second class of the week, we will review "Star Wars' in preparation for a quiz next week. We will discuss the decoding activity to complete our understanding of the score, and play the 8 measures studied. We will try to put measures 1-8 more together as a class.

Homework: Practise Star Wars for a test next week, and 8 measures of Guantanamera.

Grade 8: This is week 7 in term 2. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

During our first class this week, students will hand in their "Earth" assignments.

In the lab, students will view

Extinct: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcnE0GbfiW8&feature=related and

Animals that will be extinct in the 21^st century: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWFBbTkkn2E&feature=related

They will review copies of the "Incidental Music" assignment, and form groups to begin this culminating task. (In this task, students will combine images, text and music to create a Powerpoint or Moviemaker "Movie", which shares important information about a topic, contains a clear message/feeling, and shares a clear point of view about the subject.

During the second class of the week, students should bring in material to contribute to their group presentation. They will have the period to work on their project.

Homework: Select a topic for which you and your group share a point of view such as the plight of an endangered animal. Research and compile images, sound and text/information for your movie project. You will have 3 lab periods to complete this project.

March 5, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 6 in term 2. Students should be practising twice outside of class.

Goal: Use the elements of dynamics, tempo, tonality and melody to communicate a mood.

During the first class of the week, students will review all measures of Star Wars and work on adding expressive elements. Students will complete final revisions to their "William Tell" A and B sections, and will review playing both sections in the order of their choice. They will perform the B section for a partner and receive feedback on how effectively they created a sad or scary mood. They will also receive teacher feedback on their written work. All students should be prepared to perform their composition for performance assessment.

During the second class of the week, students will perform their compositions and receive feedback on the effectiveness of their compositions in creating a desired mood.

Homework: Practise "Star Wars" in preparation for a performance assessment after March break. Practise "William Tell" compositions to perform for an assessment this week.

Grade 8: This is week 6 in term 2. Students should be practising twice outside of class.

During the first class of the week, students will discuss their answers for the worksheet "Analyzing a Theme" which was assigned last week. Student responses will be collected, marked and returned. Then we will review all measures of "Mission Impossible" in preparation for a playing assessment after March break.

During the second class of the week, we will listen to a variety of musical themes for videos such as "Bike Jump" and " Giraffe". We will discuss how the different themes affect the viewer and communicate a point of view or message. Finally, students will be asked select the best choice for a film titled "Earth" and support their choice based upon the how the elements of music communicate with the listener.

Homework: Complete "Earth" assignment and practise "Mission Impossible" and "Titanic Theme. There will be a performance test on "Mission Impossible" the week after March Break.

February 27, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 5 in term 2. Students are expected to practice twice this week outside of class.

During our classes this week, we will be discussing the ways that the elements of music can be used to communicate mood in different scenes from the legend of William Tell (danger, fear, anger, sadness). Using Finale software in the computer lab, we will then begin composing an 8 measure melody for a specific scene from the legend, and using the musical elements to communicate the mood effectively. Two additional classes will be provided for students to enter notes, listen to and edit their melody, and print a final version which they will perform next week.

Homework: Continue to practise "Star Wars" focusing on difficult sections to improve accuracy and expression. Compose a melody for the legend of "William Tell" which expresses a very different mood than the original theme. Practise your melody. Ensure that you have included all of the required items in the checklist in your composition, and that you have used elements of music which will help you express the mood of the scene effectively.

Grade 8: This is week 5 in term 2. Students are expected to practice twice this week outside of class.

This week we will continue our study of music used in film. We will read a brief overview of the history of incidental music, and view film examples from the silent era throughout the 1900s up to modern times. We will identify how musical elements are used to create a variety of moods, and the how the music affects the movie scene.

Using their "Analyzing A Movie Theme" handout, students will be asked to answer questions about a movie theme of their choice. This short assignment is due at their first class next week.

Homework: Continue to practise "Mission Impossible" focusing on difficult sections. Complete "Analyzing A Movie Theme".

February 20, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 4 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

During the first class of the week, we will take up journal question 2 which was assigned last week. Students will share responses and receive feedback to improve their journal content.

We will review measures 1-39 and begin measures 39-the end which should be perfected through home practise for next week.

During the second class of the week, students will review song 47, "Theme from William Tell" in Essential Elements 2000 and listen to the original by Gioachino Rossini, to analyze the musical elements used in this piece. They will receive a copy of the "William Tell" composing assignment which includes a synopsis of the legend, a list of scenes, and suggestions for composing music in ABA form (a piece with three sections where the middle section is different) based upon this story. We will use the the original theme from our books as the A section and will compose a B section.

Homework: select a scene and plan the B section for "William Tell" - decide upon how you will use the elements of music in your composition to communicate the action your chosen scene. Complete at least 4 measures.

Continue practising Star Wars measures 39 to the end.

Grade 8: This is week 4 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

This week, our goals are to finish learning notes for Mission Impossible and begin our unit on Music in Media. During our first class, students will review Mission Impossible measures 21-41 and begin to learn the ending section. We will begin our study of music in media (film) by watching a short film clip and predicting what the music for the scene might sound like. After hearing the music which is actually used in the scene, student will discuss the message and impact of the music.

During the second class of the week, we will listen to a variety of movie theme songs. In groups, students will be asked to decide which of 8 films the music is from based upon how the musical elements are used, and the mood/feeling created.

Homework: Practise Mission Impossible measure 41- the end.

February 12, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 3 in term 2. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

During the first class of the week, students will have a Mad Minute reading drill and take up the homework (their journal responses using the three elements covered last week - tempo, dynamics and tone colours). We will review Star Wars measures 1-20 and learn 21-28.

During the second class of the week, we will explore the elements of pitch, melody and tonality through a variety of listening examples such as Eine Kleine Nacht Music, Winter, Dance of the Mirlitons, Fanfare for the Common Man, and Chinese Music-Along The Silk Road.

Students will complete Journal Question #2 for homework:How does the composer of "Night on Bald Mountain", Modest Mussorgsky, use the elements of music (tempo, dynamic, tone colour, pitch, melody and tonality) to suggest a particular mood, a feeling or tell a story through music?

Homework: Practise "Star Wars" measures 21-39 and complete journal #2. Note reading drills on the web:

http://www.vicfirth.com/education/keyboard/speednotereading.html

http://www.childrensmusicworkshop.com/musictheory/trainers/html/id82_en.html

Grade 8: This is week 3 in term 2. Students should be practising twice this week outside of class.

During the first class of the week, students will review counting in 5/4 time and playing measures 46-51 and 21-31 in "Mission Impossible". They will focus on learning measures 31-39 (and 40-46 if possible) by writing the counting under all notes and rests and clapping the rhythm with a partner. Low brasses and woodwinds will look up the fingerings for any new notes required for this section.

During the second class of the week, our goal will be to consolidate the sections learned and perform measures 21-51 smoothly and accurately.

Homework: Practise "Mission Impossible" measures 21-51.

February 6, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 2 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

During classes this week our goals will be to understand the difference between the major and chromatic scale through performance, and to be able to read and perform measures 1-20 of "Star Wars".

We will begin our first class by comparing our new fingering chart to our scale fingering chart, and then will learn to play the 4 notes needed to perform the chromatic scale.

Then we will listen to and study our parts for "Star Wars" to be sure that we understand all of the symbols in measures 1-20. We will clap the rhythm and then finger and play our parts. Finally, we will perform all of the parts together.

During our second class, we will receive a three-page listening guide and begin to learn about the elements of music and how they are used to communicate with the listener. We will focus on dynamics, tempo and instrument tone colours as we will listen to Air on a G String, Carmina Burana. We will listen to Beethoven's 5th Symphony (first movement) or Troika by Prokofiev and answer journal question #1 for homework.

Homework: Journal #1 "Describe the use of dynamics, tempo and tone colours in Beethoven's 5th Symphony or Prokofiev's "Troika". How do you feel when you listen to the music, and how do the music elements contribute to that feeling?" Practise Star Wars measures 1-20 for this week, and 21-37 for next week.

Grade 8: This is week 2 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

Our goals for this week include applying our understanding of counting to "Mission Impossible" and be able to perform measures 46-51.

We will begin with a clapping exercise to develop the feeling of 5/4 time. Once the feeling of counting 5 beats per measure is mastered, we will move on to learning the high notes for woodwinds in measures 21-25 (the similar section for low brasses at 31-35). If time permits we will also work on measures 27 and 28 for all instruments.

Homework: Write the counting under measures 46-51, and 21-21 of Mission Impossible and practise them for rhythmic accuracy.

January 30, 2012

Grade 7: This is week 1 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

During classes this week, our goal will be to continue to demonstrate independence when performing our part accurately on our instrument while other performers play other parts.

We begin our first class with a warm up for independence using the minor scale. Then, partners will be expected to perform "Aura Lee" for a mark, and we will begin song 54 which is a round or canon.

During the last class of the week, we will review song 54 and students will receive a copy of the band arrangement of "Star Wars". After analyzing the music and discovering/decoding new terms and symbols, students will be asked to begin learning a section of the piece.

Homework: Practise song 54 and Star Wars section assigned in class.

Grade 8: This is week 1 in term 2. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class.

During classes this week, students will be marked on their ability to count and perform eight-note rhythm patterns and the performance of their part for "Raiders March". The success criteria for "Raiders March" include: use of correct fingerings/pitches, timing, dynamics, articulation, tempo and good tone. Students will also complete a self-evaluation.

Students will receive a copy of "Mission Impossible" and will begin by decoding the score, and learning to count and clap the 'back-bone' rhythm which is based upon 5 beats in a measure. Students will work on learning measures 21-31.

Homework: Practise Mission Impossible measures 21-31.

January 22, 2012

Grade 7: This is practise week 10 in term 1. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class time.

This week we will be focusing on adding expression to our music by learning to control the dynamic level (loudness) of our melodies, and developing independence (being able to play one melody/part accurately while a partner plays something else at the same time).

During the first class of the week, we will warm up using the major and minor scales, and focus on learning to recognize and perform using a variety of dynamic symbols. We will review song 45 and 49 and apply appropriate dynamics. We will begin song 53 which is a duet, a piece for 2 players, by clapping the rhythm of the 2 different part of the song.

By the end of the week, students should be able to clap and play their part (the A line or the B line) while their partner plays the other part. They will be expected to demonstrate their independence by performing this song with their partner during class next week.

Homework: Practise songs 45 and 49 with dynamics. Be able to control pitch and good tone at all dynamic levels. Learn one part of song 53 and be prepared to perform it with a partner who is learning the other part next class.

Grade 8: This is practise week 19 in term 1. Students are expected to practise twice this week outside of class time.

This week, we will review "Raiders March" and work on improving the overall impact of the piece by adding dynamic contrast between sections, adding articulation, and increasing the tempo.

To begin our unit on Music and Movies, studePublish Postnts will be asked to select and share a favourite piece of music that has been used as the background of a video of any kind. This can be a youtube recording, a recording on an ipod , a website which lets us hear the music, or CD. They will be expected to explain why they like it and which elements of music make it most appealing or memorable.

During our second class of the week, students will recieve a copy of a new band arrangement of a movie theme song to decode and begin practising.

Homework: When practising, students should be adding expressive elements to "Raiders March" and beginning 8 measures of our new piece. They should be prepared to share a favourite piece of music which has been used as a video/movie background and describe which elements of music are most appealing to them.