September 16, 2013

Grade 7 Goals: This week we will learn to play a 3 note song on brass instruments. We will review all aspects of playing a simple 3-note melody on the trumpet (assembly, tone production, rest and playing position, names of the instrument parts, care and cleaning.) Students will begin to learn the trombone once they have completed the trumpet.

During our first class of the week, students will review the elements of trumpet performance by assembling the trumpet and performing a simple 3-note melody. They will recieve feedback on their performance on the trumpet and complete their self-evaluation in preparation for instrument #2, the trombone.

During our second class, students will begin the trombone. Assembly, names of parts, tone production, rest and playing position, care and cleaning will be  discussed. Students will learn to play the first 2 tones on the trombone.

Homework: Students should complete questions for the trumpet on the worksheet provided, outlining all aspects of trumpet performance in order to qualify for our second instrument, the trombone.

Grade 8 Goals: Our goals are to read and play accurately using "1+2+3+4+" as we perform a variety of songs from our method books and song sheets.

During the first class of the week, students will finish performing their chosen review song in small groups. Some students will be asked to perform song 64, demonstrating an understanding of rhythm discussed last class. Song 68 will be analyzed, played, and assigned for homework.

At the beginning of class two, some students will be tested on their ability to play song 64 or 68. In addition, students will receive a copy of our first band piece related to our unit on War and Peace, "Alpha Squadron". Students will decode the score and select 8 measures or more to learn and perfect. If time permits, students will be assigned a simple composing task using "bits and pieces" of songs from their method book. This is due in one week.

Homework: learn 8 bars of "Alpha Squadron" and begin "bits and pieces" composition.