Twas the night before classes and all through the halls
not a student was stirring, they were all at the malls.
The backpacks were hung by the front door with care
in hopes that the school books soon be lighter than air.
The students were nestled all snug in their beds
while texting and messaging, leaving nothing unsaid.
OK, so the creative juices aren't flowing that well. I sure am excited, though, about the first week of class! Each week I will post information for students and parents about the upcoming week and any assignments or events or anything else of note. Please subscribe to this blog and join our facebook group so that you are always up on the latest news for the Pioneer Band & Orchestra.
This week, I will introduce my vision and expectations for the Pioneer Band & Orchestra to the students. I will present long-term and short term goals, as well as introduce a Student Leadership structure. In some of the ensembles, we will be able to begin to play, but in beginning band, we will be introducing the basics of music.
Monday- after a few introductions and administrative issues, I will distribute the "First Things" survey. This survey will either be completed in class, or completed Monday night at home and returned Tuesday.
Tuesday- begin instrument checkout in Jazz Band/ Wind Ensemble. Student Leadership, day 1
Wednesday- continue instrument checkout, finalize student leadership. First day with instruments?
Thursday- on instruments?
Friday- each class will do its first listening log. Every student needs to have a composition book (75 pages, bound notebook- like math) in class on Friday. The first several listening assignments will be completed during class time.
I will not distribute my full Instrumental Music Handbook (course
syllabus) for a few days, but look for it later this week or early next
week. The Handbook will cover several financial issues. First, all families are encouraged to be a part of the Pioneer Music/ Drama Boosters. There is a suggested $30 donation for membership. Second, all instrumental students are asked to make a $25 donation to cover festival expenses for the year (CMEA, etc.). Third, and new this year, students who use school instruments, including percussion, are asked to make a $50 donation to help cover the high cost of maintenance of our inventory. The more money we can raise this way, the more money students can keep credited to them when they participate in fundraisers. If you have any questions about this, please don't hesitate to contact me.
