Things are off to a great start this year! This week is a busy week with quite a bit going on for everyone to be aware of.
On Monday, Beginning Band students will get their instruments. Not all students may get their first choice, but they will be able to get their first or second. Once the student has returned the instrument contract, he or she may take the instrument home to practice. All students need to purchase "Standard of Excellence" Book 1 (the red book) for their instrument and whatever supplies are appropriate. I sent a list home with the students, including fliers for a few local music dealers.
On Wednesday, Wind Ensemble, Concert Band & Jazz Band boys who need a tuxedo will be fitted by a representative from Selix. We are still arranging a time soon for the boys in the Orchestra. Boys will be able to purchase everything they need directly from Selix. More details will be available soon.
At the end of the week, we will look at dress samples for girls in Wind Ensemble, Concert Band and Orchestra. Girls will have an option to select between four different dresses. Each ensemble will have an opportunity to vote for the dress of their choice. I hope that Wind Ensemble and Concert Band will share a dress so that girls can use the same dress as they move up. Jazz Band girls will use the same dress from last year. Ordering information has been discussed in class.
Students have elected to continue the same band polo & hoodie for football games from previous years. Students will sign-up for new items as needed at a cost of $15 for the polo and $25 for the hoodie.
All students have grades entered into the gradebook. If you see a "Z" entered, that means the student has not turned anything in to me. A student who earns a grade of "F" will have some grade entered. Students also want to know about make-up participation points from absences. Students can make-up points from absences by coming in after school and practicing for 30 minutes per excused absence. Unexcused absences receive no makeup. Students also can earn 10 points extra credit if at least one parent attends Back to School Night on Thursday, September 2 at 5:30. I look forward to meeting as many new parents as I can!
Please remember that students using a school instrument are asked to make a $50 donation to the Pioneer Music/ Drama Boosters. This helps us to keep and maintain a quality inventory. For those worried about finances, we will begin fundraisers soon. Most fundraisers give students credit directly for individual expenses like outfits and travel.
Hope that you and your family have settled into a successful routine for this school year. See you Thursday at Back-to-School Night!
