Monday, February 28, 2011

Big Band Dance Wrap-Up

Here is a wrap-up note from our outgoing Big Band Dance Chair, Beth Linvill-

Sunday, February 27, 2011

February 28- March 4

Welcome Back!  I hope that everyone returns to class ready to make our last push of the year.  With just 6 weeks until our Spring Tour to LA, CMEA festivals a few weeks after that and end of year concerts right behind that, we have much to learn about music and the pieces we'll be performing this spring.

I had the opportunity to spend several days at the California All-State music conference last weekend in Fresno.  There were several hundred students participating in various all-state music ensembles, including our very own Jared P who made third chair double bass in the all-state symphony!  Personally and professionally, it was a great time as I saw some of the greatest performers in the state and attended sessions with several hundred other music teachers from across California.

We have made a dent into the debt owed the instrumental program, but there is still $5,871.49 outstanding.  If your student owes any funds for any reason, it is imperative that you make payments in full or arrange a payment schedule with me.  Every student was given a balance statement before the break.  If your student didn't bring this home, email me and I will send you a copy.  Families who need financial aid should also contact me to arrange assistance.

Music Boosters' March meeting is coming up this week on Thursday, March 3.  Here you will learn of our plans and activities for the rest of the year, and maybe even get a peek into what the 2011-2012 school year holds.

Beginning Band students are reminded that they need Standards of Excellence book 2- the blue book this week.  You can find it at any of the area retailers including Starving Musician, Music Village and Music-Go-Round.  Students who are unable to purchase their own book may make arrangements with me for a loaner copy from me.  You may choose to purchase the book with or without the CD.
<em>Standard of Excellence</em> Enhanced Edition Bb Clarinet <em>Book 2</em> + CD

Next week, during the CAHSEE, current PHS students will begin to put their plans for 2011-2012 courses in writing.  In a few short weeks, we'll be working with Castillero and the other middle schools to let them know about their band and orchestra options.  I will be posting audition information for students here on the blog in the coming days.  This info will be good not only for current middle school students, but students and families currently enrolled in the program.  I will also be meeting with students from each ensemble and to share with them my vision for the coming years.  I look forward to a strong future for the Pioneer instrumental music program!

*****Update 2/28 2:40 pm*****
debt now $3,721.49 keep those payments coming in :)

Monday, February 14, 2011

February 14-18

$9,584.99
That's how much money students currently owe the instrumental music program!  There are still students who owe for part of their tour, performing attire or other miscellaneous items.  Every student will receive a balance statement in class tomorrow showing their current standing.  Please ask your student to share this information with you and send payment (cash or check to "Pioneer Music/ Drama Boosters) ASAP.  Also, we are looking for 2-4 more parent chaperones for our trip.  The cost is $425, but I'm working to lower that by up to $50.  If you are interested, contact me ASAP.  I will be off campus attending the California All-State music conference (CMEA/ CBDA/ CODA/ CAJ) Thursday and Friday, so please send all payments by Wendesay.  Contact me if you know you will need some financial extension.

Beginning Band students will take their final playing test in the red book Tuesday & Wednesday of this week on the solo at the back of the book.  Students should purchase the blue book during the break and bring that with them when classes resume February 28.

Thanks again to all the parents who helped to produce the Big Band Dance!  Through their help, and through your attendance and support, we were able to raise more money this year than we ever have- thanks in no small part to the amazing silent auction chaired by Dan Vezinaw.  We are looking for a few parents to join us next year as we plan for Big Band Dance 2012.  I hope you will consider partnering with us in support of your child's music education.

***** UPDATE 2/15 2:30pm*****
-$7,954.29
Let's keep those payments coming in!

Monday, February 7, 2011

February 7-11

Thanks to all who came out and supported us at the 16th Annual Big Band Dance!  The students did a great job, the desserts were great and we had some very active items in our silent auction.  Thanks to Beth Linvill and all of the parents on her team, without whose work this event would not have happened!

The final payment for our LA Tour is due on Friday, February 11.  Students who have not participated in any fundraising and have made their payments ($250 so far) will owe $250.  Those who participated in various fundraising opportunities will owe less than that.  Once we get our final count from the BBD Raffle this week, I will send account statements home with students.  As always, parents are welcome to email me and ask about any funds that they owe.

42nd Street Pit Orchestra will rehearse Monday and Thursday this week from 7-9.  All participating students should be working on their music regularly outside of rehearsal time.  Students who need a copy of the recordings should bring in a blank CD or flash drive so that I can make those available.

This week will mark the end of the first grading period using our new Infinite Campus gradebook system.  I hope that as I work through the grades this week, they will accurately reflect the work each individual student has completed to this point.  If you have questions about your grade, please let me know at the end of the week so that I can check it out for you.  Remember that this is a progress report and does impact athletic eligibility, but does not stay on transcripts.