Advanced/Proficient Level (Honors)Band

Fall Semester Syllabus

Teacher: Ms. Pamela Carlson

Phone: 910 422-3987 (school) 336 944-4669 (cell)

Email:

Dear Student,

In this class you will be performing at the Proficient Music level as detailed in the North Carolina Essential Standards:

Musical Literacy:

P.ML.1 Apply the elements of music and musical techniques in order to sing or play music with accuracy and expression

P.ML.1.1 Use characteristic tone and consistent pitch while performing music.

P.ML.1.2Use technical and interpretive skills to sing or play personally challenging literature that requires attention to phrasing and interpretation, and ability to perform various meters and rhythms in a variety of keys.

P.ML 1.3 Illustrate well-developed ensemble skills by performing an appropriate part in an ensemble.

P.ML.2 Interpret the sound and symbol systems of music.

P.ML.2.1Interpret whole, half, quarter, eighth, sixteenth, and dotted note and rest durations in simple duple, simple triple, simple compound, triple compound, and mixed meters.

P.ML 2.2 Interpret standard notation symbols for in appropriate clefs using extended staves and some non-traditional notations.

P.ML.2.3 Use standard symbols for pitch, rhythm, dynamics, tempo, articulation, and expression to notate personal musical ideas and the musical ideas of others.

P.ML.3 Create music using a variety of sound and notational sources.

P.ML.3.1Produce short rhythmic and melodic improvisations on given pentatonic melodies and melodies in major and minor keys

Musical Response:

P.MR.1 Understand the interacting elements to respond to music and music performances.

PMR.1.1Interpret conductor gestures to elicit expressive singing or playing

P.MR.1.2 Analyze aural examples of music using correct music terminology, in terms of how compositional devices and techniques are used to structure compositions.

P.MR.1.3 Critique musical performances and compositions, generating suggestions for improvement.

Contextual Relevancy:

P.CR.1 Understand global, interdisciplinary, and 21ast century connections with music

P.CR.1.1 Understand the role of music in United States history as a means of interpreting past eras within an historical context.

P.CR.1.2 Understand the relationships between music and concepts from other areas.

P.CR.1.3 Explain how advances in music technology influence traditional music careers and produce new opportunities.

P.CR.1.4 Explain the causes of potential health and wellness issues for musicians

P.CR.1.5 Compare the use of creators, performers, and others involved in the production and presentation of the various arts, in order to make informed decisions regarding participation and involvement in the arts.

Grading: The student’s semester grade will be as follows:

  • Classroom participation/mandatory attendance at all rehearsals and performances 30%
  • Playing evaluations/quizzes/scales 10%
  • Performances/concerts/parades40%
  • Honors Requirements which includes a portfolio 20%

This is a course that involves participation every day at school. You will be graded for having your instrument and necessary accessories for class as well as rehearsals, performances and project. You are responsible to make up all missed work within 5 days.

Grading is as established by Public Schools of Robeson County

90-100 – A

80-89 – B

70-79 – C

60-69 – D

59 and below - F

Honors Students are required to:

  • Audition for District Band
  • Participate in marching band
  • Compose or arrange music using technology
  • Teach alternate fingerings, positions, & trills to other students
  • Lead rehearsals of an ensemble for public /class performance
  • Class observations at Rowland Middle School (mentor students)
  • Document time line
  • Document outcomes
  • Present to class
  • Perform 11/12 scales district scales by memory with very few to no errors in technique, articulation, and tone.
  • Keep an ongoing portfolio

In every class students MUST have:

  • A pencil and notebook
  • Instrument
  • Music
  • Good attitude

Rules

  • No chewing gum, food, or drinks (except water) in bandroom.
  • Do not throw paper or trash on the floor.
  • Be respectful to everyone!
  • Don’t talk or play when director is talking!
  • Be on time! Better yet be early
  • No horseplay!
  • Do not leave without permission!

Possible Consequences

  • Warning!
  • Physical activity such as push-ups, stadiums, laps, jumping jacks etc. unless excused by a physician.
  • Written Referral and/ or possible exclusion from band performance that week (game, competition, etc.)
  • Conference with parent/guardian!
  • Conference with parent/guardian and principal!
  • Removal from performing!
  • Removal from band!

Performance Participation:

  • All concerts /performances are required and graded
  • Students will receive a 10% deduction for having an unexcused tardy to a performance
  • Students will receive a 10% deduction for not having the proper/complete uniform and may not be allowed to perform.
  • Students will receive 0% for an unexcused absence

Rehearsal Protocol:

  • Each musician should be in their seat, warmed up, tuned, and ready to play prior to the downbeat.
  • Music should be placed in rehearsal order (if given) with a pencil ready for marking dynamics, phrasing, directions, etc.
  • When the director steps on the podium or in front of the band ALL TALKING STOPS.
  • Sit up, preferably on the front of your chair with proper posture.
  • Play only when asked to do so, otherwise listen attentively – chances are you will hear something important being said or can learn from what others are playing.
  • Remain in your seat during the entire class/rehearsal.
  • Raise your hand when you have a question.
  • Display respect for director and fellow students at all times.

Loss of points can be for following infractions:

  • Not prepared with all materials for class (instrument, pencil, music, etc)
  • Punctuality:(2 point deduction per tardy)
  • Focus: not making a positive contribution to rehearsal
  • Non adherence to rules
  • Not properly storing instruments and music
  • Excessive talking/disruption

PERFOMANCES and AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSALS ARE NOT AN OPTION!

  • Students are expected to attend all performances and rehearsals.
  • “WORK” is not an excused absence.
  • Exceptional circumstances will be considered which must first be discussed with director.
  • A practice for another activity will not be an excuse to miss a scheduled performance.
  • After school marching band rehearsals are required rehearsals.

An excused absence from a concert/performance includes serious illness from school the day of performance, or an absence that is approved in advance by the Director. A concert/performance absence may be excused “after the fact” in the case of a family emergency or a sudden accident or illness. In such an instance, students must bring a note signed by his/her parent the next attended school day. Such absences will be excused on a case-by-case basis. At the Director’s discretion, an additional assignment/project may be assigned to make up the excused absence.

*Two unexcused absences from performance during the nine week grading period may result in a failing grade for the nine weeks.

Being out of correct uniform/concert attire for a performance will result in a lowered grade.

Travel

Students are required to travel on school transportation (bus) to and from every event…….NO ONE is allowed to drive themselves to or from a performance that takes place off campus except for local performance such as Rowland Christmas Parade. NO ONE is allowed to ride with someone else. Special allowances are made for sports conflicts in which case a parent will drive students with appropriate permission slips.

Students may ride home with their parents/guardians with a prior approval from director and only with the proper transportation document signed by parents and principal.Parents must be physically seen before students are dismissed.

Instrument Care and Rental

Each student is required to have an instrument. This includes a student owned instrument or a school owned instrument. Any school owned instrument that is loaned will be noted as to what condition it is in and the condition when it is returned. Any repairs to damages done to the instrument due to neglect will be charged to the student, not paid by the band. Any damage from neglect done to student owned instruments, the students would be responsible to pay for the repairs.

Concert Band Uniforms

Students are responsible for the purchase of their concert attire.

Ladies: solid black (dress, skirt or pants, and blouse) with the length below the knee. Black dress shoes.

Men: black dress pants, white tuxedo shirt, black bow tie and cummerbund, black socks, and black dress shoes.

Holiday colors for Holiday concert if desired (red, green, etc.)

Please sign and return just this page to Ms. Carlsonwithin 2 days of receipt.

This is for a homework grade.I have received, read, and understand the information given to me concerning Advanced/Proficient Level Honors Band.

Please sign below

Student: ______Date: ______

Parent/Guardian ______Date: ______