LSE Music – Spotted Half Note Information Packet

Dear parents,

At Lakeshore Elementary, 4th5th grade students have another opportunity to be involved in theSpotted Half Notes; a performing ensemble outside of the music classroom. After a wonderful performance during the holiday season, we are ready to begin our second semester where we left off and create even more amazing music!As before, the ensemble is an audition only ensemble where each child will be expected to audition, and if chosen, must commit to the ensemble for the entire semester. Please read through the expectations and rehearsal/performance dates attached. If both you and your child agree to the expectations and schedule, please fill out the attached permission form and send it with your child when he or she comes to audition. Auditions will be held for interested studentsbetweenMonday, January 9 and Friday, January 20. Students should go to the music room between 7:30am and 7:55am to audition. Once a child auditions, they do not need to return to the music room. Students that made the ensemble will be notified on Friday, January 20 by the end of the school day. There will be approximately 15 spots available.

ALL FALL MEMBERS OF THE MALLET GROUP MUST REAUDITION TO BE CONSIDERED!

The first rehearsal for the 2015-2016Spring Semesteris Monday, January 23.

Expectations for Lakeshore’s Spotted Half Notes

  • Students can echo rhythmic patterns on mallets, drums, and other instruments using quarter, eighth, and sixteenth notes and echo patterns that use syncopation.
  • Students can play basic melodies and patterns on mallet instruments. Students can play independent patterns while a different pattern is being performed.
  • Students will play any and all instruments as directed.
  • Students will exhibit confidence and adequate stage presence.
  • Students will maintain excellent, positive attitudes and participate fully in both music class and the mallet group.
  • Students will maintain a good attitude in all school areas and classes and will not have a conduct grade lower than “S” in ANY subject.
  • Students will keep up with their homework and will not have an academic grade below 70% in ANY subject.
  • Students are expected to attend every rehearsal and performance. A student who misses three rehearsals without an excuse note will be dropped from the ensemble. Only Mr. Kaciuba may excuse students from rehearsals and proper documentation (doctor’s note, etc.) must be presented within 3 school days of the missed rehearsal. Emergency absences will be dealt with on an individual basis.
  • Rehearsals will be Monday through Thursday (4 days a week) before school from 7:30am-7:55am. Members of the Half Notes should be at school no later than 7:30am and must report immediately to the music room. Classroom instruction begins promptly at 8:00am, so rehearsal needs to end at 7:55 sharp to allow students time to get to their classrooms. Punctuality is important so that we can have a full 25 minutes to rehearse. Members who are regularly tardy will be dropped from the ensemble.
  • The first rehearsal for the 2016-2017Spotted Half Notes is Monday, January 23.

If there are any questions or concerns, please contact Mr. Kaciuba at or 281.641.3537.

Lakeshore Elementary Spotted Half Note

Expectations and Permission Form

*students who return the permission slip will be allowed to audition. No child may audition without a permission slip.

Student’s Name (print):______

Parent’s Name (print):______

Home Phone: ______Work Phone: ______

Cell Phone: ______Homeroom Teacher: ______

My child and I have read and understand the requirements for participation in the

Lakeshore Elementary Mallet Group.

We understand that failure to uphold these standards will result in removal from the ensemble.

Student Signature:

______

Parent Signature:

______

Date:

______