OMS Bands Weekly Updates 10/31/16

Hello everyone,

Here are the OMS Bands weekly updates for this week.

Playing Assessment

Our first playing assessment was due at the end of last week. However, we are still working out the bugs to the system. We have extended the deadline to Thursday, November 3 (7th/8th Grade) and Friday, November 4 (6th Grade). Students who do not have a computer that is capable to record are more than welcome to come in before/after school and use the laptop in the band room. This option is available for all grade levels.

Essential Elements (6th/7th Grade Only)

For those struggling with creating an account with Essential Elements, please refer to this presentation (click here) on how to create an account. Students still struggling should contact Mr. B directly.

Weekly Lessons/Rehearsal Rubric

For the past couple of weeks, we have been making a concentrated effort to take any mystery out of the formative grades in class. This has been posted in the band room and shared with students on several occasions. However, just to make sure that everyone is on the same page, here is how we grade lessons and rehearsals:

1 – Students are unable to play the prepared section/music.

2 – Students are able to play the prepared section/music but need help from the director or peers.

3 – Students are able to play the prepared section/music without help.

4 – Students are able to play the prepared section/music without help and can explain what is happening in the music.

Forgetting Instruments

Students who forget their instrument for either their weekly lesson or at least two band rehearsals in a given week may be asked to come in before/after school to make up the time that they lost.

Holiday Concert

The OMS Holiday Concert will be here before we know it. Please mark your calendar and save the date for Tuesday, December 13 at 7:00 PM in the OHMS Auditorium.

Practice

Practice is an essential part of band and improving on our instruments. However, we understand that practicing long tones, technique, etc. is not the most exciting thing. One way to get your students playing is by purchasing sheet music that you and/or they like. The Sheet Music Direct Play Along app is an awesome way to not only get music but play along tracks. You can find out more about prices and song selections by clicking here.

MotW

“The way you do anything…”

As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email or call.

Kyle Brubaker

Director of Bands

Olympia Middle/High School