6th & 7th Grade Open House

I had a handout for the parents of 6th and 7th graders who attended Open House this week. I have a number of extra copies, so please let me know if you'd like an extra. This is what they said (combined):

I. PHILOSOPHY- Students are exposed to a variety of music and experiences that will help them grow both musically and personally. Students will develop responsibility skills, leadership skills, make and attain personal goals and continue to develop the technical skills needed for advanced success on their instrument. This is a course of study and all practice and written assignments are taken seriously.

II. OVERVIEW- The orchestra experience is comprised of two main factors- the daily rehearsal and the weekly lesson. Students are expected to be prepared for orchestra and lessons with the proper materials and to have practiced lesson assignments and orchestra music.

III. ORCHESTRA- The goal of the orchestra rehearsal is to build and refine large ensemble skills and individual playing ability.

Students are to be prepared daily with the following:
1. Instrument (with Rosined bow)
2. Folder containing practice parts and homework
3. Homework/written assignments (includes practicing)
4. Shoulder Rest or Contoured Sponge (violins/violas only)
5. Extra Set of Strings
6. Cleaning Cloth
7. A-Pad for recording assignments (both written and practice)
8. Sharpened Pencil & Eraser
9. Cleaning Cloth

Sixth Grade Orchestra rehearses during 13th Period (2:40-3:20pm). Because of the wonderful participation we experience in the 6th grade, the ensemble will be split into two groups. Your child will either rehearse on A/C or B/D Days.

The Sixth Grade Orchestra will perform in at least 2 concerts this year:
Winter Concert: December 15, 2009 @ 7:30pm
Spring Concert: April 20th, 2010 @ 7:30pm

Seventh Grade Orchestra rehearses during 11th Period (1:20-2:00pm) on A/C Days.

We will perform in at least 2 concerts this year:

Winter Concert: December 10, 2009 @ 7:30pm
Spring Concert: April 15, 2010 @ 7:30pm

We may also perform at the NYSSMA Majors festival April 22nd-23rd. Attendance is mandatory for all performances!


IV. LESSON- The weekly lesson is designed to teach new skills related to the instrument of study and refine existing skills. Students are assigned to a lesson group which meets once a week during the school day. The day of the lesson will always be the same, but the time of the lesson will change each week. Students are required to report to the orchestra room to pick up their lesson card (to be used as a pass as well as attendance). Students may only miss a lesson in the event of a test or if they are failing. Missed lessons must be made up within two weeks during an activity period.

V. PRACTICE- Practicing is the most beneficial – and the most difficult – part of your child’s music experience. This is a time when they can review lessons and refine their individual skills. Good practice skills must be cultivated and nurtured. Please refer to the attached practice sheet for tips on how to help your child succeed in music.

VI. BEHAVIOR- Talking during rehearsal, disruptive behavior and being rude to others is unacceptable. Positive attitudes are welcome 100% of the time. ☺

VII. INSTRUMENTS (violin/viola only)- The instrument storage room is locked after school. Although the storage facility and the classroom are locked for safety, students are discouraged from leaving their personal instruments in the music room overnight. Also, when an instrument has been left in school it is obvious that homework (practice) is not being done. ***Students attending after-school activities should get their instrument from the instrument storage room BEFORE attending the activity.***

VIII. GRADING/TESTS- Grading in orchestra is based on three components:

• Rehearsals 50% (preparation of orchestra music, turning work in on time, attitude and behavior)
• Lessons 25% (preparation of orchestra music, turning work in on time, attitude and behavior)
• Written and Performance tests 25% (performance on seat checks, team checks, auditions, and other evaluations)

Extra help is available upon request by the students.

IX. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION-
1. If you are interested in purchasing an instrument please call or e-mail me first. There are a lot of instruments for sale that seem like a good deal but will actually hinder your child’s development. Before you purchase call or e-mail me so you can make an informed decision that will help your child advance their skills and get the most for your money!!!
2. During the middle school years, many students are interested in advancing and refining their skills on their instrument. There are many benefits to private lessons instruction. I have a list of recommended private lesson instructors and would be glad to help to anyone who is interested in finding the right teacher for them.
3. Please feel free to contact me at any time to discuss your child’s progress. My email address is ellisl@guilderlandschools.org.