MUSIC PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES

Performing groups are elected for a full year.  No student may take a half block of band, chorus or orchestra with a study hall as the other half.  Chorus and orchestra may take a half block only with a science lab, health, or other half block class and receive proportional credit.  Band MUST be taken as a full block, unless it is taken as a half block with either orchestra or chorus.

 

 

SYMPHONIC BAND

All students who enroll in band classes must audition for placement into the appropriate ensemble.  Symphonic Band is designed for students who demonstrate an interest in improving their performing skills and technical proficiency through music performance in band.  The primary goal of this course is to foster the growth of the individual musician as an ensemble member and enhance his/her knowledge of music as an art form.  Mature rehearsal skills, command of individual parts, basic theory knowledge, and good sight-reading skills are crucial.  Outside performances including, but not limited to, concerts, parades, pep band performances, and other school functions, are a mandatory part of the curriculum.

 

 

WIND ENSEMBLE (formerly Honors Band)

All students who enroll in band classes must audition for placement into the appropriate ensemble.  Wind Ensemble is designed for students who demonstrate a high level of technical and musical proficiency and the interest in improving these skills to attain the highest level of artistry possible for both the individual and ensemble.  Mature rehearsal skills, command of individual parts, intermediate theory knowledge, and excellent sight-reading skills are crucial.  Students in Wind Ensemble are expected to take private lessons and audition for festivals such as Districts and All-State.  Outside performances including, but not limited to, concerts, parades, pep band performances, and other school functions, are a mandatory part of the curriculum.

 

 

PEP BAND AND MARCHING BAND

The Pep Band and Marching Band are made up of all students from Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band.  This year the Pep Band will perform at two home football games and the school pep rally. The Marching Band will perform at the Memorial Day Parade.  See attached schedule for all performance dates.    Attendance at these performances is mandatory and will be counted toward the term grade.  Excused absences will only include sickness or family emergencies.  Please check the calendar and plan ahead for family vacations.  Cheerleaders and/or football players will be provided an alternate assignment for pep band performances.

 

 

JAZZ BAND

The Jazz Band is a half credit class that meets for evening rehearsals weekly.  (Tuesdays from 6:30-8:00) Participation in this ensemble is by audition only, and auditions are held during the second week of the school year.  All students selected must be concurrently enrolled in either Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble.  The only students exempt from this policy are guitarists, bassists, and keyboardists.  Outside performance, including concerts, festivals, and other school functions, are a mandatory part of the curriculum.  Please contact Mr. Tony Pietricola, the Jazz Band Director, with any questions.  He can be reached at 802-372-5363 or tonyvje@gmail.com.

 

 

HISTORY OF ROCK AND ROLL

History of Rock and Roll is a half credit, one semester class that is open to any student, regardless of prior musical background.  The curriculum will cover the development of rock music and its relationship to society.  We will begin in the early 20^th century with the roots of blues music and cover each decade up to modern day, including rap music and jam bands.  Writing assignments, listening assignments, and active class participation will be important elements of the curriculum.

 

 

GUITAR

Beginning guitar is a one-semester course intended to introduce students to the guitar and basic music reading skills.  It is intended for the beginning guitarist.  The class will concentrate primarily on “hands on” activities in the classroom, as well as the study of both chords AND music notation.  Students will learn to play melodies, chords, and bass lines, as well as a variety of strumming and finger picking techniques.  In addition, students will be expected to become competent in playing in small guitar ensembles and/or combos.  Students will also be exposed to recorded and/or live guitar performances of various styles.  All books and materials, including a guitar, will be provided by the school.

Last updated: Aug 17 2011 at 10:38 am