Band Grading - Montgomery Township School District



Montgomery Upper Middle School 8th Grade Band

Handbook for Band Parents and Students

2013-2014

THE LAST PAGE MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED TO MR. HELLER BY

MONDAY, OCTOBER, 14TH

Welcome back to school! Here at Montgomery Upper Middle School we continue to build a tradition of excellence in band through a fun, enjoyable environment of daily band rehearsals and music lessons. Through band, students learn valuable lessons such as Teamwork, Dedication, and Responsibility, that can be carried over to all parts of life. Our Montgomery Band Program is one of the most comprehensive and engaging band programs in NJ, and I hope this Handbook will provide answers to your many questions you may have about our program. Please keep this file as a reference throughout the year and be sure to mark the dates of the performances and rehearsals in your calendar.

As you are aware by now, we incorporate an exciting, interactive software program into our music program. This software is called SmartMusic, and it provides great value for students at all levels. For example:

• Students practice with background accompaniment and get visual and audio feedback on each assignment, which makes practice more meaningful and productive.

• SmartMusic motivates students to continue practicing to improve their scores, similar to a video game, which makes practice more fun.

• I can provide more individualized attention for your child with SmartMusic’s assignment features, including notes of encouragement.

• Parents have access to their student’s progress 24/7.

Click here to go to .

I will be incorporating SmartMusic in just about everything we do this school year. Most 8th graders purchased a subscription through me at the end of last year, but for those of you who are new to the district, you may need to purchase SmartMusic on your own. Don’t worry, it’s easy!

• Place your order at by clicking on the Store button. All you will need is a PC or a Macintosh with an Internet connection. Complete system requirements are listed at support.

• To get started, just follow the on-screen instructions for installation and activation. Your e-mail address is required to activate SmartMusic and so that I can send your child messages to encourage them, along with assignments and lesson reminders. We will all register together in school, so no need to do so at home unless you want to check out the program before the school year begins.

• An annual subscription is $40, plus a one-time cost for a microphone ($19.95 for Windows and $29.95 for Mac). The SmartMusic microphones are more sensitive and responsive, which makes the assessment and recording features work better. The cost of a SmartMusic home subscription will replace the cost of purchasing a tuner and metronome (a requirement of all UMS band students in past years)…a tuner and metronome is built right into the program!

A SmartMusic Workstation is setup in the band room for students to use when they don’t have SmartMusic at home. If you have any questions, please feel free to call or e-mail me at rheller@mtsd.us I’m looking forward to a great year working with your kids.

For additional information, please visit .

Concerts and Events:

Our 7th and 8th Grade Bands and Jazz Band perform a winter and a spring concert as well as at concerts for the school. In addition, there are other performance opportunities with our high school program we strongly suggest you to participate in as well. The dates in bold are required performances:

• Hershey Trip Parent Meeting, October 1st, 7pm in the UMS Auditorium

• Winter Band Concert: Thursday, December 19th at 7:00pm

• Mandatory After-School Rehearsal for 8th Graders going to Hershey: Tuesday, May 6th, 3-5:30pm

• Hershey Park Trip: May 9-10th

• Spring Band Concert: Thursday, May 20th at 7:00pm

• Spring In-School Assembly: TBA

Annual Music in the Parks Trip to Hershey

• Hershey Trip Dress Rehearsal: May 6th, 3:00-5:30 (mandatory for all participating students)

• Hershey Trip: May 9-10

All Performances are mandatory. Concert Performances are part of the Marking Period Grade (see below) and there is no substitute for missing the concert!

Concert Attire:

Winter Concert:

• Girls: Black dress slacks or long (at or past the knee) black skirt. Solid white shirt (no logos or embroidery) and black dress shoes (no sandals)

• Boys: Black dress pants (not navy blue- you CAN tell the difference under the lights), black dress shoes, black socks, black belt. Solid white button-down dress shirt (long-sleeved preferred; no logos or embroidery)

Spring Concert

• Girls: Black dress slacks or long (at or past the knee) black skirt. Solid white shirt (no logos or embroidery) and black dress shoes (no sandals)

• Boys: Black dress pants (not navy blue- you CAN tell the difference under the lights), black dress shoes, black socks, black belt. Solid white button-down dress shirt (long-sleeved preferred; no logos or embroidery)

• Jazz Band Members Only (boys and girls): All-Black attire including black pants or skirt, solid black dress shirt (button-down; long-sleeve for boys) black dress shoes, black socks, black belt.

Expectations for Student Behavior:

Band is a cooperative activity, which means students must learn to work together as a team for everyone to succeed. Self-discipline will eliminate the need for teacher discipline!

Some general rules that will make everyone’s band experience better:

• RESPECT: Respect the rights, safety, and property of others; Respect other students’ right to learn; Respect and be polite to your teacher.

• Come to class with a POSITIVE ATTITUDE toward learning and an open mind for different types of music. Always try your best and always try to improve.

Band Member Etiquette:

1. REFRAIN FROM TALKING WHILE A DIRECTOR IS ON THE PODIUM.

2. NO gum, candy, or food is permitted in the band room.

3. All instruments, and folders must be put away at the end of every class.

4. Only pencils may be used for writing on the music.

5. RAISE YOUR HAND if you have a question or comment. Please make your comment or question pertinent to rehearsal.

6. Be ready to play 4 minutes after the bell! The order of music to be played will be on the board or you can expect we will start with our warmup routine.

7. It is the responsibility of each student to have the UMS Student Handbook at each rehearsal.

8. It is the responsibility of each student to have his/her instrument in playing condition at each rehearsal. TALK TO A DIRECTOR BEFORE TAKING IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP.

9. Do not play instruments other than your own. This includes percussion and school owned instruments.

10. Do not write on the white board without permission.

Consequences:

1. Verbal Warning

2. Call to parents

3. Discipline report is filed.

* Severe behavior problems may be sent directly to the office

**Persistent behavior problems will be given an office referral.

Grading

Students will be assessed on their mastery of scales, exercises, and ensemble music periodically throughout each marking period using our new interactive program, SmartMusic. Students are assessed on their individual contribution to the band. This covers such items as coming to class with all of the proper materials, and following the band rules. Grading differs in the 2nd and 4th marking period to include the Winter and Spring Concerts. Grading will be as follows:

Graded Categories

• 20% - Individual Playing Assessments and Self-Assessments- A few times per marking period, we will listen to each student play individually and use the UMS Assessment Rubric to assess them. These assessments can be on concert music, scales, or any other pedagogical skills we work on in class. Most of these assessments will be done on SmartMusic.

• 35% - Ensemble Skills and Active Engagement. A large portion of the band curriculum focuses on ensemble skills. By their nature, ensemble skills focus on group work and a student’s ability to participate in that group work. Students begin each marking period with 100 points. If a student is not prepared for class or is not participating fully, he/she will have 2-4 deducted for the day as this prevents engagement in the ensemble. These are EASY POINTS!! They are yours to keep! Examples of not being actively engaged include not having your music out and in the correct order,, creating ancillary noise (rehearsal etiquette), and not being ready to play at the appropriate times. Most importantly, this involves ACTIVE LISTENING. Active listening is the process of analysis, critique, and musical evaluation you undergo each time sounds are made. It is crucial to your development as a thoughtful and artistic musician. Your active listening will be demonstrated through discussion in class, creative ideas for interpretation, and ability to understand the relationship of your part to others’ and the piece as a whole. Listen and think about the music even if you are not playing!! There is no such thing as “resting” in music. Instead, we have intense moments of silent concentration and focus.

• 10% - Homework and Self Assessments. Students will occasionally be asked to complete very simple assignments that are necessary to the operation of class. They also may receive pertinent music assignments.

• 35% - Graded Concert and Rehearsals. Graded rehearsals will take place at least once each marking period. Graded concerts will take place as concerts occur during the school year. A graded concert is defined as any public performance that is listed in this handbook. Graded rehearsals and concerts are a self-reflective process by the ensemble. The ensemble, together, will discuss the rehearsal and/or concert and each student will be asked to fill out a rubric that reflects their impression of the concert and/or rehearsal. Mr. Heller will also fill out a rubric to compare with the students. The average grade of the rubric, in combination with a curve by the band director if necessary, will determine the concert or rehearsal grade. It is important to understand that concerts are GROUP projects. As such, students must be present to receive credit. One of the most important lessons students will learn in band is the importance of relying upon each other and teamwork. Our class only functions successfully in this manner.

NOTE: If a student misses a graded concert, he/she will receive a zero (0) for that concert. This will have a detrimental effect on that student’s grade. There is no way to make up a concert grade. Excuses have only been accepted in extreme cases of illness or family emergencies. Concerts are a time for us to celebrate the hard work we’ve been doing in class and the creativity we’ve discovered! The students rely upon each other to be present at every performance. We hope all parents and students are excited to attend our concerts. Please mark your calendars with all concerts immediately upon receiving this handbook.

Example of an ‘A’ Student

• Always works to the best of their ability in daily rehearsals to obtain the highest in performance standards.

• Reinforces concepts and music learned during school with regular and meaningful practice at home.

• Is able to work effectively with teachers and classmates and can work independently or with members of a section.

• Is on time and attentive.

• Always attends after school performances.

• Always brings correct music, pencil, equipment and handbook at all times.

Practicing

Most classes assign homework to reinforce the lessons learned during class. Band is no different. To become a successful musician practicing is essential. Students should practice at least two hours per week. SmartMusic makes practicing our band repertoire fun!

Although 7th and 8th grade students are not required to turn in practice sheets, they are expected to practice at least two hours per week and will be graded on their musical preparation for class as well as in lessons with Dr. Hackel.

Private Lessons

Students are much more likely to enjoy band if they are successful. There is no substitute for private instruction and it is strongly recommended. Lessons are available on any instrument through Music and Arts Center on Route 1 as well as through private teachers. I have a list of private teachers I recommend and I would be happy to email to you upon request. Before selecting any teacher, always ask questions about their experience and areas of expertise!

Additional Performance Opportunities:

• UMS Jazz Band. Audition information can be found on our Band Website in early September. Auditions are held in Early October and rehearsals run year-round on Tuesdays and Thursday after school. All rehearsals are mandatory.

• Pit Orchestra. Open to all UMS students, this ensemble is directed by Dr. Hackel and students perform in the Spring Musical.

• Other Chamber Ensembles may include Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir and Brass Choir to meet at designated times throughout the year.

Injury/Illness:

If you cannot play due to illness or injury, you MUST bring a note from home. Any missing work must be made up in a timely manner.

Materials

Instruments:

• It is expected that student owned or rented instruments are in excellent working order.

• Students should regularly clean their instruments to prevent corrosion and bacteria buildup.

Required Materials

• All students are REQUIRED to have a metronome AND Tuner (which comes FREE with your subscription to SmartMusic)

• All oboes, bassoons, clarinets, and saxophones must have the following:

✓ At least 2 reeds (a full box is even better and more cost-efficient) *

o I recommend only Blue-Box Vandoren Reeds

✓ Cork Grease

✓ Swab

✓ Reed Case

✓ Mouthpiece Cap

*Students should ask the directors for recommendations on reed strength though in general students should be on at least a 2 ½ and most likely a 3.

• Flutes must have a cleaning rod and cloth.

• All brass must have the following:

✓ Valve Oil*

✓ Slide Grease

*Trombones do not need valve oil

• All percussion must have the following:

✓ Snare Drum Sticks

✓ Plastic Bell/Xylophone Mallets

✓ Stick Bag

✓ Bell Kits and Practice Pads for Lessons

✓ STICK CONTROL for the Snare Drummer method book (percussionists only)

Suggested Materials for Home Use:

• All woodwind and brass players should have a care kit for their instrument that includes the basics for cleaning and maintaining their instrument.

• All students should have a music stand for practice.

• Smartmusic is a computer program which facilitates practicing. It is a highly effective practice tool and we will be utilizing its benefits throughout the year. Go to to purchase your subscription..

• Students should have a variety of music books for home practice. There are many collections of popular music and jazz as well as technical exercises available for each instrument.

If your instrument needs to be repaired:

Tell us what is wrong BEFORE you call the local repair shop! Maybe we can fix it! If your instrument was rented from Music and Arts, I will send your instrument out for repair with our Service Rep. In many cases, a loaner instrument may be given to you to use while you wait for your instrument to be returned.

If we cannot fix it, bring it to a repair shop ASAP! Here is the number of the local Music and Arts Center:

(609) 987-9595

Do not send your mouthpiece to the repair shop! You may be able to use a school owned instrument until yours is fixed!

When your instrument is in the shop, you must bring a note to class stating approximately when it will be finished.

There are several local music stores that supply the necessary items:

Music and Arts in Princeton (recommended)

Sam Ash Music in Edison

Dillon’s Music

You can also order music or supplies through several websites:









Music and Folders:

Students will be provided with one folder and one copy of each piece of music. If the FOLDER is damaged, we will give you another one. However, if the MUSIC is lost or damaged, it is the student’s responsibility to replace them. All students are expected to return their music in good condition. Do not write on your music in pen! ONLY USE PENCIL!! Copies of lost or damaged music can be purchased through J.W. Pepper: 1-800-345-6296. You may not take home the school folio copy of the music.

Great Performances

We live in an area that is literally the center of the musical world. New York and Philadelphia are home to the world class orchestras and jazz artists, and anybody who is anybody comes through at least once per year. New Jersey also offers outstanding orchestras and the local

universities offer first rate performances at very low cost. I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities.

Assessment Rubric

On the next page you will find the UMS grading rubric. This is what we use to grade each SmartMusic and in-class assessments throughout the year. We provide this rubric to you so you can see what criteria we believe makes for superior musicianship and students should use this form as a guideline for practice and self-improvement. SmartMusic is only capable of giving a recommended score based off of the first two categories only, which is why I listen to each assessment and give my own grade, based off of the criteria found on the rubric. Students should ALWAYS refer to the rubric to self-analyze their individual performances before submitting for a grade.

|UMS Bands Rubric for Music Assessment |

  |Superior

100 |Good

95/90 |Fair

85/80 |Poor

75/70 |Unacceptable

65/60 |No Attempt

0 | |Rhythm |100

The example is performed with a consistent pulse and correct rhythms. |95 90

The example is performed with a mostly consistent pulse and mostly correct rhythms. |85 80

The example is performed with a somewhat consistent pulse and somewhat correct rhythms. Errors are frequent, and some rhythms are played as written. |75 70

Performance is rarely rhythmically accurate. Rhythms are seldom played as written and errors are extremely frequent. |65 60

The exercise is performed with an inconsistent pulse and mostly incorrect rhythms. |No Attempt | |Note Accuracy |100

All pitches are (percussion rudiments) performed accurately. |95 90

Most pitches are (percussion rudiments) performed accurately. |85 80

Some pitches (percussion rudiments) are performed accurately. |75 70

Few pitches (percussion rudiments) are performed accurately. |65 60

All or most pitches (percussion rudiments) are performed inaccurately. |No Attempt | |Intonation |100

All pitches are performed with accurate intonation. |95 90

Most pitches are performed with accurate intonation. |85 80

Some pitches are performed with accurate intonation. |75 70

Few pitches are performed with accurate intonation. |65 60

All or most pitches (percussion rudiments) are performed with poor intonation. |No Attempt | |Tone Quality |100

Tone is full and supported with excellent air/proper stick/mallet placement. Sound demonstrates mature concepts of tone production. |95 90

Tone is full most of the time and supported with good air/proper stick/mallet placement. Sound demonstrates an at-level concept of tone production. |85 80

Tone is full sometimes, but usually lacks the appropriate air support/proper stick/mallet placement to create a good sound. |75 70

Tone is rarely full, and lacks the appropriate air support/proper stick/mallet placement used in making a good sound. |65 60

Tone is NOT recognizable. |No Attempt | |Articulation, accents, and style |100

Correct articulations, accents, and style are used throughout. |95 90

Articulations, accents, and style are mostly correct. |85 80

Articulations, accents, and style are somewhat correct. |75 70

Articulations, accents, and style are mostly incorrect. |65 60

Articulations, accents, and style are all incorrect. |No Attempt | |Dynamics |100

Correct dynamics used throughout. |95 90

Dynamics are mostly correct. |85 80

Dynamics are somewhat correct. |75 70

Dynamics are mostly incorrect. |65 60

Dynamics are all incorrect. |No Attempt

| |

Montgomery Upper Middle School Band Handbook

Acknowledgement Form

2013-14

Please Print, Sign and return by October 14th as acknowledgement that you have read and understand the Band Handbook.

We, the undersigned parents and students understand the conditions and regulations listed above, and agree to follow them in the spirit that they are intended. Parent and student signatures indicate that we have READ and INTEND to FOLLOW all rules and regulations of the Music Department and those of Montgomery Upper Middle School. I have also made special note of the Winter and Spring Concert dates and times. In addition, if my child is using a school-owned instrument and he/she caused damage to it, I am responsible for the repair costs of the instrument.

My teacher website contains pictures of our various activities. I would like to add pictures of students doing wonderful things in our various ensembles if/when they may arise (concerts, etc.). Please check below whether or not you would allow your child to appear on our band website. Understand that your child’s name will never be used, only a picture.

_____ YES, I will allow Mr. Heller to place a picture(s) of my child on the band website.

_____ NO, I will not allow Mr. Heller to place a picture(s) of my child on the band website.

Student’s Signature: ________________________________________ Date: ________

Parent or Guardian’s Signature: _______________________________Date: _________

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