Percussion Ensemble
Percussion Ensemble is broken into 2 sections. Each Fall, the Advanced Percussion Ensemble meets. In this class we further enhance skills and techniques on all percussion instruments. Students rehearse on marching drums as well. Many members of the Marching Band's Percussion section are in this class, however it is not a requirement. The Advanced Percussion Ensemble also performs yearly at the annual Student Council led Holiday Cheer.
Beginning Percussion ensemble meets each year in the Spring. No prior knowledge of percussion or even music is required to participate in this class. Basics are covered in regards to reading notes & rhythms, as well as techniques in using the keyboard instruments or drums. This is not a "Drumming" class, students will be expected to learn on all instruments.
Beginning Percussion ensemble meets each year in the Spring. No prior knowledge of percussion or even music is required to participate in this class. Basics are covered in regards to reading notes & rhythms, as well as techniques in using the keyboard instruments or drums. This is not a "Drumming" class, students will be expected to learn on all instruments.
Percussion Ensemble Overview Music at the high school level builds on K-8 music experiences as a comprehensive, sequential, and discipline-based program. Students continue to broaden their respect for and understanding of music as an art form. Students examine the relationship of music to other content areas and the role and meaning of music in various social, cultural, and historical contexts. Technical expertise, artistic expression, and aesthetic judgment are enhanced through reflective practice, study, and evaluation of their own work and that of others. Policies 1. Attendance and Tardies: The majority of musical study requires team work. It is therefore necessary to understand that individuals who miss class hinder the progress of the entire group. You are expected to be in your seat 90 seconds after the tardy bell rings; this will provide ample time to collect yourself, your instrument and find your seat. Directions and goals for the day will always be given at the beginning of the period. There will be an agenda to help define and achieve the daily goals. Late arrivals are subject to the SHS tardy policy. It is expected that unless you are sick, you will be in class. After 3 absences in a 9 week period, you will lose 5 points from your participation grade for every missed class. 2. Grades: As with other performing arts, a commitment to effort is the foundation for success. Students who are willing to work and exhibit a drive to improve will prove to be successful in this course. Grading will be broken down as follows: Scale/Skill Pass Offs 40%-completed over the semester Participation 50%- Weekly Grade Class/Home Work 10%- writing, analysis, preparation -------IMPORTANT: I am in the business of empowering students to become self-advocates. It is crucial for them to learn how to manage, seek help, and discuss their academic performance and concerns with their teachers. While I am happy to discuss issues with parents, it is my request that the student talk to me first. I will not respond to emails or phone calls regarding student concerns unless the student has spoken to me previously. 3. Supplies: Much of what we will be doing in class requires nothing more than yourself, your equipment and a great attitude. You will need a single-subject, spiral notebook for daily work. You will also need your own: For Percussionists: Concert Drum Sticks- I recommend Vic Firth (SD-1 or 5a) or Innovative Percussion (IP-1). Stick Bag- I cannot stress enough the importance of this piece of equipment. Students need to have pride and ownership over their equipment and care for it appropriately. Without a bag, sticks and mallets can warp or break. Students will not be able to check out mallets to take home and practice without a stick bag. These can be found at Music and Arts for less than $20. Make sure you buy a bag that zips or snaps closed. Mallets- We will discuss quality mallets that students will be encouraged to purchase. For Wind players: All accessories are needed (i.e. reeds, valve oil, cork grease, etc.) 4. Pass-Offs: This system is designed to support the belief that with proper practice, over a period of time; students can develop into excellent players. pass-offs will include major scales, excerpts from literature we are working on and other skill based exercises; all of which are designed to help the student pace their practicing and understand how to better develop as a musician. Keeping in mind the varied experience level of students, these pass-offs can be completed anytime within the 9-week period (and the student can receive FULL credit), however, they must be played with complete accuracy to be considered passed. Students will receive a “0” if they do not attempt the playing test on the initial due date. 5. Participation: All students are expected to play in class each day as participation is a large part of your grade. 6. Procedures: Daily procedures are set in place to provide safe, consistent support for students in their exploration of musical activities. Without defined structure it is impossible for the mind to develop in a focused, effective manner.
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