Concert Band Syllabus - Northbridge Public Schools

Northbridge High SchoolCourse SyllabusMr. Verdone Course: Concert Band(508) 234-6221 ext. 1159 Period: 3jverdone@nps.org Room: A154I. Course OverviewThis class will offer you the opportunity to develop your performance andcritical/reflective thinking skills through music. Throughout the year you willbe exposed to many different genres of music as well as a wide range ofcomposers and arrangers. Concert Band will offer you a chance to refine yourown technique through warm-ups, exercises, sight-reading, and music that isconsistent with the standards of the Massachusetts Arts CurriculumFrameworks.II.III.Topics and TermsThe following topics and terms will be covered throughout the year:Breathing Ensemble SkillsPostureBalanceMusic LiteracyIntonationSight ReadingInterpretationArticulationMoodDynamics Instrument TechniquePhrasingCheck PatternsScalesArpeggiosLip Slurs (Brass)Rudiments (Percussion)Course RequirementsThe following materials need to be brought to class everyday:• Instrument• ALL Music (Warm-ups, exercises, program music, etc.)• Pencil (NO PEN ON THE MUSIC!!!)• Two Reeds (One to play and a backup) – Woodwinds• Valve oil, Mutes, etc. - Brass• Your own stick and mallets* - Percussion*Unless otherwise stipulated.** Failure to have any one of these items will result in participationgrade deduction. **

Concert Dates:Concerts are a required component of this course. Please consultthe Course Expectation.• Exchange Concert: November 13, 2012 - 7pm (UHS)• Holiday Concert: December 19, 2012 - 7pm (NHS)• Spring Concert: April 11, 2013 - 7pm (NHS)• Evening of the Arts: April 25, 2013 - 7pm (NHS)• Memorial Day (In-School): TBA (May)• Memorial Day (Rockdale Common): May 27, 2013 - 11am• Graduation: May 31, 2013 - 6pm**This can be found in detail in the Course Expectation. **IV.Grading PolicyYour grade for this course will be broken down by the following criteria:Performance: 45%Students will receive points for active participation in scheduledperformances. Tardiness or unexcused absences will result in gradedeductions. Performances are an integral part of the learning process inmusic. It is expected that when students choose to participate in aperforming group, they accept the responsibilities that go with it. Theconcert schedule for this school year (subject to change) is providedabove.It is understood that some legitimate conflicts may arise.However, you are asked to check dates listed and make every effort toattend these performances. Outside of school activities (work, sports,dance, gymnastics, etc.) should not take precedence over a graded schoolsubject. An excused absence due to illness or family emergency does notget ignored. Students will have an alternative assessment to make up thepoints missed.Concert Attire is MANDATORYMen: Black Shoes, Black Socks, Black Pants, Black Long Sleeve Shirt,and TieWomen: Black Shoes, Long Black Skirt or Slacks, Black button downBlouse, or Black DressNO JEANS, SNEAKERS, WHITE SOCKS, OR SHORT SKIRTS!!!!