A full year, graded course, the Grade 5 Band is open to all fifth grade students with previous experience on a band instrument. (All percussion players may be asked to audition and demonstrate fundamental music reading ability as well as basic performance rudiments (i.e. flams, rolls, etc.) prior to admittance into the ensemble). The class provides for the development of motor coordination, aesthetic judgement, and general musicianship through the introduction of the "Big 6" elements of instrumental performance: (Time Signature, Key Signature, Tempo, Dynamics Articulation and Form). The band rehearses two to three times a week, and all students receive one twenty-five minute group lesson each week. Lessons are in homogeneous instrument groupings. Attendance is required at all ensemble functions; usually a minimum of two major concerts per year. Grading for the course will be based upon class participation, preparation, behavior, attendance at performances, lesson and rehearsal attendance and individual musical growth demonstrated throughout the year.
Multiple Forms of Assessment:
In Rehearsal:
- Student based assessment of daily/weekly performance
- Group, game activities - friendly competition within ensemble
- Written quizzes and tests
- One writing assignment (following Type 1/2 format), per semester
In Lessons:
- Lesson attendance
- Individual/group performance of scales, rudiments, etc.
- Performance of literature
- Written assignments
- Individual, student-based portfolio checklist rubric
Standards for Assessment: (Grading Criteria)
- Attendance at all performances
- Lesson Attendance
- Sectional preparation, of literature, in rehearsal
- Individual progress in lesson groups - i.e., scales, etc.
- Behaviour and responsibility to the ensemble
- Individual, student-based portfolio checklist
- Practice Card use and verification
- Quizzes/Test (written)
- An individual Band Assessment based on National Standards - given to each student (gr. 6-8) once a year
Learning Activities:
- Intersectional games and competitions
- Analysis and critique sessions based on ensemble performance and use of other recordings
- Writing exercises
- Guest artists/speakers/performers
Resources:
- Instrumental literature of various styles, composers and difficulty levels
- Rhythm Sheets
- Transposition Sheets
- Proper Care of Instrument Sheets
- Practice Cards
- Scale & Rudiment Sheets
- Lesson Book: (gr. 7/8) - “Band Plus Method”
- Several other handouts based on various units of study
Standard Literature
Rehearsal Schedule
The Grade 5 Band meets in two separate groups: Blue Band & White Band. Each group will meet two to three times a week. For the first half of the year, Blue Band is on Tuesdays and Fridays, White Band is on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thrusdays. Half way through the school year, the bands will switch rehearsal times. Grade 5 Band rehearsal is always from 10:25 to 11:08.
Important Dates and Performances
Saturday, October 4, 2008, 10:30am – Harwinton Fair Concert – Harwinton Fair
Thursday, January 22, 2009, 7:30pm – 5thGrade Band Concert – LSM Auditorium
Saturday, May 9, 2009, 7:30pm – Big Band Bash – LSM Gymnasium