ParticipatioN

Students are expected to be contributing members of the Orchestra. Those who come to class prepared, ready to learn, and play their best will earn full participation points for the quarter.

Performances

Performance attendance is required. Students are expected to attend, arrive on time, be dressed appropriately and be prepared with their ensemble. If other groups are performing, students will show concert etiquette by listening attentively.  

Reflection PaperS

Once each quarter students will write a reflection paper. Each quarter's paper will utilize a different prompt to facilitate the writing process. The purpose of this assignment is to help students synthesize their quarterly experiences and to provide helpful feedback for both the teacher and the program.

PLAYING TESTS

Playing tests will happen in class, during lunchtime sectionals, and via recorded examples.  They will consist of excerpts from music worked on in class. Students will be assessed in three of the following categories: Tone, Intonation, Rhythm, Articulation and Dynamics. Please remember that regular practice is necessary to build confidence and the ability to show ones best.

Partnership Program

Students will be paired up with one or two others in an effort to strengthen individual performance skills and to begin to create a sense of community across the ensembles.  Students will meet at least once every two weeks and then individually report on their accomplishments.  

Frequently Asked Questions:

What if I can't make a concert?

Unexcused absences will result in the loss of two letter grades for the Winter or Spring Concerts. Missing any other performances will result in the loss of one letter grade. Though this may seem a little harsh, I hope this grading policy helps everyone to fully understand that student participation is vital to the success of any performance.

What if I miss a playing test?  

You can record the excerpts that were tested upon and share them with me within a week of the original test.

What if I can't practice at home?

The Music Department has rooms available for practice during lunch.

What if I lose my folder?

Get a new one. Folder replacement cost is $20. Loss of original parts will be fined accordingly.