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Individual and Ensemble Assessment in Band
The key to a successful ensemble is a collective understanding of individual responsibility for the final product
Student assessment in either Wind Ensemble and Concert Band includes both assessment of the individual and assessment of the ensemble, of which the student is a vital component. Individual performance and ensemble performance are interdependent and must be evaluated as such. The overall goal of an ensemble is to give an outstanding public performance; therefore, if the group is to be successful, each student must perform and prepare to the best of his or her ability. This includes individual practice and preparation, much of which takes place outside of rehearsals (i.e. homework/practicing). Individual assessment is accomplished primarily by individual playing exams, and by assessing the student’s contribution to the ensemble. An ensemble will be given a grade for performances and each member of the ensemble will receive that grade as 30% of their individual grade. A student must be in attendance at a performance to get the ensemble grade points. Ensemble assessment is done through a variety of means, including adjudications in concerts and at festivals, and self assessments.
Individual Assessment
A Students Grade Will Be Based On The Following:
- The student’s grade for the playing exams as assessed by Mt. Ararat Playing Exam Rubrics (40%).
- The student’s individual contribution to the band assessed by the Mt. Ararat Individual Contribution Rubric (30%).
- Ensemble Performance Grade, A student must be in attendance at a performance to get the ensemble grade points (30%). Excused absenses must be made up (see Make Up Policy).
Ensemble Assessment
The ensemble assessment will be done in several ways. First, rehearsals and concerts are frequently taped and reviewed by the director and by the students in the ensemble. Outside experts are used to evaluate the band during rehearsals and /or performances. This could mean judges at festivals or guest adjudicators evaluating the band at a regular concert, festival, or workshop. Ensemble assessments by students, the band director and guest adjudicators are accomplished using the Mt. Ararat Ensemble Rating Rubric.
