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Wind Ensemble

1. Course Description

Grades 9-12

A one credit elective course that meets every day day. Students are selected for this course on the basis of an audition.

Goals:

1. To increase individual performing ability.
2. To increase music reading ability.
3. To increase knowledge and appreciation of the repertoire performed.
4. To perform quality band literature of various styles- grades IV-VI.
5. To afford students the opportunity to perform and compete at district, state and regional levels.

This course is an opportunity for instrumental musicians who wish to explore more diffi cult band literature for smaller groups, grade level V-VI. The ensemble has an extensive performance schedule throughout the year. Seniors may elect to be in Wind Ensemble only but students in all other grade levels must be in Concert Band to be eligible for Wind Ensemble..

2. Course Components

The Wind Ensemble experience, as part a sequential program, includes full band performance and small ensembles. The course offers the student the opportunity to con tinue development in the following areas:

1. Tone production
2. Music literacy
3. Critical listening
4. Expression
5. Ensemble
6. Communication
7. Auditory perception
8. Self discipline

Students will have the opportunity to perform at in school concerts and to perform and compete at regional, state and district festivals. Students will also be exposed to profes sional performers including live performances by guest artists and ensembles, and audio and video recordings. Gifted and talented students will have the opportunity to audition

for district, state, regional, and national honor groups such as All District, All State, All New England, and All Eastern.

3. Course Materials

• A variety of music from many historical and stylistic periods

• Professional performers, artists-in-residence, guest clinicians

• Audio and video Recordings

• Mt. Ararat Music Fundamentals Workbook

• School-owned band instruments

• Stereo recording and playback equipment

• Band uniforms

• Macintosh computers, hardware and software

• Music stands

4. Student Expectations

1. Be present and on time for all rehearsals.
2. Come to all rehearsals prepared with instrument, music, and equipment
3. Respect others and the facilities
4. Participate and contribute in rehearsals and performances
5. Attend all required performances

5. Evaluation

A Students Grade Will Be Based On The Following:

A. The student's grade for the playing exams (40%).

1. All students will audition individually for a grade during each grading period.
2. All students will be required to play for a grade at least once per grading period.
3. Students must do the playing exam by the posted deadline.
4. Students may earn extra credit points.
5. If a student performs unsatisfactorily, that student may be required to play again at another exam scheduled at a later date, or be required to have one or more lessons and/or practice sessions.

B. The student's class participation and attitude (30%).

C. Attendance at all required performances (30%).