Class Description

This course will allow students to explore techniques and materials of musical composition. The goal of this class will be to strengthen the students’ knowledge of music theory and practice, as ell as technology as it relates to the music field. Students will be able to write and record their own music using a computer and keyboard.
*Prerequisite: Students will need to pass a music theory placement test. At least a 75% in (2.5) music theory skills.

Class Expectations

Attendance

Excellence in performing organizations is dependent on total attendance. An absence, for any reason, hurts the entire organization and compromises the efforts of its members.

Band attendance will be taken at the beginning of every rehearsal. Passes are necessary only to verify excused tardies to class.

Rehearsal

Students are expected to have their instrument at rehearsal every day.  No one shall leave the music room area from a large group rehearsal before the bell has sounded. 

Calendar

All of the Unity music activities posted on the web in the fall of the year are required or expected activities. These events are listed on the main school calendar as well as posted on the bulletin board in the music room. Keep and read your calendar, and use it to PLAN AHEAD.

Concerts

Concerts are an expected part of the class activities, and students who miss them may forfeit partial credit for the course.

Concert dress

Students will be required to have black pants, black socks and black shoes.  Unity will provide them with the white tux shirts and bow ties.

Concert behavior

Student's behavior should reflect the fact that we take pride in all of our music students, and honor each other with our attention. Therefore, students are expected to stay throughout the entire concert.

Lessons

I try and have lessons with the Concert Band students according to their schedule.  Those who are already taking private lessons are exempt.

Class Outline

A. Goals

1. To learn to give God the glory for the talents He has given.
2. To utilize our God given musical tools to the fullest.
3. To share what we have learned with others.
4. To perform our music as excellently as we can.
5. To do all of this by learning to work together and support one another.

B. Organization

1. Membership is open to all high school students who plays a band instrument.
2. The Concert Band consists of all players in the high school band who have not been selected for the Symphonic Band.
3. Instruments of Praise is a select group of individuals who play sacred music in nearby churches throughout the school year.
4. Pep Band is open to all students who desire to support school spirit. Pep Band plays at all home varsity basketball events.

5.  Jazz Band is a select group of students grades 9-12 who plays a couple of times during the school year.

C. Concerts

1. The music departments has an average of four concerts a year--Fall, Christmas, Pops, and Spring.

D. Contests

Unity participates in various contests. These events should be looked on as a valuable tool for musical growth.  Unity's Symphonic Band will represent Unity at Large Group Contest and at the Dordt High School Band Festival.

a. All-State--The highest achievement a band student can attain in ones high school years.
b. Northwest Iowa Honor Band--top students from the area are selected to perform in a band concert in January.
c. IHSMA Large Group Contest and Solo-Ensemble Contest are held in the spring of every year. The students are encouraged, but not required, to play in the Solo-Ensemble Contest.

E. Grading

All of the band students will be evaluated on the basis of their effort, attitude, and ability.