Middle School Music Program Guide

Niskayuna Central Schools
Department of Music Education
IROQUOIS AND VAN ANTWERP MIDDLE SCHOOLS
PROGRAM GUIDE
2014-2015
This Program Guide contains information regarding all facets of the music program at our
middle schools. The music faculty desires for every student an enjoyable learning experience
by providing information about the many music learning opportunities available, while
clarifying student responsibilities, department policies, and objectives of the program. Please
take the time to read this guide and if you have any questions, contact your child’s music
teacher or the Director of Music.
The Niskayuna Schools Department of Music Education serves as a resource for the development of musical knowledge, musical skills, aesthetic exploration, attitude development, and provides for the personal growth of each individual. The primary goal of this department is to promote music as an art, through self-­‐
discipline and self-­‐expression. Music helps to empower all children to make responsible choices, meet challenges, achieve personal success and contribute to a global society. Beginning in Kindergarten, all children have the opportunity to experience music through classroom instruction and concert performances. The music curriculum is aligned with the New York State Learning Standards for the Arts as well as the National Music Standards. The Niskayuna Department of Music Education is recognized statewide for excellence, and our students enjoy a high level of success in competition, college music programs and individual musical achievement. We look forward to having you with us, and again, welcome to Music Education at Niskayuna Central Schools. Mr. Matthew C. Cremisio Director of Music, K-­‐12 Niskayuna Middle School Music Department
Program Guide
Mission Statement
The Niskayuna Schools Department of Music Education serves as a resource for the development of
musical knowledge, musical skill through performance, aesthetic exploration, attitude
development, and provides for the personal growth of each individual. The primary goal of this
department is to promote music as an art, through self-discipline and self-expression.
General Music
All students in grades 6-8 receive instruction in general music. All classes utilize elements of the
Music Learning Theory based on the research of Dr. Edwin Gordon. This curriculum is combined with
the Yamaha "Music In Education" program. This program allows students to participate in class
'hands-on' through the use of individual keyboards/synthesizers. The "MIE" program focuses on music
concepts such as melody, harmony, texture, range and tempo, as well as the creation of original
compositions. This program adapts to various musical backgrounds and skill levels, while allowing all
students to be simultaneously engaged. Cooperative learning among the students is encouraged. The
middle school general music program also continues to place an emphasis on singing as a means to
developing musicianship. Students in Grade 8 will explore music through the use of the acoustic
guitar.
All students meet alternate days for one semester, and is a 45 minutes class.
In addition to general music, all students in 6th, 7th and 8th grades have the opportunity to participate
in choirs, bands, and orchestras.
Middle School Ensembles
In the Niskayuna Music program, your child becomes part of a group whose success depends upon
teamwork, cooperation, and individual accountability. The unique talents of all students are joined
together to create a thriving and positive ensemble experience. In an ensemble, students learn a greater
appreciation for the part others can play in their own successes, and vice versa.
Our Middle School Music Department offers three 'core' ensembles- band, choir, and orchestra. All
ensembles meet outside of the regular school day before school begins. Attendance for these rehearsals
is expected in the same way as any other class. While it is permitted for students to enroll in more than
one ensemble, parents should take into consideration the child's full day and week before making such
a decision. When a child is over extended, no one benefits - particularly the child.
1.
Rehearsals/Rehearsal Attendance
Attendance at all rehearsals is mandatory. A rehearsal schedule for all groups can be found in the
APPENDIX. Ensembles will rehearse only when school opens at the regular time. In the event that the
opening of school is delayed for any reason, the MS music ensembles will be cancelled for that
morning.
At times, situations will dictate a missed rehearsal. A written parental excuse is to be given
to the teacher upon the student's return to the next scheduled rehearsal.
Students are allowed 3 unexcused absences during the school year, although many ensemble members
do not use them all. After 3 unexcused absences, the parent or guardian will be contacted to review the
absences. The student may lose their privilege to participate for the remainder of the school year if any
further unexcused absences occur.
The following are examples of excused absences:
Death or illness in family
Illness from school on day of rehearsal
Religious observance
Unavoidable scheduling of doctor/other appointment
The following are examples of unexcused absences:
Catching up on work in other classes without previously making agreed-upon
arrangements with your ensemble teachers(s)
Over-sleeping, missing the bus, etc.
Instrument in repair shop or forgotten at school
Missing rehearsal, but then attending school the same day
Although a student's attendance ultimately is at the discretion of the parent, the decision on
whether an absence is excused rests with the ensemble director.
Students are expected to be on time for all rehearsals. Excessive tardiness will warrant a
review of ensemble membership.
Concert Performance
Students are required and expected to attend all scheduled performances. Students will receive a
contract from each ensemble director, which must be signed and returned. Please see Form A on the
back page.
An unexcused absence from a concert will warrant a review of circumstances for the absence. If the
absence is deemed unexcused, consequences will he determined by the ensemble director and/or
administrator. These consequences may include exclusion from upcoming field trips, school detention,
and possible removal from the ensemble.
2.
Please check extra curricular activity schedules for conflicts and inform coaches, private
music teachers, dance instructors, etc. of these conflicts. Please remember that school
functions (concerts) take priority; and that in an educational setting, concerts are the final
evaluation. Parents and students are reminded of the student's individual responsibility and
obligation to their group in which they perform.
Attendance is expected for the entire concert. The students who perform after your child should be
heard by their classmates for the peer reinforcement that follows the performance. Advance notice is
requested if a child has to leave the concert before its conclusion.
Concert Attire
Students are expected to wear the following at all performances:
Ladies - black skirt (appropriate length) or black slacks, white blouse, dress shoes
Gentlemen - black trousers, white dress shirt, tie, dress shoes
NO - t-shirts, jeans, sneakers, flip flops, mini skirts, sleeveless tops or exposed midriff.
Students and parents are reminded that concert clothing must conform to the "Dress Guidelines" in the
Middle School Code of Conduct. Students not conforming to the Guidelines will be provided
appropriate attire for the performance.
(from "Middle School Code of Conduct")
Student's dress and appearance shall:
A. Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.
B. Recognize that extremely brief garments such as tube tops, net tops, halter
tops, spaghetti straps, plunging necklines(front and/or back), low-rider
pants, extremely short skirts or shorts, and see-through garments are not
appropriate.
C. Ensure that undergarments are completely covered with outer clothing.
D. Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be
permitted.
Field Trips
Field trips are considered a privilege. Only students in good standing will be permitted to participate in
field trip experiences. Students in good standing demonstrate:
•
Attendance at rehearsals
•
Attendance at all scheduled performances.
•
Appropriate behavior – student' overall behavior in music ensemble and/or lessons
•
Satisfactory lesson attendance/preparation – student's weekly lessons are
consistently attended and show evidence of home practice and progress
If a student is not recommended to attend a field trip, the ensemble director will contact the parent to
review the reasons for the decision. Final decisions on field trip participation are determined by the
music teacher and the Director of Music, when necessary.
3.
Review of Ensemble Membership Student membership in an ensemble will be reviewed in the following cases:
−
Excessive absences or tardiness (see Rehearsal Attendance)
−
Inappropriate behavior
−
Unexcused absence from a concert (see Concert Performance)
−
Not working to potential or contributing to ensemble's success. The ensemble director and
Director of Music will review student membership. If it is recommended the student be dropped from
ensemble membership, the ensemble director or administrator will contact the parents. When deemed
necessary and appropriate, a conference may be schedules with the music teacher and Director of
Music.
Musical Selections
Music selected for study and performance will be from a variety of sources including music rooted in
the history of religions, and is chosen primarily for musical and educational merit. Often musical
selections are chosen from the NYSSMA Manual or Suburban Council Library. In addition, the
cultural and historical significance of music is also an important consideration when works are chosen
for concert preparation. Of course, the study and preparation of music of this nature is in no way to be
construed as advancing any specific belief or religion. At times, information will be added to concert
programs or Friends of Music "Notes" to help parents, students, and community members learn more
about the selections chosen for performance. Please refer to the APPENDIX.
NYSSMA Participation
Participation in NYSSMA Major Organization festivals is at the discretion of the conductor.
Performance at this festival is considered a concert; please refer to the Concert Performance section of
this guide.
Participation in a NYSSMA Solo/Small Ensemble festival requires individual student effort above and
beyond the regular ensemble and/or lesson participation. Detailed information is available through the
Music Office and/or music teacher. Solo/Ensemble Festivals are held in the spring.
Lessons - Band and Orchestra
Students are required to attend weekly 30-minute lessons on a rotating schedule during the school day.
The music lesson is the heart of the instrumental music program; it is at this time that the student
receives small group and individual instruction, which enables them to improve and refine their skills
as a musician.
Students should develop a regular weekly practice routine of at least 30 minutes 5 times per week. All
middle school music students are expected to keep a weekly practice record. The parent is expected to
sign this before each lesson. It is vital that the student practice regularly in order to develop his/her
skills. A lack of regular practice causes students to fall behind and feel unsure of their ability. Parents
will be notified if their child continually lacks adequate practice or continually misses lessons.
4.
Students should be on time for lessons with all materials. If a student has a conflict with a
lesson time (due to field trip, unit test, etc.), the student should see the teacher at the
beginning of the school day for a possible make-up time.
Students who receive private music instruction outside of the school day are exempt from
school lessons. In-school lessons are provided only to students who are members of
Niskayuna MS ensembles.
Band
The Middle School Band program offers three (3) bands: Concert Band (Grade 6); Symphonic Band
(Grade 7) and Wind Band (Grade 8). These 3 bands perform several concerts and assemblies
throughout the year. All 3 groups often participate in major organization evaluation festivals held in
the spring, such as NYSSMA or Great East Music Festival.
Students receive a playing evaluation in June. This evaluation assists in determining
ensemble placement for the upcoming school year as well as seating within the ensemble.
Other factors taken into consideration when placing students are attendance, work habits, and
lesson progress. The end of year evaluation serves as an audition for those students aspiring
to participate in an ensemble other than that of their own grade level as well as those wind
players interested in Jazz Band.
Students studying privately are invited to participate in school lessons prior to the evaluation.
Students receive an individual evaluation time during the school day and are recorded by the
instructors listening to them. Each student is rated based on musical components of the
performance, such as rhythm, tone, technique, etc. Please refer to the APPENDIX
Grade 8 students who complete the year in good standing as a member of the Wind Band
become members of the High School Concert Band. By audition (optional), students may be
considered for membership in the High School Symphonic Band Please refer to HS Audition
Policy.
Jazz Band & Stage Band
Jazz Band & Stage Band are open to all 7th and 8th graders by audition. The Jazz Band & Stage Band
perform at several concerts and assemblies through the year, in addition to the annual District Jazz
Festival.
Auditions for interested students on drum set, piano, bass, guitar and wind instruments are
held in June. Auditions for wind players are held in June in conjunction with the end of year
evaluation (see Band). Membership in either Symphonic Band or Wind Band is required of
wind and percussion players.
Grade 8 students may audition for the high school Jazz program in January – please refer to
HS Audition Policy.
5.
Choir
Each middle school – Iroquois and Van Antwerp – has their own choral program. Each
school has a 6th grade chorus which meets Tuesday and Thursday at 8 a.m. There is also a
7th/8th grade chorus at each school, which meets at 8a.m. on Monday and Wednesday. In
addition, there is a combined select choir by audition.
There is open enrollment for each choir. Students are expected to be at all rehearsals and
concerts. All students need to show respectful behavior to the teacher and the other students.
If behavior is not appropriate and/or attendance requirements are not met, parents will be
contacted and students may be removed from the chorus.
Concerts are usually scheduled at 7:00 p.m. at Niskayuna High School. Refer to the concert
dates. Concert dress is black and white. See Concert Attire
Sixth grade choruses sing SA (Soprano-Alto) or SSA arrangements. Grade 7/8 choruses
usually sing SAB (Soprano-Alto-Baritone) arrangements. Repertoire is chosen following the
national and state standards. Students are exposed to a variety of musical styles, which
include such elements as different meters, tonalities, and cultural diversities.
Choirs sometimes participate in the major choral NYSSMA festival which is held in the
spring. Other opportunities arise for students to perform – this varies from year to year.
Grade 7/8 choruses often take a trip to New York City to see a Broadway musical. This also
varies by year.
Every other year middle school students have the opportunity to audition for the Suburban
Council Music Festival. Auditions take place in December or January for the spring concert
and festival.
Eighth grade chorus members perform for their moving up ceremony in June. Additional
rehearsals are announced by the choir director.
Auditions: Choral Groups
At times choral literature suggests the use of a solo voice or small ensemble within a
selection. Students chosen will be at the discretion of the director of the ensemble.
Considerations when choosing students include vocal quality appropriate to the style of the
selection, stage presence, and overall contribution to the MS choral program.
At times instrumental accompaniment is used to enhance the performance. These students are chosen
by their level of achievement and by teacher recommendations.
Grade 8 students are auditioned in January for placement in the High School Choral
Program. Please refer to HS Audition Policy.
6.
Orchestra
The Niskayuna Middle School Music Department offers the opportunity for all grade 6-8 string
players to be in the string orchestra. The music selected for study offers students a wide variety of
musical styles and genres. Skill development, musical knowledge, aesthetic exploration, and
individual effort – combined with team-based pursuit of excellence – focuses learning through
musical performance.
The Allegro Orchestra / The Presto Orchestra / The Scherzo Orchestra
Enrollment is open to all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students who play Violin, Viola, Cello and Bass.
These ensembles are grade-level based, and there is no audition required to be a member. All section
seating within the group is at the discretion of the directors. Factors considered for seating are:
•
Skill/Experience Level
•
Leadership qualities
•
Positive attitude/behavior as demonstrated in rehearsals
•
Attendance
•
Posture/Position – as it pertains to the correct positions in which the instrument is held
The Directors of the Allegro Orchestra, Presto Orchestra and Scherzo Orchestra make every effort to
place students in a seating plan that best suits the needs of the individual while at the same time
recognizes the aspects of balance and blend within the entire ensemble. When deemed necessary,
auditions for seating may be held. Students will be notified well in advance should this occur. Grade 8
students become members of the Niskayuna Symphony Orchestra. By audition (optional) in January,
students may be considered for the High School Chamber Strings.
HS Audition Policy
The Department of Music Education has in place an excellent program that serves students
individually while at the same time offers the larger community an opportunity to learn about and
benefit from a high quality music program.
Auditions are vehicles to promote student growth. They provide real-life experiences that meet
students' needs and an evaluation of student learning and progress.
Admission to performing ensembles is by audition and/or teacher recommendation.
•
Auditions are held in JANUARY ONLY for the following year. (for 8th graders)
•
Audition materials are available in advance. Students should be fully prepared prior to the
audition.
•
Auditions may be tape recorded for review and discussion.
•
Placement recommendations and decisions are made by a committee of high school music
faculty and Director of Music. (for 8th graders)
7.
•
•
Maintaining proper instrumentation/vocal balance and blend is considered in the selection
process. (Balance generally refers to the degree that some section or voice in an ensemble
blends with others. Blend indicates the quality of the individuals and sections fitting together
inseparably.) The instrumentation necessary to achieve a satisfactory balance requires
planning and is an important consideration in ensemble placement.
Ensemble members will be selected according to their performing ability on their particular
instrument/voice part at the time of the audition. Consideration will also be given to student
progress in lessons and ensemble performance leading up to the audition.
The following considerations are taken into account when placing students:
•
Any performance art requires real-time execution of skills and ability.
•
Decisions are made to place each student where he or she will be most successful and have
the opportunity to grow musically
•
A student's experience is enhanced by participating in the appropriate ensemble.
•
Instrumentation
•
The size of ensembles and sections vary from year to year so that the department can
accommodate students at each level.
Ensemble lists are posted in February. Given all the factors reviewed herein, posted decisions are final
(for HS ensembles).
Please see APPENDIX to become familiar with the technical and musical aspects on which evaluations
are based.
CONTACT US!
Many music teachers are in more than one building, thus making it difficult to contact your teacher at
times. Refer to the APPENDIX to see how to best contact your child's teacher. When in doubt, you can
contact the District Music Office at 382-2511, ext 21710.
Please access www.niskyschools.org for a complete listing of all school events. Click on calendar to
access monthly schedules and visit the Friend of Music site under "Quick Links."
8.
APPENDIX
Middle School Music Faculty.................................................................................................i
Rehearsal Schedule Overview................................................................................................ii
Notes for Our Audience.........................................................................................................iii
NYSSMA – Music with Religious Implications....................................................................iv
Local Music Stores.................................................................................................................v
Assessment Forms..................................................................................................................vi-viii
Audition/Evaluation Forms....................................................................................................ix
Audition/Evaluation Category……………………………….……...................................... x
Form A………………...................................………………….........…...............................xi
School Instrument Rental Contract……………………………………................................xii
9.
DEPARMENT OF MUSIC EDUCATION
Middle School Music Faculty
Teresa Broadwell
Strings – Iroquois
Director – Scherzo Orchestra
Joan Brown
Director – Allegro Orchestra
David Fisk
Woodwind & Percussion Lessons – Van Antwerp
Director – Wind Band, MS Jazz Band
Nicole Fountain
String Lessons – Iroquois
General Music (Grade 6 & BOCES classes) - Iroquois
Eric Hughes
Wind & Percussion Lessons – Iroquois
Phil Pandori
Brass, Woodwind & Percussion Lessons – Iroquois
Director - Symphonic Band, Concert Band
Stacey McClenon
Strings – Van Antwerp
Director – Presto Orchestra
Jacob Purington
General Music and Vocal – Van Antwerp
Director – VA Chorus 6-8
Dolores Steeley
General Music and Vocal – Iroquois
Director – Iroquois Chorus 6-8
Matthew Cremisio
Director of Music Education, K-12
Tracy Koste
District Music Secretary 382-2511 X21710
Phone Directory:
Iroquois – 377-2233
Van Antwerp – 370-1243
As most teachers travel to more than one school, email works best
Teacher email: _________@niskyschools.org
(teacher first initial and last name — i.e. tbroadwell@niskyschool.org)
i.
Middle School Rehearsal Schedule
- OVERVIEW At NHS: 7:30 – 8:25 a.m
Monday
Concert Band Tuesday
Symphonic Band Wednesday
Concert Band Wind Band Jazz Band Allegro Orchestra Presto Orchestra Chamber Strings Stage Band Scherzo Orchestra (6:00-­‐7:00 PM) Thursday
Symphonic Band Wind Band Presto Orchestra Scherzo Orchestra At VA and Iroquois: 8:00 – 8:40 a.m. VA 7/8 Grd. Choir VA 6th Grd. Choir VA 7/8 Grd. Choir VA 6th Grd. Choir Iro. 7/8 Grd. Choir Iro. 6th Grd. Choir Iro. 7/8 Grd. Choir Iro. 6th Grd. Choir ii.
Allegro Orchestra Friday
Select Choir (Combined IR & VA at High School) NOTES FOR OUR AUDIENCE
The public performance you are about to hear is a natural extension of each student's
experience in music. A primary function of music education at Niskayuna is the
development of a responsiveness to the artistic qualities of music. In order for you,
our audience, to better appreciate the musical growth of these students, we ask
your help by setting an example in the following ways:
1. We ask your daughter/son to remain for the entire concert. The students who
perform after your child need to be heard by their friends for the peer reinforcement
that follows the performance.
2. Please do not enter or exit the auditorium while the music is in progress. Please
remain in your seats while a musical number is performed. If it is necessary to leave
the auditorium, we ask that you do so between selections.
3. Younger brothers and sisters of the students performing should sit with parents.
It is distracting to the performers and audience to have people moving around
the auditorium during a performance.
4. Talk, even in whispers, is distracting to the performers and those around you who
are trying to listen. In an effort to eliminate as many distractions as possible, we
ask that you refrain from talking while the music is being performed.
5. Please do not set up video recording equipment where it might obstruct the
view of the audience.
Many classic works of choral and instrumental music may involve religious themes.
The Niskayuna School District recognizes the secular educational benefit of
studying and performing such works. The Niskayuna School District does not
endorse or convey a religious message in having students perform pieces of this
nature.
Through the combined efforts of the Department of Music Education, the students,
and you, our audience, we hope to make this program a pleasant experience for all.
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iv
Local Music Stores
Brass and Woodwind Shop 227 Kingsley Road Burnt Hills, NY 12027 399-­‐3396 Burnt Hills Music Store Grand Union Plaza Rt. 50 Burnt Hills, NY 12027 399-­‐6047 Cellos 2 Go Ellen Gunst 418 Altamont Ave. Schenectady, NY 12303 374-­‐7080 Cole's Woodwind Shop 360 Broadway Saratoga Springs 12186 450-­‐0333 Drome Sound 3905 State St. Schenectady, NY 12304 370-­‐3701 Hermies Music Store 727 State St. Schenectady, NY 12307 374-­‐7433 Hermies Music Store 1758 Rt. 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065 371-­‐4455 John Keal Music Co. 819 Livingston Ave. Albany, NY 12206 482-­‐4405 Kniskern Music House 1783 Route 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065 371-­‐3535 Frank Marchitto The Violin Shop 511 South Ave. Schenectady, NY 12305 370-­‐0832 Francis Morris 1519 Central Ave. Suite 101 Colonie, NY 12305 Also at: 65 Pumpkin Hollow Road Great Barrington, MA 888-­‐222-­‐1334 (toll free) Northeast Music 887 New Loudon Road
Latham, NY 12110
783-­‐1658 v
For Purchase and Repair only:
Segel Violins
44 3rd Street
Troy, NY 12180
266-9732
For Books Only:
Schenectady Van Curler Music Proctor's Arcade Schenectady, NY 12305
374-5318
Middle School Band Program Instrumental Music Assessment Student Enter Student Name Instructor Select Teacher Instrument Grade Select Instrument
Select Grade 1= Needs Improvement 2= Improving 3= Within Expected Range 4= Above Average 5= Outstanding Winter Spring TONE Quality, Control, and Breath Support EMBOUCHURE/POSTURE Mouth/Mouthpiece Setting and Seating/Standing Position TECHNIQUE/NOTE READING Accuracy, Facility, and Flexibility RHYTHM Accuracy, Steadiness, and Pulse ARTICULATION Tonguing and Accuracy LESSON PREPARATION Amount and quality of practice RESPONSIBILITY/EFFORT Lesson Attendance, Brings Materials, Demonstrates a Positive Attitude, Practice record signed by parent Mid-­‐Year Comments: Year-­‐End Comments: Additional Comments: vi
Middle School Band Program Percussion Assessment Student Enter Student Name Instructor Select Teacher Instrument Select Instrument
Grade Select Grade
1= Needs Improvement 2= Improving 3= Within Expected Range 4= Above Average 5= Outstanding ROLL PRODUCTION Quality, Control GRIP/POSTURE Proper Hand Position, Standing up Straight, Correct Wrist Movement STICKING Alternating Properly, Control TECHNIQUE/NOTE READING Accuracy, Facility RHYTHM Accuracy, Steadiness, and Pulse LESSON PREPARATION Amount and quality of practice RESPONSIBILITY/EFFORT Lesson Attendance, Brings Materials, Demonstrates a Positive Attitude, Practice record signed by parent Mid Term Comments End of Year Comments Additional Comments vii
Winter Spring Middle School String Program Instrumental Music Assessment Student Enter Student Name Instructor Select Teacher Instrument Select Instrument Grade Select Grade 1= Needs Improvement 2= Improving 3= Within Expected Range 4= Above Average 5= Outstanding Technique: Right Hand/Arm Bow Grip, Bow Distribution and Arm Position Technique: Left Hand/Arm Position and Fingering Notes and Rhythm Accuracy, Steadiness, and Pulse Tone Quality and Control Lesson Preparation Amount of Practice Responsibility/Effort Lesson Attendance, Brings Materials, Demonstrates a Positive Attitude Mid Term Comments: Year-­‐End Comments: Additional Comments: viii
Winter Spring ix
Audition/Evaluation Categories
BRASS/WOODWINDS
Tone: quality, control/focus, breath support, projection, vibrato (where appropriate),
embouchure
Intonation
Technique: tonguing, facility, flexibility, posture
Accuracy: articulation, accuracy of notes, accuracy of rhythms, steadiness of rhythms, pulse
Interpretation: dynamics, style, tempo, phrasing, expression, artistry
Scales
Sight Reading: accuracy of notes, rhythm, articulation and dynamics
PERCUSSION
Tone: playing area, choice of sticks/mallets, stroke
Intonation: (timpani only)
Technique: hand position, control, evenness of rolls, articulation, muffling, damping, posture
Accuracy: accuracy of notes, rhythm, pulse
Interpretation: tempo, accent, dynamics, sticking
Musicianship: style, phrasing, and expression, artistry
Scales and Sight Reading: rolls, intervals, rudiments, notes, rhythm, dynamics, tempo
STRINGS
Tone: quality, control/focus, projection, vibrato (where appropriate)
Intonation
Technique: Left-hand position, fingering, articulation, accuracy of
shifts; Right-hand grip,
bowing, bow distribution, articulation, posture
Accuracy: accuracy of notes, accuracy of rhythms, steadiness of rhythms, pulse
Interpretation: dynamics, style, tempo, phrasing, expression, artistry
Scales
Sight Reading: accuracy of notes, rhythms, articulation and dynamics
VOCAL
Tone: quality, consistency, projection
Intonation
Technique: breath control, flexibility, posture, appropriate range
Diction: vowels, consonants, naturalness
Accuracy: accuracy of notes, accuracy of rhythms, steadiness of rhythms, pulse
Interpretation: dynamics, style, tempo, phrasing, expression, artistry, stage presence
Sight Reading: accuracy of dynamics, notes and rhythm
x
2014-2015
MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERTS FORM - A
Listed below is a list of the musical organizations in the Niskayuna Middle Schools and the dates on which concerts have been
scheduled. Each student in any one of these groups must complete Form B and return to the ensemble director.
MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERTS: (7:00 pm @ high school unless noted)
Concert Band
Dec. 3
March 4
May 7
Symphonic Band
Dec. 10
March 4
May 21
Wind Band
Dec. 10
March 4
May 21
Jazz Band
Dec. 4
~April 1
Stage Band
#Jan.14
~April 1
VA 6th Choir
Dec. 4
June 3
VA 7/8 Choir
Dec. 10
May 7
Iroquois 6th Choir
Dec. 3
May 7
Iroquois 7/8 Choir
Dec. 4
May 20
Allegro Orchestra
Dec. 3
*March 25
May 21
Presto Orchestra
Dec. 4
*March 25
June 3
Scherzo Orchestra
Dec. 10
*March 25
May 21
Chamber Strings
Dec. 3
*March 25
June 3
# January 14 Craig Concert with MS Stage Band
* March 25 District Orchestra Festival @ Proctors 7:00 pm
~ April 1 District Jazz Festival 7:00 pm
^ May 6 Elementary District Band Concert 7:00 pm
+ Middle School Moving-Up Ceremonies (8th graders only)
^May 6
+June 22 (6:30pm)
+June 23 (6:30pm)
Snow Dates:
Dec. 11 for Dec. Concerts
Mar. 18 for Mar. Concerts
Mar. 31 for Orchestra Festival
**PLEASE KEEP THIS FOR REFERENCE THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR**
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