Brandon Valley Middle School 8^th Grade Orchestra Syllabus 2016-2017

 Mrs. Berg

(605) 582-3214

Objectives:

In 8^th grade orchestra, we strive to master new concepts and improve on concepts and skills learned in 7^th grade:

-Demonstrating correct posture, instrument position and hand position

-Demonstrating grade-appropriate tone (sound), intonation, rhythm, technique &   interpretation

-Identifying notes & rhythms on the instrument and in the music

-Playing in position

-Vibrato

Required materials:

*Essential Techniques For Strings

*Suzuki Book 3

*1/2" Binder

*Pencil

Grading:

Grades will be made up of a composite of the following items: Practice Records (10%), Lesson grades (30%), Participation (30%) and Performance/Scales (30%).

Practice Records:

After the first week of class, students will be asked to complete a minimum of 100 minutes of home practice per week.  Students will record their practice on a chart each time they play at home.  Practice grades are a completion grade.  Sufficient practice of material has either been completed for the week not.  Practicing helps reinforce concepts and skills learned in class, and help students progress more quickly.  At home practice, is the single most important factor for student success.  Practice time should be substantial enough to prepare assigned material while not be overwhelming.  Practice is best in smaller increments over time rather than trying to complete one or two "marathon" practice sessions.

Lesson Grades: 

Lessons and lesson attendance is a crucial part of the orchestra curriculum.  Students are place in small groups according to their instrument and individual ability to acquire new skills.  The lesson grade will be determined by the teacher and includes attendance with an emphasis on preparedness for the weekly lesson.  If a student misses a lesson, it must be made up prior to the next lesson (5 school days).  It is the students responsibility to arrange for the make-up lesson.

Participation:

Students receive points for group rehearsal.  Points are earned by being present for orchestra.  Included with this is arrival on time to rehearsal, present with all materials, and displaying a ready to learn disposition.

I have two main expectations in regard to being in the orchestra classroom.

1) Respect everyone & everything (yourself, others, Mrs. Berg, instruments, chairs, stands, etc.) This includes not talking or playing while the director is talking, directing, or demonstrating.

2) Be responsible.  Be prepared, participate, and do your best.  Always come prepared to lessons and class (have your instrument, music, & pencil every day – complete your practice, record your practice at the time of completion.)

Music:

It is the responsibility of the student to properly take care of their music.  Music must come to every class, rehearsal, and concert.  The school provides a storage rack for orchestra 1/2" binders.  Students will each be provided with their own copies of the music to take home and practice.  Students who do not bring their music to class will have their grade lowered.

Concert Attendance: 

Unlike most other class absences, which can affect only the individual involved, an absence from a concert affects the entire ensemble.  Public performances are the culmination of many weeks and sometimes months of preparations.  The reputation of the group, the music department and the school is often a reflection of such performances.  It is required that every student be in attendance for all scheduled performances.  All concert dates are considered mandatory.  The dates are provided on the orchestra classroom website.  If you realize there is a conflict with one of the scheduled performances, please let Mrs. Berg know as soon as possible.  Unexcused absences from a public performance will result in lowering the grade for the marking period involved.  A student’s grade is based on their attendance, punctuality, being in uniform, having all materials, following instructions, and stage etiquette.  A performance includes active participation in the entire concert and remaining for the whole concert.

Concert Attire:

All apparel must adhere to school dress code policy.  Clothing that is not acceptable for performances:  jeans, shorts, flip-flops, and sneakers.  Failure to come properly dressed to a concert will result in the lowering of a student’s grade.

Playing Exams/Quizzes;

At times,  students may be required to perform selected parts of music we are currently working on in class for their playing exam, as well as selected scales.  A grading scale/rubric will be provided before the first exam.  It will be necessary for students to prepare for these outside of class.  Students will be notified two weeks in advance of playing exams and requirements.  Quizzes will also be given periodically on terms that we have studied in class.

Private Lessons:

Private lessons are not required as part of the class grade, but they are very much encouraged.  Private lessons are for students all of ability levels.  They help students who are behind to catch up, and they help students who are advanced to continue to grow their talent.  A list of private teachers can be obtained from Mrs. Berg. 

What can you do as a parent?

-Encourage your child to practice.  This is “orchestra homework”.  Help develop a routine of practice by setting aside a specific time each day for practice.

-Provide a quiet, comfortable place to practice without distractions.

-Be sure the practice record is accurate and that it includes your weekly signature.  Practice cards are due each Tuesday.

-Show an interest in your child’s music study.  Encourage him/her to play for you and other people.

-Whenever possible, go to concerts, musical events, and buy recordings that feature your child’s instrument.  A recording makes a great gift!

-Attend your child’s orchestra concerts and discuss proper concert behavior with your child.  A schedule of events is included in this handout.  Mark your calendar and try to keep those dates clear.

-Consider joining the Brandon Valley Orchestra Boosters or help with one of the fundraisers.