Band Syllabus

2020-2021

Jill M. Brooks

Materials

• Instrument
• Three ring binder with clear plastic sleeves
• Foundations of Superior Performance Book
• Mechanical Pencil
• Woodwinds always need to have 3 reeds ready to use
• Brass must have valve and slide oil

*Additional recommended materials are listed in the Week 1 Module!

Classroom Expectations

This class will be a blend between in person and at home instruction.  On days that you are not in class, you will watch the class live from home.  Attendance will be taken.  Classes will be both live-streamed and recorded for those who have technological difficulty during class time.  This type of class will be a learning experience for all, but we will still hold high expectations for your understanding of the content and will provide support for you when you need help!

In this class you will not only excel as students, but you will learn to be responsible and well-rounded individuals. Below I have provided you with four simple expectations that will help you be an AWESOME student and one day a SUCCESSFUL professional!

• Be respectful – Not just to teachers and principals, but to your classmates and peers too. Building relationships has everything to do with respect and trust.  When you log in to our remote sessions, please have your audio turned off so as to not create a distraction for others.
• Be prepared – Come to class with the necessary materials and a GREAT attitude!  When at home, have a workspace where you can be free of distractions.
• Be prompt – Punctuality is the key to making a good impression.  Please be prepared for the warmup when the bell rings for class!  If you are logging in from home, please don’t wait until the moment class starts to log in, but start your log in process at least 5 minutes prior to class starting so that you know you are able to get into the class.  Please also make sure your materials are close by so that you do not have to miss instruction to go find them.
• Be curious – You are in school to learn!  If you have questions while you are learning from home, we will address those questions as efficiently as possible!  When viewing from home online, if you have a question, you may use the chat feature to ask your question.  ONLY questions directly related to the lesson should be submitted.  Not things inappropriate or unrelated – as that causes a distraction to others and can be ground for being removed from the live session.

Bathroom/Hall Policy and General Procedures

Students are not permitted to leave during warm up and rehearsal time unless it is an emergency, restroom breaks should be taken care of prior to warm up, and after pack up. Restroom breaks and other classroom procedures will follow the school policies for social distancing.  Masks must be worn in the classroom.  Other procedures that necessitate instruction will be addressed as they arise, since this will be a new learning environment for all.  There will be no food or drink (except water) in the classroom. Please do not touch any chairs, stands, or instruments other than your own.  Please do not move chairs!

Honors Policy

Any band student who makes All-District Honor Band will automatically be awarded Honors credit for band class the following semester. Other students who wish to receive Honors credit may complete an audition with Mrs. Brooks for consideration. Auditions must take place prior to the start of each semester, or during the drop/add period. Please see Mrs. Brooks for audition requirements and materials.

Grades

Students will be assessed using a variety of methods, including performance-based playing tests, music theory, ear training, as well as reflections and general assignments. The grading policy for band is divided by the following:

Tests- 40%

Quizes- 30%

Classwork- 30%

A Note Regarding Online Learning

No one considers the situation we are in as ideal, especially for band.  However, it is my hope that you signed up for this elective class because you enjoy music and wish to improve your individual performance and understanding!  During remote learning, it is easy to allow your self-standards to lag.  I encourage you to work hard to defeat this temptation – and to encourage you to find ways to communicate your questions and concerns with me rather than give up or decrease your efforts. I encourage you to ALWAYS act with kindness, integrity, academic honesty, and a passion for learning that helps you through confusion, frustration or defeat.  I am here to help you and want to help you. Trust us – we didn’t go into teaching to see people on a computer screen!  I expect your very best and you can expect my best in return.  We can get through this together!