December 11, 2008

Upcoming events

Elementary School Tours , December 17, 2008

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Kennedy Band Parents:

Thank you for a wonderful concert on Tuesday evening. I know most of our students enjoyed the music and the experience in spite of a very busy evening. We are now preparing for our elementary tours on Wednesday, December 17th. We will play our concert music as well as several fun Christmas singalong pieces for the elementary students to sing with us as we play. Students should maintain practice on the concert music during this time so it doesn't gather much dust. We will run them once again in class on Monday and Tuesday but the focus will be the new music.

Once we return from the holiday break, we will begin preparation for the Hays City Music Festival. Students are encouraged, but not required to take this opportunity for preparing a solo for the festival. This is an excellent time for individual help with technique as they prepare for their solo. There are several private teachers in town including myself available to help the students prepare. It is virtually impossible for any student to prepare a quality performance without private instruction. If time allows, I will offer a short time each week with those unable to seek private instruction but wanting to take a solo. If funds are the difference between lessons and no lessons, please see me. There are alternatives available.

All band students will be working for a full band performance at the Hays City Music Festival. In order to be able to challenge each grade level appropriately and to have full instrumentation, we combine students from both middle schools at the individual grade levels (combined beginner, combined 7th grade and combined 8th grade). We do this with a very minimal combined rehearsal time but have been able to have excellent performance in spite of this hindrance. There may be opportunities for small ensembles to perform as well but will require rehearsal time outside of class to be successful. See Mr. Bishop if you have questions regarding this.

Finally, I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a safe holiday season.

PRIVATE LESSONS: It is quite helpful, no matter the student's ability, for ALL students to take private lessons. We introduce concepts of technique in the classroom throughout the year but are unable to give the individual attention and detail in a classroom setting that can be offered in the individual setting. Private lessons are also a time for detailed preparation for honor band opportunities. We will spend time in the 8th grade class working on the audition materials but it is more of an introduction than a detailed process. The performance music preparation process in the 7th grade prohibits us from the time to do more than hand the audition materials to interested 7th grade students. If private lessons are feasible for your child, please contact me and I will give you information on available private teachers in town. There are several in town, including FHSU music major students, at varying price ranges.

While we hope every students has a positive, enjoyable experience in the band class, there is so much more than just concert preparation and social interaction. Throughout the year, I will try to give many of the "extra-musical" benefits of studying music. These will be posted on the band home page under "DID YOU KNOW?"

If you have any questions concerning our band program, please know we are available to discuss them with you. THANK YOU once again for your participation in this important educational experience. STRIKE UP THE BAND!

Kennedy Irish – Forever Proud!