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Orchestra

8^th GRADE ORCHESTRA OUTLINE
Mr. Sievers

MATERIALS TO BE COVERED

BOOKS; Essential Techniques For Strings publ. By Hal Leonard (the green book)

The student will:

A. Strengthen and refine second year techniques

B. Begin left hand shifting and vibrato

C. Perform additional bow strokes/articulations

D. Tune his/her instrument

E. Learn and perform orchestra music for concerts

INDIVIDUALIZATION

The orchestra is a team and depends on every member. Individuals will be heard on a periodic basis. Students will learn at their own rate, but a minimum proficiency is needed to keep the class moving at a reasonable pace. Private lessons are an outstanding way for students to receive additional instruction and make faster progress. Mr. Sievers will be happy to locate a private teacher. The rewards are well worth the cost.

HOME PRACTICE

Home practice is essential and expected. A practice record will be kept to help students, parents and teachers monitor practice. This practice chart will be evaluated by the teacher. A minimum practice time of 120 minutes per week is needed in order to master the new skills and polish the previously learned ones. Practice charts can be downloaded and printed by going to the Dickerson website-Faculty-Music/Connections-Butch Sievers and click on my name. Then click on Practice Chart or whichever form you need.

GRADING

Playing skills (40%) - based on playing tests, etc.

Participation (50%) - It is very important to have 100% concert attendance. Each student is integral to the overall balance and sound of the orchestra. In the event of a family emergency or illness, it is the student’s responsibility to see the teacher and get the written make-up work. Taking an active and positive role in class is essential.

Practice (10%) - these criteria are explained above.

CONCERTS

Concerts are a very important aspect of the orchestra program here at Dickerson Middle School. They are both a chance to perform for an audience and a “Final Exam” that measures how well we have prepared. It is important for every student to be at every concert, not only for the sake of each student, but also for the orchestra’s sake. Factors such as balance, difficulty level, etc. are determined on the basis of the full orchestra.

If a student has a conflict with a concert he/she needs to bring a note from a parent at least 12 days prior to the concert. If a student does not attend a concert then an alternative assignment will be given.

6. CONCERT DRESS

The dress for concert is:

Girls: Long black skirt (pants are okay)                                          Boys: White shirt
            White blouse                                                                              Long dark tie
            Black dress shoes                                                                       Black pants
            NO white stockings – black or tan are fine                                Black shoes and socks

This syllabus is subject to change 8.8.08