Wind Ensemble

Requirements-

Advanced playing experience, enrollment by audition ONLY, completion of one year in CONCERT BAND.
Wind Ensemble is a class focused on developing advanced musical skills and knowledge. Music theory, ear training, dictation and transcription, aesthetic valuing and critique, and sight singing will be explored in addition to advanced music techniques. Repertoire will be chosen from SCSBOA Grades 3 - 6 depending on ensemble skill. Performances include the Winter Concert, Spring Concert, SCSBOA Festival, and Pops Concert in addition to other community events that may arise. Students may be asked to form independent small ensembles for other performance opportunities.

Instrumentation-

(Ideal)

6 Flutes/Piccolo

2 Oboes

2 Bassoons

10 Clarinets

2 Bass Clarinets

4 Alto Saxophones

1 Tenor Saxophone

1 Baritone Saxophone

6 Trumpets

4 French Horns

4 Trombones

2 Tubas

8 Percussionists

Instructional Goals-

By the end of the year students will be able to:

1) Demonstrate good rehearsal etiquette, practice habits, and instrument care;

2) Produce an aesthetically appropriate and indicative tone;

3) Perform a full range chromatic scale (advanced range), quarter notes @ 120 BPM;

4) Perform all 12 major scales (two octaves) and arpeggios, 8th notes @ 120 BPM;

5) Sight Read SCSBOA Grade 3 (or equivalent) repertoire with 70% Accuracy;

6) Demonstrate accurate intonation through tuning and adjusting chords;

7) Perform all minor scales (two octave) and arpeggios, quarter notes @ 120 BPM; and

8) Distinguish and Demonstrate various articulations (Accent, Tenuto, Marcato, Staccato, Slur, Legato Tongue)

Grading -

Participation/Professionalism (35%): Students receive 10 points per day for punctual, prepared, and engaged attendance to class. Points are deducted for disruptive or unengaged behavior, lack of equipment (forgetting an instrument or music at home), lack of preparation, or unexcused tardies or absences. This grade also determines citizenship.

Playing Tests (35%): Students are graded on a rubric based on Tone Production, Tempo/Rhythmic Accuracy, Pitch/Intonation, Articulation, and Phrasing (when applicable). Students are given at least a week's notice on all playing tests. Topics for testing may include scales, rhythmic exercises, technical exercises, or repertoire excerpts. Playing tests are out of 100 points and may be retaken for a better grade UNTIL the end of the quarter from which they were assigned.

Performances (20%): Rehearsals always lead up to a performance. Complete performance credit includes punctual attendance, proper attire, and good behavior throughout the event. Missing the final two rehearsals before a performance may jeopardize participation.

Listening Journals (10%): Students will be required to keep a listening journal throughout the semester, in which they will be asked to respond to written prompts, take notes about music theory, and complete aural dictation or transcription exercises. The journal will be turned in at the end of each semester. Failure to do so may result in sudden drops in grades.