Western Mennonite School Course Title: Jazz Band Instructor: Mr. Hergert jhergert@westernmennoniteschool.org (503) 779-3657
Course Syllabus 2011-2012 Grade Level: 11-12
Welcome the start of a new year and to the band program. WMS takes pride in its performing arts programs and the band is an intrical part of that program. Through hard work, high expectations, and dedication we will continue to grow the band program and have a successful year.
Course Description: Jazz Combo is an opportunity for students to develop an interest in jazz performing and jazz technique. Students will study and perform a wide variety of jazz styles and songs, focusing on the jazz combo style and technique. Students will also have an opportunity to perform in the community and as the Pep Band.
Goals and Objectives: The primary goal of the class is to learn and understand a multitude of jazz techniques and styles. Students will play and listen to a variety of jazz music. Students will also learn about improvisation.
Course Content: Students will study a variety of music. Students will use sheet music and combo books for rehearsal and performance.
Materials: SHEET MUSIC Music and music books will be provided by the school. A folder to keep you music in will also be provided. It is very important to keep your music in your folder and to take of your music and you will be charged for damaged or missing music. Pencils may be available, but students should bring their pencils to band. If you need to write on your music or in your music books, ONLY USE PENCIL, never use pen. CONCERT ATTIRE Looking neat and professional is something we value and promote at WMS. Also, part of the performance experience involves the physical appearance of the group. Dressing neatly and uniformly develops a sense of pride and unity among the band members and leads to a better performance. Also, as a concert is a school function, all clothing must stay within the dress code listed in the student handbook. Listed below is the concert dress (if acquiring any of the following articles poses a financial burden, please contact Mr. Bailey as soon as possible). Girls: White blouse (no T-shirts, tank tops, or writing), black skirt or slacks (no jeans or athletic wear), close-toed black dress shoes (if heels, no higher than 1�) Boys: White, collard dress shirt (no writing or logo), tie, black dress pants (no jeans or athletic wear), black socks, black dress shoes (no athletic shoes)
I am looking forward to a very successful year of band. I look forward being able to get know you and share in the wonderful gift of music that God has given us. I hope you not only learn how perform music this year, but also that you will learn how and come to know God and worship him through music and that you will carry that knowledge wherever He may lead you.
Grading: Grades are based on class participation and following the daily expectations, any performance or written evaluations, concert and rehearsal attendance, and adhering to concert attire. TARDIES AND UNEXCUSED ABSENCES WILL SERIOUSLY AFFECT YOUR GRADE. AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE FROM A CONCERT RESULTS IN AN AUTOMATIC FAIL FOR THE 6 WEEKS GRADING PERIOD. Since concerts and attendance are graded so heavily, it is imperative to MARK THE CONCERT DATES RIGHT AWAY ON YOUR CALENDAR. Grades will be in accordance with the percentages outlined in the student handbook. Students grades will be lowered one-half grade for each incomplete tardy and one grade for an incomplete absence. Students will be evaluated through out the semester in various ways including tests, quizzes, daily work and concert participation.
Attendance: REHEARSAL ABSENTEE POLICY A musical experience in an ensemble is more than people playing well individually. It is individuals learning how to cooperate, work, play, and blend with each other. This can only happen when students attend class consistently. Absences are excused for illness or family emergency only. If there is any other reason for your absence, a parent or guardian must contact me directly to discuss the circumstances. MAKE-UP WORK In a class where daily participation is a main objective, it is virtually impossible to do make-up work. However, in the certain cases students will be allowed to make-up the participation portion of the grade, either by working one-on-one with the director, or writing a paper. Please contact Mr. Bailey to make arrangements. CONCERT ATTENDANCE Concerts at WMS are the culminating experiences for each band and participation is critical. IN ORDER TO RECEIVE A PASSING GRADE, STUDENTS MUST PERFORM IN EACH CONCERT. There are no excuses for missing a performance except for a death in the family or a serious medical condition. If such an emergency occurs, inform Mr. Bailey BEFORE the concert begins.
Specific Class Rules / Behavior Expectations: Daily Expectations A working band is driven by a community of instrumentalists focused on a common goal. Each student’s daily performance and class participation are extremely important for the musical and intellectual growth of the students and the entire ensemble. Therefore, the student’s daily performance and class participation will be weighed heavily in the grading process.
Be in the classroom, setting up your instrument when the bell rings Be prepared for class (folder with music, pencil, and water if you need it) Take care of bathroom needs before coming to class Maintain good posture Do not waste time or talk during rehearsals
Do not talk when the director is talking Actively participate in the rehearsal process You are responsible to care for your music. WMS will bill you for lost or damaged music No food or drink except for water. Get water before coming to class No gum Put instruments and music away in their proper place before leaving class Always maintain a positive, Christ-like attitude and show respect to your director and fellow class-mates.
Additional Information: PRIVATE INSTRUMENT LESSONS Band students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons. One-on-one instruction is an excellent opportunity for students to reach their full potential. Studying an instrument outside of WMS is highly encouraged. Salem has many fine instrumental teachers, and students are encouraged to study with another teacher to gain a different perspective and further in-depth study (see Mr. Hergert for details and with any questions). SOLO/ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL Selected students nominated by the director will have the option to participate in the district solo/ensemble festival in March. The student together with the director will prepare one or two solos for performance at the festival. An adjudicator will give you written and verbal comments about your performance and ways to improve your playing.
Please return by Thursday, Sept. 8 Contact Information: E-mail Address: jahergert@gmail.com Telephone Number: (503) 779-3657 or (503) 363-2000 ext. 220 Facebook: Western Mennonite Jazz Band I am looking forward to another successful year of Jazz Band. I look forward to the opportunty to worship with you through music this year. Please confirm that you have read and understand the contents and requirements, and have marked your calendars with concert dates. Student signature
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