Students and parents, THANK YOU for logging on to schoolnotes.com weekly. IF PRINTING, always use print preview before printing - ONLY PRINT PAGES you need - NEVER SELECT PRINT ALL!



ALL CLASSES PURCHASE ALL REEDS, LIGATURES, MOUTHPIECES, OILS, INSTRUMENTS, AND ANY OTHER BAND SUPPLIES YOU NEED FOR BAND NOW!



(January 19, 2009)
UP COMING EVENTS - QUICK NOTES


HELLO GREYHOUND BAND!



1.2008-2009 ALL CITY CLINIC/CONCERT INFORMATION

REHEARSALS: Rehearsals for the All-City band will be held on Friday January 23, 2009, from 5:30-9:00 pm and Saturday January 24, 2009 from 1:00 pm – 4:30. Students selected must attend both rehearsals. Both rehearsals will be at Westside HS.

CONCERT: The concerts will start at 5:30 pm on Saturday January 24 @ Westside HS.


Uniform: Your regular Middle School Band uniform will be worn at the concert. Time and facilities will be available on Saturday for you to change into your school uniform.

We will have a bus Friday to and from the rehearsal. We will leave after school Friday at 4:00 and return approx. 9:30. They need to bring something to eat on the way there. Saturday we will take a drop off only bus to Westside around 12:00 p.m. from JMS and Parents will pick up students following the concerts Saturday evening at Westside. Students need to check out a band vest from school while they last for the uniform which is white button down long sleeve shirt, Band vest, black dress slacks and dress shoes.




2. PARENTS, I KEEP ASKING BUT I AM NOT GETTING THE STUDENTS TO RETURN THE SHIRTS All pocket T shirts purchased the last week before the WINTER concerts must be returned and exchanged for the correct non-pocket band shirts. I'll give them a new one when they bring in the pocket shirt. They were delivered on Friday Dec. the 19th. PLEASE BRING THEM IN THIS WEEK!.




3 When practicing or preparing assignments, tests or challenges, focus on these 6 layers of performance for improved performance results:

1. Key Signature/Notes/Tone Quality
2. Meter/Time Signature/Tempo
3. Rhythm/Rhythmic Patterns (AVERAGE students stop here)
4. Articulations
5. Dynamics
6. Interpretation/Expression/Style/Musicality
(Musicians are here)



Pride is a Personal Committment.
It is an attitude that separates
Excellence from Mediocrity

What is your attitude? Where is your Pride?





THIS WEEK'S ASSIGNMENTS/TESTS/PLANS
(JANUARY 12 2009)


Mentor/Spark Sectionals:
Monday-Trumpets; Tuesday-Clarinets; Wednesday-Trombones; Thursday-Percussion; Friday-Horn/Trombones




ALL CLASSES PURCHASE ALL REEDS, LIGATURES, MOUTHPIECES, OILS, INSTRUMENTS, AND ANY OTHER BAND SUPPLIES YOU NEED FOR BAND. Keep them in your school locker for access. Not the Band room.


Johnston Band Philosophy: The Academic Study of Music" We pursue learning the how's and why's of music reading and performance.


Clear Objectives:
Musi.CP.ms.1-3.a-c Creation and Performance
Musi.CH.ms.1-3.a-c Culture and History
Musi.PA.ms.1-2.a-c Perception and Analysis
Musi.NV.ms.1-3.a-c Nature and Value




1st period SYMPHONIC Band assignments


2008-2009 ALL CITY CLINIC/CONCERT INFORMATION

REHEARSALS: Rehearsals for the All-City band will be held on Friday January 23, 2009, from 5:30-9:00 pm and Saturday January 24, 2009 from 1:00 pm – 4:30. Students selected must attend both rehearsals. Both rehearsals will be at Westside HS.

CONCERT: The concerts will start at 5:30 pm on Saturday January 24 @ Westside HS.


Uniform: Your regular Middle School Band uniform will be worn at the concert. Time and facilities will be available on Saturday for you to change into your school uniform.

We will have a bus Friday to and from the rehearsal. We will leave after school Friday at 4:00 and return approx. 9:30. They need to bring something to eat on the way there. Saturday we will take a drop off only bus to Westside around 12:00 p.m. from JMS and Parents will pick up students following the concerts Saturday evening at Westside. Students need to check out a band vest from school while they last for the uniform which is white button down long sleeve shirt, Band vest, black dress slacks and dress shoes.



As for class, continuing work on S&E music. Remember, student preparing a solo must have a private teacher.


At home music practice should be over S&E music. Mr. Littles will be handling the brass music.

Begin testing S&E Music:

WW's - Finale last page

Fl 273-end, 265-273, 229-255
1stCl 169-189, 211-229, 239-273
2ndCl 185-198, 198-229
3rdCl 81-END OF PAGE
A.Sx LINE 1-186
T.Sx 27-81
B.Sx 49-71
B.Cl 177-211, 49-71

Percussion - Bayport Sketch 25-45.
Brass - per Mr. Littles assignment




2nd period Woodwinds


Beginning group
Assigned pieces for practice and examination are Learning the "Key Signature" 76-86.



1st period 2nd year Int/beginner Clarinets/Flutes - Solo and Ensemble contest coming up on Feb. 21st 8-4:00 p.m. We will need parent volunteers to work in the contest. We will be begin asking for donations of snacks to sell around the beginning of next month.


Assigned contest pieces for test practice are Flutes - Theme (1st 2 lines 2nd part); Cl - Lullaby (1st 2 lines 3rd part /B.Cl 4th prt).


Intermediate group

We now turn our attentions to Solo and Ensemble contest coming up on Feb. 21st 8-4:00 p.m. We will need parent volunteers to work in the contest. We will be begin asking for donations of snacks to sell around the beginning of next month.


Assigned contest piece for test practice are CL - Rondo (18-26); Saxes - Village Maiden (1st 2 lines your part).



4th period Intermediate Brass Ensemble

Assignments are now given by Mr. Littles. See his web site via schoolnotes.


5th period Percussion Ensemble

Solo and Ensemble contest coming up on Feb. 21st 8-4:00 p.m. We will need parent volunteers to work in the contest. We will be begin asking for donations of snacks to sell around the beginning of next month.



Beginning Percussion

Practice stroke and bounce in both hands, test #47 - Flam Tap, Assigned contest piece for practice is "Cut and Shoot" (lines 9-end) .



Rudiments: Internet Search "MATCHED GRIP" for video demonstrations of all rudiments. (VIC FIRTH .COM)




Intermediate Percussion

Knick Knack on tom-tomand B. drm. (G-end).


Rudiments: Internet Search: "Table of Drum Rudiments" for video demonstrations. (VIC FIRTH .COM)




Advanced Percussion Ensemble

Solo and Ensemble contest coming up on Feb. 21st 8-4:00 p.m. We will need parent volunteers to work in the contest. We will be begin asking for donations of snacks to sell around the beginning of next month.


Assigned contest piece for test practice is "Bayport Sketch" 25-45 then 11-24



Rudiments: The 13 Essential checked in the Foundations Book or online @ Percussive Arts Society web site. Internet Search: "Table of Drum Rudiments" for video demonstrations.




6th period Advanced Woodwinds


Solo and Ensemble contest coming up on Feb. 21st 8-4:00 p.m. We will need parent volunteers to work in the contest. We will be begin asking for donations of snacks to sell around the beginning of next month.


Assigned contest piece for practice is Finale 273-end, 265-273, 229-255



6th period Honor Band

Solo and Ensemble contest coming up on Feb. 21st 8-4:00 p.m. We will need parent volunteers to work in the contest. We will be begin asking for donations of snacks to sell around the beginning of next month.


Assigned contest pieces for test practice are as follows; Flutes - Mrs. Armanious's Flute quartet/choir; Clarinets - Lullaby quartet- last two lines; Saxes - German Dance pg.1; Percussion - Southern Special March D-end; Brass per Mr. Littles instructions.



8th period Jazz Ensemble

This semester begins with me implementing a new approach with the Jazz Ensemble in that I will be checking their practice logs weekly. They will be due signed and completed each 1st class day of the week for a weekly grade.

* test assigned for this week - "Milestones" "So What" and "Land of Make Believe" ; Listen to recordings of these via the internet on parental approved sites.


Working on redemption for
(1.)the Exxon black history program performance Feb. 6th. I will be checking your practice logs weekly!

(2.)Jazz Night Also parents are asked to begin thinking about plans for Jazz Night. We will need some silent auction items ( a chairperson to coordinate and commitees for decorations, food, as well as handling the silent auction.


finally,

Continue creating a portfolio of the artists/composers who's music we are playing in class to be showcased in February.
This is an ongoing project. Portfolio should include the following:
Picture, bio (1 page typed including era and genre of jazz specialty), brief discography, copy of a C.D. cover or album cover of the artist and a copy of the selction/s we played by them. Each general item is 20 pts toward the final double grade.


So far we've studied the music of:

Cantelope Island - Herbie Hancock
Killer Joe - Benny Golson
Put it Where you want It - Joe Sample
Song For My Father - Horace Silver
Lil Darlin - Count Basie
It Don't Mean A Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing - Duke Ellington
Christmas Time is here - Vince Guaraldi
This Christmas - Donnie Hathaway
Land of Make believe - Chuck Magione
Milestones - Miles Davis
So what - Miles Davis ( no need for a 2nd bio just copy music)
Straight No Chaser - Thelonious Monk



I will be checking these completed portfolios for a grade before Feb. 6th.



Beginning 4th & 5th period Woodwinds and Brass


Assigned pieces for practice and examination are Learning the "Key Signature" 76-86.








!!!!!!!!!!!This is the end of this week's update!!!!!!!!!!!!











The 2008- 2009 Johnston Band Handbook


Welcome to all new and returning Band members! Please read this edition of the Johnston Band Department Handbook to learn the policies, procedures and expectations of both parents and students as members of the Johnston Band program. Then, sign and return
the Parent/Student Acknowledgment Form by September 4th.
(Students will receive a their 1st grade of the year, a 100, when the signature page is turned in by the due date!:)
Since the following pages serve as a reference guide for all fees, policies,events and procedures for the Johnston Band students and parents, please keep and refer back to this Handout throughout the 2008- 09 school year and use it with the understanding that some specific information is always subject to change such as fees, locations, times etc. However, prior notification will always be given before changes are implemented.




BAND DIRECTORS

Craig A. Green Head Director Band Dept.
Symphonic, Jazz Ensemble, Advanced Woodwind Ensemble, Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion Ensemble Classes and Honor Band Asst.

___TBA____ Asst. Director of Bands
Director of Mariachi Program, Honor Band, Beginning
Bands, and Symphonic Asst.




IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION INFORMATION

Johnston Band Room Phone Number NEW 713.726.2205
Band info Web Site: www.schoolnotes.com/77096/notes.html
email addresses: cgreen5@houstonisd.org
@houstonisd.org




Student Expectations
Welcome to membership in the Johnston Performing Arts Academy Band program. You were carefully chosen to be a part of our outstanding family and heritage because during your interview you demonstrated a superior talent and indicated a sincere desire to want to be a part of this dynamic high achieving organization. In order to live up to your acceptance, we expect you to be obedient to the directions of the Directors, fully equipped daily for class, dedicated, self-motivated, practiced and prepared and always ready to challenge both the music and the individuals around you to be the best! We thank you for sharing your talents here with us at Johnston and appreciate you being a member of our group!



UNIFORMS/DAILY DRESS

All students in Band are required to provide and wear the band uniform in order to participate in any concerts or field trips. Failure to do so constitutes automatic dismissal from the activity.

Casual: Johnston White or Black Band Shirt/Blue Jeans/
Sneakers
Formal: White Band shirt or button-down long sleeved
shirt/blouse
Dress shoes
Formal is always with Black dress slacks - (no pin stripes or black jeans)



ALL BAND STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO WEAR THEIR SHIRTS IN AT ALL TIMES WHILE ON THE CAMPUS OF JOHNSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL!


Sneakers or white shoes/socks/hose are not allowed on any formal concert.


The white Polo Band uniform shirts are only to be worn
to Band-related concert activities when designated by Mr. Green or Mr. Littles. These Band shirts ($15.00) are never to be used as a daily Johnston School dress shirt! Students wearing concert band shirts on undesignated days will be required to remove them and given a regular JMS shirt instead for the day.


The "Greyhound Band" shirt (black) is available for wear on Fridays or other school days for $10.00. *All fees must be paid in cash or by money order. Please make M.O.'s payable to "Johnston M.S. Band"





LIST OF RECOMMENDED INSTRUMENTS or any comparable instruments from the Fort Bend/Spring ISD/conroe isd list at the music stores - DEPARTMENT STORE AND WAREHOUSE CLUB INSTRUMENTS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR OUR PROGRAM-


IN MY OPINION, I DO NOT RECOMMEND THE PURCHASE OF ANY INSTRUMENTS FROM DEPARTMENT STORES/WAREHOUSE CLUB or by Winston DUE TO CONCERNS REGARDING QUALITY, DURABILITY AND REPAIR. MANY LOCAL MERCHANTS WILL NOT REPAIR THESE INSTRUMENTS UNLESS YOU SIGN A WAIVER FOR DAMAGE DUE TO THE SOFT MEDALS USED IN THEIR CONSTRUCTION. A PROFESSIONAL MUSICIAN MAY ENDORSE THEM, HOWEVER, THEY HAVE THE EXPERTISE TO WORK AROUND THE WEAKNESSES AND PROBLEMS WITH THE INSTRUMENT AND THE MATURITY NOT TO BANG THEM AROUND. $125-200 MAY BE CHEAP NOW, BUT MORE COSTLY IN THE LONG RUN.



Flutes - Cleaning Kit
Yamaha open hole
Emerson F13 open hole (wood)
Armstrong 800 open hole
Gemeinhart Model 2 or 3 series open hole


Oboes
Bundy 1492 or 1292
Selmer
Fox


Clarinets* Cleaning Kit and Key Oil, Reeds - Vandoren V-12 2.5 - 3
Buffet E-11(Intermediate/Advanced, B-12(Beginners)
Normandy 4
Yamaha YCL34
*w/Vandoren 5RV Mouthpiece and Bonade ligature & cap



Bass Clarinets - Cleaning Kit, Reeds – Vandoren 2.5 - 3
Selmer C* mouthpiece & Bonade Ligature w/cap


Trumpets* Valve Oil, Cleaning Kit
King 606
Bach TR300 or
Bach Stradivarius for the 8th grade Advanced & Serious
Holton T602
Yamaha YTR2320 or 2335
Jupiter
*w/Bach 7C Mouthpiece



Alto Sax * Vandoren V-16 Reeds 2.5 - 3
Yamaha 23
Selmer
King 665


Tenor Sax* Vandoren V-16 3.0
Yamaha 53 or Bundy 1244
*w/Bonade ligature or C* Mouthpiece


Trombone* Slide Oil,/Grease, Cleaning Kit
King
Bach
Holton
Yamaha YSL
Getzen 1047F for the 8th grader who's Advanced & Serious *F attachment highly recommended


All students should also purchase an
instrument stand for their instrument.

Percussion Kit w/Lockable case which
includes:
Bell set
Tunable practice pads w/stand
2 pair 5-B Promark Drumsticks
1 pair Hard Rubber Keyboard Mallets Musser P-24 or similar
1 pair Medium Hard Timpani Mallets
1 PAIR OF MEDIUM HARD MARIMBA MALLETS (Pro Mark PK73)


Suggested Merchants for instruments and books are:

Murphy Road Music - Music & Arts Centers - Penders(books) Broughtons Horn Shop* (*near our school)(713.726.2230)
*(will deliver to school)



All students are expected to have acquired an instrument or paid their instrumental rental fee (for those using school instruments) by September 4th. An alternate related instrument will be assigned as needed for the remainder of the school year to any student who has not by this date.



REQUIRED TEXTS

All required texts are available at Broughton's Horn shop @ 713.723.2230 -HE WILL DELIVER ALL YOUR SUPPLIES!

Students must provide their own band book
in order to study, make notes in and
practice from. They are:

Beginning Band, Beginning Percussion - 4th & 5th Periods: Essential Elements 2000 Book I DVD+ edition (White)

Honor Band, Woodwind Ens., Brass Ens. - 2nd, 4th, 5th & 6th Periods: Essential Elements Book II (Green)

Symphonic Band, Honor Band, Woodwind & Brass Ens., Percussion Ens. -1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, & 6th Periods: Foundation for Superior Performance


OPTIONAL "Master Theory" Book
Level I 6th Graders

Level II 7th Graders only if you have completed
level I

Level III 8th Graders only if you have completed
level II

and for music issued you'll need a

1" Black Binder
9-12 clear sheet protectors



Suggested Merchants for instruments and books are:

Murphy Road Music - Music & Arts Centers - Penders(books)
Broughtons Horn Shop* (*near our school)(713.726.2230)
*(will deliver to school)




All students are expected to have acquired an instrument or paid their instrumental rental fee (for those using school instruments) by September 4th. An alternate related instrument will be assigned as needed for the remainder of the school year to any student who has not by this date.



2008-09 BAND FEES-INSTRUMENT RENTAL SECTION


Unfortunately, having to assess a band fee has become a necessity in these times of tight budgets and increasing academic pressures on achievement. However, at Johnston, I have made every effort to reduce this burden on families and students who wish to participate in band. Be assured that every cent that is collected is going to benefit the program that your child is now a part of in one way or another.



*All fees must be paid in cash or by money order. Please make M.O.'s payable to "Johnston M.S. Band"


WHEN PAYING FEES, PLEASE COME BEFORE SCHOOL 8 - 8:20. ENTER ON THE MANHATTAN SIDE THRU THE CHEENA ST. DOOR NEAR THE BANDROOM OR WHEN YOU FIRST ENTER THE BUILDING THRU THAT DOOR



ALL students participating in Band at Johnston are requested to pay a fee of $50.00 for the 2008-2009 school year. This fee comprises our INITIAL band department budget for the new school year and aids in covering the cost of running a quality band program of our caliber. Fee's are used to fund field trips, cover the cost of replacing lost, worn out and damaged equipment, instruments, music, competitions, clinicians, contest and contest adjudicators ,awards etc... all in conjunction to providing an enriched musical experience for our band students.



School Instruments Rental Fee and Instrumental Insurance
Our one time instrument rental fee for students desiring to use a school instrument will be $100.00 for the year for all instruments. This fee covers both use and repair of the instrument for the year, but not insurance! Student's using a school instrument must also personally cover the 12 month insurance costs for that instrument for the year which is an additional cost of up to $50.00 depending on the type of instrument. Insurance forms must be filled in and returned with rental fee payment prior to students taking the instruments home. Insurance costs for shared instruments i.e. tubas, euphoniums, baritones saxophone, will be $15.00 per student. Please send that amount to the school.



The Band Fee structure is as follows*:


Concert Band Shirt $15.00
Band Fee $50.00
total $65.00

School Instrument Rental $100.00*
Concert Band Shirt $15.00
Band Fee $50.00
total $165.00

School Instrument $100.00*
Band Fee $50.00
total $150.00


Add $10.00 to any of the above totals if you would like to order a black "Greyhound Band" department shirt as well.


*All fees must be paid in cash or by money order. Please make M.O.'s payable to "Johnston M.S. Band"




BAND FUNDRAISING


While participation is not required, realize that all money raised goes to support our program and makes possible all of the opportunities and events students are exposed to each year. Therefore, we hope that everyone finds a way to work with us by supporting our efforts to sustain our program. Our annual Cookie Dough program runs during the early part of October and delivery is always scheduled prior to Thanksgiving.



REQUIRED TEXTS

All required texts are available at Broughton's Horn shop @ 713.723.2230 -HE WILL DELIVER ALL YOUR SUPPLIES!

Students must provide their own band book
in order to study, make notes in and
practice from. They are:


Beginning Band, Beginning Percussion - 4th & 5th Periods:
Essential Elements 2000 Book I DVD+ edition(White) and Master Theory Book 1


Honor Band, Woodwind Ens., Brass Ens. - 2nd, 4th, 5th & 6th Periods: Essential Elements Book II (Green)


Symphonic Band, Honor Band, Woodwind & Brass Ens., Percussion Ens. -1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, & 6th Periods: Foundation for Superior Performance


OPTIONAL for all classes other than beginners "Master Theory" Book
Level I 6th Graders

Level II 7th Graders only if you have completed
level I

Level III 8th Graders only if you have completed
level II


and you'll need a

1" Black Binder with 9 clear sheet protectors




TRANSPORTATION

Our transportation needs are no longer provided by the district unless it is for a district sponsored event. Therefore, price increases from Coach USA and cuts in funding, there are certain events, due to proximity and varying length of ending time for the number of band students attending, we ask students to provide their own transportation to and from the event.

Following all performances and or field trips, students should be picked up promptly, no later than the ending time listed and/or announced prior to the event. Failure to do so may result in suspension from the next performance

Such events are:


1. Football games at Butler Stadium (S.Main@Chimney Rock)
2. Solo and Ensemble Contest
(Soloist must have a private teacher
and provide their own their own accompanist.
3. Region/All City Band Auditions and rehearsals
4. Before or After school rehearsals
(required upon request)


Failure to attend an event due to transportation will not be considered as an excused absence unless notification is given to Mr. Green in writing at least two weeks prior to the event.




GRADING POLICIES GRADING POLICIES


Band Assessment (Grading): This year I will not be utilizing assignment sheets as in the past. Grades will be earned based on a rubric assessing accurate performance mastery of assigned musical selections which include the following elements:

Tone = Characteristic quality, support and control, and intonation
Notes = Key signature, accidentals, staff, clef
Fingerings = Scales, facility, recognition and indentification
Rhythm = Values, pattern recognition & performance, ties, meters
Stylistic interpretation = genre, articulation, dynamic contrast, expressiveness.



Rubric Weights

Performance 75%
5 = all elements present, a fine expression of the selection
4 = many elements present, however overall performance lacking in attention to those elements missing
3 = some elements present, however very irratic and inconsistent
2 = few elements present,lack of preparation, study, and/or understanding evident
1 = unable to perform to a level that is assessible
0 = Unable to perform/Did not perform



Preparation 25%
Practice Logs;
Grade = number of minutes practiced per week i.e. 100 min. = 100
Practice logs must be signed weekly by parent to be valid and turned in the week of the due date. Regardless of the number of minutes recorded, logs with no signatures will earn a grade of "0."




Parents and Students will be expected to keep up with their weekly assignments via the band schoolnotes website and be prepared for tests on the days designated for their instrument. Grades earned are based on the level of student's demonstration of mastery, artistry and completion through performance of the assigned learning objective i.e. written tests, a section of an assigned section of music or piece, various rhythmic patterns, etc...



WEEKLY SECTIONAL TEST DAYS ARE:

TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY - All Clarinets, Trumpets, Euphoniums, Int. Percussion Ens.

THURSDAY/FRIDAY - Adv./Beg. Percussion Ens., Flutes, Bassoon, Saxes, Horns, Tubas, Trombones




While Theory is not graded, completion of 7 assignments in the
recommended Master Theory book each grading cycle will earn 5 extra credit points when turned in prior to the end of the grading cycle.



All students and parents are expected to log on to schoolnotes.com for weekly notice of tests, performances, and upcoming important calendar events in band. Schoolnotes.com copies are posted in the bandroom and available upon request for students who do not have internet access. ASSIGNMENTS ARE DUE WEEKLY



REQUIRED PERFORMANCES
All performances
Football Games (Symphonic Band)TBA
Fall Concert (Symphonic, Jazz Ensemble)
Winter Concerts (All Bands)
Solo and Ensemble (Symphonic, Honor, Ensemble Classes)
All City/Region Band (Symphonic Jazz and Advanced Ensemble Classes - Optional for Honor Band)
Spring Concert (All Bands)
Spring Trip (Symphonic, Jazz Ensemble)



2008-2009 Performance Calendar


October
16 - Fall Concert (Symphonic Band & Jazz Ensemble)


November
1 - All City Band Auditions (Symphonic, Honor Band & Jazz Ensemble)
8 - Region Band Auditions (Symphonic Band)


December
5,6 - Region Band Clinic/Concert (Symphonic)
9 - Beg./Int. Winter Concert
11 - Symphonic Band, Adv. Mariachi, Jazz Ensemble Winter Concert


January
23,24 - All City Band Clinic/Concert (Symphonic)@ Westside H.S.


February
21 - Johnston Solo and Ensemble Contest (all classes -beginners)


March
12 - Jazz Night (Jazz Ensemble)


April
3,4 - Waltrip Concert Band Festival (Honor Band)
17,18 - UIL Concert Band Contest (Symphonic)@ Cinco Ranch H.S.


May
5 - Beg/Int. Band Spring Concert
7 - Symphonic, Adv. Mariachi, Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert
8 - Spring Band Trip (Symphonic, Jazz Ensemble)





Students failing to attend any performance without prior notification given to Mr. Green, in writing or by email and receiving his approval in writing or by email, will be suspended from active class participation until an acceptable excused reason from the parent is presented. At such time if the reason is excused the student shall be reinstated to active status. If the reason is unexcused the student will receive a failing grade for that performance and suspension from the next performance or removal from that performance group altogether to a non-primary performing group, even if their schedule is not changed.

FAILING TO SHOW UP FOR ANY PERFORMANCE IS UNACCEPTABLE!



No Parades!
WE DO NOT MARCH IN MIDDLE SCHOOL! NO ONE SHOULD!

At this age students should only focus on learning and mastering their instrument for this level and gaining a solid foundation in music reading, facility, characteristic tone, and exposure various musical styles, genres and performance formats.



Following all performances or field trips, students should be picked up promptly, no later than the ending time listed and/or announced prior to the event.



FINES

Fines are imposed in band for students who consistently fail to leave their instruments, music or supplies properly stored. It misplaces music, causes an added burden on our maintenance staff and the directors to pick up and keep track of items left out irresponsibly around the Band room. Fines may be assessed for the following infractions:

Instrument or supplies left out after
class/concerts $1.00
Books left out after
class/concerts $0.50
Single sheet music left out after
class/concerts $0.10 per sheet
Folders/binders left out
after class $1.00



Parent Acknowledgment Form


Please read, sign, and return by September 4th

I acknowledge that I have received and read the Johnston Band Handbook either online or in hardcopy detailing the Fees, Policies, and Procedures with the full understanding that they are subject to change pending notification. By signing and returning thus acknowledgement I do hereby agree to abide by the rules and procedures contained therein.


Parent Signature__________________________

Student Signature_______________________Band Period_____

Date_______________________________


WEEKLY SECTIONAL TEST DAYS ARE:

TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY - All Clarinets, Trumpets, Euphoniums, Int. Percussion Ens. Piano, Rhythm & Bass Guitar, Drumset.

THURSDAY/FRIDAY - Adv./Beg. Percussion Ens., Flutes, Bassoon, Saxes, Horns, Tubas, Trombones.

(If the daily schedule is modified and class time shortened, tests will be completed on the next class day)










END OF THIS WEEK'S UPDATE!

UNLESS YOU NEED THE HANDBOOK, NO INFORMATION BEYOND THIS POINT IS NEEDED AT THIS TIME.






**************End of this week's notes update****************







WEEKLY TEST DAYS ARE:

TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY - All Clarinets, Trumpets, Euphoniums, Int. Percussion, Rhythm Section.

THURSDAY/FRIDAY - Adv./Beg. Percussion Ens., Flutes, Oboe, Bassoon, Saxes, Horns, Trombones, Tubas






Assignments in BOLD are due this week.
Current Grades for the 4th and final cycle will be written, circled or highlighted in purple




University of Texas @ Arlington
Summer Music Camp
Concert band June 3-7
Jazz Camp June 12-16
www.uta.edu/music/summercamps
817.272.3471







After-School Snack Sale and Fundraising
Lining up Volunteers!



>______________________________________________
2006 SUMMER BAND & JAZZ CAMPS+
Dates and Fees have not been updated for 2006 so please contact camps directly for 2006 dates and Fees.


University of Texas @ Austin Music Camp
512.232.2080
www.longhornmusiccamp.org



Midwestern Music Camps*

Location:
The University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS

Contact Information: Visit www.musiccamp.ku.edu




H-E-B Summer Jazz Workshop

Locations
Texas Southern University
Willowridge High School


Contact Information: 713-839-7000 or visit www.jazzeducation.org




University of Houston
2006 Cougar Band Camp*

Location:
U of H Moores School of Music

Contact Information: Visit www.uh.edu/music




Texas A&M University - Commerce
Commerce, TX

Visit www.tamu-commerce.edu/music




Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX

Contact Information: Visit www.shsu.edu/music/camps.html





UNT Summer Jazz Workshops 2004*
Location:
The University of North Texas
Denton, TX

Contact Information: www.music.unt.edu/jazz




Summer Music Academy

Location:
Texas Lutheran University
Seguin, TX

Contact Information: Visit www.tlu.edu or 830-372-6028


University of Houston
2006 Cougar Band Camp*
Follow UH links above for dates
Location:
U of H Moores School of Music

Contact Information: Visit www.uh.edu/music




West Texas A&M University
Canyon, TX

Contact Information: Visit www.wtamu.edu/academic/fah/music/bandcamp.htm





Band & Orchestra Camp
Location:
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX


Contact Information: Visit www.ttu.edu/MusicCamps




Lamar University
Beaumont, TX

Contact Information: Call 409-8808148 or Email bandcamp@hal.lamar.edu





Summer Music Institute*
Location:
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, TX

Contact Information: TCU Summer Institute Director at 817-257-7098 or Visit www.music.tcu.edu





San Jac North¡¦s Summer Jazz Camp

„h High School Students only
„h Visit www.jazz.houston.com for detailed information

Contact Information:
Contact 713-458-4050 ext. 7228.










*HAVE A SAFE, RESTFUL, FUNFILLED, REWARDING SUMMER!







############READ ONLY IF INTERESTED! NOT REQUIRED READING!##########








No relevant information beyond this point



As Defined in the Texas UIL Constitution and Contest Rules JUDGING STANDARDS:


The performance of the soloist, ensemble, or organization at the time of the contest is the only factor which can be considered in determining ratings. A rating designating the excellence of the performance shall be as follows:


Division I (Superior). A superior performance for the event and the class of participants being judged; worthy of the distinction of being recognized as a first place winner.











*General Information and Applications are available in the Band Room.
+ The Johnston Band Staff HIGHLY recommends that students enroll in a Conducting class during Camp so they can better understand the position and how it relates to them as the Performer. Almost all of the Camps listed offer Conducting as an elective.


NOT PLEASED WITH YOUR GRADES? Steps toward improvement



Consider after School Tutorials I am offering two days of after school tutorials as part of the after school program this year. This is not intended as a replacement for private lessons , but rather as assistance on instruments and/or particulars of assignments given at school. The days are:

Tuesday's for students in Symphonic Band-primarily focusing on assignment sheet work, contest music, small group performing and

Thursdays for students in Honor Band, Woodwind, Brass, Percussion or Beginning band also focusing on assignment sheets, contest music and music reading skills

Sign up with Mrs. Fanniel with the afterschool program.




UPCOMING EVENTS





DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER IF YOU'VE READ THE HANDBOOK! THIS IS AS FAR AS YOU NEED TO UPDATE - THANK YOU

************************************************************


NOTHING BELOW HERE IS RELEVANT TO YOU NOW. I WILL MOVE IT UP AS NEEDED.


























Division II (Excellent). An unusual performance in many respects but not worthy of the highest rating due to minor defects in performance. A performance of distinctive quality.


























Report Cards out this week! Parents, if you would like an idea of your childs grade, check your childs assignment sheet and practice log for last cycle. I will be sending them home this week if they do not have them already. Grades for last cycle were in green and/or highlighted in pink/magenta. If they have issues, then instruct them to continue reading the next paragraph. That is where they stopped.


































Stay TUNED this Summer!!!

------------------------------------------------------

This week's Class Assignments

TURN IN ALL SCHOOL INSTRUMENTS AND MUSIC


ATTENTION 8th Graders: On behalf of Mr. Neira and Mr. Gray, we would like to thank you for your three years of dedicated service to the Band Department. Without you, we could never be as successful as we have been. We wish you all success in high school and beyond.

When practicing or preparing assignments,
tests or challenges, focus on these 6
layers of performance for improved
performance results:
1. Key Signature/Notes/Tone Quality
2. Meter/Time Signature/Tempo
3. Rhythm/Rhythmic Patterns (AVERAGE students stop here)
4. Articulations
5. Dynamics
6. Interpretation/Expression/Style/Musicality
(Section leaders stop here)

Pride is a Personal Committment.
It is an attitude that separates
Excellence from Mediocrity

What is your attitude? Where is your Pride?







Our Football Game Policy is as follows:

1. All Students are expected to attend
2. Students and parents must arrange transportation to and from
the football stadium, Butler Jr. on South Main @ Chimney Rock.
HISD buses are unavailable at that time (on runs) and a
Coach rental is too costly for a drop off and such a short
distance. Car pools are great!!!
3. Students need to meet me at Butler Sr. Stadium, Johnston Gate
at 4:00 p.m. We will enter together.
4. Games begin at 4:30 p.m. and lasts approximately 1hr1/2.
After drop off parents should arrive for pick up no later
than 6:15 p.m.
5. Bring money for food. Students will be given a break during
the 3rd quarter to get something to eat.
6. Percussionists need to make arrangements to get their equipment
to the stadium and back to Johnston the next day.
7. No eating is allowed in the band during the 1st, 2nd, and 4th
quarters of the game.
8. During the 3rd quarter students are free to eat and mingle
with their friends but must be back in the band setup by the
beginning of the 4th quarter.


IN CASE OF RAIN OUR PARTICIPATION IS CANCELED


Congratulations to all those who competed last Saturday in the All City Band Auditions at Welch Middle School. Once again, among more challenging competition from students at West Briar, Pershing, Lanier and Pin Oak, Johnston lead the way with 26 students earning a chair in the band. Johnston also lead all schools competing in the number of students earning 1st chair and alternate positions!





------------------------------------------------------

When practicing or preparing assignments,
tests or challenges, focus on these 6
layers of performance for improved
performance results:
1. Key Signature/Notes/Tone Quality
2. Meter/Time Signature/Tempo
3. Rhythm/Rhythmic Patterns (AVERAGE students stop here)
4. Articulations
5. Dynamics
6. Interpretation/Expression/Style/Musicality
(Section leaders stop here)


Pride is a Personal Committment.
It is an attitude that separates
Excellence from Mediocrity

What is your attitude? Where is your Pride?



------------------END OF CURRENT INFO-----------------





Dear Students and Parents
Missed performance tests must be made up no later than 4 school days after the test date. Failure to do so will result in a 50 posted for that exam. My office hours for make ups or assistance are 8:00-8:20 a.m. MTWF or MTT after school until 4:20 p.m. on an availability, first come first serve basis. The highest grade possible on make ups THIS WEEK!







Once again for the 6th out of the last 7 years, the Johnston Symphonic Band is the Only Middle or High School Band, in HISD to earn such an Outstanding Distinction in ratings!!! The Johnston Band Department continues to be recognized as one of the finest middle school band programs in the state. Our success has consistently equalled and/or surpassed the acheivement of other schools in Region 9 which include the Woodlands, Spring, and Klein School Districts!!! Congratulations to the students, Mr. Craig Green, Director and Mr. Carlos Neira, Asst. Director on an outstanding job!!!




ENJOY YOUR SUMMER! SEE YOU NEXT YEAR...Until then, enroll in a Summer Camp.


GOT A NEW INSTRUMENT DURING THE HOLIDAY'S -We have insurance forms available if you would like to purchase coverage for your personal instrument/s. It will cover theft as well as damage/repair. Please tell your child to ask for one.

Except for Symphonic Band/Jazz Ensemble, Solo & Ensemble contest grades (participation/rating) will make up 50% of the grade for this cycle since we will basically be unable to have class after this week due to testing, magnet auditions etc... If students are unable to participate due to a low average on their music, that average will represent the 50%. If there are any conflicts, parents should contact me now!



EXCUSED LOW or MISSED ASSIGNMENTS (illness, absence, or broken instrument) are made up before school(8:00 -8:20 a.m.) or after school (3:45-4:20 p.m.) on an availability basis. I DO NOT schedule appointments for make ups. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE UP MISSED ASSIGNMENTS! FAILURE TO DO SO WILL RESULT IN A FAILING GRADE FOR EACH MISSED ASSIGNMENT




3 Want to do a make up for low progrss report averages other than being able to retake for a missed or failed event/test? I highly recommend attendance at some of the free Collegiate Recitals offered at our area universities this month. (see links above) This may encourage and excite our students by seeing what a real live person can do on their instrument. It will give them some prespective on what this is all about. Not to become a professional or music major, but to be motivated to be the best you can be while you enjoy learning to make and create music right now! Rice has many concerts featuring all instruments coming up this month. REMEMBER TO GET A PROGRAM AND TURN IT IN TO ME FOR EXTRA CREDIT:) Enjoy. (It also falls within our mission to create a college bound culture).


How to Practice:
1. Fast air!
2. Get characteristic open tone
3. Work Small units of music…(4 notes - 1 meas.) then put them together
4. Slow tempos…then speed it up
5. Always with good posture, hand position, and breath support
6. With correct articulation and dynamics
7. Always strive for improvement by the end of your session