LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
welcome
A. MARIO LOIEDERMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
for the Creative and Performing Arts
Welcome to the start of the 2015 - 2016 school year!
Our staff is excited about your choice to pursue band/orchestra and its
opportunities for personal enjoyment and intellectual growth. Music is a lifelong pursuit that allows each of us to express ourselves through creativity and
the mastery of a musical instrument. The instrumental music program exists to
provide an excellent music education for our students. This is achieved through
individual study and varied performances in many venues and is supported by a
curriculum, which places an emphasis on comprehensive musicianship. The
skills that instrumental music students acquire in these activities are directly
related to skills necessary for auditions, presentations, and interviews in other
career fields.
The success of the instrumental music program centers on pride, commitment to
task, and the willingness to work hard to achieve a common goal. We do not
expect every student in the instrumental music program to become a virtuoso
musician. We do expect every student to establish both short and long range
goals for improvement on his/her instrument, to exhibit mature responsible
attitudes and actions at all times, and to be willing to contribute lots of hard
work for the benefit of all. This handbook is based on the Montgomery County
Public Schools Instrumental Music Objectives, the Maryland State Curriculum
for music, the R.O.A.R principles at LMS, and has been written to help students
and parents gain the most from their instrumental music experiences as well as
provide guidance to the practical everyday experiences of the band program.
We encourage parents to contact us at any time should questions arise. Again,
we are excited about your participation in the Loiederman Middle School
Instrumental Music Program, and look forward to our time together for musical
enjoyment and fellowship.
Musically,
Dory’Ann Benjamin
Email - Dory'[email protected]
Office - 301-929-2282 x 1090
Ashley Ashman
Email - [email protected]
Office - 301-929-2282 x 1090
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
course
descriptions
BEGINNING BAND
Students with no prior instrumental music experience who wish to prepare for participation in
more advanced performing ensembles develop technical skills necessary to perform Grade 1
Level music. Students develop basic instrumental skills by performing a variety of music.
Students are taught the elements of musical form, terms and symbols, tone production,
instrument care and maintenance, and the importance of consistent practice habits. Students
may be able to attend live performances and perform in public.
6TH GRADE BAND
Students refine skills learned in elementary band classes and develop more advanced
performance techniques. The development of technical skills necessary to perform Grade 1 Level
music is stressed. Emphasis is placed on developing formal rehearsal decorum, following a
conductor, and developing pitch and rhythmic security in preparation for performing an
independent part in the traditional band ensemble. Students are taught the elements of musical
form, terms and symbols, tone production, instrument care and maintenance, and the
importance of consistent practice habits. Students in this ensemble perform in at least 2 concerts
per year.
INTERMEDIATE BAND/ORCHESTRA
The primary focus is on the development, continuation, and expansion of basic skills begun in
previous years that are necessary for effective instrumental music performance. The
development of technical skills necessary to perform Grade 2 Level music is stressed. Emphasis
is placed on developing formal rehearsal decorum, following a conductor, and developing pitch
and rhythmic security in preparation for performing an independent part in the traditional band
or orchestra ensemble. Students also learn melodic form and construction as they examine and
perform more complex folk melodies and melodies from master composers. They also begin to
develop aesthetic criteria for measuring the quality of instrumental performance. Students in
these ensembles perform in at least 2 concerts per year. In addition to large group ensembles,
individual growth and achievement are encouraged through participation in adjudicated solo
and ensemble contests and honor band/orchestra.
CONCERT BAND/ADVANCED ORCHESTRA
Students develop and refine their technical skills in order to perform music at the Grade 2 to
Grade 3 Level of difficulty. Emphasis is placed on developing formal rehearsal decorum,
following a conductor, and developing pitch and rhythmic security in preparation for performing
an independent part in the traditional band or orchestra ensemble. Students learn the social,
cultural, and intellectual influences reflected in the musical works they are studying and discuss
performance styles and musical forms of corresponding historical periods. The critical listening
skills that are developed as a result of preparation for instrumental performance are used to
help the student formulate criteria for effectively evaluating his/her own performance as well as
the performance of others. Students in these ensembles perform in at least 2 concerts per year.
In addition to large group ensembles, individual growth and achievement are encouraged
through participation in adjudicated solo and ensemble contests and honor band/orchestra.
JAZZ BAND
An optional activity open to 7th and 8th graders that will take place after school on Tuesday and
Thursdays from 3:00 - 4:00 pm. Students will have the opportunity to play jazz in a small-group
setting. The main focus of the class is learning how to improvise (create melodies on the spot),
along with learning how to play jazz with proper style. Styles include Swing, Latin, Caribbean,
Funk, and Rock. All students are required to perform in the fall and spring concerts, along with
any other performances. Only traditional big band instruments are used in this course
(saxophones, trumpet, trombone, baritone horn or euphonium, electric guitar, bass guitar, piano
and drum set).
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
grading
policy
SUMMATIVE ASSIGNMENTS - 30%
reflect academic performance only. Students will receive multiple
opportunities to demonstrate achievement through a variety of assessments
to include:
Written Quizzes & Test
Concerts
Playing Assessments
Any final exams given will also be included in this category.
FORMATIVE ASSIGNMENTS - 65%
are designed to help students work toward the musical objectives and
indicators. A “Daily Objective” grade will be assessed for each class/rehearsal.
Each student has the opportunity to earn a maximum of 10 points per class.
No penalty will be assessed for excused absences..
Participation in class with an instrument in working
Weekly
condition, music, and pencil. Contributes ideas, asks
Participation questions, uses feedback or engages in task to clarify,
refine, or extend learning without interfering with the
Grade
learning of others.
Weekly
Objective
Grade
Warm-ups
Weekly Practice Log, Rhythm of the week and Music theory
or history question(s)
Playing Assessments
Reading/Listening &
Writing Assignments
HOMEWORK for Practice and Preparation - 5%
Assignments will be given in order to give specific goals for student progress.
Grading Scale
A
Outstanding level of performance
90-100%
B
High level of performance
80-89%
C
Acceptable level of performance
70-79%
D
Minimal level of performance
60-69%
E
Unacceptable level of performance
0-59%
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
objectives &
rehearsal
procedures
OBJECTIVES
*Students will follow rehearsal procedures.
*Students will meet individual responsibilities for care and maintenance of his/
her musical instrument
*Students will follow concert procedures
*Students will meet performance obligations as indicated on the school’s
comprehensive instrumental calendar located on the last page of this handbook.
*Students will demonstrate basic competencies of instrumental performance in
the areas of tone production, intonation, articulation, range, and memorized
scales.
*Students will read and perform appropriate NAfME grade level music.
*Students will sight read appropriate NAfME grade level music.
REHEARSAL PROCEDURES
*Band classes will begin each day with students arriving on time and prepared
for class with their pencil, music, method book and instrument.
*Students are to be in their seats no later than two minutes after the start time
(or tardy bell). All band members should be ready to play music, and not
distracted by reading books or other non music materials. It is expected that all
students will get their instruments from lockers or storage areas and promptly
go to their seats (in assigned sections) to assemble instruments, tune and warm
up.
*During rehearsal/class students are to raise their hands for permission to leave
their seat or to speak. It is not appropriate to talk to others when the director is
on the podium, or rehearsing other sections of the band.
*Students are expected to sit appropriately in their chairs with both feet on the
floor, never rocking the legs of the chair backward or upward.
*Students are encouraged to bring bottled water to band, but any other
beverages or food items (including candy) are not acceptable in the band class.
It is not acceptable to chew gum in a music class.
*When class ends, the director will dismiss you. Students should return all
instruments to their assigned storage areas. Music and music folders should be
returned to music storage cabinet. If you have borrowed a method book, be sure
to return it to the table where books are kept in front of the room. Before you
are dismissed you should return to your seat, straighten your chair and return
music stands to their “flipped down” storage position.
*Students are expected to inform director if he/she is unable to play because of
illness, dental work, etc. by bringing a signed note from parent/guardian.
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
concert
procedures
CONCERT ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are required to participate in a limited number of special evening and
weekend performances. Concerts are the culmination of many hours of hard
work, serve to complete the learning process, and are a vital part of the course
objectives and grading policy. Because performances are part of the course
objectives, attendance is mandatory. Family vacations, sports events, lack of
transportation, etc., are NOT considered legitimate reasons for missing
performances.
EXCUSED ABSENCES
Excused absences occur when there is an illness, death in the immediate family,
or emergency situation. In these cases please notify your child’s director at least
2 weeks prior to the concert date if possible.
In the event of an excused absence, points will be made up through a “make-up”
assignment. It is the student’s responsibility to see the teacher for make-up
work. Work must be turned in one week after the assignment is given.
Students are expected to arrive to the concert at least 30 minutes prior to
the start of each concert to tune their instruments and set up!
All students must remain for the entire concert to support their peers.
CONCERT ATTIRE
Appropriate concert dress is necessary. Only students who are dressed
appropriately will be permitted to participate.
Ensemble
Beginning Band
6th Grade Band
Intermediate Band
Concert Band
Orchestras
Ladies
Gentlemen
TBD
All students are required to wear:
Black Dress Pants with a Black Belt accompanied
with Black Dress Shoes and Black Socks. All students
must wear a Black Long Sleeve button down dress
shirt. Any color neck tie.
CONCERT ETIQUETTE
*Refrain from talking *No singing, tapping fingers or feet *Silent cellphones and
watch alarms *Applaud at appropriate times *Wait for a break in concert to
leave * No gum or candy *Do not sigh with boredom
Remember that you are representing LMS, and you want to be on your best
behavior.
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
FESTIVAL
Middle school bands from our band district, perform a program selected from
the state approved music literature list. A panel of adjudicators rates the band's
performance using a five level scale:
•
•
•
•
•
I = Superior
II = Excellent
III = Average
IV = Below Average
V = Poor
SOLO & ENSEMBLE
Just as an ensemble may go to band festival, soloists and small ensembles
(duets, trios, quartets, etc.) of all grade levels in middle school are strongly
urged to go to Solo and Ensemble Festival. Ratings, like those given to bands at
Band Festival, are given to each member of a small ensemble and to each
soloist. Please contact Ms. Ashman or Ms. Benjamin if you are interested in
participating.
MUSIC IN THE PARKS (SPRING TRIP)
Each spring, the A. Mario Loiederman MS Music Department participates in a
“Music in the Parks” festival, competing against other Middle Schools from the
Northeastern United States. To ensure that the ensembles’ diligent efforts are
fully realized, students must demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the
classroom and through performance.
This year we plan on participating in the Music in the parks Festival at Busch
Gardens, Williamsburg on Friday May 20, 2016, pending approval from MCPS.
There will be a fee associated with this trip and each student will have the
opportunity to raise funds for their respective accounts. It is the responsibility of
the student and parent(s)/guardian to raise funds for these trips. Listed below
are the three scheduled fundraisers and dates:
Fundraiser
Packets Distributed
Monies Due
Yankee Candle
October 5
October 21
Claire’s Gourmet
February 1
February 24
Krispy Kreme
April 11
April 27
More information about this trip will be presented as the year progresses.
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
performance
calendar
Performance
Date/Time
Open House
October 21, 2015
6:00 pm
Winter Concert
December 15, 2015
7:00 pm
Winter Wonderland
December 22, 2015
7:00 pm
Winter Wonderland
(Day Performance)
December 23, 2015
TBD
Pre Festival Concert
TBD
Festival
TBD
Pep Band
TBD
Music in the Parks
Busch Gardens
May 20, 2016
TBD
Spring Concert
May 24, 2016
7:00 pm
(Night Performance)
*Please note:
Rehearsals and performances are NOT optional and are part of each
student’s grade for the nine weeks. Please check the attendance policy in
the band handbook regarding absences.
This calendar does not include all rehearsal dates and times. Dates will be
added to the calendar as the school year progresses. Calendar is subject to
change. Changes made to the calendar will try to be made at least two
weeks prior to any event.
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
instruments
and supplies
School Owned Instruments
*Students and parents must sign a MCPS Bond Form before the instrument can be
issued and used by the student.
*Each instrument will be issued in good playing condition. Students are expected to
maintain their issued instruments accordingly. Any routine maintenance of the
instrument during class should be done at your seat. This includes application of
lubricating oil, cork grease or other necessary adjustments. Major maintenance and
cleaning of the instrument should be done at home, not in class.
*The student’s name should be on the instrument case, both inside and outside. Student
instruments have been misplaced by students in the school and on the bus; having your
child’s name and school on the case saves all of us lots of time and hassle.
*The instrument is to be stored in its designated space in the band room or their school
locker only. Storing the instrument in another area is done so at the student’s risk.
*Students must treat all instruments with great care and respect, especially those that
are rented or borrowed. If a borrowed or rented instrument is damaged due to
negligence of the student, it is his or her responsibility to pay for the repairs (as
per MCPS instrument bonding policy). Please strive to treat these instruments as if they
were your own.
*Music stores can assist in the purchase of the supplies needed for proper maintenance.
Contact the director if assistance is needed.
Instrument Rental
Instrument rental is available through Music & Arts, please see Ms. Benjamin or Ms.
Ashman if you are interested in renting an instrument.
Required Supply List
Instrument
Necessary Supplies
Flute
Cleaning rod and cloth
Bb Clarinet
Box of reeds (size 2.5), cork grease, swab
Bass or Alto Clarinet
Box of reeds (size 2.5 or 3), cork grease, swab, neck strap
Alto Saxophone
Box of reeds (size 2.5 or 3), cork grease, swab, neck strap
Tenor or Bari Sax
Box of reeds (size 2.5), cork grease, swab
Trumpet
Valve oil, slide grease
Trombone
Slide oil/cream and spray bottle
Bari/Euph/Tuba
Valve oil, slide grease
Percussionist
one or two sets of drumsticks
Violin & Viola
Cello
Microfiber Cloth, Shoulder Rest, Rosin, Extra Set of Strings
Bass
Microfiber Cloth, Rosin and Rockstop (for at home use)
Microfiber Cloth, Extra A string, Rosin and Rockstop (for at home use)
Sheet Music
*Music must be treated with the utmost care, and must be returned, when requested, in
the same condition in which it was received. Any notes taken on the music should be
done in pencil and erased before being returned. Lost or destroyed music must be
replaced. Each page lost or irrevocably damaged will cost $2.00 to replace.
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
agreement
form
Last Name_______________________ First Name _____________________
PARENT AND STUDENT AGREEMENT FORM
LOIEDERMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC PROGRAM 2015 - 2016
The following information is for use of the LMS Music Program only.
Student email: ______________________________________
Student cell-phone: __________________________________
Parent/guardian cell-phone: __________________________
Parent/guardian land line: ____________________________
Parent/guardian email: ______________________________
Edline and Email – Please note, email is the preferred method of communication,
and Edline is MCPS’ grading and classroom communication tool. Please make sure
that...
1) You are registered on Edline – let me know if you need assistance registering
2) Your email address on Edline is current and is one that you use regularly
Student Agreement:
I, _________________________________________, have read and understand, the
2015 – 2016 Loiederman Music Handbook.
Student signature ______________________________________ Date _______________
Parent/Guardian Acknowledgment and Agreement:
I understand that my child will participate in the Loiederman Middle School Music
Program for the 2015 – 2016 school year. I hereby grant permission for my child to
participate in all events involving their class. All events will be chaperoned by the
Director, Parents and/or other school approved adults.
I, _________________________________________, have reviewed this handbook with
(parent/guardian printed name)
my child, and understand and agree to the policies and procedures contained in the
2015 – 2016 Loiederman Music handbook.
Parent/Guardian _____________________________________ Date _________________
Signature
LOIEDERMAN MUSIC
volunteer
form
VOLUNTEER FORM
LOIEDERMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC PROGRAM 2015 - 2016
Every activity in which students are involved directly involves the support and help of
our wonderful parents. The Music Program has a reputation of excellence and our
parents are the backbone of this fine group. With busy schedules, each person who
provides assistance is a great help. We appreciate you sharing your time to assist our
students’ positive efforts.
____________________________
Student Name
____________________________
Parent Name
Instrumental Music Class
____________________________
Home Phone/Cell Phone
Beginning Band
6th Grade Band
Intermediate Band
Concert Band
Beg/Inter Orchestra
Advance Orchestra
____________________________
Parent’s Email
(check all the apply)
Committees
Fundraising
Chaperone
Videography
Holiday Concert
Spring Concert
✔