• Each student is expected to play their instrument every day.  If a student fails to bring his or her instrument to class, a make up assignment may be given to the student to earn the participation points lost for that day (only if  the lack of participation is excused by the students parents via a note/e-mail/phone call, etc....)

• Students are required to have the following band method books:
• 6th Grade - "Essential Elements 2000", Book 1 (with CD and DVD)
• 7th Grade - "Essential Elements 2000", Book 1 (with CD and DVD) and Book 2 (with CD and DVD, for 2nd and 3rd trimester only)

       These books are available at either Universal Music (on 104th about 1/2 mile west of Irma), Music and Arts Center (SW

       corner of 88th and Wadsworth), Flesher-Hinton Music (on Tennyson just north of 38th) or at many on-line book stores

       (I use Hickeys.com - they are an on-line music store).  If you are going to one of the stores, you might want to call ahead

       and make sure they have the book you are looking for.

Beginning Band (Woodwinds and Brass/Percussion)

RTMS is excited to provide students with an opportunity to play in the band program  In this class, the students learn to perform on woodwind, brass or percussion instruments.  In addition, students will learn how to read music and the techniques for performing in a large ensemble.  A variety of musical styles are introduced.  No previous experience is necessary.  Students will learn to play and maintain their instruments, which may be purchased or rented (see the link to instrument rental on my home page).  Students will perform a concert at the end of their semester of band.  Successful completion of this beginning course will prepare students for the opportunity to pursue Intermediate Band in thier 7th grade year.

Intermediate Band

In this class, students will continue to refine their playing skills and techniques.  They will learn new music skills, music theory and history.  They will learn about music by playing various musical styles and by performing music written by various composers.  Students will perform a minimum of two evening concerts per school year.  Successful completion of this course will prepare students for the opportunity to pursue Concert Band in their 8th grade year.

Concert Band

In this ensemble, students will play highly challenging music and prepare for concerts and festivals.  Concert Band students perform on their instruments, learn advanced performance techniques, music theory and music history.  They will learn about music by playing various musical styles and by performing music written by various composers.  Students will perform a minimum of two evening concerts during the school year as well as travel to festivals and other schools for educational outreach experiences.  Previous band experience is required.

Jazz Band

The Jazz Band at RTMS is an extracurricular group that will rehearse before school twice a week and will begin towards the beginning of October.  Students who play the saxophone, trombone, trumpet, string bass, piano and guitar will have the opportunity to audition for the Jazz Band.  The Jazz Band will perform at concerts at Rocky Top as will as travel to one or more festivals outside of school.  Audition information will be handed out to students by the end of September.