Course Descriptions

Band 6

This is a year-long elective class and meets every other day for the entire school year.

Students begin instrumental music instruction during a four-week summer program (last week of July through the first three weeks of August). During the school year, students continue individual/small group lessons once each week for twenty minutes, in addition to full rehearsals. First-year instruction focuses on tonal concepts, counting fundamental rhythmic patterns, correct fingerings, and hand position on the chosen instrument. Music performed is typically grade 1 (occasionally 1.5). The 6th grade band presents 2–3 required evening performances during the year.

Band 7

This is a year-long elective class and meets every other day for the entire school year.

Second-year students begin a combined marching program with 8th grade. Most marching instruction occurs during the four-week summer band program (July–August), culminating with the Holmen Kornfest Parade. Additional instruction and required performances occur during the school day in the fall (Homecoming Parade, Oktoberfest Torchlight Parade, and the Marching Band Review Concert with HHS).

Concert literature emphasizes increased scale study and quality grade 2 music (with some 1.5–2.5). All students complete a major unit in solo/small ensemble and participate in the WSMA District Solo & Ensemble Festival in February or another approved performance. Jazz Ensemble and/or Jazz Combo may be offered after school. Additional required performances include evening concerts near the end of each quarter (typically January, March, May) and the WSMA Large Group Festival (late March/early April). Weekly 20-minute individual/small group lessons continue.

Band 7 for Beginners

This is a semester-long elective class and meets every other day (first semester only).

Students new to band in 7th grade join a beginning band designed as a small ensemble for close, accelerated instruction on fundamentals: hand position, posture, tonal concept, and rhythm. Band and marching music are introduced so students can participate with the 7th/8th grade bands at the Homecoming and Oktoberfest Torchlight Parades, the Marching Band Review Concert, and the January Winter Concert.

At the conclusion of first semester, students transition into the full 7th grade band for the remainder of the year and begin a weekly twenty-minute individual/small group lesson.

Band 8

This is a year-long elective class and meets every other day for the entire school year.

In the third year of instrumental study, students learn about and complete seating auditions. Advanced scales and technical studies are added, and top students may be recommended for local and state middle-level honors bands. Marching band, Solo & Ensemble, WSMA Large Group Festival, and jazz studies continue, with additional performance opportunities in school and the community. The 8th grade band also performs at the school’s Veterans Day Assembly in November.

Concert literature is typically grade 2.5, with some grade 2 and 3. Required performances include evening concerts near the end of each quarter (typically January, March, May); the Oktoberfest Torchlight Parade and Fall Review marching performances; and Solo & Ensemble Festival in February. Weekly 20-minute individual/small group lessons continue throughout the year.