syllabus

Orchestra Course Syllabus
6th & 7/8 Grades

The Orchestra Classes in the Wenatchee Middle Schools perform music from each of the historical periods of Orchestral music as well as contemporary instructional works in a variety of styles.
Students begin to learn advanced playing and bowing technics such as upper positions, vibrato, double-stops, spiccato. Students will expand their knowledge of musical terms and theory, including scales, key signatures, and rhythms.
Students will be reading and writing about music and musical subjects during the course of the year.
Students will be reading music on a daily basis , and have the opportunity to write music, as well.
The Orchestra rehearses for performance at five concerts during the school year (See < Concert Dates>)
FMS Daily Planner will be utilized to record assignments and practice goals, and for occasional communication with parents.
Make Your Day will be used in the management of class and rehearsals

The teamwork, discipline, and unity required to produce a fine performance are aptly served by the MYD citizenship program

Grading will be on the following formula:

1/3 Daily Effort: Points (MYD)
1/3 concert and rehearsal attendance
1/6 practice as indicated by turning in practice records 1/6 graded units (theory, auditions,writing and reading assignments, group/solo performance, etc.)

Concert Dress: Black slacks/skirts, dark shoes and socks, tux shirt and bow ties (provided).
ATTENDANCE AT CONCERTS AND REHEARSALS is REQUIRED at all scheduled concerts. Students are expected to demonstrate musicianship, discipline and appropriate concert/audience behavior before during and after concerts. Acceptable reasons for missing a concert are limited to family emergency, illness. Absence should be reported in advance of the concert if at all possible by phone call or written note from parent or guardian. The Concert is the Final Exam for a graded unit, worth about 30% of the quarterly grade and therefore must be made up (make up assignment) if missed for any reason.