Pennell and Parkside2013-14 Elementary Band Handbook

Mr. Nicholas PignataroInstrumental Music Teacher

Pennell and Parkside Elementary Schools Penn-Delco School District(610) 497-6300 Ext. 7110

npignataro@pdsd.orgUpdated: September 4th, 2013

PENN-DELCO MUSIC MISSION STATEMENTIt is the mission of Penn-Delco Music Educators to engage and nurture every student’s musical aptitude and musical appreciation within a rigorous and relevant environment. We hold true to traditional musical ensembles while embracing the current technological advances and trends of the 21st Century. We believe active participation in music is integral for the development of the whole child, forming creative, responsible, and productive citizens.

WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE BAND?Band in elementary school is an optional curricular offering for all fourth and fifth grade students to study instrumental music.

• A pull-out lesson takes place once a week during the school day• Large group “rehearsals” take place prior to the school day in preparation for concert performances.

Participation in the instrumental music program in our elementary schools is the beginning of a nine- year program of instrumental music education in the Penn-Delco School District. Long-term participation in band offers students the ability to continue to develop their individual technique and musicianship as well as provide a gratifying group experience. It is the hope of the Music Department that participation in the band program will foster better understanding and appreciation of music and help students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will help them throughout their academic career.

HOW DO I JOIN THE BAND?The band is open to students to play the following instruments:Trumpet, Baritone, Trombone, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone(s), Keyboards (Piano-Mallets), and Percussion (Drums). Other instruments, such as guitar, are not used in the ensemble, but are introduced in middle school.

Students who wish to be a member of the band in elementary school must enroll at the beginning of the school year. Returning the signature pages at the end of this handbook is the first step toward becoming a member of the band; after that, we will collect more details from parents, and make sure you have an instrument so you can practice at school and at home.

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HOW DO I GET AN INSTRUMENT?Each student must have the following in order to become a band member: 1. Instrument in working order with name tag on the case 2. Lesson book (cost approx. $8.00)

a. Essential Elements 2000- Brass and Woodwind playersb. Alfred’s Drum Method, Book 1- Percussion playersc. Schaum Pre A- The Green Book- Keyboard players

3. Music folder (provided, holds the book and music) 4. Two sharpened pencils

Additional accessories needed for each instrument:Flute: Tuning rod, cleaning swabClarinet: Box of 10, #2.5 reeds, instrument swab, reed case (recommended)Saxophone: Box of 10, #2.5 reeds, instrument swab, reed case (recommended)Trumpet: Valve oil, tuning slide grease (petroleum jelly works, but less effectively)Trombone: Valve oil, tuning slide grease (petroleum jelly works, but less effectively)Percussion: Stick back with student’s name, concert drum sticks 5B and 2B, drum pad, metronome

Instrument SelectionPlease remember that the your instrument is a tool that brings the musical experience to life. Though instruments may all look alike, a good one goes a long way toward making playing in band a positive experience.

The Penn-Delco Music Department can assist you with renting an instrument through Music & Arts Center. However, If you choose to obtain an instrument on your own, please make sure that you obtain an instrument of high quality, and ask for one of the recommended brands listed below. With proper care they will stay in adjustment, enable your child to play in tune, and make maximum progress in class. (Please check with Mr. Pignataro about brands not on this list BEFORE making a rental/purchase on your own).

Winds & Brass: Yamaha, Selmer, Bach, Jupiter, Conn, King, Artley, Vito, Buffet, Gemeinhart, Armstrong, Scherl & Roth, Getzen, Holton, LeblancPercussion: Remo, Vic Firth, Yamaha, Pearl, Ludwig, Xymox, HQ-ReelfeelKeyboards: Piano (at home and in-tune/functional) or Electronic Keyboards:Yamaha, Casio, Korg (we recommend touch sensitivity, USB Midi capability-more cost involved)

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Instrument RepairsMusic & Arts Centers have a representative who will visit the student’s school regularly. If there are any problems or issues with a rented instrument, they are almost always covered under the rental agreement and the instrument will be fixed without a fee.

If you own your instrument, the music representative can pick up the instrument from your child’s school and repair it for a fee. Instruments are picked up at the school are usually returned the following week. To arrange for an instrument to be fixed, please contact Mr. Pignataro via email (npignataro@pdsd.org) with a description of the issues, so that he can communicate with the representatives.

WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE LIKE?Each student will participate in a weekly lesson, as well as a weekly rehearsal. It is the responsibility of the student to know their times each week, as they do change. *Weekly lesson/rehearsal schedules will be posted in the classroom, in the band room, on Mr. Pignataro’s webpage, and will be sent to parents via email each week. *Note that in the case of in-service, rain, snow, and other unique circumstances: ALWAYS ASSUME WE WILL HAVE REHEARSALS AND LESSONS

Each student will need to bring the following items with them to lessons/rehearsals: *Instrument and all accessories (mouthpieces, reeds, oils, etc.) *Method Book and Other Music (suggest folder to keep it all in one place)*Lessons take place during the school day, with similar instruments. *Last approximately 40 minutes, on the same day each week. *Rotating time schedule: students miss 1 out of 30 meetings in a subject. *Are mandatory for participation in the band.*Rehearsals take place before school, with all types of instruments. *Students report to the band room no earlier than 7:45am *Students are in their seats, ready to begin rehearsal at 8:00am sharp

Weekly Lesson Schedule/Rotation (EXAMPLE)

Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6Time I 10:00-10:40 Flute Drums Trombone Horn Trumpet SaxophoneTime II 10:45-11:25 Clarinet Flute Drums Trombone Horn TrumpetTime III 11:25-12:00 Saxophone Clarinet Flute Drums Trombone HornTime IV 12:35-1:20 Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet Flute Drums TromboneTime V 1:35-2:10 Horn Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet Flute DrumsTime VI 2:10-2:40 Trombone Horn Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet Flute

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WILL I PERFORM IN THE CONCERTS?There are two bands in each elementary school:

A Band (Advanced Band): Most 2nd year students and advanced 1st year students The Pennell/Parkside A Bands will perform together in the December Holiday Concerts:- Tuesday, December 3rd at 9:20am: A Band Holiday Daytime Assembly at Parkside for peers- Tuesday, December 3rd at 7:00pm: Parkside Winter Concert for family/community- Thursday, December 5th at 10:00am: A Band Holiday Daytime Assembly at Pennell for

peers- Thursday, December 5th at 7:00pm: Pennell Winter Concert for family/community- Tuesday, May 30th at 10:00am: A and B daytime assembly for peers at Pennell The A Bands will also perform in a concert with all four elementary A Bands:- Tuesday, May 20th at 10:00am: A and B Band daytime assembly at Pennell for peers- Thursday, May 22nd at 9:30am: A and B Band daytime assembly at Parkside for peers- Thursday, May 22nd at 7pm: Sun Valley High School A Band Concert for family/community

B Band (Beginning Band): 1st year students The B Bands will perform in a Holiday Preview Concert to demonstrate skills progress:- Tuesday, December 17th at 2:00pm: B Band Preview at Pennell - Thursday, December 19th at 2:00pm: B Band Preview at Parkside The B Bands will also perform in a concert with all four elementary B Bands:- Tuesday, May 20th at 10:00am: A and B Band daytime assembly at Pennell for peers- Tuesday, May 20th at 7:00pm: Sun Valley High School B Band Concert for family/community- Thursday, May 22nd at 9:30am: A and B Band daytime assembly at Parkside for peers

*Please Note: Daytime concerts are for student peers only. Family, friends, and community members are invited to attend evening performances.*

As additional performance opportunities arise throughout the school year, students and parents will be made aware of the details. We try to give our students many opportunities to display their hard work and talent; nothing motivates a musician more than playing for live listeners!

It is possible to move between the two bands during the course of the year. Students who display great practice habits on their own time usually progress to the “A” band much more quickly than students who do not practice on a regular basis.

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Concert Dress:We will use two types of attire—formal and uniform.

Formal Dress (Holiday Evening Concerts)• Boys: Black dress pants/shoes/socks/belt; White dress shirt (pressed, tucked in)• Girls: Black dress pants/dress/long skirt/shoes; White dress shirt/blouse (pressed, tucked in)

Uniform (Assemblies, Spring Concert and Field trips)• Students will wear the “Penn-Delco Music Department” T-shirts and Blue Jeans. *(T-shirts can be purchased from the director for $10 – see form in band room)

Concert/Performance PolicyAll band students are required to perform in both their evening concert and the in-school concerts that will take place during the school day. Please plan ahead. Discuss any conflicts for the night of concerts with your child’s coaches or other activity leaders. While a student may have many baseball games in one season, this is your child's only chance to perform for you!

Unexcused absences will result in the withholding of certificate awards and the removal of the student from field trips. Students who have difficulty getting rides to the concert should speak to Mr. Pignataro well in advance of the concert so that a ride can be arranged. Illness and emergency will be considered acceptable excuses, but both need to be followed up by a note from home explaining the situation. Absences with no notes will be considered unexcused. Please see the performance schedule to avoid conflicts for the upcoming season.

Bonus OpportunityEvery Penn-Delco student has an energizing chance to play with excellent bands in school and in the community. Students can challenge themselves to work towards joining and staying in Pennell/Parkside A Bands. Also, students who maintain a positive attitude, demonstrate continuing progress, and go above and beyond as a musician will be nominated for the Pennsylvania Music Educators’ Associaion (PMEA) District 12 Band Fest during the spring months. Mr. Pignataro nominates students based on the attitude, progress, and work ethic mentioned above. This honor allows participants to play with some of the best 5th and 6th grade instrumental students from all of Delaware County.

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HOW WILL I BE EVALUATED?Classroom Rules:1. Be here. Become a musician! Musicians are team members that come to all lessons and

rehearsals. It is your job to make yourself a better musician and team member!

2. Arrive early. Musicians arrive before rehearsals so that they are ready to start at the posted time. You must be seated in their chairs with instruments, music, and pencils completely ready to play. Plus, Mr. Pignataro helps students who are the first ones to be set up!

3. Have your stuff. Always bring your instrument, your pencils, your music, and your musician brain with you! Musicians need stuff to make beautiful music.

4. Act like a musician. When Mr. Pignataro is on the podium, ALL students are ready, watching, and listening, ALWAYS. Be kind to other student musicians and to all of the equipment in the room.

5. Play with a beautiful sound, ALWAYS. You will sound excellent because you will always try to play beautifully! It is fun to try to play with the best sound. Music will always be fun.

Act Like a MusicianMusicians...watch the teacher/conductor...bring two pencils...Take a breath before they play...are seated early...treat other students respectfully...practice at home...use listening ears... help a friend... raise their hands to speak...write down reminders in their music...clean their instruments and cases...touch only their own instruments...remain silent when Mr. Pignataro is in front of the band...and much more!

Musicians have a responsibility to the band. An individual’s behavior and practice habits have a major impact on every band student. Students must act like musicians at all times. Consequences for students who do not act like musicians will be handled on an individual basis and are based on the type of action/inaction. The order of consequences will depend on the severity and frequency of the action/inaction.

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They are as follows:• Verbal warning• Removal from lesson/rehearsal• Conference with student• Telephone call home• Recess detention• Parent conference• Administrative discipline

* It is important that students, teachers, appropriate school faculty, building principals, and parents/guardians work together to encourage students to act like musicians. At any time, Mr. Pignataro will communicate concerns. Parents/guardians should feel free to contact Mr. Pignataro at any time and expect an appropriately quick response.*

Rehearsal/Lesson AttendanceStudents who participate in band have made the commitment to attend scheduled lessons and rehearsals. Therefore, attendance is required. Students will not be penalized for early dismissals, or other school functions. Since rehearsals and lessons occur one time per week, it is preferred that students schedule make-up work sessions with teachers on days other than their lesson day. If it is imperative that a student needs to make-up work, has seminar, or has another conflict, the student should notify Mr. Pignataro as soon as possible so that other arrangements can be made. Please feel free to communicate with Mr. Pignataro at any time.

Group morning rehearsals are the preparation of performances that make concert performances possible. Students are not allowed to participate in school assemblies, field trips or evening concerts if more than 2 rehearsal absences take place for each concert season. If you have any questions or difficulty with early morning transportation, please contact Mr. Pignataro to help you find a possible solution.

If a student is going to miss a rehearsal/lesson due to absence, please send a courtesy email or phone call to Mr. Pignataro, in addition to the attendance office before that rehearsal/lesson takes place. This will help considerably in accounting for all students during the course of the day. Thank you!

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Instrument Liability• Your child’s instrument needs to come to school on the day of the lesson or rehearsal, and

LEAVE the school on the same day. If the instrument lives at school, how will you practice at home?

• Penn-Delco cannot be held liable for instruments that stay at school overnight. There are many functions that go on in school and your instrument could disappear. RESPONSIBILITY is part of what we strive to teach!

Assessment/Incentive ProgramsMr. Pignataro will assess students daily in two ways. The first is on a 5-point scale based on five categories: Promptness, Engagement in Class, Listening Skills, Behavior, and Preparation. This assessment will be averaged to create an overall progress report. Please see the Daily Rubric for further detail. Secondly, Mr. Pignataro will check skill completion and band music preparation daily. Students must master all parts of each song in order to perform fully in the band concert.

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Additionally, students will assess themselves using the following rating scale:

5- No mistakes4- 1 or 2 mistakes3- 3 or 4 mistakes2- Still needs work1- Still too difficult to play

MAY I PRACTICE AT HOME? You Bet!“PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT”

• Students are expected to practice AT LEAST 15-20 minutes per day• Students are expected to practice AT LEAST 5-6 days per week• Life is busy, so make music practice part of the daily homework routine.• Document practice on the PRACTICE RECORD in the front of the method book.

Practice TipsLearning to play a musical instrument is a long process where skills must be reinforced daily. The task is very complex, utilizing reading skills, reasoning skills, eye-hand coordination, and aural (listening) skills all at the same time! Even the professionals spend time each day practicing basics.Here are some tips for PARENTS to help ensure your child’s success:• Make sure your child’s instrument is in good working order • Provide a quiet place with a firm chair and a music stand. • Practice the same time each day whether it is as soon as you come home from school,

immediately after dinner, etc. When consistent, daily practice becomes HABIT. Good habits result in SUCCESS.

• Encourage regular informal home performances. Let your child show off to you often! • Praise often. With young musicians come mistakes followed by learning, which is

normal, and music to Mr. Pignataro’s ears.

Music Resources for Your Child • Method Book (CD and DVD) includes play along tracks and videos. • SmartMusic software: www.smartmusic.com $36.00 annually• Concert music and other supplemental music will be sent home or posted on the teacher webpage as content is covered.

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Private Lessons I strongly encourage every student to assist his or her pursuit of excellence through private instruction. A good private teacher is perhaps one of the most valuable investments a parent can make for their child. Band directors are trained in the instruction of every band and orchestral instrument, but their knowledge cannot compare to that of a professional player who makes a living performing on their instrument.

Private teachers are excellent for the student who wishes to grow faster or for the student who is having isolated problems which require the knowledge and skills of a specialist.

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Pennell and Parkside Elementary Schools

Band Participation Contract

I will participate in the band for the entire school year and to the best of my ability attend all rehearsals, and all performances.

• I understand that band is a yearlong commitment and participation is through the last day of school. • I understand that my success on a musical instrument depends on playing it every day, so I agree to

schedule practice into my daily homework routine. • I will also be a responsible member of the band by attending lessons on a weekly and consistent basis. • I will always try to give my best effort to improve as a musician. • I will keep a positive attitude toward band and school throughout the year. • I will use my many resources (instrument, technology, books, people, and Mr. Pignataro’s website) for

help and support. • If I have any questions or concerns about band, I will talk to Mr. Pignataro.

Student Name_____________________________________________________

Student Signature_______________________________________________Date__________________

I have read the “Band Handbook” on Mr. Pignataro’s website and agree to support this signed contract. I also agree to support my child’s efforts to make music and will ask my young musician to perform for me often.

Parent Signature________________________________________________Date___________________

*To save resources, all information will be posted to the teacher webpage in PDF format. Please use the webpage, throughout the year. If you require a printed version of the 2013-2014 BAND HANDBOOK please

circle “Handbook PLEASE” on this paper to request a hard copy to be sent home.

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2013-2014 Instrumental MusicInformation Form

School: PENNELL or PARKSIDE Grade + Homeroom Teacher:____________________

Student Name:_________________________________________________________________

Instrument: (Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Baritone, Trombone, Percussion(Drums), Keyboards)______________________________________________Instrument status: check one_____ I currently posses an instrument (own or rent)_____ I am waiting for rented/purchased instrument to arrive_____ I haven’t rented/purchased an instrument yet Have you purchased the appropriate method book yet? ____Yes_____No

a. Essential Elements 2000- Brass and Woodwind playersb. Alfred’s Drum Method, Book 1- Percussion playersc. Schaum Pre A- The Green Book- Keyboard players

Parent/Guardian first + last name:__________________________________________________

Phone- Home:_________________ Work:___________________ Cell:___________________

E-mail:_______________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian first + last name:__________________________________________________

Phone- Home:_________________ Work:___________________ Cell:___________________

E-mail:_______________________________________________________________________Please return this completed form at the following 8:00am meeting times:

Pennell B Band- Tuesday, September 10th at 8:00amPennell A Band- Wednesday, September 11th at 8:00amParkside B Band- Thursday, September 12th at 8:00am

Parkside A Band- Friday, September 13th at 8:00am*Note: Please do not drop students off before 7:45am; no supervision is available before this time.*

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