Practice and Playing Tests
Home Practice Expectations
- Students should expect to practice from 40 - 90 minutes each week at home (that is OUTSIDE of Band class!).
- Best results are achieved from doing this in small chunks throughout the week, rather than all at once.
- Weekly playing tests are submitted on SmartMusic and reviewed by Garry
- Students should review the previous weeks playing test before moving on to the next one to see
Playing Test Information
- We will be using SmartMusic as our Music Student Management System
- Students will need access to a device with internet access and a microphone
- We will begin the year by signing up for our SmartMusic Accounts
- There MAY BE a one time fee of between $15-20 for the year. (we are looking into alternative funding sources to cover this cost, but do not have them at the moment...)
- This not only provides student access to their materials at home, the testing software, and other devices like tuners and metronomes, but a HUGE library of other music for their instrument they can explore!!!
- MORE INFORMATION AT THE BAND MEETING IN THE FALL!!!
How Parents Can Help
- Help select a regular practice time and place for your child.
- Check your child’s Google Classroom for important information.
- Encourage your child through positive support. Listen to practice sessions on occasion.
- Everyone will probably require a ton of patience while the beginning musician squeaks, squawks, and moans and groans his/her way through the first several weeks. It will get better! With regular practice those noises will be replaced in no time with the wonderful sounds of music! The rewards are well worth the wait.
- Set aside our concert dates to be sure you and your child can attend.
- Help students care for their instruments (maintenance, keep others from handling/playing, etc.)