This page is dedicated to assist you in learning more about our band curriculum and requirements.  Should you have any questions regarding our program and requirements, please contact one of our directors.  Please click here if you would like to access a copy of our SPMS Band Handbook.

OVERVIEW:
The band program at Summit Parkway Middle School is a performance based course. Students that start band in the 6th grade will follow a sequential and comprehensive program. Successful completion of each level is necessary before advancing to the next level. This will assure musical development and group maturity for the performance of quality repertoire. All band members are encouraged to participate in state competitions and festivals.

6th Grade:

Weeks 1-6:

Materials - Master Theory Book I by: Charles Peters and Paul Yoder

All students signed up for band will be given the opportunity to demonstrate basic theory, rhythmic and physical skills needed to be a successful band student. This will be accomplished through theory instruction and mouthpiece testing. Assessment of each student will be completed following the theory test. The ability to pass this test with an 85% or above demonstrates skills, ability and motivation to continue in the band program.

Weeks 7-9:

Materials: Standard of Excellence Book 1 by: Bruce Pearson (red book)

Students that pass the theory portion will be given recommendations regarding the instrument and book to rent or purchase. This purchase or rental must be accomplished in a timely fashion for efficient use of class time. We would expect students to be prepared with book and instrument within 10 days of the letter of recommendation. Assembly, care of the instrument, posture, breathing, warm-up, and characteristic sounds will be the focus of band for this two week period.

Weeks 10 - 16:

The 6th grade students are now ready to progress quickly through the Standard of Excellence I Method Book. As listening skills improve and physical practice improves each student's sound, the winter concert selections will be included in class instruction. This concert repertoire will include all components taught from week 1 in band. A parent conference will be scheduled for those students that can not keep up with comprehensive development. Placement of those students will be determined at that time.

Weeks 17 - 28:

After the winter break, students will learn scales and be introduced to a higher level of concert music. DBAE components will be included in each book lesson and integration of History, Math, Science and Creative Writing will be maintained. Assessment will be based on group participation, individual playing tests and practice records.

Weeks 29 - 36:

Advancement to 7th grade, will be based on the following:

• Successful completion of the Pass-Off Chart

• Good behavior and attitude in band class

• Class and Concert participation

7th Grade:

Weeks 1-4:
Materials: Standards of Excellence Book II by: Bruce Pearson (blue book)

Students continuing in band will demonstrate characteristic tone, listening skills, rhythmic knowledge, the ability to interpret musical symbols, an acceptable level of proficiency in executive skills and the ability to demonstrate these major goals through independent performance. Goals include Winter Concert Repertoire which will be selected based on successful completion of Standard of Excellence Book II material.
 

Weeks 5 - 17:
All-State Auditions: All students will be given the audition requirements and encouraged to participate in the audition. All students will be tested on scale, solo and musical terms requirements.

Weeks 18-28:
Concert Festival will be a goal for all 7th grade band members. An honor band will be selected based on individual audition. All musical selections must be played with the correct pitch, rhythm, dynamics, style and articulation.

Weeks 29 -32:
Solo and Ensemble will be encouraged and discussed. Small groups and individuals may apply and request instruction time.

Weeks 30 - 36:
Spring Concert literature will be selected based on commercial styles and popular songs. The students will demonstrate the ability to play all styles of music correctly.

***All 7th grade students must pass off required book exercises and scales to be advanced to the 8th grade band.

8th Grade:

Weeks 1-16:
Comprehensive development of band students will provide the opportunity for 8th grade band students to perform a more mature characteristic tone on their instrument. Vibrato and intonation will be demonstrated daily. The entire 8th grade year is more performance based than the 6th or 7th grade.

Weeks 5 - 28:
Participation in All-State, Solo and Ensemble and Concert Festivals are good goals for each 8th grade band student.

Weeks 26 - 36:
Music selections for performance will challenge the student's technical skills, knowledge of styles, reading skills and rehearsal skills. Musical styles from classical, romantic and contemporary compositions will be included. Assessment will be based on the student's:

• ability to pass off required scales and musical passages

• practice records

• class participation

Band objectives and goals are based on The Richland School District Two "A Curriculum Guide For Music Education", pages 215 - 248. The table for each objective is flexible and based on successful completion of each task and goal.