What's Happening in the Beginning Band World

I know that all you parents of clarinet players will appreciate this picture! In case you weren't sure what has been happening...the clarinets have begun working on their high registers! I was pleased to find that some students who haven't been practicing much have upped the ante in the last week or so, but only because they are relishing in how much it seems to annoy their parents and siblings! I know, a little twisted, right? I'm very pleased with the clarinet players progress as a whole. They are moving along quite nicely.

I've been having a problem with my Google Site lately. I haven't been able to edit the homework page in a while. Every time I try, the page freezes. So, I'll post the homework to the blog each week. Speaking of homework, since I was sick and not in school on Tuesday, the SGS bandlings should continue with the same homework they would have played for me this week and maybe add some extra work on the full band music. I will be expecting to record TWO practice records next week since I wasn't there this week. I will be looking at the week of February 15 and they should add February 22 and continue logging minutes for this week.

This week at RGS during the low brass lesson we were able to visit with another beginning band lesson at a school in Texas using Skype. In case you don't know, Skype is a video-conferencing service that is free. We "called" my friend's band room using my computer and then when he answered on his computer, we were able to see and hear him and his band members! We performed for each other and asked questions about how each school does band. It was really cool and I hope to do that all the students at some point this year.

We have another Band Buddies meeting on Monday, March 7. This time we'll meet at Richmond Burton Community High School. Last time I didn't mind if students simply showed up or didn't turn in a form. This time I'd really like to know how many beginning band students will be coming so that we can plan a little better. Please fill out the permission slip and turn it in by next Tuesday, March 1. I just sent an email with the permission slip attached in case you haven't seen the slip in the back-pack.


Have a great week!