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Beginning Band

The main objective in Beginning Band is to teach students with little or no experience to play acceptably as quickly as possible. The most difficult period of time for beginners is the first several months. For this reason, we will try to minimize the anxiety of learning something totally new and will stress the enjoyment of playing an instrument. However, to be truly successful in this class, practice at home is essential. Selection of instruments will occur during the first weeks of school under the supervision of the director. Performance opportunities will increase throughout the year as musical skills improve.

Percussion Ensemble

Percussion Ensemble is open to any Irving student with one or more years of experience playing percussion instruments. Students will study the snare drum, tympani, mallet instruments, cymbals, and a wide range of other percussion instruments. The class will perform as a Percussion Ensemble and will also be given the opportunity to perform with the Beginning and Cadet Bands. Practice outside of class time will be essential to success in this class.

Cadet Band

Cadet Band is open to any Irving student with one or more years of band instruction. In this group we will continue to improve basic skills, such as correct embouchure and hand position, and to improve technical and rhythmic facility. Students are expected to practice on a regular basis to ensure their success in class. Many performance opportunities will be available to students.

Concert I and II Bands

Concert I is open to Irving 7^th graders based on the recommendation of their elementary director. Concert II is primarily an 8^th grade band class, but is open to any Irving student based on an audition held the previous spring. In these more advanced classes, we will continue to strive for better intonation and tone quality while stressing improved technical facility. The individual’s contribution to the work of the entire group will become very important. Understanding and perfecting these objectives is vital to the success of the group. Numerous performance opportunities will be available to students in these classes.

Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band is the school’s most advanced band class and membership is determined by audition. All aspects of fine performance skills are stressed in this class. Everyday we will strive to prepare music of the highest possible caliber and display a mature attitude in rehearsal. Every part is vital to an excellent performance, so each student is expected to be prepared for every rehearsal through practice outside of class time. Many performance opportunities will be available to members of the Symphonic Band.

Jazz Band (new for 2009-2010 school year)

This extra-curricular ensemble will perform different styles of jazz and popular music. It is open to students throughout Irving by audition. They will rehearse on Fridays after school.