Advanced Orchestra Course Guide


Teacher Contact Information

Teacher Office Hours

Rachel McGuire Orchestra Room L-3 Period 2 [email protected] (650) 213-0159

After school at TEAM: 3:00-3:05 Mondays Drop-in Times: Brunch- M, TH; Lunch- M Appointments: Wednesdays at lunch or WIP, Mondays after school. Please schedule in advance. Via email - emails will be returned within 48 hours on weekdays.


Course Overview Course Description

The Advanced Orchestra daily rehearsals are spent working on the development of string technique and fundamentals, knowledge of music within a historical and cultural context, and large group ensemble playing. Students perform at formal concerts, assembly programs including an elementary school tour, festivals, and other special events.

Performances CONCERT ATTENDANCE Students receive academic credit for all performances in addition to daily classroom activities. • All members of the ensemble are required to attend all events listed on the calendar. • Absences will be excused for personal illness, family emergency, and religious holidays. • Prior approval may be given at the discretion of Ms. McGuire for other unavoidable conflicts with at least 48 hours advanced notice. • Excused absences will be given a make-up assignment. • Unexcused absences will result in a zero for the ensemble skills grade. CONCERT DRESS Jordan Orchestra polo shirt, black dress pants, black socks, and all-black dress shoes Turn to page 3 for a complete events calendar.

Procedures & Expectations CLASSROOM PRACTICES 1. Treat all teachers, classmates, and equipment with respect. 2. Work and perform to the best of your ability at all times. 3. Listen to and follow directions the FIRST time they are given. 4. Seek help when you need it!

CLASSROOM PROCEDURES 1. Stow backpacks in your locker. 2. Water containers must have lids; no food or gum. 3. Be in assigned seat, ready to work, within 2 minutes of the bell. 4. Bring all materials to every class.

5. Follow all Jordan rules at all times Our orchestra is a music team. The actions of any individual can either help or hinder the entire class.

CONSEQUENCES for not being a team player: 30 minute after-school detention

Common Statement of Student Adherence to all Board Policies All students are expected to know and adhere to all PAUSD School Board policies including, but not limited to: tardiness & attendance, student discipline & behavior, homework, academic honesty, and citizenship & respect.

GRADING PRACTICES Grade Breakdown - 25% for each of the following categories: • Daily Participation and Materials Attendance, attentiveness, cooperation, and a willingness to work your hardest every class starts with bringing all of the required materials! • Performances Our orchestra is a music team! Every student must participate in all concerts to perform at our best! Students will be graded on learning targets such as blend, balance, and following a conductor. • Playing Tests Playing tests are a way for students to show Ms. McGuire their work and to get individual feedback for improvement. Students are tested around 5-6 times a semester on learning targets in areas such as pitch, rhythm, articulations, etc. • Written Work & Quizzes Students will be assessed on learning targets in music theory, history, and context. Grading Scale: 100-90% = A

89-80 = B

79-70 = C

69-60 = D

59-0 = F

Required & Recommended Materials Classroom  Music  Books   Students will each be assigned books for technical, rhythmic, and sight-reading work throughout the year. These books are to be returned in the same condition as when they were checked-out, with reasonable wear and tear, or student will be responsible for replacement costs.

Required  Materials  

1. Pencil with eraser 2. Music Folder or binder containing orchestra sheet music 3. Rosin 4. Cleaning Cloth 5. Name tag on instrument case 6. Shoulder rest or sponge (violin and viola) 7. Rock-stop or strap (cello and bass) 8. Extra set of strings (required if you are using your own or a store-rented instrument) 9. Music Stand (for at-home practice)

Recommended  Materials   1. Digital Tuner 2. Metronome

Advanced Orchestra Events Calendar Sep. 23

Orchestra Retreat

3:15-5:30 PM

Oct. 31

Halloween Assembly

5/6 Per.

Dec. 8

Jordan Orchestra Concert

7:00 PM

Jan. 18

Jordan SoCal Tour Benefit Concert (tentative)

7:00 PM

Jan. 26

Band & Orchestra Elementary Tour

AM

Mar. 2

Jordan Orchestra Concert

7:00 PM

Mar. 22-25

SoCal Music Tour (pending district approval)

May 11

Jordan Orchestra Concert

7:00 PM


Orchestra Agreement 2016-2017 Student I have read the information in the Jordan Orchestra Course Guide and understand its contents. I am aware of the scheduled events and am committed to participating. I am aware that I will be responsible for mastering specific learning targets for my class and my grade will be based on my achievement of these targets. I understand the expectations for daily rehearsal, will adhere to the rules, and understand the consequences of failing to do so. I am committed to practicing and being a positive and hardworking member of the ensemble.

Student name (printed) ______________________________________________________________

Student Signature ________________________________________________ date______________

Parent/Guardian I have read the information in the Jordan Orchestra Course Guide and understand its contents. I am aware of the scheduled events and am committed to making sure my child will participate. I also understand the grading system for the class and the expectations for daily rehearsal. I will ask my child frequently to show me what he/she is working on in orchestra and encourage their continued practice and improvement.

Parent/Guardian Signature _________________________________________

date______________