Pennell and Parkside 2016-2017 Elementary Instrumental Music Handbook Mr. Nicholas Pignataro Instrumental Music Teacher Pennell and Parkside Elementary Schools Penn- Delco School District (610) 497-6300 Ext. 7110 npignataro@pdsd.org Updated: 6 September 2016
Table of Contents Mission Statement, Educational Philosophy, Joining the Band..3 Obtain an Instrument...4 Schedule 5 Concerts 6 Bonus Opportunity 7 Student Evaluation....8 Rehearsal/Lesson Attendance 9 Instrument Liability... 10 At- Home Practice. 10 Private Lessons.11 Appendix A: Lesson Schedule Rotation Example.12 Appendix B: Penn- Delco Music Rubric...13 Appendix C: Practice Sheet Example 14 Sign- Up Packet 15-17 2
Penn- Delco Music Mission Statement It is the mission of Penn- Delco Music Educators to engage and nurture every student s musical aptitude and musical appreciation within a rigorous and relevant environment. We hold true to traditional musical ensembles while embracing the current technological advances and trends of the 21 st Century. We believe active participation in music is integral for the development of the whole child, forming creative, responsible, and productive citizens. Mr. Pignataro s Educational Philosophy My educational philosophy in instrumental music is that everybody plays. What I mean is, every student can play an instrument and can grow a great deal. Music is a shared, common language within all people. In instrumental music, we simply utilize brass, wood, or percussive instruments to prepare students for the intricate world we live in. Instrumentalists play together to make a band, just like athletes work together to make a team. They practice alone, rehearse in a group, and prepare performances just like an athlete does for a game or match. Instrumentalists spend time, alone and with others, practicing fine motor skills, listening skills, problem- solving skills, math skills, and higher- level thinking skills when they prepare music. In instrumental music, students have the advantage of a structured activity in school to develop these skills. Joining the Band and Instrumental Music Instrumental music in elementary school is an optional curricular offering for all fourth and fifth grade students. - A pullout lesson takes place once a week during the school day. - Large group rehearsals take place in the morning before the school day in preparation for concert performances. Participation in the instrumental music program is the beginning of a nine- year program of instrumental music education in the Penn- Delco School District. Long- term participation in instrument music offers students a continuation of individual technique and musician development, providing a gratifying group experience. The music educators hope that participation in the program will foster better understanding and appreciation of music and help students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will help them throughout their academic careers. Instrumental Music is open to students to play the following instruments: Flute, Clarinet(s), Saxophone(s), Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Mallet Percussion (keyboard), and Percussion (drums). 3
Students may enroll at the beginning of the school year. Returning the signature pages at the end of this handbook is the first step towards becoming a band member; after that, Mr. Pignataro will collect more details from parents/guardians and will make sure students have an instrument to practice at school and at home. Obtain an Instrument Each student must have the following for instrumental music: 1. Instrument in working order with name tag on the case 2. Lesson Book (cost approx. $9.00) a. Essential Elements- Brass and Woodwind players b. Alfred s Drum Method, Book 1- Percussion players c. Schaum Pre A- The Green Book- Mallet percussion players 3. Music Folder (provided, holds the book and papers) 4. Two sharpened pencils Additional accessories needed for each instrument: (please contact Mr. Pignataro with any concerns or questions) Flute: Tuning rod, cleaning swab Clarinet: Box of 10, #2.5 reeds, instrument swab, reed case Saxophone: Box of 10, #2.5 reeds, instrument swab, reed case Trumpet: Valve oil, tuning slide grease Trombone: Slide oil, tuning slide grease Percussion: Stick bag with student s name, 2 pairs of concert drum sticks (5B, 2B, or SD1 General), practice pad, metronome Instrument Selection The student s instrument is a tool that brings music to life. Though instruments look alike, a quality instrument allows for a positive experience in instrumental music. The Penn- Delco Music Department offers a working partnership with renting or purchasing an instrument through the independent company, Music & Arts. However, parents/guardians may obtain an instrument from any place or vendor. Parents/guardians can check with Mr. Pignataro about specific instruments and instrument quality. With proper care, quality instruments will stay in adjustment and enable students to play in tune. This allows for maximum progress in the program. 4
Instrument repairs Instrument maintenance and repairs are the student s responsibility. Often, the level of repair coverage can depend on rental/purchase contracts with a vendor. Music & Arts has representatives that visit Pennell and Parkside regularly. If there are problems or issues with a rented instrument from that company, they are often covered under the rental agreement and the instrument may be fixed without an additional fee. Other vendors offer similar agreements. Owned instruments may be fixed using any repair vendor, including Music & Arts. Music & Arts can pick up the instrument from Pennell or Parkside and can repair it for a fee. Instruments picked up at school are usually returned the following week. To arrange for an instrument to be fixed, please contact Mr. Pignataro with a description of the issue. Mr. Pignataro may communicate with the representatives on a student s behalf. Schedule Each student will participate in a weekly lesson, as well as a weekly rehearsal. The student is responsible for knowing the lesson schedule each week, as it shifts to avoid a student missing one subject repeatedly. - Weekly schedules are posted in the classroom, the instrumental music room, Mr. Pignataro s website, and a weekly e- mail sent to parents/guardians. - Students should always assume they have lessons. Each student must bring the following items to be prepared: - Instrument, two sharpened pencils, folder with papers, and completed practice sheet. - The student is responsible for bringing all items to lessons/rehearsals. Mr. Pignataro does not expect parents/guardians to bring students items to school after they have already arrived for the day. *Lessons take place during the school day, with similar instruments. - Last approximately 40 minutes, on the same day each week. - Rotating schedule: students miss 1 out of 30 meetings in a subject (APPENDIX A). - Are mandatory for participation in the band. *Rehearsals take place before school, with all types of instruments. - Students report to the band room no earlier than 7:45am. - Students are in their seats, ready to begin rehearsal at 8:00am. 5
Concerts There are two bands in each elementary school: A Band (Advanced Band): Most 2 nd - year students and advanced 1 st - year students - Tuesday, December 6 th at 2pm: Parkside Winter Assembly for classmates - Tuesday, December 6 th at 7:00pm: Parkside Winter Concert for family/community - Thursday, December 8 th at 2pm: Pennell Winter Assembly for classmates - Thursday, December 8 th at 7:00pm: Pennell Winter Concert for family/community - Tuesday, May 15 th at 2pm: Pennell Assembly for classmates - Friday, May 19 th at 2pm: Parkside Assembly for classmates The Pennell/Parkside B Bands will perform together in the May evening concert: - Thursday, May 16 th at 7:00pm: All- PDSD A Band Concert at Sun Valley High School for family/community B Band (Beginning Band): 1 st - year students and some 2 nd - year students - Tuesday, December 20 th at 2:00pm: Pennell B Band Preview Assembly for classmates (Pennell B Band Only) - Thursday, December 22 nd at 2:45pm: Parkside B Band Preview Assembly for classmates (Parkside B Band only) - Tuesday, May 15 th at 2:00pm: Pennell Assembly for classmates - Friday, May 19 th at 2:00pm: Pennell Assembly for classmates The Pennell/Parkside B Bands will perform together in the May evening concert: - Monday, May 22nd at 7:00pm: Pennell and Parkside B Band Concert at Sun Valley High School for family/community Daytime concerts are for classmates only. Family, friends, and community members are invited to attend evening performances. As additional performance opportunities arise throughout the school year, students and parents will be made aware of the details. Students many opportunities to display their hard work and talent; nothing motivates a musician more than playing for live listeners! 6
It is possible for students to move between the two bands during the course of the year. Student who display great practice habits on their own time usually progress to the A Band much more quickly than students who do not practice regularly. Concert Dress: At the discretion of the director: Formal Dress (Evening Concerts) *Something white on top, black on bottom* - Boys: Black dress pants/shoes/socks/belt; White dress shirt (pressed, tucked in, can be either long- sleeved or short- sleeved) - Girls: Black dress pants/dress/long skirt/shoes; White dress shirt/blouse (pressed, can be either long- sleeved or short- sleeved) Uniform Dress (Daytime Concerts and Assemblies) All students will wear the Penn- Delco Music Department T- Shirt and blue jeans. (T- shirts are sold for $10 as a fundraiser in the springtime) Concert/Performance Policy All instrumental students are required to perform in both their evening concert and the in- school concerts that will take place during the school day. Please plan ahead. Discuss any conflicts for concert nights with student s coaches or other activity leaders. While a student may have many games in one season, this is the student s only chance to perform for his/her family and friends! Unexcused absences will result in the withholding of certificate awards, end- of- year celebrations, and removal from field trips. Students who have difficulty getting rides to the concert should speak to the director well in advance of the concert so that a ride can be arranged. Illness and emergency will be considered acceptable excuses, but both need to be followed up with a note from home explaining the situation. Absences with no notes will be considered unexcused. Please see the performance schedule to avoid conflicts for the upcoming season. Bonus Opportunity Every Penn- Delco student has an exciting chance to play with excellent bands in school and in the community. Students can challenge themselves to work towards joining and staying in Pennell/Parkside A Bands. Also, students who maintain a positive attitude, demonstrate continuing progress, and go above and beyond as a musician will be nominated for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association 7
(PMEA) District 12 Band Fest during the spring months. The director nominates these students, who are then placed for review and acceptance by PMEA. This honor allows students to play with the best 5 th and 6 th grade instrumental students from Delaware County. Student Evaluation Students receive a report card grade for each trimester: 4 for exceeding music standards, 3 for meeting the standard, 2 for developing towards the standard, and 1 for not meeting the standard. Parents can see regular student grades online by clicking the grades online link on www.pdsd.org. Each lesson, students are rated on a standards- based 1-4 scale using the rubric (APPENDIX B). Classroom Rules: 1. Be good to each other. Become a Musician! Musicians are team members that come to all lessons and rehearsals. It is your job to make yourself a better musician and team member. 2. Have your stuff. Always bring your instrument, your pencils, your folders and papers, and your musician brain with you! Musicians need stuff to make beautiful music. 3. Act like a musician. ALL students are ready the moment Mr. Pignataro is at the front of the band. They are watching and listening, ALWAYS. Be kind to other musicians and to all of the equipment in the room. 4. Play with a beautiful sound, ALWAYS. You will sound excellent because you will always try to play beautifully! It is fun to try to play with the best sound. Music will always be fun. Act Like a Musician Musicians watch the teacher/conductor bring two pencils take a breath before they play are seated early treat other students respectfully practice at home use listening ears help a friend raise their hand to speak write down reminders in their music clean their instruments and cases touch only their own instruments remain silent when Mr. Pignataro is in front of the band and much more! Musicians have a responsibility to the band. An individual s behavior and practice habits have a major impact on all members. Students must act like musicians at all times. Consequences for students who do not act like musicians will be handled 8
on an individual basis and are based on the type of action/inaction. The order of consequences will depend on the severity and frequency of the action/inaction: - Verbal warning, removal from lesson/rehearsal, conference with student, phone call home, recess detention, parent conference, administrative discipline It is important that students, teachers, appropriate school faculty, building principals, and parents/guardians work together to encourage students to act like musicians. At any time, Mr. Pignataro will communicate concerns. Parents/guardians should feel free to contact Mr. Pignataro at any time and expect an appropriately quick response. Student Self- Evaluation Using the bi- weekly practice sheet (APPENDIX C), students will grade themselves using a 1-5 scale: 5- No mistakes 4-1 or 2 mistakes 3-3 or 4 mistakes 2- Still needs work 1- Still too difficult to play Class Dojo Students will earn points for preparedness and acting like a musician using the internet- based ClassDojo classroom incentive program. Parents/guardian may request to have ClassDojo reports sent home to them electronically. Rehearsal/Lesson Attendance Students who participate in band have made the commitment to attend scheduled lessons and rehearsals. Therefore, attendance is required. Students will not be penalized for early dismissals or other school functions. Since rehearsals and lessons occur one time per week, it is preferred that students schedule make- up work sessions with teachers on days other than their lesson day. If it is imperative a student miss a lesson due to seminar, make- up testing, or another conflict, the student should notify Mr. Pignataro as soon as possible so other arrangements can be made. Please feel free to communicate with Mr. Pignataro at any time. Group morning rehearsals are the preparation of performances that make the entire program possible. Mr. Pignataro will contact parents/guardians of students who miss rehearsals to see if arrangements can be made to help attendance. 9
Students who miss repeated rehearsals might be denied the privilege of performing in school assemblies, evening concerts, and/or field trips. If a student is going to miss a rehearsal/lesson, please send a courtesy e- mail or phone call to Mr. Pignataro, in addition to the attendance office. This will help considerably in accounting for all students safety during the course of the day. Instrument Liability Students instruments must arrive with the student on the day of the lesson and/or rehearsal. Instruments must leave school on the same day. Students will be unable to practice the instruments if it is left in school. Penn- Delco cannot be held liability for instruments that stay at school overnight. There are many functions that occur in the school building during the evening. This includes a risk of the students instruments being tampered with or stolen. Student responsibility is an important element of the instrumental music program. At- Home Practice Perfect practice makes perfect. Students are expected to practice using the bi- weekly practice sheet (APPENDIX C). Life is busy, so make music practice part of the daily homework routine. Practice Tips Learning to play a musical instrument is a long process where skills must be reinforced daily. The task is very complex, utilizing reading skills, reasoning skills, eye- hand coordination, and aural (listening) skills all at the same time! Even the professionals spend time each day practicing basics. For Parents/Guardians: - Make sure your child s instrument is in good working order. - Provide a quiet place with a firm chair and a music stand. - Practice the same time each day. This creates a good habit, which leads to great success! - Encourage concerts at your home! Let your child show off to you, often! - Praise often. With young musicians come mistakes followed by learning. This is normal and music to Mr. Pignataro s ears. 10
Resources to Get Ahead - Method book often includes play- along tracks and videos - SmartMusic software: www.smartmusic.com $40.00 annually - Concert music and other supplemental papers will be sent home or posted on the teacher webpage as content is covered. Private Lessons Private lessons are strongly encouraged. Every student can greatly benefit from private instruction. A good private teacher is one of the most valuable investments a parent/guardian can make for their student. Band directors are trained in the instruction of every band and orchestral instrument, but their knowledge cannot compare to that of a professional player who specializes in one instrument, making a living playing that instrument each day. Private teachers are excellent for the student who whishes to grow faster or for the student who is having isolated concerns which require the knowledge and skills of a specialist. 11
APPENDIX A APPENDIX B 12
APPENDIX C (EXAMPLE) 13
Dear Parents/Guardians, 14
I m excited and grateful to welcome your child to Instrumental Music and the bands at Pennell and Parkside! It is my genuine hope that each and every 4 th and 5 th grade student learns to play an instrument and joins the band. Every single student is able and is more than welcome! I m Nick Pignataro (Pin- ya- tah- ro, if that helps with my difficult name). Know from the first day of school that I am totally committed to making sure your student is comfortable and challenged in our instrumental program. I m ready to help us make music and continue a very successful music program in our schools. Please consider me an ally in preparing your children for great lives ahead. I will communicate with you on a regular basis. At minimum, I will e- mail you weekly, update my teacher website page weekly, post messages in your student s classroom, provide written communication as needed, and give you a call as needed. Feel free to e- mail me at npignataro@pdsd.org and/or call me at (610) 497-6300 Ext. 7110. Please contact me if there is anything I can do to help you with this commitment. I appreciate the financial and time investment you make to encourage your students to play an instrument. If you have any concerns or questions, I am very happy to help. Rehearsal attendance is one of the most important items to consider this year. And, I know, you give much of your time and resources to provide this opportunity to your students. I encourage you to do as much as you can to ensure your student is active and participating in every rehearsal. I know our schedules are often challenging, but regularity in instrumental music is a great way to provide students with a comfortable, creative outlet in school. Pennell and Parkside students have completely impressed me with their ability to learn and succeed as an incredible- sounding band! Our students will rock again this year! In the coming days and weeks, please feel free to find me in person. I m eager to meet you! Sincerely, Nick Pignataro, Instrumental Music Teacher Pennell and Parkside Elementary Schools (610) 497-6300 Ext. 7100 npignataro@pdsd.org Pennell and Parkside Elementary Schools Instrumental Music Participation Contract 15
I will participate in the band for the entire school year and to the best of my ability attend all morning rehearsals, in- school lessons, and performances. - I understand that instrumental music is a yearlong commitment and participation is through the last day of school. - I understand that my success on a musical instrument depends on playing it every day, so I agree to schedule practice into my daily routine. - I will also be a responsible member of the band by attending lessons on a weekly and consistent basis. - I will keep a positive attitude toward band and school throughout the year. - I will use many resources (instrument, technology, books, people, and Mr. Pignataro s website) for help and support. - If I have any questions or concerns about instrumental music, I will talk to Mr. Pignataro. I have read the Instrumental Music Handbook on Mr. Pignataro s website with my parent or guardian. I agree to support this signed contract. Student Name Student Signature Date: I have read the Instrumental Music Handbook on Mr. Pignataro s website with my student. I agree to support this signed contract. I also agree to support my child s efforts to make music and will ask my young musician to perform for me often. Parent/Guardian Signature Date: *To save paper and energy, all information will be posted to the teacher webpage in PDF format. If you would like a paper version of the Handbook, please circle Handbook Please to have a hard copy sent home. *This is your official sign- up packet to join the band.* 2016-2017 Instrumental Music Information Form 16
School: PENNELL or PARKSIDE Grade+Homeroom Teacher: Student Name: Instrument: (Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Baritone, Trombone, Percussion, Keyboard) Instrument status: check one I currently have an instrument (own or rent) I am waiting for a rented/purchased instrument to arrive I haven t rented/purchased an instrument yet Help me! Questions or concerns for Mr. Pignataro? Have you purchased the appropriate method book yet? Yes No a. Essential Elements- Brass and Woodwind players b. Alfred s Drum Method Book 1- Percussion players c. Schaum Pre A- The Green Book- Keyboard players Parent/Guardian #1 first + last name: Phone: E- mail: Parent/Guardian #2 first + last name: Phone: E- mail: Please return these completed forms to school on your students first lesson, or as soon as possible. In- school lessons begin during the week of September 12 th - 16 th. Morning rehearsals begin during the week of September 19 th - 23 rd. Don t worry if you don t have your instrument by the first lesson! Easy sign- up: visit my teacher webpage Sign- up for Instrumental Music Tab http://www.pdsd.org/page/6981 17