7th Grade Band

Connecting with each other and creating music are the primary goals of this class! Seventh Grade Band meets four days a week to develop both individual and ensemble growth. Individual growth happens through lessons and home practice and ensemble growth occurs during active participation in daily band rehearsals. Music literacy is behind all the learning we do.

Purpose Statement (Ms. Westermeyer)

I teach to help ALL students develop knowledge, tolerance, confidence, curiosity, resilience and self expression through music.

You can expect me to support, encourage and educate each student. I hold students to high expectations, encouraging them to do and be their best. I will clearly communicate with students and their families.

Materials Needed

  • Instrument (with necessary supplies), band music, music stand, pencil, and individual lesson book(s).

  • Most students will use the Student Instrument Course lesson book series.

  • Percussionists will use the Alfred Drum Method and Fundamental Studies for Mallets.

Communication / Google Classroom

All band class communication will happen on Google Classroom. This includes assignments, lessons schedules, and announcements. I will also occasionally email students and families. If you have a question, please don’t hesitate to email me at jwestermeyer@isd282.org.

Concert Info

Our concerts are a celebratory culmination of our individual and group work! They begin at 7:00 p.m. in the MS/HS auditorium and attendance is required. Please mark your calendar with the following dates and invite family and friends!

Monday, December 12 6th & 7th Grade Bands’ Concert

Thursday, March 9 7th & 8th Grade Bands’ Concert

Tuesday, May 23 6th & 7th Grade Bands’ Concert


Students are expected to wear appropriate attire that creates a uniform appearance. This instills a sense of pride in their ensemble! 7th Grade Band concert attire is:

TOP ATTIRE: dress up WHITE- with short or long sleeves, no words or print

BOTTOM ATTIRE: dress up BLACK- no words or print; at least knee length when sitting*

*Reminder- choose clothes that allow you to sit comfortably with your instrument without revealing undergarments to the audience

SOCKS/TIGHTS/SHOES: BLACK- clean, no prints

For students who choose to wear religious attire, a black or white solid material would be appropriate

If financial circumstances make finding concert clothing difficult, please let me know because help is

available.


We also encourage "outside" honor band opportunities for individuals and communicate possibilities to students and parents.

Vital Components of Band

  • LESSONS (taught during Band class) help you become a better player. They’re all about your individual growth and learning needs.

  • PRACTICE TIME is the most critical element for success in Band and the foundation of musical growth.

    • The requirement is an average of 150 practice minutes per week over each quarter.

    • Due with parental signature at each lesson and at quarter’s end.

  • QUALITY CLASS PARTICIPATION by everyone – preparation, engagement, contribution, etc. – affects our experience together in Band class. Be and do your best! We depend on each other.

  • OTHER ASSIGNMENTS include some music literacy written work, scale memorization, and concert

Essential Standards (What you will learn this year)

  • I can read and play music well on my instrument. This includes accurate notes, correct rhythms played with a steady beat, good tone, good technique, and attention to musical details.

  • I can listen to, describe, analyze and evaluate music and performances.

Grading

  • Grades reflect student progress on learning and performance on standards (listed above.)

  • SAMS uses a proficiency-based grading system for each essential standard in a class.


Grading Rubric

Other Details

• Percussionists are expected to maintain and are encouraged to expand their set of sticks & mallets.

• A letter will be sent to applicable students & parents explaining the school instruments rental fee.

• If you own the instrument, PLEASE record the serial number and consider a homeowners'/renters’ insurance rider (to replace at full value).

• Private lessons are always recommended as a great vehicle for in-depth learning and accelerating growth. Some options include our Community Services program, our lists of interested high school students and recommended private teachers, Schmitt Music, MacPhail Center for the Arts, local colleges, etc.