Middle School Band

“Woods' Eclectic Ensemble”

The band elective is provided for those students who wish to pursue performance on an instrument. Students need to be able to play their instrument well alone before they will find success in an ensemble. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that students enroll in additional one-on-one lessons to learn the basics so that they can focus on playing together during this elective period.

Rather than using a traditional band method of instruction, the Woods program will explore group performance through a variety of experiences:
•    Jazz improvisation
•    Written notation
•    Group composition/music creation
•    Performance techniques & group exercises

All instruments are welcome, unlike traditional band programs. The most important factor is the student’s dedication to learning the instrument and practicing regularly. In some cases, however, it may not be possible to accommodate several of the same instruments in the ensemble (10 pianists/15 drummers/25 guitarists etc.). In this case, an informal audition with the music director will be used to select students.

It is also possible for students to move into the band mid-year, when the appropriate competency has been reached. Also, the reverse is true: students who do not practice or fail make adequate progress will not be able to continue in the band.

Students are expected to attend all public and school performances, as assessment of participation and growth will measured at these occasions, in addition to progress during the weekly rehearsals.