West Update, 1/29/14

Another wonderfully gratifying morning!  Good to see everyone!

I spoke to the kids about always making sure they know exactly what they are expected to prepare for each class.  I told them that they have two important resources:

1. They need to make a note in their books in pencil as to what the is assignment for next week.
2. I told them that I have been pretty good about sending that out in an e-mail to their parents.

I never send them off without specific instructions for next week.  It might be prudent to make sure they are aware of it when they practice.  The might make it from Monday to Monday appearing to practice, and quite likely making genuine progress, but not quite being aware of what was assigned.  I know I pulled that trick a few times at their age.

I would never do this without parent consent, but if there are additional e-mail addresses that your kids read that you would like me to include in my updates and communications, I would be happy to do so.  Just let me know.   Nothing will be sent to them without also being sent to you.  As you also probably know, all of my updates get posted to http://whatsnewinband.blogspot.com

FOR NEXT WEEK: We are moving on to page 23, adding a new scale, a new note, and in some cases, new symbols! (Sharp/Natural)  In addition, I want them to keep working on page 21 for the March 11 concert repertoire. ("Montego Bay" and "Regal March")

Having said all this, I do think that it is absolutely appropriate and desirable for them to just play the thing once in a while.  For them to figure out easy pop or folk tunes (or read them from some book or internet resources), and spend some time learning to love the instrument.  A little bit of off-task time on the horn can be just as soul filling as perfecting your articulation and counting skills, and may help them develop a genuine affection for the art form.  If you are having trouble getting them to practice, try once in a while saying, "Why don't you just take 10 minutes and play something you are good at.  We'll worry about the assignment tomorrow", or "Let's see if we can find "The Harry Potter Theme" on line, and see how many notes you'd have to learn to play it."  If there is something specific you can't find, let me help. :)

Thanks again for all your support.  I am seeing lots of confidence and growth coming from all of them.  Let's continue on a path to not only make them competent musicians, but to help them fall in love with music. :)