Quarter Projects

Each quarter, band students are required to do quarter projects. Essentially, these are things that are related to music in some way or another that we wouldn't have time to dive into in class. It's a way for students to connect and find something that may specifically interest them. 6th grade students need to complete one per quarter, 7th and 8th need to complete two. The list below is what appears in the band handbook that was sent home at the beginning of the year. It is by no means an all-inclusive list. I will certainly accept other ideas, as long as they are run by me first.

1. Memorize major scales and play for Mr. Wipperman—different scales each quarter!
6th grade—1 scale, 1 octave
7th grade—2 scales, 1 octave
8th grade—2 scales, 2 octaves where possible

2. Memorize and perform a chromatic scale, any tempo—only once per school year.
6th grade—1 octave
7th grade—2 octaves
8th grade—full playing range of instrument

3. Percussionists- memorize and perform 4 snare drum rudiments for the instructor.

4. Pass the next 6 pages in your lesson book.

5. Prepare and perform a solo or an ensemble outside of school. Write a short reflection about the performance. This does not include required solo/ensemble for the judge. (Parent initials required.)

6. Count, Clap, or play 3 pages of rhythm exercises for Mr. Wipperman—see Mr. W. for details.

7. Log 8 hours of practice time at home- keep a journal, highlighting your progress/struggles, etc. parent signature required—short entries (no novels necessary!)

8. Take weekly private lessons outside of school- have instructor complete an evaluation at the end of each quarter.

9. Devise a question or two for a composer of one of our concert pieces. After Mr. W’s approval, contact the composer and share his/her response with the band. (Questions must be written 2 weeks prior to the end of the quarter)

10. Practice and perform outside of school in some type of ensemble: duet, trio, etc. Parent initials required.

11. Keep a band rehearsal journal for 1 quarter: write short entries outlining strengths, weaknesses, other thoughts.

12. Attend one concert you do not perform in: fill out a critique sheet (see Mr. Wipperman).

13. Pick one of the following types of music: Concert band, Jazz, classical. Listen for 5 minutes 3times per week. Keep a journal of your thoughts (minimum 15 short entries).

14. Create a warm-up exercise for the band that will help us improve on a skill or concept tied to one of our concert pieces- after Mr. W gives approval, conduct the warm up in rehearsal. (Must be different from what we usually do)

15. Research and write an introduction to one of our concert pieces—introduce the piece at the concert.

If you have Mac at home, talk to Mr. Wipperman about some other items. Other suggestions are welcome and encouraged, just okay it with Mr. Wipperman first!