Guide to ISC
Instrumental Music/Band Courses

The ISC Band Program is intended to teach musicianship on instruments in a classroom setting at specialist level, to teach the skills needed to be a “team player” in an ensemble, and to develop and maintain a performance organization, the ISC Concert Band.

Participation in, and preparation/organization of in- and out of school performances (concerts, ceremonies and other productions) are an integral part of the program and are a standard requirement for each student.

The courses are taught in 4 levels. Admission to, and choice of instrument for, level I (entry level) courses do not require any previous experience in playing an instrument or reading music, but do require aptitude testing and instructor permission. Admission to any of the higher levels requires successful completion of the previous level, or an audition/interview and instructor permission.

The following instruments are available:

· Concert Flute/Piccolo (Oboe and Bassoon may be added)
· Bb Clarinet
· Bb Bass Clarinet (Alto Clarinet may be added)
· Alto & Tenor Saxophone (Bb Soprano and Eb Baritone Saxophone may be added)
· Trumpet
· Trombone (French Horn may be added)
· BB Tuba
· Electric Bass (Electric Guitar may be required occasionally)
· Percussion (Snare Drum, Drum Set, Orchestral Bells, Timpani; Latin Percussion)

Course Contents, Expectations, and Grading Policy

1. Participation 50%
The following is expected and may be included in determining a student’s participation grade. This category may be assessed through observation and/or self evaluation:
 

· Punctual attendance of classes, rehearsals and performances.
· Having all required materials in class and at performances/rehearsals (instrument clean and in playing condition, clean uniform, supplies such as reeds/lubricants, music/books, pencil, clips, and stand/chair).
· Following rehearsal and class routines.
· Maintaining a co-operative, disciplined conduct and a proactive manner of participation in class, during preparation of performances, during performance events (this includes stage etiquette, dress code, and helping with set-up/clearing stage), and during unsupervised practice if and when applicable.
· Handling facilities and equipment according to prescribed procedures and with care.
· Taking the instrument and materials home between classes/rehearsals.

2. Performance 40%
Performance grades are usually earned through performance barrier tests (students play a set piece or excerpt for a grade) conducted in class. The following is part of what is being taught and may be included in determining the grade for this portion of the course:

· Correct pitch/intonation
· Correct rhythm
· Posture/hand position & coordination/embouchure
· Breath support and tone quality
· Dynamics
· Articulation
· Tempo

Performance tests are usually out of 70 marks; for no attempt, 0 (0%) will be entered. If a student tries but achieves a failing grade, 42 (60%) will be entered. Performance tests may be retaken, if a failing grade has been earned.
 

This part of the grade may be split into quizzes (10%; unannounced, typically short excerpts/pieces are tested, that have been taught very recently/the same day) and tests (30%; announced, may be longer excerpts or pieces). Public performances, improvisation, playing by ear and sight reading may be included. Students who want to learn a second instrument may do that, but must understand that this will require them to commit extra time and self-guided work to learning the second instrument, and that the class will move ahead at regular pace. Experience shows, that this is possible; it is very common for musicians to play more than one instrument. The grade for performance may be earned on one (first or second) or 2 instruments; requirements are the requirements corresponding to the course level.

3. Music Theory & Appreciation 10%
Understanding and retention of pertinent concepts and information, recognition of notation symbols/technical terms, and qualities/characteristics of different musical styles (aural and/or visual) as used in music performance (own and others), are usually tested in written- or interview format. The following teaching contents may be included into the formal testing of Music Theory & Appreciation.
 

· Instrument components, their function and maintenance
· Tone color and –quality
· Pitch, intonation and tuning
· Rhythm and duration
· Style and articulation
· Balance, blending and ensemble precision
· Harmony and texture
· Tonality and form/genre
· Physics and physiology
· Stage etiquette and audience behavior

The above is taught in a combined/holistic way and as applied to performance experiences, in order to develop musical talent, successful and intelligent musicianship, and team skills.

Listed below are some of the activities that may be used to teach skills & concepts in instrumental music courses:

· Demonstration, explanation & lecture
· Individual- and group/section practice (teacher-, student- or self- directed)
· Guided listening
· Conducting & metronome practice
· Discussions & guided critique
· Improvisation & playing by ear/echoing (call response)
· Arrangement projects/use of notation software

4. Miscellaneous
ISC will assist with obtaining an instrument, by placing a group order or by helping to locate an instrument on the island. ISC does not assume responsibility for loss/damage of instruments. Students using school owned music instruments are responsible for damage/loss and maintenance. Recordings produced at ISC, during ISC performances, productions or recording sessions, are the sole property of ISC and may be used for publication in, for example, the yearbook, at the discretion of ISC administration and staff.

It is expected that all band program participants own a band uniform Polo Shirt, and that Concert Band members own both a uniform Polo Shirt and a uniform Dress Shirt with Bowtie. (available at the ISC supply store). Uniform is to be worn as specified by the music department for performances and events. Usually, Polo Shirts are used for assemblies and band event days, Dress Shirt (for concert band) for formal performances.

Guide to Band Course Contents, Expectations and Grading Policy. Revised June 5, 2007