Beginning Band (Grade 6)

Beginning Band offers the student the opportunity to learn the basic skills required to play a band instrument. Students learn to read music, produce tones correctly, and listen for balance and intonation as part of a performing ensemble. Course content is delivered through the method book, carefully selected concert band repertoire, and basic music theory. Financial commitments include instrument rental and/or purchase, purchase of accessories throughout the year, and purchase of approved concert attire. Band requires a commitment of a minimum of 10 minutes of daily practice outside of class. Students are required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances which are a part of the grade for the course. If SAS hosts a music festival/exchange during the year, students will be requested to host participating music students from visiting schools.

Band 6 

Band 6 is designed for students who can demonstrate mastery of the beginning band skill set, usually second-year players. Students in this performance-based course continue to develop technical skills on their instruments through ensemble playing. Course content is delivered through the method book, carefully selected concert band repertoire, and basic music theory. Financial commitments include instrument rental and/or purchase, purchase of accessories throughout the year, and purchase of approved concert attire. Band requires a commitment of a minimum of 10 minutes of daily practice outside of class. Students are required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances which are a part of the grade for the course. If SAS hosts a music festival/exchange during the year, students will be requested to host participating music students from visiting schools.

Band 7

Band 7 is designed for students who can demonstrate mastery of the beginning band skill set, usually second-year players. Students in this performance-based course continue to develop technical skills on their instruments through ensemble playing. Course content is delivered through the method book, carefully selected concert band repertoire, and basic music theory. Financial commitments include instrument rental and/or purchase, purchase of accessories throughout the year, and purchase of approved concert attire. Band requires a commitment of a minimum of 10 minutes of daily practice outside of class. Students are required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances which are a part of the grade for the course. If SAS hosts a music festival/exchange during the year, students will be requested to host participating music students from visiting schools.

Band 8

Band 8 is designed for students who can demonstrate mastery of the intermediate band skill set, usually third-year players. Students in this performance-based course continue to develop technical skills on their instruments through ensemble playing. Course content is delivered through the method book, carefully selected concert band repertoire, and basic music theory. Financial commitments include instrument rental and/or purchase, purchase of accessories throughout the year, and purchase of approved concert attire. Band requires a commitment of a minimum of 10 minutes of daily practice outside of class. Students are required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances which are a part of the grade for the course. If SAS hosts a music festival/exchange during the year, students will be requested to host participating music students from visiting schools