Demonstrate an understanding of musical concepts related to the structural and stylistic elements of music.
Demonstrate a knowledge of music as a creative art form in a cultural context.
Demonstrate the skills necessary to perform musical operations including:
Care and maintenance on the instrument.
Proper playing technique.
Musical literacy
Use of aural imagery
Musical creativity
Demonstrate a working knowledge of acceptable performance and listening behaviors in a variety of settings.
Support and show a commitment to the musical life of the ensemble, the school, and the community.
Respond to music aesthetically, intellectually, and emotionally.
Make value judgments based on critical thinking and analysis.
Develop, implement, and evaluate Strategies for improvement.
Continue their musical learning independently.

Grading System:

Grades are not given or taken as reward or punishment, rather they reflect the student's ability to demonstrate understanding of specific skills and/ or concepts. Students will be graded in several weighted categories as follows:

Musical Achievement:
Musical achievement is based on the progress a student has made toward specific musical standards. This category recognizes that students begin each year in the program at different levels of musical skill and knowledge. Students earn credit for technical achievement, preparation of required music, written and oral work, and demonstration of understanding of the appropriate nontechnical musical skills.
Make Up Policy:
Missed assignments due to excused absences will be excused but will need to be turned in by time which the teacher and student have discussed. If the student is absent when the assignment was originally due, the the student is responsible for turning the assignment in completed the day they return. If student does not turn in any of the assignments do to an absence the the student will get no credit for the assignment(s).
Classroom Participation:
Students are expected to be dependable at and punctual to rehearsals. Full participation requires regular attendance. Students should participate wholeheartedly in rehearsal activities. reading books, applying cosmetics, doing out of class assignments, and gossiping during rehearsals are negative indicators of student participation.
Event Participation:
Students are expected to be at all scheduled events and extra rehearsals, on time, in proper uniform, with all necessary music, equipment, and materials. Due to the group/ team nature of ensemble performance it is almost impossible to make up a missed event. Exceptions to this attendance requirement are rare, but may be given as long as the student gives notice of a conflict in a timely manner.
Letter Grades Are Converted From Percentages As Follows:

Refer to classroom handout.

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