Enjoy these pictures from the Symphonic Band Performance at Paine Intermediate.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
Enjoy this video of some trumpets playing some of your favorite Holiday tunes. I can't wait to hear the comments on this one.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
Check out these two clips of some rocking percussionists. One clip is of a guy that plays tenors, and the other is of a marimba soloist. What do you think about these videos?
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Smart Music
Are you using Smart Music at home? If so, we want to hear from you.
How do you use Smart Music to practice?
Which exercises do you find most beneficial?
Are you enjoying practicing more than you did without Smart Music?
Is it helping you become a better musician?
What else?
Smart Music is a great practice tool that all musicians should consider downloading on their personal computers. Please visit http://www.smartmusic.com/ for more information.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
Check out this video of Arturo Sandoval performing the National Anthem. Be sure to leave a comment.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Beginning Band Mini-Concert
Our 125 Beginning Band students recently performed a "Mini-Concert" for their parents during the school day. After a brief warm-up, each section performed a featured song, then the entire group closed with "We Will Rock You." All of the students did an amazing job. Enjoy these pictures and feel free to leave your comments about the performance.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
Check out this clip of a french horn player playing a famous horn call from an orchestral piece. What do you think about her tone and range?
Saturday, October 24, 2009
8th Graders Perform with HTHS
Recently our 8th graders were able to perform with the HTHS Marching Band at a football game. Everyone had a great time!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Fall Break!
Looking for something to do over fall break?
1. Lay down on the floor with heavy books on your stomach. When you breathe in, make the books go up. When you breathe out, let them go down SLOWLY.
2. Call a friend and play three of your favorite lines out of the method book for them over the phone.
3. Play an "F" and see how long you can hold it. Record your best time and leave a comment here.
4. Meet up with a friend and play duets from the book.
5. Download Smart Music and discover the endless amount of music to practice!
6. Most of all...enjoy the break! Have some fun! See you on Monday.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
Check out this video of a guy playing "Flight of the Bumblebee" on clarinet. Notice how easy he makes it look, although I'm sure it took lots of hard work and practice. What do you think about this video?
Monday, October 12, 2009
There's an app for that...
Got an iPhone or iPod touch? There's an app that can help you learn things about music. Dolce Music Flash Cards will help you improve your skills in music reading. The quiz bank includes 72 divided into four practice groups: Symbols, Key, Treble Clef, and Bass Clef. You can practice any one or multiple categories at once in timed or untimed rounds. Enjoy!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Football Game vs. Pizitz
Enjoy these pictures from the football game vs. Pizitz. Our band did an awesome job!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Pep Rally Slide Show
Enjoy these pictures from the Pep Rally for the Clay Chalkville game. Our band did an awesome job!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
What Motivates YOU?
Students are motivated in a variety of different ways. What motivates YOU to do your best in band? What makes you want to succeed and work hard? Take a few minutes to think about these questions and comment on this blog. I look forward to reading your answers.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
HTMS vs. Mountain Brook
Enjoy these pictures from our first pep rally and football game of the 2009 season. All 7th and 8th grade band members did an excellent job promoting school spirit at these events!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Football Season Has Arrived!
Our first football game and pep rally will be Thursday. Here are some reminders about football games...
•All Symphonic and Concert band students are required to perform. Exceptions: eighth grade football players, eighth grade cheerleaders and dance team members who are also in the band. Seventh grade football players that are in the band are asked to perform with the band during the eighth grade game.
•Wear the HTMS Band “Rock Band” t-shirt, BLUE JEANS (shorts, capris, pants) or KHAKIS (shorts, capris, pants). You may wear a jacket or you may wear a long sleeved shirt underneath your band T-shirt if cool weather is expected.
•Bring your instrument, music, lyre and flip folder. Also bring spare reeds, oils, and any other needed accessories.
•FOOD, GUM, CANDY, AND DRINKS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE STANDS!! You will be given a soft drink during half-time. You may not eat during the game. Please eat before you arrive.
•Parents, friends and others are NOT allowed to bring you any of the above mentioned items.
•Once we enter the stadium, you may not leave for any reason until the game has ended.
•Restroom visits are by emergency only. Our duty is to perform at the game, and we need all of our students in the stands for the whole game.
•The band directors are expected to keep you and your instrument safe during the game. It is your responsibility to conduct yourself in a manner that will keep your instrument free from damage. Everyone must keep one hand on their instrument at all times.
•Be on time. Call time is 6:00 P.M. Our meeting place will be in the middle school gym or on the blacktop.
•Come to the game even if it is or has been raining. We will stay in the gym for the first quarter of the game if necessary. We will dismiss after the first quarter if the weather is still bad. Stay home only if the game was postponed prior to your leaving school. Bring your case if there is a chance that it may rain.
•During the game always be alert. We are there to play and promote school spirit not just to watch the game. We will play very often, so be ready at all times. Watch the director for instructions.
•All home games are played at the HT stadium.
•It is the responsibility of all students to get their instruments to and from the game.
•HAVE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have your parents pick you up no later than one hour and forty-five minutes after kick-off. You should meet them on the sidewalk nearest the entrance to the band room. Parents are encouraged to attend the game and/or work in the band booster concession stands if at all possible. As soon as the game ends the band directors will supervise students until all have been picked up.
•All Symphonic and Concert band students are required to perform. Exceptions: eighth grade football players, eighth grade cheerleaders and dance team members who are also in the band. Seventh grade football players that are in the band are asked to perform with the band during the eighth grade game.
•Wear the HTMS Band “Rock Band” t-shirt, BLUE JEANS (shorts, capris, pants) or KHAKIS (shorts, capris, pants). You may wear a jacket or you may wear a long sleeved shirt underneath your band T-shirt if cool weather is expected.
•Bring your instrument, music, lyre and flip folder. Also bring spare reeds, oils, and any other needed accessories.
•FOOD, GUM, CANDY, AND DRINKS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE STANDS!! You will be given a soft drink during half-time. You may not eat during the game. Please eat before you arrive.
•Parents, friends and others are NOT allowed to bring you any of the above mentioned items.
•Once we enter the stadium, you may not leave for any reason until the game has ended.
•Restroom visits are by emergency only. Our duty is to perform at the game, and we need all of our students in the stands for the whole game.
•The band directors are expected to keep you and your instrument safe during the game. It is your responsibility to conduct yourself in a manner that will keep your instrument free from damage. Everyone must keep one hand on their instrument at all times.
•Be on time. Call time is 6:00 P.M. Our meeting place will be in the middle school gym or on the blacktop.
•Come to the game even if it is or has been raining. We will stay in the gym for the first quarter of the game if necessary. We will dismiss after the first quarter if the weather is still bad. Stay home only if the game was postponed prior to your leaving school. Bring your case if there is a chance that it may rain.
•During the game always be alert. We are there to play and promote school spirit not just to watch the game. We will play very often, so be ready at all times. Watch the director for instructions.
•All home games are played at the HT stadium.
•It is the responsibility of all students to get their instruments to and from the game.
•HAVE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have your parents pick you up no later than one hour and forty-five minutes after kick-off. You should meet them on the sidewalk nearest the entrance to the band room. Parents are encouraged to attend the game and/or work in the band booster concession stands if at all possible. As soon as the game ends the band directors will supervise students until all have been picked up.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
Here is the Auburn University Marching Band playing one of our favorite pep rally songs "Word Up."
Monday, August 24, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Beginning Band
All 125 members of our Beginning Band are doing an awesome job! Enjoy these pictures from our first week.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
WELCOME BACK!
Welcome back to school, HTMS BAND! We are so excited about this year. Our band has grown to 265 students. This year's beginning band has 126 students!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Beginning Band Instrument Tryouts!
Beginning Band Instrument Tryouts will be held on Saturday, August 1st from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM in the HTMS lunch room. 6th Grade Parents - Please email Mr. Peters ASAP to reserve a 1-hour appointment. We will have professional musicians and music store representatives on site that day to assist with the tryouts. Sign up soon because appointment times are filling up fast!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Thanks 8th Graders!
As our year comes to a close, we want to thank all of the 8th graders for their hard work, energy, and dedication to the HTMS Band! We look forward to seeing you continue to be great leaders at HTHS. Enjoy this slide show highlighting our 8th graders.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Rookie Camp
Attention all 8th graders who are marching with the HTHS Husky Band this fall...
Rookie Camp will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. Please make sure you dress appropriately: shorts, tshirts, tennis shoes. Also, make sure you bring your instrument. We are going to learn how to march. It will be a blast! See you on Tuesday.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Friday, May 15, 2009
Spring Concert Videos
Here are some video clips from our recent Spring Concert.
SYMPHONIC BAND
JAZZ BAND
SYMPHONIC BAND
JAZZ BAND
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Jazz Night
Jazz Night was a huge success! Our HTMS Jazz Band performed "Rock Around the Clock", "Louie Louie", and "Crazy Train" for a crowd of almost 300. Enjoy some pictures from this event.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Attention 5th Graders
We want to welcome 5th graders and their parents to our HTMS Band Blog. Feel free to look around and check out everything this site has to offer. We are so excited about you becoming a member of our band next year!
6th Grade Band at Hewitt-Trussville Middle School
Choosing an elective is a very important part of moving up to middle school. Among the fine arts electives, band is unique in that students should join the band during sixth grade in order to successfully participate in later grades. Sixth grade band students receive instruction on an instrument as part of the regular school day. Very few after school rehearsals are required. The Sixth Grade Band presents at least two performances each year – a Holiday Concert in December and a Spring Concert in May.
Common Questions about Band
1. What does my child have to gain by being in band?
The benefits of being in the band program are numerous. Music is an important part of everyone’s life in some way and music literacy can immeasurably enrich a young person’s life. The National Arts Education Standards statement says, “No one can claim to be fully educated who lacks basic knowledge and skills in the arts.” Research has shown a positive correlation between learning experiences in the arts and enhanced student achievement in academic classes. Band also involves students in an organization that develops leadership, pride in oneself and one’s organization, and the importance of working toward goals.
2. How much does it cost?
The primary cost for beginning band students and their parents is the purchase of an instrument. While this can be expensive, many good options are available for parents. Instruments may be purchased or rented, and many companies have rent-to-own options and financing plans. Also, there is usually a supply of good used instruments in the area. In addition to the instrument, there are a few other minor expenses. Students will need to purchase a few music books each year. They will also need a variety of small supplies to keep their instrument in proper working order (i.e. reeds for most woodwind instruments and oils for brass instruments).
3. Does my child have to have a special aptitude or previous music studies to be in band?
There are only two elements needed to be successful in band – a positive attitude and hard work. A student with only an average amount of ability can easily be very successful by keeping up in class and working hard. Previous musical instruction is not necessary. An instrument aptitude test will be used to help students select the instrument that is best suited for him/her. Every student who desires to be in band, whatever his/her aptitude, will be given a place in the Hewitt-Trussville Middle School Band.
4. Are after-school practices required in band?
Sixth grade students usually have two after-school rehearsals before each concert. Participation in rehearsals and concerts is required of every band student.
5. Do students have to buy uniforms?
We dress in nice “church-type” clothing for performances. A Band T-shirt, purchased at the beginning of the school year, is worn for assembly programs.
6. What does my child have to look forward to in his/her future in the band?
During your student’s first year in band, the Sixth Grade Band will perform a Holiday Concert and a Spring Concert. They will also perform a mini-concert during the school day in October for parents. Hewitt students will have the opportunity to compete in the spring at Solo and Ensemble Festival for Superior medals. Our students will also have an opportunity to participate in the Alabama Middle School All-State Honor Band, University Honor Bands, and District Band Contest their seventh and eighth grade years. More importantly, these students will develop a musical skill which will be with them the rest of their lives.
We look forward to having you become a member of the Hewitt-Trussville Middle School Beginning Band. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call me at 228-3663 or email brandon.peters@trussvillecityschools.com.
6th Grade Band at Hewitt-Trussville Middle School
Choosing an elective is a very important part of moving up to middle school. Among the fine arts electives, band is unique in that students should join the band during sixth grade in order to successfully participate in later grades. Sixth grade band students receive instruction on an instrument as part of the regular school day. Very few after school rehearsals are required. The Sixth Grade Band presents at least two performances each year – a Holiday Concert in December and a Spring Concert in May.
Common Questions about Band
1. What does my child have to gain by being in band?
The benefits of being in the band program are numerous. Music is an important part of everyone’s life in some way and music literacy can immeasurably enrich a young person’s life. The National Arts Education Standards statement says, “No one can claim to be fully educated who lacks basic knowledge and skills in the arts.” Research has shown a positive correlation between learning experiences in the arts and enhanced student achievement in academic classes. Band also involves students in an organization that develops leadership, pride in oneself and one’s organization, and the importance of working toward goals.
2. How much does it cost?
The primary cost for beginning band students and their parents is the purchase of an instrument. While this can be expensive, many good options are available for parents. Instruments may be purchased or rented, and many companies have rent-to-own options and financing plans. Also, there is usually a supply of good used instruments in the area. In addition to the instrument, there are a few other minor expenses. Students will need to purchase a few music books each year. They will also need a variety of small supplies to keep their instrument in proper working order (i.e. reeds for most woodwind instruments and oils for brass instruments).
3. Does my child have to have a special aptitude or previous music studies to be in band?
There are only two elements needed to be successful in band – a positive attitude and hard work. A student with only an average amount of ability can easily be very successful by keeping up in class and working hard. Previous musical instruction is not necessary. An instrument aptitude test will be used to help students select the instrument that is best suited for him/her. Every student who desires to be in band, whatever his/her aptitude, will be given a place in the Hewitt-Trussville Middle School Band.
4. Are after-school practices required in band?
Sixth grade students usually have two after-school rehearsals before each concert. Participation in rehearsals and concerts is required of every band student.
5. Do students have to buy uniforms?
We dress in nice “church-type” clothing for performances. A Band T-shirt, purchased at the beginning of the school year, is worn for assembly programs.
6. What does my child have to look forward to in his/her future in the band?
During your student’s first year in band, the Sixth Grade Band will perform a Holiday Concert and a Spring Concert. They will also perform a mini-concert during the school day in October for parents. Hewitt students will have the opportunity to compete in the spring at Solo and Ensemble Festival for Superior medals. Our students will also have an opportunity to participate in the Alabama Middle School All-State Honor Band, University Honor Bands, and District Band Contest their seventh and eighth grade years. More importantly, these students will develop a musical skill which will be with them the rest of their lives.
We look forward to having you become a member of the Hewitt-Trussville Middle School Beginning Band. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call me at 228-3663 or email brandon.peters@trussvillecityschools.com.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Crimson Music Camp
A great opportunity is available this summer at the University of Alabama. Crimson Music Camp will be held June 14-19 in Tuscaloosa. All of our students are eligible to attend. Crimson Camp is filled with many great activities for students. Students participate in a concert band, small ensembles, master classes, recreational activities, concerts, and more! Please visit the website below to find the Crimson Camp registration form. There is an early registration discount if you register by May 1!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Materials Check Ahead
We will be having a Materials Test next week. Here are the items required for each band:
Beginning Band
Folder (Name)
Essential Elements Book 1 (Name)
Pass-off Book (if applicable)
Pencil
Instrument; Name tag on case
Reeds (3); Valve Oil; Slide Oil/Cream; Slide Grease; Stick Bag with Sticks
Let's Rock, Infinity March, Star Wars, Expedition, Shorts
Concert Band
Folder (Name)
Essential Elements Book 2
Pass-off Book (if applicable)
Pencil
Instrument; Name tag on case
Reeds (3); Valve Oil; Slide Oil/Cream; Slide Grease; Stick Bag with Sticks
Tone Builders; Band Warmups; Scale Sheet; Rhythm Sheet
Dark Adventure, Dark Fortress, George of the Jungle, Wipeout, Low Rider, March of the Majestics, Furioso, Wigan Warriors, Mt Vernon March
Symphonic Band
Folder (Name)
Essential Elements Book 2
Pass-off Book (if applicable)
Pencil
Instrument; Name tag on case
Reeds (3); Valve Oil; Slide Oil/Cream; Slide Grease; Stick Bag with Sticks
Tone Builders; Band Warmups; Scale Sheet; Rhythm Sheet
Phantom of the Opera, Rise of the Vulcan, Pevensey Castle, Fanfare and Flourishes, Spirit of an Eagle, Pueblo, Curse of Tutankhamun, March to Castle Rock
Beginning Band
Folder (Name)
Essential Elements Book 1 (Name)
Pass-off Book (if applicable)
Pencil
Instrument; Name tag on case
Reeds (3); Valve Oil; Slide Oil/Cream; Slide Grease; Stick Bag with Sticks
Let's Rock, Infinity March, Star Wars, Expedition, Shorts
Concert Band
Folder (Name)
Essential Elements Book 2
Pass-off Book (if applicable)
Pencil
Instrument; Name tag on case
Reeds (3); Valve Oil; Slide Oil/Cream; Slide Grease; Stick Bag with Sticks
Tone Builders; Band Warmups; Scale Sheet; Rhythm Sheet
Dark Adventure, Dark Fortress, George of the Jungle, Wipeout, Low Rider, March of the Majestics, Furioso, Wigan Warriors, Mt Vernon March
Symphonic Band
Folder (Name)
Essential Elements Book 2
Pass-off Book (if applicable)
Pencil
Instrument; Name tag on case
Reeds (3); Valve Oil; Slide Oil/Cream; Slide Grease; Stick Bag with Sticks
Tone Builders; Band Warmups; Scale Sheet; Rhythm Sheet
Phantom of the Opera, Rise of the Vulcan, Pevensey Castle, Fanfare and Flourishes, Spirit of an Eagle, Pueblo, Curse of Tutankhamun, March to Castle Rock
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
YouTube Clip of the Week
We're back from Spring Break and it's time for a new You Tube Clip of the Week. Check out this trumpet ensemble as they perform "Festive Overture." It is truly amazing.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Attention 8th Graders...
8th Graders, you have an awesome opportunity to be a part of the Hewitt-Trussville High School Marching Band next year. This video includes pictures and videos of students who are involved in the HTHS Band. Take a minute to view the clip and see all of the fun things that are happening in the Hewitt Husky Band!!!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
HTMS Bands are Superior!
Congratulations to both the Concert Band and the Symphonic Band for receiving all Superior Ratings today at the District Band Competition! Everyone played beautifully today! We are so proud of you all! I hope to post a video and pictures of the performance soon.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
HTMS Pre-District Concert
Here are videos of the HTMS Symphonic Band and HTMS Concert Band performing in the Pre-District Concert.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
YouTube Clips of the Week
Here are some clips that have been submitted recently by students in the HTMS Band. Which one is your favorite and why?
HIP HOP DRUMMERS
AWESOME SNARE DRUMMER
MIRA MESA HIGH SCHOOL BAND
CARROT CLARINET
SUPER MARIO TROMBONE ENSEMBLE
HIP HOP DRUMMERS
AWESOME SNARE DRUMMER
MIRA MESA HIGH SCHOOL BAND
CARROT CLARINET
SUPER MARIO TROMBONE ENSEMBLE
Sunday, January 11, 2009
HTMS Spirit Rally
It's great to be a Hewitt Husky! Enjoy the pictures from our Spirit Rally which celebrated the opening of the new HTMS.
Something Old...Something New
On December 19th we said goodbye to our old HTMS and our small bandroom. On January 8th we said hello to a wonderful facility at our new HTMS. Enjoy pictures from both of these days.
All State Band Tryouts!
All State Band Tryouts are quickly approaching! Tryouts will be held this Saturday, January 17, at Hoover High School. We will be holding All State Help on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week until 4:00 in the band room. Polish your three prepared pieces and make sure you have all scales memorized. Good luck!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
