HTMS Band

Thanks, 8th Graders!

2011-05-22T15:27:00.002-05:00

Let's look back on a great three years...thanks for the memories! Good luck, 8th Graders!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2011-02-24T13:11:00.003-06:00

Beginning Band - Here is a video showing a band performing "Variations on a Korean Folk Song" which is based on our Line 100 - Arirang. What do you think of this performance? Do you hear our Line 100 in this performance? Any other comments? Leave a comment for 10 Bonus Points!

Band Students Receive Recognition

2011-02-06T15:17:00.003-06:00

Recently HTMS Band students were recognized by being named to the Alabama All-State Band and the District IV Honor Band. Congratulations to these students!

All-State Band: Jason C.

District Honor Band: Blake A, Matthew B, Jason C, Laura Beth C, Stone D, Trevian J, Austin Mc, Rebecca P, Emma S, Andrew T, Benjamin T

YouTube Clip of the Week

2011-01-09T15:05:00.003-06:00

Here's something to keep you entertained while you wait on the snow...this is a bassoon quartet performing some pretty popular tunes. We need to get a few bassoon players at HTMS. Who is interested?

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-11-17T10:01:00.001-06:00

Today our Beginning Band worked on line 55 - Carnival of Venice. Check out this clip of a trumpet player performing "Carnival of Venice". What do you think?

Beginning Band Mini-Concert

2010-11-01T22:17:00.001-05:00

Our Beginning Band rocks! Enjoy these pictures from the recent Mini-Concert.

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Homecoming Week

2010-11-01T21:56:00.001-05:00

Homecoming Week at HTMS - Celebrity Day, Color Wars, and Twin Day

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Special Olympics Send-Off

2010-11-01T21:40:00.001-05:00

Thanks to our band members for performing for the Special Olympians!

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Pep Rallies

2010-11-01T21:27:00.002-05:00

Enjoy these pictures from this year's pep rallies! The band did an awesome job!

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UNDER CONSTRUCTION...

2010-09-19T22:54:00.002-05:00

The 2010-2011 school year has gotten off to a great start! Stay tuned for new posts including pictures from our first two games and pep rallies.

Spring Trip 2010 - Gatlinburg

2010-05-09T21:27:00.004-05:00

Enjoy these slideshows of pictures from our trip to Gatlinburg.

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ATTENTION 5TH GRADERS!

2010-04-29T17:19:00.006-05:00

Are you interested in joining the HTMS Band next year as a 6th grader? Watch this video below to see what is in store for you as a member of the HTMS Band.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-04-26T19:27:00.002-05:00

Beginning Band is almost done with Book 1! Currently we are working on Line 133 - Marche Slave. Check out this video of a band performing an arrangement of the real piece of music by Tchaikovsky. What do you think?

Jazz Night

2010-04-25T21:39:00.004-05:00

The HTMS Jazz Band performed at Hewitt Jazz Night on April 20th.

Enjoy this video of the HTMS Jazz Band. (Picture quality improves about halfway through...sound quality is great throughout).

Click to play

Enjoy these pictures from the evening.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

MPA Results

2010-03-29T21:56:00.005-05:00

HTMS Concert Band

HTMS Symphonic Band

Congratulations to the HTMS Bands for a great outing at Alabama Music Performance Assessment! The Concert Band received one Superior Rating and two Excellent Ratings on stage, and a Superior Rating in sight reading. The Symphonic Band received three Superior Ratings on stage and a Superior Rating in sight reading. The Symphonic Band received all A's from all judges, which earned them the "Superior with Distinction" rating. They were one of only six middle school bands to receive this prestigious honor.

Pre-MPA Concert

2010-03-06T14:22:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to the HTMS Concert Band and Symphonic Band on great performances on Thursday evening! Good luck Tuesday at the Alabama State Music Performance Assessment.

HTMS CONCERT BAND

HTMS SYMPHONIC BAND

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-02-27T10:50:00.001-06:00

Check out this YouTube clip about how a tuba is made! Thanks Jacob for suggesting this video.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-02-17T18:57:00.002-06:00

This week our Beginning Band members are celebrating because we have made it to Line 100! Line 100 is titled, Arirang, which is a Korean Folk Song. This clip is of a famous band piece called Variations on a Korean Folk Song by John Barnes Chance. What do you think of this version?

Charity Basketball Game

2010-02-13T20:01:00.002-06:00

Thanks to the 7th and 8th graders who volunteered their time to perform at the Charity Basketball Game. This year's game raised over $5,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-02-10T16:02:00.001-06:00

Check out this YouTube clip that involves some string instrument playing a popular song.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-02-02T21:20:00.002-06:00

Check out this video of trumpets being made at the Yamaha factory. See all the details that go into the manufacturing of a trumpet. Do you see anything that is cool?

Students Perform for Alabama Teachers

2010-01-31T22:02:00.009-06:00

Recently, seven HTMS percussionists were chosen to perform in a clinic at the 2010 Alabama Music Educators Association Conference at the University of Alabama. The students are instructed by Brad Palmer and Sean Womack of DoubleStop Percussion (www.doublestoppercussion.com). The students performed various exercises that they use in class to develop percussion technique. Over 250 band directors from all over Alabama were in attendance at the clinic to learn these techniques. Thanks for representing HTMS!

District Honor Band

2010-01-31T21:56:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to our students who performed with the District Honor Band on Saturday! Great job!

YouTube Clip of the Week

2010-01-25T21:29:00.001-06:00

Check out trombonist Harry Watters of the US Army Brass Quintet and his rendition of "Flight of the Bumblebee." What do you think?

Congratulations!

2010-01-16T17:46:00.003-06:00

Congratulations to the following HTMS students who made the 2010 District IV Honor Band!

Lauren S. - Oboe

Nikki N. - Flute

Rebecca P. - Flute

John A. - Trumpet

Emma S. - French Horn

Jacob R. - Tuba

Sagar M. - Tuba

Jonathan A. - Percussion

Music Training Online

2010-01-15T22:40:00.003-06:00

Need help reading music? Understanding key signatures? Learning how to build major scales? Try visiting www.musictheory.net. Under the "Lessons" drop-down menu, you will find topics such as "The Staff", "Note Duration", "Major Scales", "Key Signatures" and many more. These online lessons will help you understand more about music. There are also games you can play to help with your music knowledge under the "Trainers" drop-down menu. Check it out and leave a comment.

Scales Are Easy As (1) ONE, (2) TWO, (3) THREE!

2010-01-09T17:11:00.005-06:00

A scale is a collection of 8 notes ascending and descending, in a particular order. Scales are spelled in alphabetical order using letters from the musical alphabet (A B C D E F G). Try this method for learning scales, and it should be much easier for you to remember all 12!

THINK "1"

G Scale has 1 sharp (F#) = G A B C D E F# G

G-flat Scale has 1 natural (F nat) = Gb Ab Bb Cb Db Eb F Gb

F Scale has 1 flat (Bb) = F G A Bb C D E F

THINK "2"

B-flat Scale has 2 flats (Bb and Eb) = Bb C D Eb F G A Bb

B Scale has 2 naturals (B and E) = B C# D# E F# G# A# B

D-flat Scale has 2 naturals (F and C) = Db Eb F Gb Ab Bb C Db

D Scale has 2 sharps (F and C) = D E F# G A B C# D

THINK "3"

E-flat Scale has 3 flats (Bb, Eb, Ab) = Eb F G Ab Bb C D Eb

E Scale has 3 naturals (B E and A) = E F# G# A B C# D# E

A-flat Scale has 3 naturals (F C and G) = Ab Bb C Db Eb F G Ab

A Scale has 3 sharps (F C and G) = A B C# D E F# G# A

Then the last scale to learn is the C Scale which is all natural =

C D E F G A B C

-from Teaching Music Through Performance in Beginning Band

Symphonic Band Trip to Paine

2009-12-23T23:41:00.001-06:00

Enjoy these pictures from the Symphonic Band Performance at Paine Intermediate.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-12-17T20:41:00.001-06:00

Enjoy this video of some trumpets playing some of your favorite Holiday tunes. I can't wait to hear the comments on this one.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-12-01T20:43:00.002-06:00

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?

Smart Music

2009-11-10T12:51:00.005-06:00

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.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-11-04T20:19:00.001-06:00

Check out this video of Arturo Sandoval performing the National Anthem. Be sure to leave a comment.

Beginning Band Mini-Concert

2009-11-02T21:35:00.002-06:00

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.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-10-27T19:06:00.002-05:00

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?

8th Graders Perform with HTHS

2009-10-24T14:36:00.001-05:00

Recently our 8th graders were able to perform with the HTHS Marching Band at a football game. Everyone had a great time!

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HTMS vs. Oak Mountain

2009-10-24T12:38:00.001-05:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Fall Break!

2009-10-14T22:31:00.003-05:00

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.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-10-13T22:25:00.002-05:00

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?

There's an app for that...

2009-10-12T17:47:00.002-05:00

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!

Homecoming Week

2009-10-11T23:26:00.002-05:00

Enjoy these pictures of band students dressed up during Homecoming Week.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-10-07T19:04:00.002-05:00

Enjoy this clip about how flutes are made. It is very interesting.

Football Game vs. Pizitz

2009-10-04T19:15:00.002-05:00

Enjoy these pictures from the football game vs. Pizitz. Our band did an awesome job!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Pep Rally Slide Show

2009-09-27T21:58:00.001-05:00

Enjoy these pictures from the Pep Rally for the Clay Chalkville game. Our band did an awesome job!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

What Motivates YOU?

2009-09-20T20:16:00.002-05:00

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.

HTMS vs. Mountain Brook

2009-09-15T22:50:00.001-05:00

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!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Football Season Has Arrived!

2009-09-09T20:37:00.002-05:00

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.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-09-03T11:18:00.002-05:00

Here is the Auburn University Marching Band playing one of our favorite pep rally songs "Word Up."

Symphonic Band

2009-08-24T22:19:00.001-05:00

Symphonic Band is off to a great start. Enjoy some pictures from the first week.

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Beginning Band

2009-08-23T22:55:00.003-05:00

All 125 members of our Beginning Band are doing an awesome job! Enjoy these pictures from our first week.

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WELCOME BACK!

2009-08-13T19:02:00.002-05:00

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!

Beginning Band Instrument Tryouts!

2009-07-07T00:51:00.002-05:00

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!

Thanks 8th Graders!

2009-06-04T17:43:00.001-05:00

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.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Rookie Camp

2009-05-25T12:25:00.002-05:00

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.

Spring Trip '09 - Atlanta, Georgia

2009-05-24T20:35:00.005-05:00

Enjoy some pictures from our Spring Trip to Atlanta, Georgia.

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Spring Fling!

2009-05-16T00:46:00.003-05:00

Here are some pictures of our band students enjoying Field Day and Spring Fling.

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Spring Concert Videos

2009-05-15T21:08:00.002-05:00

Here are some video clips from our recent Spring Concert.

SYMPHONIC BAND

JAZZ BAND

Jazz Night

2009-04-28T20:58:00.001-05:00

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.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

5th Grade Visit Photos

2009-04-14T21:57:00.001-05:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Attention 5th Graders

2009-04-14T21:38:00.002-05:00

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.

Crimson Music Camp

2009-04-02T08:36:00.002-05:00

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!

https://www.ts-register.com/Camps/UACampReg.aspx

Materials Check Ahead

2009-03-26T14:23:00.002-05:00

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

YouTube Clip of the Week

2009-03-24T20:38:00.003-05:00

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.

Attention 8th Graders...

2009-02-21T09:56:00.002-06:00

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!!!

HTMS Bands are Superior!

2009-02-11T19:53:00.004-06:00

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.

HTMS Pre-District Concert

2009-02-07T00:07:00.004-06:00

Here are videos of the HTMS Symphonic Band and HTMS Concert Band performing in the Pre-District Concert.

YouTube Clips of the Week

2009-01-29T20:58:00.002-06:00

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

HTMS Spirit Rally

2009-01-11T16:42:00.003-06:00

It's great to be a Hewitt Husky! Enjoy the pictures from our Spirit Rally which celebrated the opening of the new HTMS.

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Something Old...Something New

2009-01-11T15:15:00.003-06:00

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.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

All State Band Tryouts!

2009-01-11T14:27:00.003-06:00

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!

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-12-13T17:12:00.001-06:00

Check out these videos of the HTMS Beginning Band from our Holiday Concert. Does anyone have videos of the Concert Band and Symphonic Band?

Create your own marching band show...

2008-12-13T16:34:00.003-06:00

Have you ever wanted to create your own marching band show? There is an interactive online game that allows you to create the movements for a marching band show and compete against other online gamers. You choose how many people are in your marching band and then design pictures for them to create on the field. It is really cool! Check it out.

http://micromarching.com/

Thanks to Autumn for suggesting this game!

Holiday Concert

2008-12-07T16:39:00.008-06:00

All three HTMS Bands did a wonderful job in the Holiday Concert yesterday. Thank you students for working so hard over the past few weeks in order to achieve the superb performance. What did you all think of the concert?

Beginning Band
First Christmas March
First Christmas Suite

Concert Band
Holiday Festival
Christmas Bits and Pieces
Jingle Bells and Jungle Drums

Symphonic Band
Santa at the Symphony
Name's Claus, Santa Claus
A Cartoon Christmas

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-12-04T20:48:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Harrison J. in Concert Band for suggesting this week's clip. This performer is really impressive on euphonium.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-11-19T21:55:00.002-06:00

Well it's that time of the year...time for the Iron Bowl. So of course this week's YouTube clips are halftime shows from the University of Alabama "Million Dollar Band" and the Auburn University Marching Band. Roll Tide and War Eagle! I hope you all enjoy the videos.

University of Alabama "Million Dollar Band"

Auburn University Marching Band

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-11-13T18:15:00.003-06:00

Back by popular demand...this clip comes from the Broadway show Blast. This scene is called "Battery Battle." Check out this cool clip and leave a comment.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-11-05T21:37:00.002-06:00

This video examines the physical effects on a drum corps member's body. These musicians are often considered "athletes" because of the physical effort that must exert in order to perform the difficult marching and playing found within the show. Do you think these performers can be considered athletes based on how conditioned their bodies must be in order to perform?

Beginning Band Mini-Concert

2008-10-30T22:13:00.001-05:00

The Beginning Band presented an open house "Mini Concert" for parents and friends on Thursday. We had over 130 parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends drop by to hear our students. All three beginning band classes did an awesome job! Check out the pictures.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-10-28T21:30:00.002-05:00

This week's clip is of a very famous trumpet player, Wynton Marsalis. He has one of the most amazing trumpet tones I have ever heard. Check out this video of him performing "Carnival of Venice." Be sure to watch the entire video and hear all of the notes he plays near the end! It is absolutely amazing!

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-10-21T21:02:00.002-05:00

This week's clip is a video of a middle school marching band from Japan. This group is made up of 8th graders! Pay attention to the shapes and forms they create and how fast they march in the show. I think it is amazing to see what other middle school band students are doing across the globe. What do you think about this band?

Last Football Game

2008-10-21T21:00:00.002-05:00

Enjoy the slideshow from our last football game of the year. HTMS vs. Thompson

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Area Concert

2008-10-18T13:04:00.002-05:00

The Birmingham Community Band will perform a concert here in Trussville on Sunday at 3:00 at the First Methodist Church on Chalkville Road. This group is made up of adults from all over Birmingham that enjoy playing their instruments. They are not professional musicians, but have such a strong love for music that they want to continue performing. If you go to the concert be sure to pick up a program. Bring the program to the band room on Monday morning and you will receive 10 bonus points on your daily participation grade.

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-10-14T20:42:00.003-05:00

This week's clip comes from the Broadway show Blast, which combines brass and percussion instruments with unique choreography. Even with the tough choreography, the musicians still produce an incredible sound. What do you think about Blast?

Band is...

2008-10-08T20:39:00.006-05:00

Making music with a family of lifelong friends.

Understanding how commitment and dedication lead to success.

Sharing the joy and rewards of working together.

Individuals who develop self-confidence.

Creativity--expressing yourself in a universal language.

Band is...MUSIC!

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-10-07T20:34:00.002-05:00

Check out this video that showcases the members of a marching percussion section. These musicians are members of a drum corps. This video will feature snares, tenors, basses, and the front ensemble. Our percussionists will have the chance to become members of a marching percussion section when they get to HTHS. What do you think?

Materials Check This Week!

2008-10-04T15:10:00.003-05:00

This week we will have a materials check in each class. To make sure you earn 100 you will need the following:

BEGINNING BAND
- Folder
- Essential Elements Book 1
- Pencil

CONCERT BAND
- Folder
- Essential Elements Book 1 and Book 2
- Rubank Book (if applicable)
- Flip Folder and Lyre
- Pencil
- Scale Sheet
- America the Beautiful
- Simple Song
- Tone Builders

SYMPHONIC BAND
- Folder
- Essential Elements Book 1 and Book 2
- Rubank Book (if applicable)
- Flip Folder and Lyre
- Pencil
- Scale Sheet
- America the Beautiful
- Simple Song
- Tone Builders

If you play the following instruments make sure you also have these items:

CLARINET
- 3 playable reeds (suggested - Vandoren)
- Suggested - Swab

SAXOPHONE
- 3 playable reeds (suggested - Vandoren)

TRUMPET, FRENCH HORN, BARITONE, TUBA
- Valve Oil
- Suggested - Slide Grease

TROMBONE
- Slide Cream and small spray bottle

PERCUSSION
- Alfred's Drum Method Book
- Stick Bag
- Snare Sticks (preferably Vic Firth SD1)
- Bell Mallets
- Suggested - Metronome

8th Graders Perform with HTHS

2008-10-01T21:53:00.001-05:00

The 8th Graders had a blast performing with the HTHS Marching Husky Band this past Friday night. We can't wait for all of you to be in marching band next year! Enjoy the pictures.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-09-30T21:08:00.002-05:00

Check out this guy beatboxing as he plays the flute. I bet you didn't think this was possible.

Homecoming Week!

2008-09-28T22:14:00.005-05:00

We had a great Homecoming week here at HTMS. Enjoy these slideshows. Click on the "Play" button to watch each show.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-09-23T20:18:00.002-05:00

Check out this clip of the University of Alabama "Million Dollar Band" performing one of their shows from the 2005 season: James Bond! See if you can pick out Mr. Peters as he plays mellophone. What did you think of the show?

For more information visit www.mdb.ua.edu.

Practice, Practice, Practice

2008-09-22T23:19:00.003-05:00

The number one way to improve our band program is for you to practice individually at home. So far this semester our band students have combined to practice over 66,000 minutes!!!

Congratulations to these students who have practiced the most minutes so far:
Beginning Band:
Jared H. (Percussion) = 480 minutes
Mary Beth B. (Clarinet) = 392 minutes
Bethany B. (Flute) = 300 minutes
Trevian J. (Baritone) = 300 minutes

Concert Band:
Jacob P. (Trumpet) = 925 minutes
Braxton O. (Trumpet) = 840 minutes
Jonathan A. (Percussion) = 825 minutes
Jonathan D. (Trumpet) = 707 minutes

Symphonic Band:
Patric T. (Percussion) = 1580 minutes
Nikki N. (Flute) = 855 minutes
Vishal M. (Trumpet) = 817 minutes
A.J. L. (Alto Sax) = 740 minutes
Kyle M. (Tenor Sax) = 725 minutes

How can you make the most out of your practice time???

1. Choose a spot in which to practice and practice there each day. Be sure that this is an area of your home that is as distraction free as possible.

2. Begin your practice section with a line from your method book that has long note values. This will allow your embouchure muscles to warm-up so that you can progress toward more difficult exercises. This will also allow you to think about your breathing. Make sure to breathe deeply and produce an air stream that is steady and controlled. Use a mirror to check your embouchure, hand position, and posture. These important concepts are essential to good tone production.

3. You should work from your method book each day. Your goal should be to stay several lines ahead of the class. Remember: before you play each line, use the "steps" we use in class to help you break things down (count/clap; count/finger; air play; play). Using this process will help you be more accurate when you play an exercise for the first time.

4. Practice your sheet music. Work on the portions where you are having difficulties in class. Practice these parts slowly to make them accurate. Sometime this means you will need to work one measure at a time – that’s okay!!! Make it your goal to play that measure five times accurately at the slow tempo and then gradually increase the tempo to the speed we perform it in class.

5. Pay very careful attention to the musical details: key signature, correct notes and/or accidentals, rhythms, musical signs and symbols, dynamics and articulations.

6. FINALLY – play something just for fun.

7. At the end of your practice section, make sure that you thoroughly wipe down or swab out your instrument. Woodwinds – make sure that your reeds go into your reed guard. This makes them last longer.

Suggested Practice Timeline
5 min. – warm-up
7-10 min – method book
10 min – sheet music
3-5 min – for fun
Pack up instrument in case

On Your Mark...Get Set...

2008-09-17T19:53:00.005-05:00

It's time for everyone to get started with pass-offs for this year. Our Concert and Symphonic Band members have been doing pass-offs occasionally in band class when time has allowed. Now that pep band is almost over, we can all begin to focus more on the music in our pass-off books. All students have the opportunity to pass-off before school. This is done on a first-come, first-serve basis in the band room from 7:15 to 7:45. Students may have the opportunity to pass-off during class based on director availability. After school pass-offs will begin as soon as marching band practices are over in late October.

All students begin passing off out of the Essential Elements 2000 Book 1. When this book is completed students move into the Rubank series. Then students will begin passing off out of the Rubank Elementary Method book. The next book is the Rubank Intermediate Method book and then the Rubank Advanced Method book. Since the pass-off system is designed for students to work at their own pace, we will have students in all of the books at the same time. Students should keep track of their pace and be prepared to purchase the next book at the appropriate time so that they continue the pass-offs. Since many of our 7th graders are nearing the end of EE Book 1, they should begin purchasing the next book: Rubank Elementary Method. This book is available from the local music stores or online. We would like to see all 7th and 8th graders passing off in the Rubank books by January.

The pass-off system allows each individual student to compete with other students on his or her instrument. We will post the chair standings at least twice every 9 week grading period.

Now, On Your Mark...Get Set...PASS OFF!

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-09-16T20:00:00.001-05:00

Check out this clip from The Discovery Channel's How It's Made about the making of a trumpet. Please leave a comment after you watch the video. Did you ever think this much work went into making an instrument?

Cheesecake!

2008-09-10T18:56:00.005-05:00

Our annual cheesecake sale will last from now until Tuesday, September 23rd. All HTMS and HTHS Band members are selling cheesecake, cookie dough, cinnamon rolls, funnel cakes, and many other items.

Cheesecake Questions

Do we collect money now? No, we will collect money when we deliver the products in mid-October.

Why do we sell cheesecake? With the profits from all of our fundraisers we buy new music, instruments, and other things needed for our band program.

How much profit do we make off each product? We make about 45% profit off each product sold. If we a box of cookies cost $13.00, we make about $5.85 of each box.

What do I get out of selling? Prizes, Prizes, Prizes!!!!!

Selling Tips
Be friendly
Take a pen with you
Always say thank you, no matter if the person buys or not

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-09-10T18:43:00.004-05:00

This video showcases one of the top Drum Corps in our country. Drum Corps are known as "Marching Music's Major League" or are sometimes considered professional marching bands. Check out this clip which includes Bohemian Rhapsody. For more information on Drum Corps visit www.dci.org. Please leave your comments about the show.

Band T-Shirts

2008-09-08T22:27:00.009-05:00

Band T-Shirts go on sale this week. The shirts are $10 and must be ordered by Friday, September 12th. Order forms will go home this week. The shirts will be red and include this logo. What do you think about the new shirts?

Pep Band - HTMS vs. Oak Mountain

2008-09-07T22:36:00.002-05:00

Here are some pictures from the HTMS football game vs. Oak Mountain Middle School.

ScaleFEST!

2008-09-03T19:40:00.011-05:00

Symphonic Band and Concert Band Members:
Don't forget about ScaleFEST Week 1. On Thursday or Friday of this week each person will play the Concert B-flat Scale. Remember that the scale must be from memory. Good luck!

YouTube Clip of the Week

2008-09-02T14:26:00.001-05:00

Check out this BASSOON QUARTET performing music from Super Mario Brothers.

Pep Band - HTMS vs. Berry

2008-09-01T23:54:00.005-05:00

Enjoy the pictures from our latest football game. The HTMS Band did a great job adding to the atmosphere of the game. Way to go HT!