212 Orchestra

Sunday Performance at Acworth United Methodist Church

2010-05-14T19:32:00.000-04:00

All students need to arrive at Acworth United Methodist Church by 6:30pm. The actual benefit performance begins at 7pm and Mr. Crawford said that kids will be done no later than 8:30pm.

6th Grade Attire: Polo, khakis, black dress shoes

7th and 8th Grade Attire: all black....black dress shoes, black dress shirt, black tie (guys), black belt, black dress pants

Address: 4340 Collins Circle Acworth, Georgia 30101

Directions:

Acworth UMC is located along Hwy 92 on a hill overlooking Lake Acworth between I-75 and US Hwy 41 (Cobb Parkway) on the southwest side of the historic area of the city of Acworth.

Website: http://www.acworthumc.org/location/index.html

If you have any questions email me or call me.

Concert Info

2010-05-02T12:04:00.000-04:00

Final Concert Dates, Times, and Attire:

Monday, May 10th @ 7pm in the Awtrey Theatre
6th Grade Orchestra: arrive at 6:30pm on the stage in jeans and your orchestra polo
6th Grade Sinfonia: arrive at 6:30pm on stage in jeans and your orchestra polo but also bring your sinfonia t-shirt so you can change later

7th Grade Orchestra: arrive at 6:30pm in the ORCHESTRA room in jeans, concert long-sleeve, white dress shirt, black dress shoes. Students may wear a tie and/ or hat if they want to.

Tuesday, May 11th @ 7pm in the Awtrey Theatre
8th Grade Orchestra: arrive at 6:30pm in teh Orchestra room in your normal black and white concert attire.

Full Symphony

2010-05-02T10:59:00.002-04:00

THERE ARE NO MORE FULL SYMPHONY REHEARSALS THIS SCHOOL YEAR. THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR HARD WORK AND MC IS GETTING READY FOR NEXT YEAR :)

Full Symphony Rehearsal Schedule

2010-04-20T20:44:00.000-04:00

All Full Symphony members have rehearsal Wednesday morning at 8am in the orchestra room. You will also have rehearsal next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday morning.

Lastly the Pre-Disney Concert is Tuesday, April 27th at 7pm in the theatre. All members are required to attend and must wear Concert Black (black dress pants, black dress shirt, black dress shoes, black tie). Students need to arrive at school at 6pm for a quick rehearsal and there is a Disney Parent meeting at 6:30pm.

Rehearsals during CRCT

2010-04-13T18:21:00.000-04:00

We do have all regularly scheduled rehearsals this week.
6th grade ensemble will meet Wednesday morning and Full Symphony (Orchestra only) will meet Wednesday afterschool.

Both ensembles are preparing for performances and adjudications so if you cannot be there, you MUST let MC know in writing (email works as well) at least one day prior.

6th Grade Jamboree is Monday

2010-03-21T18:16:00.000-04:00

All student need to wear jeans (no holes), black orchestra polo, and dark shoes. Students need to also bring their sunglasses and wire stands for the performance. Students will stay afterschool to eat and make last minute preparations for Jamboree. We will leave Awtrey at approximately 5:15pm and arrive at Daniell Middle School no later than 6pm.

The actual performance for parents begins at 7:30pm but make sure you get there early because parking is limited. Any child not traveling back to Awtrey on the bus needs to make sure they checkout with MC prior to leaving.

Any parent assisting MC with transporting instruments, serving pizza, and/or riding the bus needs to be at Awtrey by 4pm.

Thanks!!!!

7th Grade Festival Info.

2010-03-14T23:03:00.000-04:00

7th Grade Festival is this Thursday, March 18th at Lovinggood Midlde School.

All students need to bring their concert attire (black pants, white dress shirt, black tie, black socks, black belt, and black dress shoes) to school Thursday because all students are required to stay afterschool in prepartion for the festival.

Students will eat in the cafeteria afterschool if they paid their $5 for pizza. We will leave Awtrey at approximately 5:15 and arrive at Lovinggood by 6pm. All Full Symphony students will watch the Awtrey 8th Grade performance and then proceed to the cafeteria until their performance time arrives.

The 4th period 7th grade Festival schedule goes as follows:

6:20--Warm-Up
6:40--Performance in the Theatre
7:00--Sight-Reading

Once 4th period students have finished their portion of the Festival process, they may leave with a parent when they check out with MC first. Any student that leaves without FIRST checking out with MC will receive disciplinary consequences.

The 5th period 7th grade schedule goes as follows:

7:40--Warm-Up
8:00--Performance
8:20--Sight-Reading

We should arrive back to Awtrey no later than 9:30pm for all students riding the bus back to school.

Full Symphony Superior Performance Video

2010-03-14T21:00:00.002-04:00

Click on the link above to watch the video

FESTIVAL RESULTS

2010-03-11T23:59:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to both the 8th Grade Orchestra and Full Symphony on an amazing performance tonight. I am so proud of the exceptional and SUPERIOR music you created tonight. You received many compliments from parents, teachers, and judges.
Both Ensembles received Superior Ratings!

Also a special thanks to Ms. Johnson and the parents who assisted tonight. I don't know how I would have made it without you.

8th Grade and Full Symphony Festival

2010-03-08T00:20:00.000-05:00

8th Grade and Full Symphony Festival is this Thursday, March 11th at Lovinggood Midlde School.
All students need to bring their concert attire (black pants, white dress shirt (8th grade), black dress shirt (full symphony) black tie, black socks, black belt, and black dress shoes) to school Thursday because all students are required to stay afterschool in prepartion for the festival.

Students will eat in the cafeteria afterschool if they paid their $5 for pizza. We will leave Awtrey at approximately 5:15 and arrive at Lovinggood by 6pm. All Full Symphony students will watch the Awtrey 8th Grade performance and then proceed to the cafeteria until their performance time arrives.
The 8th grade Festival schedule goes as follows:

6:20--Warm-Up
6:40--Performance in the Theatre
7:00--Sight-Reading

Once 8th grade students not involved with Full Symphony have finished their portion of the Festival process, they may leave with a parent when they check out with MC first. Any student that leaves without FIRST checking out with MC will receive disciplinary consequences.

The Full Symphony schedule goes as follows:

7:40--Warm-Up
8:00--Performance
8:20--Sight-Reading

We should arrive back to Awtrey no later than 9:30pm for all students riding the bus back to school.

Full Symphony

2010-03-03T08:35:00.000-05:00

There is no Full Symphony this morning due to the 2 hour delay. We will have Full Symphony next Monday and Wednesday morning to compensate for the loss of today's rehearsal. String students should expect to also have an extra rehearsal Tuesday afterschool to learn the new piece for Festival next Thursday.

6th Grade Ensemble

2010-03-03T08:14:00.000-05:00

6th grade ensemble will meet next Thursday morning (March 11th) at 8am due to scheduling conflicts. If any student cannot be present please send me an email letting me know as soon as possible. We will be recording your pieces to take inventory on where we are in preparation for our Six Flags Festival.

Full Symphony Rehearsal

2010-02-21T21:55:00.000-05:00

Full Symphony will practice Monday morning and Wednesday afterschool from 4:30 to 6pm in preparation for their Pre-Festival Concert Thursday at 7pm in the Awtrey Theatre.

Festival Season

2010-02-14T19:52:00.000-05:00

Festival season is approaching very soon. All 7th and 8th grade students will have their Pre-Festival Concert Thursday, February 25th at 7pm in the Theatre. The purpose of this performance is to provide students with a sneak peek of what the real Large Group Performance Evaluation will be like. Festival is basically like the CRCT of the music world and students will be judged on many different levels to determine if we are Superior (I), Excellent (II), Good (III), Fair (IV), or Poor (V).

All students must participate in Festival and permission slips are due Thursday, February 25th. The cost for food and registration is $5, which needs to be paid by the 25th as well. Parents are welcome to attend the event and/ or chaperone the event. I have sent home information letters and permission slips with all details but just in case you may find them on the right side of the Main Blog. I have also provided basic information below as well.

Students may bring electronics on this field trip because we will leave Awtrey at 5:30 and not return until 9:30pm. Any student wishing to leave after their performance/ sight-reading from Lovinggood must see MC (with their parent) prior to their leaving.

Thursday, March 11th (Lovinggood Middle School)
8th Grade Orchestra: 6:40 performance time
Full Symphony: 8:20 performance time

Thursday, March 18th (Lovinggood Middle School)
7th Grade (4th period) Orchestra: 6:40 performance time
7th Grade (5th period) Orchestra: 8:00 performance time

If you are a parent who would like to ride the bus as a chaperone or drive large instruments either turn in the forms with your child or send me an email.

Black History Program

2010-02-14T19:12:00.000-05:00

All Orchestra students who attend and write a critique of the Black History Program will receive 5 points extra credit added to their grade. You must critique each section (as outlined in the program) of the play and end with a synopsis of specific things you learned.

Full Symphony

2010-02-14T19:06:00.000-05:00

Full Symphony (string players only) will rehearse on Tuesday, February 16th at 8am in the Orchestra room. All students need to be present and on time because we are preparing for Disney as well as your festival adjudication.

Warm-ups

2010-02-14T19:04:00.000-05:00

Due to festival preparation there will be no more Warm-ups until after Spring Break. If you have missed a warm-up you have until February 19th to get it to me.
8th grade will still have their terms test on Tuesday the 16th, so make sure you are studying your terms.

DO YOU NEED SOMETHING FROM ME?

2010-02-09T08:31:00.001-05:00

Please check your blog for the new MC I NEED FORM. The purpose of this form is so that students and/ or parents can let me know of anything they need from me electronically. Students can get extra music, assignments, schedule extra help, or anything else they might need from me. I will get back to you within two days with a response.

I hope this makes me more available to you and if you have any comments let me know those as well.

Violin Full Symphony Rehearsal

2010-02-01T20:00:00.002-05:00

ALL FULL SYMPHONY VIOLINS HAVE A REHEARSAL TUESDAY MORNING AT 8:15 in the Orchestra room since you were not prepared for today's rehearsal.

Seating Auditions are Coming

2010-01-25T16:44:00.000-05:00

Seating Auditions will be the first week in February. These auditions will be judged by another Director and students will receive comments based upon their performance and level of professionalism. Stay tuned for further details.

Practice Techniques

2010-01-24T23:08:00.000-05:00

#1: Sing, Count, Clap

#2: Pluck and Air Bow

#3: Arco--begin slow and gradually get faster

#4: Add-A-Note/ Measure/ Phrase

#5: Listen to a Recording and then record yourself

#6: Work with someone else

DARIUS GOES WEST

2010-01-21T12:20:00.002-05:00

This month the Jr. Beta Club is helping to promote awareness for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. You can help the Jr. Beta Club by bringing in money for your home room and voting on-line for the Darius Goes West Inc., the movie we have been watching in advisory this month. Please go to this website and click on the link to VOTE for DGW on Facebook for the Chase Bank Giveaway helping this organization win $1,000,000!
http://www.dariusgoeswest.org/vote

Grades

2010-01-21T12:02:00.000-05:00

I am in the process of updating grades in Pinnnacle. I should have all grades in no later than Friday so, if there is a problem with your child's grade as of Friday please let me know.

6th Grade and Paper Towels

2010-01-11T21:10:00.000-05:00

ALL 6TH GRADE STUDENTS NEED TO BRING A PAPER TOWEL ROLL OR TOILET PAPER ROLL AND A RUBBER BAND NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY.

Shifting Focus

2010-01-10T19:05:00.000-05:00

For the entire month of January all 7th and 8th grade students will be focusing on proper shifting techniques, recognizing finger patterns in higher positions, and applying shifting techniques to their music. I have created shifting finger pattern charts that are located on each grade level blog so that students have a visual to assist them at home. If your child is having issues please have them see MC for extra help.

8th Grade Scale Tests

2010-01-10T19:03:00.000-05:00

Due to the weather if there is any 8th grade student that needs to take their scales test, they have until Tuesday morning. Remember that no tests will be taken during class however students may record or come in on their own time (before school, during lunch, or afterschool) to complete this assignment.

6th Grade Practice Log

2010-01-04T16:07:00.000-05:00

6th grade students say GOODBYE to Orkadork Powers and HELLO to Practice Logs. Practice Logs will work like so:

You must practice at least 20 minutes daily
You can choose what you want to practice but you need to practice your music for class
It is due EVERY FRIDAY in the folder on the wall near the out door...YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A VERBAL REMINDER
Your parents must sign it verifying that the info is true....NO SIGNATURE= LOSS OF POINTS
You must have a weekly practice goal, tell me what you practiced, and what techniques you used
You must complete a weekly practice reflection (ON THE BACK)
You must cut your practice log out and turn in the appropriate week
NO NAME=NO GRADE

New Late Work Policy

2010-01-04T15:49:00.001-05:00

Effective today any student turning in late work will have only two weeks after the due date to turn the assignment in for a grade and a loss of 6 conduct points per assignment. If the student for any reason fails to complete the assignment after two weeks then they will receive no credit for the assignment. All late work can be found on the grade level blog and it is the student's responsibility to obtain the assignment. MC WILL NOT GIVE YOU AN EXTRA COPY!

8th Grade Orchestra

2010-01-04T15:42:00.000-05:00

This is a reminder that you have your scales test tomorrow (TUESDAY, JANUARY 5TH). Check your blog for a list of the scales that you are expected to play proficiently along with the two scale maps.

Fundraising Update

2010-01-04T15:41:00.000-05:00

Any student missing their all or part of their fundraising needs to email or see MC ASAP! I will be contacting the fundraising company on Tuesday to update them on what is needed and then I will let you know when you can expect your remaining products.

Thanks for your patience in this matter.

Scales Test

2009-12-14T12:38:00.000-05:00

All grades have a scales test that they must take this week! This test includes playing the specified scales below along with completing the corresponding scale map.
6th Grade: D and G Major scales w/ scale map.
7th Grade: C, G, D, A, F, and B-flat
   4th Period Scale Map: D (two octaves-violin), G (two octaves-viola/cello/bass), and F (one octave--all instruments)
   5th Period Scale Map: F and B-Flat
8th Grade: C, G, D, A, F, and B-flat (two octaves)
   Scale Map: D and F (violin) and G and B-flat(viola/cello/bass)

FUNDRAISER WILL BE IN ON THE DEC. 16TH

2009-12-11T10:10:00.001-05:00

The fundraiser will be in on Wednesday, December 16th!!! I will need some parent help to sort the products by student and pass them out, especially to the 6th grade students.

Concert

2009-12-11T10:08:00.002-05:00

YOU GUYS DID AN AMAZING JOB LAST NIGHT!!!!! I AM SO PROUD OF YOU AND YOUR HARDWORK.....IT DEFINITELY PAID OFF : )

Thursday Concert

2009-12-10T01:32:00.000-05:00

All students need to arrive to Awtrey no later than 6:30pm and report to the following rooms:

8th Grade--Mrs. Emmett's Room
4th Period--The Dell Lab
5th Period--Mrs. Calandra's Room
6th Grade Ensemble--The Theatre

DO NOT GO TO THE ORCHESTRA ROOM, IT WILL BE LOCKED!!!!!

All students will remain in these rooms unless they are performing due to space limitations in the theatre. Students will watch the concert via closed circuit TV in these rooms. If any student needs to leave after their performance, parents must go to that room and check their child out from the chaperone. I encourage all students to stay for the entire performance so they support their peers and also see what more advanced classes are performing.

Concert Attire

2009-12-10T01:22:00.002-05:00

All 7th and 8th grade Orchestras need to wear their normal concert attire:

Black Pants/ Skirt
White Dress Shirt
Black Tie or Holiday Tie
Black Belt
Black Dress Socks or Holiday socks
Black Dress Shoes

Students may add holiday accents such as santa hats, bells, lights, etc... NO ONE MAY CHANGE THEIR SHIRT OR PANTS.

7th Grade Concert at NCHS

2009-12-08T08:03:00.001-05:00

ALL 4th Period 7th grade Orchestra students will perform at NCHS in the cafeteria from 5 to 5:30 for their annual Dinner Theatre. Parents, family, and friends are invited to come watch the students AND YOU DO NOT HAVE TO PAY TO WATCH YOUR CHILD PLAY. However, if you would like to eat, dinner is $15 per person at the door.

Students need to wear black dress pants and their black orchestra t-shirt from last year. If you are missing your t-shirt please let MC ASAP!

If you are not picking your child up from NCHS we will leave to travel back to Awtrey no later than 5:30 so you can expect us back at Awtrey no later than 5:45. I have another concert Tuesday night so if you arrive to NCHS after 5:30, please come to Awtrey to pick up your child because I cannot leave them unattended at North Cobb.

Results of the Chair Auditions

2009-12-03T00:12:00.000-05:00

See the entrance door of the Orchestra room for Chair Audition results. If you did not audition then you were seated last chair, however you may still audition. I will adjust seating accordingly only for those persons who did audition at all.

Grades

2009-12-02T23:31:00.001-05:00

Many students are missing assignments.......Make sure all late work is turned into MC no later than Monday, December 14th. I will not take any late work after this date for any reason! I have posted the assignments on the main blog to the side so that you can download a copy and complete it on your own time---DO NOT ASK ME FOR A COPY. If you have any questions please email me and I will get back to you promptly.

Winter Concerts

2009-12-02T23:15:00.001-05:00

Tis the season for many concerts:
Tuesday, December 8th 4th period Orchestra will perform at NCHS at 5pm for the annual NCHS Orchestra Dinner Theatre

Tuesday, December 8th Full Symphony will play on the Band Concert Night beginning at 7pm

Thursday, December 10th 6th Grade Ensemble, 7th Grade Orchestras, and 8th Grade Orchestra will perform at Awtrey at 7pm in the theatre.

Tuesday, December 15th Vivace Ensemble will perform with the Chorus beginning at 7pm. The orchestra will not begin performing until 7:30pm although parents are encouraged to attend the Chorus performance at 7pm.

Falalalalaaa la la la laaaaaaaaa

UGA Chamber Music Workshop Details

2009-12-01T21:34:00.002-05:00

NO UGA REHEARSAL THURSDAY. All students need to pay their remaining balance no later than Thursday. Also see MC Wednesday for your permission slip which also needs to be returned by Thursday. Any student missing items will not be allowed to go on the trip.

6th Grade Theory Due

2009-12-01T19:15:00.002-05:00

All 6th grade students need their Theory books tomorrow for Theory Wednesday.
6th period: Page 9 is due tomorrow for a grade. We will check these in class. NO BOOK=NO GRADE
7th period: We will begin Unit 2

Seating Auditions

2009-11-30T00:15:00.000-05:00

All 7th and 8th grade Orchestra classes will have seating auditions Wednesday during sectionals. Your sectional grade will determine your seating for the Winter Concert. Many of you enjoy sitting with your current stand partner so make sure that both of you are at the same playing level to ensure your continued partnership.

I will post Audition details on your grade specific tomorrow evening after ensemble. You will not get a second chance to redo your seating audition so make sure it is good the first time. Also this audition will count as a test grade as an added incentive to practice :)

If you need help I will be available Tuesday morning for extra help and please let me know you are coming :)

Rehearsals

2009-11-29T15:27:00.003-05:00

FULL SYMPHONY REHEARSAL IN MORNING AT 8 and ENSEMBLE AFTERSCHOOL UNTIL 6pm. Both are MANDATORY. You have a concert approaching quickly and we will have added rehearsals until we are prepared to perform. If you want less rehearsals make sure you are practicing at home.

We will be performing the following Ensemble Pieces:

Vanguard Overture, Bashana Haba'Ah, and Wizards in Winter. We will also perform What I've Done, Hysteria, and Don't Forget.

MC NEEDS A DRUMMER.......EMAIL ME PLEASE!

6th Grade Concert

2009-11-17T20:50:00.003-05:00

WOAH.....AMAZING IS ALL I CAN SAY!!!!

You guys had the ABSOLUTE BEST concert tonight.....I am so proud of you and cannot wait to celebrate for the rest of the week!!!!!! You guys worked hard and it definitely showed tonight. I cannot wait to make more music with you this year.

A HUGE SHOUT OUT TO THE PARENTS WHO LEARNED HOW TO PLAY THEIR CHILD'S INSTRUMENT TONIGHT!!!!

THE 6th Grade MIGHTY ORKADORKS OWNED THE STAGE TONIGHT!!!!

6th Grade Concert Playlist

2009-11-15T12:25:00.002-05:00

Pizzicato Songs

Hot Cross Buns-Melody and Bass Line

Mary Had a Little Lamb--Melody and Bass Line

At Perriot's Door--Melody and BassLine

Twinkle Twinkle

Go Tell Aunt Rhody

Down by the Station

Arco Songs

Jingle Bells

Old MC

Buckeye Salute

Two by Two

Good King Wincelas

Bile Em Cabbage Down

Special Songs

Charlie Brown

Halloween Song

Chain Hang Low

I Got a Feeling

We Wish You a Happy Thanksgiving--Special Surprise for Parents

7th Grade Orchestra

2009-11-15T11:54:00.002-05:00

Please check your blog for the Practice Recordings for you Holiday Concert. Remember that we only have 2 weeks to learn all of your pieces and you are playing some complicated pieces. I am sure that we will be amazing like always but YOU MUST PRACTICE! Make sure you play listen and play along so that you know what your part sounds like while others are playing.

The link is on the left side just in case you forgot how to get there :)

6th Grade Informance

2009-11-15T11:32:00.002-05:00

The 6th grade Orchestra students will have their debut on stage, Tuesday, November 17th at 3:30pm and 7pm in the theatre. The 3:30 performance is just a dress rehearsal to work out any kinks that may arise. Parents, family, friends, and students are welcome to attend the 3:30 dress rehearsal but please come back for the 7pm show to see the final product.

The mighty Orkadorks have worked really hard this year and I promise you will be amazed with their progress thus far. I call it an Informance because it is a way for you to see what we do everyday during class. You will experience singing, dancing, competitions, and of course GREAT MUSIC! Come reading to have a good time cuz, I Got a Feeling that we have many surprises for you!

All students need to be in the theatre seated with their instrument no later than 6:30pm on Tuesday. Students need to bring their concert attire (khaki pants, black shoes, black socks, and black belt to school on Tuesday because they will need it for the 3:30 dress rehearsal. I will give students their polo shirts Tuesday afternoon when they come to class. If you still need to purchase a polo please send the $16 to school in a school envelope.

REMEMBER THAT WE HAVE FULL BLOCK ORCHESTRA TUESDAY SO ALL 7TH PERIOD STUDENTS NEED TO REPORT TO THE THEATRE FOR 6TH PERIOD.

Also all violin and viola students need to put their instruments in the theatre Tuesday morning so that there is no need to go downstairs. Cellos will need to come get their instruments from downstairs but NOT BASSES.

Ensemble Songs for Practice

2009-11-15T11:19:00.002-05:00

Please practice with the recordings below so that you know what your part sounds like with the other parts. I will add the cello and bass parts on Monday afternoon. If you hear silence remember those are rests :)

We will not play the moderato section so after the fermata you will skip to measure 57.

1st Violin Bashana Haba'ah--Performance Tempo

2nd Violin Bashana Haba'ah--Performance Tempo

Viola Bashana Haba'ah--Performance Tempo

Upper Strings Bashana Haba'ah--Performance Tempo

Practice Log Reminder

2009-11-03T15:33:00.003-05:00

Just a Reminder to all 7th and 8th grade students that your practice log (located on your warm-up) will now be checked weekly on Mondays. Make sure that you are practicing at least 120 minutes per week and using the techniques that are listed on the board in class.

You do not have to list the techniques that you are using yet but if it seems like your practice sessions are not beneficial then you will have to tell me which techniques you are using.

Technique 1- Add-a-note/measure/phrase

Technique 2- Slow it down and gradually get faster

Technique 3- Pluck and air bow

Technique 4- Listen to a recording and compare your performance with it. What can you do to get better?

Technique 5- Practice with someone else

Technique 6- clap and/or sing the rhythms and notes

Miss something?

2009-11-01T15:32:00.004-05:00

Did you miss the concert or just want to see it again, and again, and again.....then make sure you go to the video blog (below or to the left) and check out the concerts, special videos, and uga field trip.

Video Blog

Concert

2009-10-30T09:44:00.004-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS ON AN AMAZING CONCERT LAST NIGHT!!! You worked hard and it definitely paid off....I cannot wait till the next one : )

I will be posting the concert on the Video Blog for those who could not make it or if you just want to show off your amazing skills :)

DISNEY.....CALLING ALL THOSE FOR DISNEY!!!!

2009-10-26T22:04:00.004-04:00

If you are a member of Ensemble please remember that your Disney Spring Trip deposit ($110) and contract are due Thursday, November 5th. If your parents are chaperoning this trip they need to also pay the $110 by the 5th as well. I sent an email with the details of the trip along with all necessary paperwork but you can also find that below if you need another copy.

If you have any questions or need anything from me, please let me know. I really want this trip to be a possibility for all members and I am willing to do whatever is necessary : )

Disney Contract and Details

CONCERT NEEDS and Requirements!!!!!

2009-10-26T21:52:00.003-04:00

ALL 7th and 8th grade Orchestra students have a concert this Thursday at 7pm in the theatre. ALL STUDENTS MUST BE HERE NO LATER THAN 6:30pm so that we can rehearse the joint piece together with special effects in the theatre.

Concert attire is black dress pants, black dress shoes, black dress socks, black belt, black tie (boys), and white long-sleeve dress shirt. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!!

Also students need a book light for this concert because the lights will be off for several pieces.

I am in need of strobe lights, fog machines, and colored lights for special effects during this concert. Also if anyone has a dragon costume that would be great as well or 4 large umbrellas of the same size and oriental fabric (must be large enough to cover the umbrellas and a student.

COFFEE AND MAGAZINE FUNDRAISER!!

2009-10-20T17:29:00.006-04:00

Our fundraiser is in full swing!!! All students should be bringing home information about the fundraiser along with a brochure and email list. I would love for each child to sell their fair share which is 10 items so that we can reach our goal of $10,000. All monies raised will be used to purchase new instruments, new music, accessories, apparel, conferences, and fund field trips. All coffee, tea, and cocoa will have the picture of students which is located to the side.

Please help support the orchestra by participating in this fundraiser. Just click the link below and you can purchase coffee and many other items to benefit the orchestra students ONLINE!!!!

PURCHASE COFFEE, TEA, AND COCOA, AND COOKIES HERE

PURCHASE MAGAZINES HERE

We are also selling magazines (you can find the link above) to benefit the orchestra program here at Awtrey. There are over 650 titles that you can choose from and you may renew, buy, or lengthen your current subscription at a reduced rate :)

If you have any questions please email MC at awtreyorchestra@gmail.com

ENSEMBLE CHANGES THIS WEEK

2009-10-19T19:08:00.002-04:00

Sinfonia will meet this week on Wednesday morning but there will be NO VIVACE ENSEMBLE this week due to early release. We will resume rehearsals next week at the normal time.

6th Grade Orchestra

2009-10-18T14:31:00.003-04:00

If you received a C or lower on your Speed Reading Test then you must retake this test next Friday. We will continue practicing reading your notes during this week but make sure you are practicing at home as well.

Don't worry this grade will go up because you are an ORKADORK and we are THE BEST!!!!!

8th Grade Concert

2009-10-12T22:44:00.003-04:00

All 8th grade students need to be on the stage for the concert at 6:30pm Tuesday! Concert attire is black dress pants, long-sleeved white dress shirt, black tie (guys), black dress socks, black belt, and black dress shoes.

CALLING ALL ORKADORKS

2009-10-11T18:37:00.008-04:00

I NEED ALL ORCHESTRA STUDENTS TO TAKE A PICTURE IN THE ORCHESTRA ROOM AT 9:00 TOMORROW MORNING!

If you are not there then you will not be in the picture.

7th Grade Orchestra

2009-10-11T18:19:00.004-04:00

MC NEEDS 10 students in the 7th grade to be on the Special Effects and Video Team. You must email me ASAP if you want to be apart of this team of students. We will be planning for the Fall/ Halloween Concert at the end of this month........I NEED TONS OF IDEAS!!!!!

Make-up Work

2009-10-08T02:13:00.003-04:00

MC will be gone Thursday and Friday so if you have any work to turn into me it will have to be done via email. That means either scan the paper (send as an attachment), type all the info into an email, or take a picture of the assignment (send as an attachment). If your child failed to make up a test please email me but all students have had plenty of time to care of their low/ missing tests.

I have received several emails about missing work that students have turned in especially in 6th grade. Most 6th grade students have turned their work in late and I will be grading papers and updating Pinnacle throughout the week/ weekend :)

Pass-Offs

2009-10-06T08:09:00.001-04:00

You will no longer receive email confirmation of your pass-off time. You must still sign-up so MC is aware that you are coming and you may only sign-up for during your class period or lunch.

Ensemble Parent Meeting

2009-10-04T23:09:00.002-04:00

The Ensemble Parent Meeting for Spring Trip information will be Tuesday, October 6th at 7pm in the theatre. We will provide basic details about the trip and answer any questions that you may have thus far.

Section of the Week

2009-10-04T17:50:00.003-04:00

8th Grade Section of the Week goes to the 2nd Violins

7th Grade Section of the Week goes to the Cello and Bass Section

Congratulations on a job well done and see MC for your prizes: one snack and either a practice or warm-up pass.

Apparel Orders

2009-10-04T17:38:00.003-04:00

I will take Awtrey Orchestra Apparel (polo, beanie, hoodie, jacket, and lanyard) orders until Friday of this week for those people would still like to purchase Orchestra spiritwear. Please click on the link below for an order form and make sure you place your money in an orchestra envelope in one of the black money boxes throughout the school.

Order Form

Section of the Week

2009-09-29T22:12:00.004-04:00

WHO WILL BE THE NEXT SECTION OF THE WEEK?

In 8th grade right now it is between the 2nd violins and cellos who did an amazing job today on Viola Hero! Violas this is your song and I know you don't think it is the best song out there so lets modify to make it better. If you don't like your situation change it but definitely DO NOT JUST SULK....that leads to poor quality.

In 7th grade right now the 1st violins did an amazing job on El Toro (the E string part), which puts them in first place. I would really like to see the cello and bass sections step it up by practicing and being prepared for class.

Remember that winner receives the snack of their choice and either a warm-up pass or practice week pass.

Pass-Offs

2009-09-29T01:30:00.002-04:00

I have updated the Scale Pass-Offs schedule you may check the orchestra calendar for your name and time. If there is a problem please make sure you email me to reschedule also you should be receiving an email confirmation of your pass-off date and time.

Build-a-Bow Project

2009-09-28T18:32:00.004-04:00

6th grade orchestra below you will find the guidelines for your Build-a-Bow project that is due Monday, October 12th. Remember that you may work with a partner on this project but you must build your own bow to receive credit for both parts.

Have fun with this project and if you have any questions please email MC.

Build-a-Bow Project Guidelines

6th Grade Orchestra

2009-09-27T20:15:00.002-04:00

You need your Essential Elements book by Monday, October 5th, and your Theory book by Wednesday, October 7th. You have had one month to get these items, if you do not have them you will loose conduct points.

6th Grade Orchestra Bow Project

2009-09-27T20:12:00.002-04:00

You will receive your bow project this week and it is due Monday, October 12th. You may work with a partner on the history of the bow portion but everyone must make their own bow. Also you will get two days to work on this project during class (Thursday, October 8th & Friday, October 9th).

Please do not wait till the last minute to complete this project, it should be fun and an exploration into how the bow actually works. If you have any questions, please email MC!

7th Period Orchestra

2009-09-23T00:36:00.002-04:00

Only 15 people turned in their Orkadork Power #2, you have until FRIDAY TO TURN THIS IN and then this assignment will no longer be accepted. Those persons who turned in their Orkadork Power #2 will receive a practice pass/ orkadork power freebie in appreciation for your timeliness. Thank You!!!

Tic Tac Box

2009-09-20T11:47:00.003-04:00

All 6th Grade Students need an empty tic tac box by Thursday so we can begin learning how to hold the bow!!!!!

UGA

2009-09-20T11:44:00.003-04:00

ALL UGA MONEY AND FORMS ARE DUE NO LATER THAN THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24th. Please make all checks out to Awtrey Middle School, have your child get an envelope from MC, and place it in the black money box.

Class Preparation

2009-09-20T11:32:00.003-04:00

Many 7th and 8th grade students are not prepared for class which is holding us back as an orchestra. Remember that you are supposed to be practicing 160 minutes per week to keep up with what we are doing in class. If you are not prepared for class I will begin taking conduct points because falling behind is no longer an option.

Our first concert is in October which leaves us less than a month to prepare.....Our goal has always been to be the best and that will not change. Help me to help you : )

Google Documents

2009-09-20T11:30:00.003-04:00

If you are having trouble printing google documents from my blog (meaning your document is tiny when printing) then try right clicking on the page and pressing print picture.

If this does not work please email me and I will send you a pdf copy.

8th grade Orchestra

2009-09-14T18:03:00.002-04:00

You have a test on Danny Rocks tomorrow, the funky section.

ENSEMBLE IS THURSDAY THIS WEEK!!!

2009-09-13T20:01:00.003-04:00

ENSEMBLE HAS BEEN MOVED TO THURSDAY FOR JUST THIS WEEK.....If you cannot make it please email MC or leave a comment on this post so I know who to expect. We will begin playing popular songs this week in addition to your quartet music.

Terms Test

2009-09-13T18:34:00.005-04:00

ALL 7TH AND 8TH grade Orchestra students will have a terms test on Thursday (friday for 5th period). Your test will be on August Terms so review your warm-up from last month.

6th Grade Blog

2009-09-13T15:58:00.003-04:00

6th Grade Orchestra students you now have your own blog for what we are doing weekly. Please check that blog if you are absent or confused about something that we learned doing class. The link for the blog is located on the left hand side: What's 6th Grade Doing

The blog address is: http://whatsawtrey6thgradedoing.blogspot.com/

I will also post the 6th grade resources on your blog as well. Please let me know if there is anything else you would like to see on your blog.

6th Grade Info

2009-09-13T12:52:00.003-04:00

A lot of 6th grade students are not putting name on their papers. Remember if there is no name on your paper then you cannot get a grade!!! Please check the box on Monday to see if your paper was without a name.

I have placed the Rhythm Lines Worksheet under 6th Grade Resources. You need to be practicing lines 5-10 (E-J).

Scale Pass-Offs

2009-09-11T19:07:00.002-04:00

All 7th and 8th grade Orchestra students need to sign-up for a Scale Pass-Off time at the end of the month (September 28th-October 2nd). Please complete the form located on the right side of the blog and then MC will email you your time and date.

You will be playing the C and G scales with arpeggios with the metronome at quarter note= 100.

6th Grade Orkadork Power #2

2009-09-11T02:13:00.002-04:00

Below you will find a link for your 2nd Orkadork Power which is due next Friday, September 18th. Make sure you color each section as you complete it and have your parents sign the sheet at the end of the week indicating that they heard you practice each day for at least 15 minutes.

The most creative assignments will be hung on the Orkadork Wall of Fame and those students will receive a homework pass for they outstanding work......ORKADORK POWER!!!!!

Cellos and basses if you do not have an instrument at home then you need to make arrangements with MC to practice before or after school.

Orkadork Power #2

Twinkle Melody

2009-09-10T12:09:00.001-04:00

do do so so la la so

fa fa mi mi re re do

so so fa fa mi mi re re do

do do so so la la so

fa fa mi mi re re do

UGA ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL

2009-09-08T22:49:00.004-04:00

UGA ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL.....OCTOBER 9TH AND 10TH
This festival is an intensive two day festival designed to provide advanced string students an opportunity for further development of their orchestral skills. This is also a wonderful opportunity for students to meet other musicians, receive coaching from several professional musicians, and listen to college/ adult string recitals.

Participants will be expected to prepare festival music in advance. Parts and detailed information about schedule, auditions, contact information, etc. will be sent well in advance of the festival. The festival will conclude on Saturday, October 10, 2009 with a performance for the parents.

Check out this link for more information: UGA ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL

If your child is interested in participating in this festival then please email MC no later than Friday, September 11th.

6th Grade Parent Meeting

2009-08-25T19:13:00.003-04:00

There will be a 6th grade Orchestra parent meeting Thursday, September 3 at 6:30pm in the Awtrey Theatre. I will be going over handbooks, student expectations, the Orchestra environment at Awtrey, and answering any questions that you might have. You will also get to see a video of what your child has learned this far--THEY ARE ACTUALLY PLAYING :)

6th Grade First Assignment

2009-08-25T00:47:00.006-04:00

You will have your first grade as an official Orkadork on Friday, August 28th. You will need to label the parts of your instrument. Please clink on your instrument so that you can see all the answers : ) These answers are also in your book!!

Violin

Viola

Cello

Bass

Score and Dynamic Analysis

2009-08-25T00:43:00.002-04:00

If you had trouble with today's assignment on score and dynamic analysis please see your grades blog to the left and check out the tutorial. MC basically goes over the entire assignment with you so that you have a complete understanding.

This assignment is due on Thursday unless I see that you possibly need more time.

Listening Logs

2009-08-25T00:37:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday you will complete a Listening Log in class : )

I will choose some of the songs throughout the year but if you have song requests that you would like your classmates to hear please email the Orkadork Communication group

(orkadork-communication@googlegroups.com) and give me th following info:

Name
Artist
Why should we listen to this piece of music

All songs must be orchestra related because the purpose of listening to music is to open your eyes and broaden you mind to how orchestral instruments are used in society today, tomorrow, and yesterday.

All State Rehearsals

2009-08-24T17:39:00.001-04:00

All State Rehearsals have been moved to Thursday mornings because MC has meetings on Tuesdays....see ya later : )

Ensemble Auditions

2009-08-21T17:36:00.005-04:00

I will post the Ensemble Auditions tonight and email students the results the contracts which are due on Monday morning at 8am (our first rehearsal)

6th Grade Orchestra

2009-08-21T17:16:00.005-04:00

WELCOME TO THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF ORKADORKS!!!!

You will need your instrument on Monday and we will learn our first new song!!!!! Start familiarizing yourself with the parts of your instrument.

8th Grade Orchestra Book

2009-08-21T11:57:00.002-04:00

Your books will be in on Monday. Please bring $7, place it in a white envelope marked 8th Grade Orchestra book and put it in the black box.

Warm-Ups

2009-08-21T07:55:00.002-04:00

DON'T FORGET THESE ARE DUE EVERY FRIDAY....TURN THEM INTO YOUR FOLDER UNDER THE TABLE AT THE FRONT OF THE ROOM.

MAGAZINES!!!!

2009-08-20T18:53:00.006-04:00

Support the Orchestra....BUY A MAGAZINE

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

DO NOT BUY SMART MUSIC

2009-08-18T21:36:00.004-04:00

There is no SMART MUSIC for this year so please DO NOT PURCHASE the software unless it is for personal use. I made this decision after all the handbooks and 6th grade supply sheets were printed. We will still use smart music during class but students will not be required to complete assignments at home for a grade.

IT'S COMING

2009-08-16T11:24:00.008-04:00

This year I will be adding a new component to the blog called the WHAT ARE WE DOING in class this week. This component will give you a breakdown of what we will do each day during class and it will feature video and pictures of students. I will set it up on Sundays and add to it daily.

After I launch this new program I will need students to help me keep it up to date so if you are interested in helping please email me. The duties will include video editing, photography, and website layout/ design (basic stuff not too complicated).

Thanks

8th Grade Inventory

2009-08-16T11:20:00.003-04:00

All 8th grade orchestra students need to take the online inventory by Friday, August 21st. I have emailed you the link to the inventory but if I do not have your email address you can access via the link below.

The purpose of this survey is for you to tell me what skills you possess and what you think your class needs to work on. This year I want more input from students on their music education so SPEAK :)

8th Grade Skills Inventory

HELP THE ORCHESTRA!!!

2009-08-13T22:33:00.008-04:00

Follow this link (HELP THE ORCHESTRA) to learn how you can help the orchestra by purchasing or renewing a magazine subscription. You may also forward this link to others that you know so that they too can HELP THE ORCHESTRA

Dictonary Due on Monday

2009-08-11T00:40:00.004-04:00

Your dictionary is due Monday, August 17th for 7th and 8th grade classes. Remember that you may make them or purchase them but you must have a dictionary by MONDAY!!! This dictionary will stay in your music folder/ binder and will be used for Monday Terms assignment.

The words that you need for your dictionary are below in a pdf file if you need assistance please let MC know immediately.

7th Grade Terms

8th Grade Terms

Join Orchestra

2009-08-07T00:37:00.003-04:00

Here is a sneak peak into the wonderful world of Orchestra at Awtrey. We bring the Boom Boom Pow to everything that we do!!! I cannot wait introduce all of you to the wonderful world of ORCHESTRA and show you what we truly do everyday during class. If you are interested in joining Orchestra please email me and I will happily answer any of your questions.

6th grade students will rotate through all of the connections classes for a week so that they have the opportunity to try each instrument and make a decision. Students do not have to sign up for Band, Orchestra, or Chorus but if they want to perform with an ensemble 6th grade is the only year that they may join.

You do not have to have any experience to join Orchestra although if you play the guitar or another stringed instrument it will make learning a stringed instrument easier. I promise that Orchestra at Awtrey is guaranteed fun and you make music along with great friends.

See ya next week,

Welcome Back

2009-08-05T23:18:00.002-04:00

I am ready for a great year and there are only a few changes this year. The biggest change is that all 8th grade students will be using the book Sight Read It! I have informed the local stores and asked that they stock this book so please start getting the book.