About the 7th Grade Concert Band:
The 7th Grade Concert Band builds on the skills and knowledge you gained in 6th grade, helping you take your musical abilities to the next level! As a member of this ensemble, you will continue developing your instrumental technique, explore more complex music, and experience the thrill of performing in larger concerts. This year, you’ll grow as a musician, improve your confidence, and deepen your understanding of music.

What You’ll Learn:
In the 7th Grade Concert Band, students will:
• Expand their knowledge of music theory, including more advanced rhythms, key signatures, and time signatures.
• Improve their instrument technique, focusing on tone quality, articulation, and range.
• Learn new ensemble skills, such as balancing sound and playing in harmony.
• Practice more challenging pieces, including marches, concert music, and fun contemporary selections.
• Gain performance experience through multiple concerts and events.

Instruments in Concert Band:
In 7th grade, students will continue to play the instrument they selected in 6th grade, but you may also have opportunities to explore additional instruments within your instrument family, such as:
• Woodwinds: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, Bass Clarinet
• Brass: Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Baritone, Tuba
• Percussion: Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Timpani, Mallet Percussion (Xylophone, Marimba)- Percussion Students Required Instruments-PDF

If you’re interested in switching instruments, talk to your band director to discuss possibilities and recommendations.

Class Structure:
• Daily Rehearsals: Each day, we will work on improving technique, reading more advanced music, and rehearsing our performance pieces. We’ll be using the Essential Elements Book 2 method book to build on the fundamentals learned last year.
• Small Group Sectionals: You’ll have time to work in small groups with others playing your instrument, focusing on specific skills like fingerings, tuning, or advanced rhythms.
• Full Band Rehearsals: We’ll come together as a full band to rehearse the pieces for our upcoming concerts, focusing on dynamics, blend, and balance.

Expectations for Students:
• Be Prepared: Students should bring their instrument, method book, music folder, and a pencil to every class.
• Practice Regularly: To make consistent progress, students should practice at home for 20-30 minutes a day. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel in rehearsals and performances!
• Be a Team Player: As part of an ensemble, each musician contributes to the overall sound. We work together to create the best music we can, and that means listening to each other and playing with unity.

Performances:
As a 7th grade band student, you’ll have multiple opportunities to perform throughout the year, including:
• Winter Concert (December): A showcase of holiday and classical music.
• Spring Concert (May): A celebration of the progress you’ve made with exciting new pieces.
• Special Events: You may be invited to perform at assemblies, local events, or even alongside the 8th-grade band and high school band at larger events.

Why Join the 7th Grade Concert Band?
Being part of the 7th Grade Concert Band means more than just playing music—it’s about learning to work as a team, building leadership skills, and exploring your creative side. The music we play will be more challenging and rewarding, and you’ll have fun pushing yourself to grow as a musician. Plus, you’ll continue building friendships with your bandmates while working towards common performance goals.

How to Succeed in Band:
• Stay Committed: Playing an instrument requires dedication and consistent practice. Make a plan to practice regularly at home, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling.
• Stay Curious: Explore new music, listen to professional recordings, and take an interest in learning more about your instrument and music in general.
• Have Fun! Band is about making music and enjoying the experience. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, have fun making music!

Looking Ahead:
The 7th Grade Concert Band is a fantastic opportunity to continue your musical journey and lay the groundwork for even more exciting experiences in 8th grade and beyond. Whether you’re aiming to audition for honor bands, play solos, or simply improve as a musician, this year will be a stepping stone toward achieving your musical goals!

Get Ready for an Amazing Year of Music!
The 7th Grade Concert Band is your chance to take your musical skills to the next level, make new friends, and perform in exciting concerts. We can’t wait to see the incredible music you’ll create this year!