Giving "thanks to our space"

(above: students giving "thanks to our space."
On the last day of school before Thanksgiving vacation, the 7th grade band instruction classes gave "thanks to our space." In an effort to learn to appreciate and take care of the facility that we have to learn and rehearse in, the students gave the practice rooms a good going over, including moving the pianos and checking for items that might have slipped behind them, picking up any trash, cleaning the walls, pianos, and windows, and even tightening the stands! In the junior high instrument storage area the cubbies were straightened, uniforms were rehung, large case storage was organized, and the carpet was even vacuumed under those large cases! The students left signs in each practice room reminding everyone to turn off the lights and ventilation and pick up the trash each time they used the room. This will hopefully not only keep the rooms in tip-top shape for all to use, but will save energy at the same time! GREAT JOB EVERYONE!

Time to "step up?"

On Friday, November 21 representatives from The Music Mart in Mankato gave "step up" presentations to all four bands. Students were given a brief introduction to what step-up horns were and then were sent to the music commons in sections to look at the instruments. Students were able to play the instruments and compare them to their own instruments. It was amazing to watch the faces as they played these instruments that allowed them show their talents so easily!

So what is a step-up? Most students in the junior high are currently playing on "student line" horns. These horns are an inexpensive way for beginners to obtain an instrument and start learning how to play. As students mature in both intellect and talent it is a great time to consider an "intermediate" or "pro-line" horn. These are often made of higher quality materials, have additional keys or features and usually blow easier and more in tune than student models. An intermediate or pro-line horn also improves the tone quality of the student as well.

Thanks to the Music Mart for taking the time to share their instruments with us! Parents and students, please contact me if you have additonal questions regarding the purchase of a step-up horn.

Fall Festival of Bands

The Music Department at Mankato East will present the annual Fall Festival of Bands Concert on Thursday, November 20th, beginning at 7:30 P.M. in the East auditorium. The concert will feature all four concert bands at the school; the Seventh Grade Concert Band, Eighth Grade Concert Band, Cougar Band and Concert Band. A wide range of musical styles and genres will be featured. There is no admission charge for this event.

Paying Tribute

The 8th Grade Concert Band performed today at the annual Veteran's Day Program. Held in the auditorium the band performed This is My Country, The Star Spangled Banner, America the Beautiful, and closed by performing My Country 'Tis of Thee along with the choir and orchestra.

The band did a great job of playing in front of a packed gymnasium and I know the Veteran's appreciated their efforts!

Honoring our veterans

On Tuesday, November 11th we will take time in our busy lives to honor and pay tribute to our Veterans. At Mankato East Junior High that means a 2:20 program in the gym where we will have speakers, a moving Powerpoint presentation and music from the 8th Grade Concert Choir, 8th Grade Concert Band, and Junior High Orchestra.

I invite you to attend our program. I also invite you to take a moment on Tuesday and say "thank you" to a USA Veteran either in person or during a quiet personal reflective moment.

I encourage you to create a login and leave comments for this post. Please respond to this prompt: "Why Veteran's Day is important to me."