Beginning Band Newsletter 11/2/26

What's Next?

What you all witnessed at Wednesday’s concert was the result of five weeks of “book work,” two weeks of learning instrument mechanics, and two weeks of putting it all together. The kids were naturally nervous, but afterward, you could see them smiling and beaming with pride over what they had accomplished!

One of my favorite things is seeing what happens after that first concert. They come back more focused and eager to learn. They’ve bought in, they’ve seen what’s possible from watching the other bands perform, and they’re excited to see what they can do next!

Now that our first concert is behind us, we’ll continue building and refining our musical skills. Students will begin taking weekly playing tests during class, which make up 30% of their grade. Performing in front of others can be nerve-wracking, but regular practice and performance opportunities will help build their confidence over time.

Students may retake playing tests for a higher grade before or after school. However, refusing to perform during class will result in a permanent zero with no opportunity for a retake.

Students can pick up instruments from the band room at dismissal and may also come in during breakfast to practice or store instruments.

💰Fall Fundraiser💰

Our annual online donation fundraiser is underway!

As I mentioned at the concert, band is expensive, and our program relies on band fees, donations, and fundraising to keep things running. You can help by donating or simply sharing your child’s personalized fundraising link with friends, family, and co-workers.

Students created their campaign pages in class and should have sent you a text or email with their information. Students who completed their registration also received an MKMS Band lanyard and ID holder!

The fundraiser ends November 6th, so let’s finish strong!

Click below for fundraiser details, student rewards, and information on accessing your child’s campaign page.

Click Here for More Info About Our Fundraiser

Clarinet & Saxophone Players

Saxophone and Clarinet players should have at minimum 5 reeds at any given time to rotate throughout the week. If your child needs reeds, below are a few Amazon links. All beginning band students should be playing on size 2.5 reeds for the first semester only.

Next semester beginning band students should begin playing on size 3.0 reeds. Harder reeds help to create a more mature sound, which is what we are striving to create everyday.

Here are links to reeds for students who play the following instruments.

Repeated Information

Grading Policy

For band, eCampus is where I do all my grading and is where your child will go to complete all assignments. That said, eCampus will always give you the most accurate depiction of your child's grade. I sync eCampus grades to skyward weekly.

Here is the weight distribution of each grading category.

Assignments = 10% (In class assignments)

Participation = 20% (Behavior during rehearsals, and having required materials)

Tests = 30% (In class playing tests)

Exams = 40% (Concerts)

Most assignments and tests happen during class, and can be made up or retaken as many times as a student would like while within the quarterly grading period. If a student is present and fails to turn in an in class assignment, they will receive a zero until the assignment is received.

Tests are given during class. Retakes must be scheduled before or after school. Blatant refusal to perform an in class playing test will disqualify your child from being able to make up their playing test.

Participation and exam grades can not be made up.

2026-27 Band Calendar

Below is a pdf of the band performance calendar for the year. Unless stated otherwise ALL performances and rehearsals are mandatory. Because band is a performing arts class students are requires to attend all concerts/rehearsals which is a significant portion of your child's grade. If any potential conflicts should arise please reach out to me well in advance so that we can work together to figure out a solution.

Calendar dates are subject to change. This google calendar link will reflect the most accurate dates, times, and locations of all performances.