Brooks Bands, Week of 12/13 - 12/17

This Tuesday evening is our annual BRAVO Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. in the Brooks Auditorium. The concert will feature our Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble and select small ensembles from our Symphonic Band. Students from our Beautyshop, Shoppettes, and Barbershop vocal ensembles, Camerata String Ensemble and ORFF Ensemble will also perform for this event.

The Jazz Lab Band will be presenting a preview at 6:30 p.m. in addition to opening up the concert at 7 p.m. All students need to report to D110 at the following times:

6 p.m. Jazz Lab Band

6:30 p.m. Jazz Ensemble and small ensembles

Concert attire for jazz students are the Brooks Jazz T-Shirts along with black dress pants and shoes. Small ensemble members from Symphonic Band should wear our traditional black and white attire. Students are encouraged to wear festive hats that help present our holidays theme. Please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org if you have any questions.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 3 practice records are due on Monday, 12/13

Over the Winter Break, students may combine weeks 5 and 6 to add up to 150 minutes total. Week 4 will need to be 150 minutes for an A since it is the last week of school before winter break.

Music Theory: will be this Thursday instead of the traditional Wednesday lessons.
6th Graders: Worksheets 2-2 & 2-3
7th/8th Graders: Worksheets 8-1 & 8-2

All music theory assignments are due on Friday. If students used their class time wisely it can be completed during class on Thursday.

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Lab Band: Rehearsal this Monday at 8 am. in the auditorium. BRAVO Holiday Concert performance Tuesday Evening at Brooks. NO REHEARSAL THIS FRIDAY!

Jazz Ensemble: Rehearsal this Tuesday at 8 a.m. in the auditorium. BRAVO Holiday Concert performance Tuesday Evening at Brooks. NO REHEARSAL THIS THURSDAY!

All students should have a Brooks Jazz T-Shirt to wear for all jazz performances. These may be purchased for $10 and checks can be made out to BRAVO.

UPCOMING EVENTS!

BRAVO Pasta Night and Music Showcase, Sat., Feb. 26th, 4:00 - 9:00 p.m. Specific performance times will be available soon. All band, choral and orchestra students participate in this event. The Pasta Dinners are a fundraiser for the music program and purchasing of dinners are not required in order to see your child perform. Flyers should be available soon after Winter Break.

Oak Park & River Forest Symphony w/ CSO Trumpeter, Chris Martin TOMORROW

Hello Families,

I announced this concert this week in our classes. The concert is at the First United Church on Lake St. tomorrow afternoon at 4 p.m. All students can attend this concert free and tickets are $20 for adults. Chris Martin is known around the world as one of the best classical trumpet players and is the principal trumpet for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Also, another performance I have brought up isn't so close to Oak Park, but is a great hearing opportunity for our jazz students. The Pete Ellman Big Band will be performing a special Holiday Show with guest trumpeter, Wayne Bergeron, this Thursday, 12/16 at Jilly's, 103 S. Main St., downtown Naperville. The show starts at 7 p.m. with the Naperville Central H.S. Jazz Ensemble and the Pete Ellman Big Band at 8 - 10 p.m. There is no cover charge for this event, but it is recommended that you call to make reservations since it will be packed 630-355-1001. We understand it is a weeknight, but since its a day before Winter Break it wouldn't be the end of the world to stay up late for this one. Wayne Bergeron is one of the most in demand studio musicians and has performed with the Maynard Ferguson and Gordon Goodwin's Phat Pack Big Band and can be heard on the soundtracks to "The Incredibles" and "The Family Guy" as well as numerous other movies and television shows. The Pete Ellman Big Band is one of the newer big bands in Chicago that consists of some of Chicago's best jazz musicians. Some members of the group have performed with Ray Charles, Mel Torme, Count Basie, Harry Connick Jr. just to name a few. This group performs every Tuesday night at Jilly's in Naperville.

Brooks Bands, Week of 12/6 - 12/10

Reminder that the BRAVO Holiday Concert is on Tuesday, Dec. 14th @ 7 p.m. in the GBMS Auditorium. The concert will feature our Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble and select small ensembles from our Symphonic Band. The concert is free and open to the public. Student performers will need to report at the following locations and times.

Jazz Lab Band: 6:00 p.m. D110

Jazz Ensemble: 6:30 p.m. D110

Small Ensembles: 6:30 p.m. D110

More detailed information for small ensemble members will be available next week during rehearsal. All jazz students will wear their Brooks Jazz T-Shirts with black slacks and dress shoes. Small ensembles will wear black and white and all students are encouraged to wear festive hats, scarfs, etc.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 2 is due on Monday 12/6

Music Theory:

6th Graders: Alfred Book 1, Lessons 8 & 9. Activity Worksheet 2-1.

7th/8th Graders: Sharp Key Signatures Supplement

All music theory assignments are due by Friday, 12/10

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Lab Band: Rehearsal Monday & Friday, 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. Rehearsal next Monday, 12/13 @ 8 a.m.

Jazz Ensemble: Rehearsal Tuesday & Thursday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m.

All jazz students will need to purchase a Brooks Jazz t-shirt for $10. This will be worn at all jazz performances. Checks can be made out to BRAVO! Shirts run in adult sizes.

TUBA CHRISTMAS:
The Next Tuba Christmas Rehearsal is Wednesday, Dec. 8th 3:30-4:30 p.m. Permission slips were handed out last week in class for those students interested in performing on the Tuba Christmas event on Saturday, Dec. 18th. The event includes performing in downtown Oak Park and performing at the Chicago Tuba Christmas at the Palmer House Hilton in Downtown Chicago. The day should last approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Brooks Bands, Week of Nov. 29th - Dec. 3rd

We hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable Thanksgiving weekend. Leading up to winter break we have a couple events that will involve some of our band students. The first event is the BRAVO! Holiday Concert on Tuesday, Dec. 14th at 7 p.m. in the GBMS Auditorium. This event will include both the Jazz Lab Band & Jazz Ensemble as well as select small ensembles from our Symphonic Band. The concert will also include our Camerata String Ensemble, the Barbershop, Beauty Shop and Shoppettes vocal ensembles and our ORFF ensemble. This is a great concert that showcases talent from around our music department and is filled with a variety of winter and holiday repertoire.

Tuba and Euphonium players are invited to participate in an annual tradition called Tuba Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 18th. The day will start in downtown Oak Park as we invade our local merchants and spread music cheer in the morning followed by training down to the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago and participating in the official Tuba Christmas concert which will feature over 400 tuba, euphonium and sousaphone players from all over the Midwest. The concert is at 1:30 p.m. and is open to the public. Students interested in participating in Tuba Christmas will have rehearsals every Wednesday afternoon from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the band room. More information will soon follow.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 1 of our new practice records (Blue Card Stock) is due on Monday, Nov. 29th. Week 13 of the 1st Trimester practice records were due on Monday, Nov. 22nd and will be added towards the 2nd trimester grades.

Music Theory: Wednesday

6th Graders: Alfred Music Theory Book 1, Lessons 6-7

7th/8th Graders: Flat Key Signatures Supplement packet

All music theory assignments are due on Friday, Dec. 3rd.

2nd Trimester Portfolio Assessments:

Tuesday, Jan 11th

2nd Trimester Outside Concert Summaries:

Due by Monday, Feb. 28th

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Ensemble: Rehearsals Tuesday & Thursday at 8 a.m.

Jazz Lab Band: Rehearsal on Friday at 8 a.m.

All students participating in the jazz program will need a Brooks Jazz T-Shirt for performances and may be purchased for $10. Please make checks payable to BRAVO.

Both Jazz Lab Band & Jazz Ensemble will be performing in the BRAVO Holiday Concert on Tuesday, Dec. 14th at GBMS Auditorium. Jazz Lab Band will be giving a preview performance starting at 6:30 p.m. followed by opening up the Holiday Concert at 7 p.m.

Brooks Bands, Week of Nov. 22nd - 23rd

Don't miss out on the Brooks Jazz Ensemble performance at Fitzgeralds this Sunday, Nov. 21st @ 5:00 p.m. The performance will also include the Julian Jazz Ensemble followed by the Chicago Grandstand Big Band. Admission is $10 adults and $8 students and a portion of the proceeds goes back to the Brooks and Julian jazz programs. Fitzgerald's is located at 6615 Roosevelt Rd. in Berwyn.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 13 is due on Monday 11/22. This will actually be put into the 2nd trimester grades.

All late assignments from 1st trimester were collected by Friday, Nov. 19th.

There is no music theory work this week.

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Ensemble: Performance at Fitzgerald's, Sunday, Nov. 21st, report at 4:30 p.m. with instrument & music wearing the Brooks Jazz t-shirt, black slacks and black dress shoes.

There will be no rehearsal on Tuesday, Nov. 23rd. Enjoy the week off!

Jazz Lab Band: rehearsal on Monday, Nov. 22nd @ 8 a.m.

Both the Jazz Lab Band and Jazz Ensemble will be performing on the BRAVO Holiday Concert on Tuesday, Dec. 14th in the GBMS Auditorium. The Jazz Lab Band will be giving a preview starting at 6:30 p.m., prior to the start of the Holiday Concert.

All students participating in the jazz program should have the book, "Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble" by Mike Steinel and purchase a Brooks Jazz t-shirt to wear for performances. The books may be purchased at Austin Music, Kagan & Gaines Music or be ordered online at www.jwpepper.com. The t-shirts are $10 and can be purchased through Mr. Barnard. Checks need to be made out to BRAVO.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCE EVENTS:

BRAVO HOLIDAY CONCERT: Tuesday, Dec. 14th @ 7 p.m., Jazz Lab Band performs @ 6:30 p.m. The evening also feature the Jazz Ensemble and select members of the Symphonic Band.

TUBA CHRISTMAS!!! Saturday, Dec. 18th, downtown Oak Park & the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago. All tuba and euphonium players are invited to participate. Participants will meet at the Marion Street Metra Station prior to the downtown Oak Park invasion. The event usually includes over 400 tuba, euphonium and sousaphone players from across the Midwest! The performance is free and open to the public. Rehearsals will be on Wednesdays, Dec. 1st, 8th and 15th.

BRAVO! PASTA DINNER AND MUSIC SHOWCASE: Saturday, Feb. 26th, from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m. This event will include all bands (6th grade, Concert Band, Symphonic Band), small ensembles from Symphonic Band & Jazz Ensemble. The pasta dinner is a fundraiser for the music program and is optional to purchase. The Band Showcase will be held in the auditorium at 6 p.m. The small ensembles and the Jazz Ensemble will be featured in the commons.

More information will be available after the winter break!

Brooks Bands, Week of 11/15-11/19

Hello Band Families,

Congratulations to Eric G., Derrick G. and Collin P. for participating in this past weekend's IMEA Jr./Sr. Jazz Festival held at Fenton H.S. These students were among numerous students from all over the Chicagoland area performing in Jr. and Sr. High Jazz Bands, Jazz Choir and Jazz Combo. Our students had the opportunity to work with former Woody Herman trumpeter Scott Waggstaff and trombonist, and composer Tom Matta who is also on the music faculty at DePaul University.

We are nearing the end of our 1st trimester and will be collecting any late assignments along with our 1st Trimester Outside Concert Summary on Friday, Nov. 19th. If your child has any late music theory assignments they may complete and turn them in for 1/2 credit. Practice records however need to be turned in every week and this week's practice record will be the last week collected for the trimest er.

For 7th/8th grade students and parents, Music & Arts Music is having a step up instrument night at Percy Julian Middle School this Tuesday from 6 - 8 p.m. in the band room. Students and their families may come by at any time to tryout intermediate and professional level instruments as well as step up brass and woodwind mouthpieces. These instruments are great step up instruments from the student model instruments most students start on and are good investments for students that plan on playing throughout high school and/or college. There will be information available for purchasing and financing these instruments and Music & Arts has promised us that it will be a no pressure environment. This is a great opportunity for students and parents to try these instruments out even if they are currently not in the market for a step up instrument at this time. Please bring your mouthpieces, reeds, neckstraps, etc. The following instruments will be available to play: flutes, piccolos, clarinets, oboes, saxophones, trumpets, french horns, and trombones.

The Brooks Jazz Ensemble will be performing with the Percy Julian Jazz Ensemble and the Chicago Grandstand Big Band on Sunday, Nov. 21st at Fitzgerald's Nightclub, 6615 Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn at 5 p.m. Also some of our students will perform with the Chicago Grandstand Big Band on their first set so you don't want to miss this event!

There is admission cost of $10 adults and $8 for students accompanied by an adult. Part of the proceeds will go back into the Brooks and Julian jazz programs.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 12 is due on Monday. This is the last week collected for the 1st trimester so make sure you get it in no later that Friday 11/19.

Outside Concert Summaries: 1st trimester outside concert summaries are due 11/19. Since this assignment can be completed anytime during the trimester no late concert summaries will be collected unless you have made arrangements with Mr. Barnard.

Music Theory: We will not be doing music theory this week other than reviewing for any students that did not score well on their music theory test last week. Students that need to retake the test will do so on Friday, 11/19. All other students will need to bring their instruments for a regular rehearsal period.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble: Rehearsals Tuesday and Thursday at 8 a.m. Performance on Sunday, Nov. 21st at Fitzgerald's Nightclub, 6615 Roosevelt Rd., at 5 p.m. All students will need to report at Fitzgerald's at 4:30 p.m. with their instrument and music. Mr Barnard will be bringing the vibraphone and a drum set and amplifiers will be available. Make sure to have your Brooks Jazz T-Shirt with black slacks and black dress shoes.

Jazz Lab Band: Rehearsal on Friday at 8 a.m. We will be having a rehearsal on Monday, Nov. 22nd at 8 a.m. due to no school for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Brooks Bands, Week of 11/8 - 11/12

Congratulations to Collin P. for performing this past weekend in the IMEA District I Jr. High Honors Band, Choir & Orchestra Festival at Lincoln Way North H.S. in Frankfort. This upcoming Saturday, Collin P., Eric G. and Derrick G. will be representing Brooks Middle School in the IMEA District I Jr. & Sr. High Jazz Festival at Fenton H.S. in Bensenville.

The Jazz Ensemble will be performing this Wednesday, 11/10 for the Meet & Greet of our new Superintendent, Dr. Roberts. The performance will start at 6:30 p.m. including performances from the Barbershop, Beautyshop and Shoppettes. The meeting will start at approximately 7:30 p.m.

HOMEWORK:

Outside Concert Summaries: are due no later than Friday, 11/19. It is a BRAVO requirement that students attend one outside performance as an audience member each trimester and write up a summary form, provide a parent/guardian signature, and attach a ticket stub or concert program. Students may attend events held at Brooks or out in the community or professional venues. The requirement is 5% of the entire band grade.

Practice Records: Week 12 is due on Monday 11/8

Music Theory: Wednesday 11/10

6th Graders: Will be taking a test covering Unit 1 of the Alfred Essentials of Music Theory. Students should review both the Unit 1 lessons in the book as well as the Unit 1 Activity Worksheets and supplements for studying.

7th/8th Graders: Will be taking a test covering Unit 7 of the Alfred Essentials of Music Theory. Students should review both Unit 7 lessons in the books as well as Unit I Activity Worksheets and supplements for studying.

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Ensemble has a special performance this Wednesday, 11/10 @ 6:30 p.m. at GBMS for the Meet & Greet for Dr. Roberts. We will meet in D110 at 6 p.m. and performance attire will be black slacks, black dress shoes and our Brooks Jazz T-Shirts. All students should be done at approx. 7:15 p.m. after tearing down and putting away our set up. This event will be held in the GBMS Commons.

Brooks Jazz T-Shirts

If your child has not ordered their T-Shirt yet they may do so immediately. The cost of the t-shirt is $10 and checks may be made out to BRAVO. All students participating in the jazz program will need to have one for performances.

Jazz Ensemble:

Tuesday: Rehearsal @ 8 a.m.

Wednesday: Performance @ GBMS, report at 6 p.m.

Thursday: Rehearsal @ 8 a.m.

Jazz Lab Band:

Monday: Rehearsal @ 8 a.m. This rehearsal has been moved due to the Young Americans Workshops this upcoming Friday. There is no rehearsal this Friday!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Wed. 11/10: Jazz Ensemble Performance for the Meet & Greet with Dr. Roberts @ 6:30 p.m.

Sun. 11/21: Jazz Ensemble Performance at Fitzgerald's Nightclub with the Percy Julian Jazz Ensemble and the Chicago Grandstand Big Band @ 5 p.m. The cost is $10 adults & $8 children (accompanied by an adult). Part of the proceeds go back into the Brooks & Julian Jazz Programs.

Tues. 12/14: BRAVO Holiday Concert, GBMS Auditorium @ 7 p.m. This performance will including the Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble and select small ensembles from the Symphonic Band. The Jazz Lab Band will be doing a preview at 6:30 p.m. that evening.

Brooks Bands, Week of Nov. 1st - 4th

Congratulations to all of our students for a wonderful performance this past Thursday evening at OPRFHS. The event was a huge success and couldn't of been done without their hard work and our parents' support!

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 10 is due on Monday 11/1

Music Theory: Will be Thursday this week
6th Graders: Unit 1 Ear Training and Review (Alfred Book 1)
7th/8th Graders: Unit 7 Ear Training and Review (Alfred Book 2)

There will be a Unit test the following Wed. (11/10) for all students.

OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES:

These summaries are based on attending an outside performance as an audience member and writing up a short review using our Outside Concert Observation form. The form should also have a ticket stub or concert program attached to it as well as a parent signature. One Outside Concert Summary is due each trimester and it may be a music performance, drama production or dance production/recital. Students may use school related events as well as outside performances. Students may not use a performance that they are an active performer in to satisfy this requirement. The 1st trimester Outside Concert Summaries are due by Friday, Nov. 19th. If anyone has any questions please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

JAZZ PROGRAM:
Reminder that all students participating in the Jazz Program needs to have a copy of Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble by Mike Steinel. This book is referred to time to time in Jazz Ensemble and is the primary resource for Jazz Lab Band. This book may be purchased through any of the recommended music vendors located in our supply list or can be ordered online through www.jwpepper.com or www.primamusic.com.

All students also need to purchase a Brooks Jazz T-Shirt for performances. All students received a t-shirt order form and have been told to return them with $10 as soon as possible. The Jazz Ensemble members will need them for our first performance on Nov. 10th.

Rehearsals:

Jazz Ensemble: Tuesday @ 8:00 a.m. There will be no rehearsal on Thursday this week.

Jazz Lab Band: There is no rehearsal this Friday or next Friday due to school holiday (this week) and Young Americans Workshops (next week). We will have a Monday morning rehearsal next week, Nov. 8th.

Brooks Bands, Week of Oct. 25th - 29th

D97 Instrumental Music Festival is this upcoming Thursday evening, Oct. 28th @ 7 p.m., OPRFHS Auditorium. All students will need to report at the following locations prior to their performance time. All students are expected to stay for the whole concert which should conclude at approximately 8:30 p.m.

Cadet Band: 6:30 p.m. in the Little Theatre
Intermediate Band: 6:45 p.m. in the Green Room
Concert Band: 7:15 p.m. Alternate Location to be announced this week!
Symphonic Band: 7:45 p.m. Alternate Location to be announced this week!

OPRFHS has scheduled at math competition the same evening as our festival so we needed to move our 7th/8th graders warm up area locations. Since there will be other people than us, I highly recommend coming early in order to find decent parking around the high school.

Concert Attire Reminder:

Boys: White button down dress shirt, solid black necktie, black slacks, black dress shoes (black socks and belt).

Girls: White blouse top that covers the shoulders, black slacks or skirt that is at least knee length, black dress shoes

Students are responsible for bringing their instrument to OPRF. Do not forget your instrument at Brooks. Baritone Sax, Bass Clarinet and Tuba players will leave their instruments at OPRF when we rehearse on Wed. & Thurs. We have made arrangements to have the instruments delivered back to Brooks the following morning along with percussion equipment.

BRAVO Fall Pie Fundraiser has started this past week! All band students and their families are encouraged to help raise funds for our Band, Repertory, Art, Vocal and Orchestra Programs at Brooks Middle School. Funds in the past have helped purchase much needed percussion equipment, tenor saxophones, bassoon and classroom books just to name a few items. For more information about the fall pie fundraiser check the BRAVO link or contact the BRAVO office at 708-524-5621.

D97 Festival Rehearsals

All Band students will be going to OPRFHS to rehearse with our Julian counterparts on Wednesday 10/27 (7th/8th Graders) or Thursday 10/28 (6th graders). All students must have a signed permission slip in order to be able to attend these rehearsals. Please check powerschool to see if your child has turned their permission slip in. If not, a simple email confirmation to Mr. Barnard, jbarnard@op97.org or a note giving your child permission will cover this requirement. We are not allowed to take any student out of the building without written parent consent.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 9 is due on Monday, 10/25.

Music Theory: There is no music theory assignments this week. However, some classes may have a substitute teacher on Wed. and Thurs. while Mr. Barnard is with another group at the high school. These students will have in class assignments that will be collected at the end of each class period.

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Brooks Jazz T-Shirt Order Forms have been passed out to all of our students in the Jazz Program. The t-shirts will be part of the required concert attire for performances with Jazz Lab Band and Jazz Ensemble. We would like to have all of the t-shirts ordered at the end of next week and need everyone to turn in the order forms along with $10. Checks may be made out to BRAVO.

Jazz Ensemble does have an added performance on Wed., Nov. 10th @ 6:30 p.m. in the Brooks Commons as a preview for Dr. Roberts meeting and greet for the Brooks parents and community. All jazz ensemble members will need to be at Brooks at 6:00 p.m. to help with set up and will be finished at approximately 7:15 p.m., after putting all of our equipment away.

Rehearsals:

Jazz Ensemble: Tuesday and Thursday @ 8 a.m.

Jazz Lab Band: Friday @ 8 a.m.

Brooks Bands, Week of 10/12 - 10/15

Hello Band Families,

A quick reminder that the D97 Instrumental Music Festival is around the corner and we are still collecting permission slips so students can participate in rehearsals at OPRFHS on Oct. 27th & 28th. The festival is on Thursday, Oct. 28th at 7:00 p.m. at OPRFHS.

Concert Attire:

Boys: White button down dress shirt, black slacks, solid black necktie, black dress shoes (black socks and belt).

Girls: White blouse top that covers shoulders, black slacks or black skirt that is below the knees, black closed toe dress shoes.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record: Week 7 is due on Tuesday, 10/12

Music Theory: Wednesday

6th Graders:Activity Worksheets 1-3 & 1-5

7th/8th Graders: Alfred Bk 2, Lessons 29 & 30, Homework: Activity Worksheets 7-3 & 7-4

All music theory homework is due on Friday. On Monday, Oct. 18th, students will be preparing their school portfolios for parent/teacher conferences on Oct. 21st. Students will receive an in class assignment to complete as they are preparing their band portion of this project.

Portfolio Assessments:

Last week students had portfolio assessments covering their required binder, books and essential sheet music, music theory and supplementary music/exercises. Please check the Powerschool Gradebook to see if your child has submitted their binder for assessment. Students may submit their binders by Friday, 10/15 before receiving a reduced grade for being late.

Students that would like to resubmit their binders for a better grade may also do so by 10/12.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES:
Parents are welcome to stop by D110 for parent/teachers conferences on a 1st come/1st serve basis. Since I teach students from several different teams, it is difficult to coordinate conference times with team leaders. A list of students and families I will like to see will be sent to the team leaders before parent/teacher conferences to remind them of coming down for a conference. Students should have their conference portfolio with them.

Parents are welcome to contact me via email at jbarnard@op97.org if we cannot meet in person and you have any questions about grades or the band program.

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Ensemble: Rehearsals Tuesday and Thursday @ 8:00 a.m.

Jazz Lab Band: Rehearsal Friday @ 8:00 a.m.

Jazz Ensemble will be performing with the Percy Julian Jazz Ensemble on Sunday, Nov. 21st @ Fitzgeralds Night Club in Berwyn, 5 p.m. Both groups will be opening up for the Chicago Grandstand Big Band. There is a cover for this event, $10 adults & $8 students with adult supervision, and part of the proceeds go back to our Brooks and Julian jazz programs.

Jazz Lab Band's first performance will be on Tuesday, Dec. 14th with the Jazz Ensemble on the BRAVO Holiday Concert.

Brooks Bands, Week of Oct. 4th - 8th

District 97 Instrumental Music Festival permission slips were past out this past Friday to get signed and returned to Mr. Barnard in order to participate in the event's rehearsals on Wed., Oct. 27th, and Thurs., Oct 28th. Students will need to have a signed permission slip in order to go to OPRFHS to rehearse with their Julian Band counterparts in preparation for the festival. The performance is on Thursday, Oct. 28th at 7 p.m. in the OPRFHS Auditorium. Also on the permission slips are report times and places for the event. Families are encouraged to come early in order to find parking and a seat since this is a very high profile event for our music program which will consist of over 600 middle school band and orchestra students.

Performance Attire: Students are required to have the following for concert performance attire.

Boys: White button down dress shirt, black dress slacks, solid black neck tie, black dress shoes and socks.

Girls: White blouse top (shoulders covered), black slacks or skirt that is below the knees, black shoes (closed toe).

Concert Performances are a required part of the Instrumental and Vocal Music Program in District 97. All students are expected to participate as a part of their grade. If there is a conflict that prevents someone to participate, their parents/guardians must contact Mr. Barnard at least 2 weeks in advance and will receive an excused absence. Any make up assignments must be turned in before the end of the trimester (Nov. 19th). In the case of an emergency or sickness, a parent/guardian can notify Mr. Barnard the following school day for confirmation. An alternative assignment will be offered to any excused absence in order to make up the points missed from the performance requirement.

No alternative assignment will be offered for an unexcused absence.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 6 is due on Monday, 10/4

A reminder that practice records can be turned in within the week it is due for credit. Late practice records are penalized a letter grade for each day it is late. Any practice records that are turned in over a week late will be marked late in the grade book in order to encourage integrity in the weekly practicing requirements.

Music Theory: Lessons on Wednesdays

6th Graders: Activity Worksheets 1-2 & 1-4 Music Notation and Keyboard identification, Music Terms Word Search for Unit 1.

7th/8th Graders: Alfred Book 2, Lesson 28, Activity Worksheet 7-2

All music theory homework is due on Fridays

All students that have any missing music theory assignments are encouraged to turn them in by Wednesday, Oct. 6th!

Portfolio Assessments:

All band students will have a portfolio assessment completed this week. 6th graders will accomplish this task on Wednesday, Oct. 6th and 7th/8th graders will accomplish this during their band sectional. Students must need to have the following criteria for an (A) portfolio.

1. 3-ring binder with their first and last name and their class on the outside cover.

2. Both required band books with their first and last name labeled (outside cover preferred).

3. All current sheet music, handouts and music theory assignments are secured on 3-rings.

4. Practice record is secured on 3-rings.

The portfolio assessments are designed to help students keep organized and have all the materials needed for daily class participation.

Jazz Program:

Jazz Ensemble rehearsals Tuesday and Thursday at 8 a.m.

Jazz Lab Band rehearsal Friday at 8 a.m.

Brooks Bands, Week of 9/27-10/1

Congratulations to all the 8th grade students that participated in the OPRF Marching Huskies recruitment night. The event was a huge success in large part to YOU!

IMEA Jr. Auditions (Band, Choir, Jazz, Orchestra)

are this Saturday, Oct. 2nd at Summit Hill Jr. High in Frankfort, IL. There is a bus scheduled to leave from Percy Julian Middle School @ 7:15 a.m. Details about IMEA Auditions will be available to those students who registered this week. All Brooks students are scheduled to audition in the morning and families are more than welcome to drive their child to and from the auditions with prior written notification.

Results should be available within a week of auditions.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 5 is due on Monday 9/27 150 minutes is the goal for an A.

Music Theory:

6th Graders: Alfred Music Theory Bk 1: Lesson 5, Homework: Ledger Lines Supplement

7th/8th Graders: Tetrachord Supplement Packet

All music theory homework is due on Fridays.

Power School:

All grades are updated as of Sunday, September 26th. The grade book is updated weekly and families are encouraged to check at least once every week on their children's progress.

D97 Instrumental Music Festival is on Thursday, Oct. 28th @ OPRFHS, 7:00 p.m.

All band and orchestra students will be participating in the event along with our Julian counterparts. Preparation for the festival also includes rehearsals at OPRFHS with Julian students on Wed./Thurs. Oct 27th & 28th during the school day. Permission slips for these rehearsals will be sent home very soon with students.

The students are already working on musical selections for this highly anticipated event! There will be over 600 students representing our middle school instrumental music programs in D97.

Concert Dress Reminder

Students will need to have the following attire for all concerts.

Boys: White button down dress shirt, solid black necktie or bow tie, black slacks, black dress shoes and socks

Girls: White blouse top with sleeves, black slacks or skirt that is at least knee length when sitting down, black dress shoes

Jazz Program

Jazz Ensemble: Rehearsals Tuesday and Thursday @ 8 a.m.

Jazz Lab Band: Rehearsal Friday @ 8 a.m.

All students should meet Mr. Barnard at the main entrance doors at 7:50 a.m. in order to have rehearsals start on time.

Brooks Bands, Week of 9/20 - 9/24

OPRF Marching Huskies are hosting their annual 8th grade recruitment night this Friday at OPRFHS. All 8th grade band members are invited to participate in this event. Permission slips were given to all 8th graders and need to be turned in by this Thursday. The following activities will happen on Friday.

3:30 p.m. Meet in the band room to walk over to OPRFHS. Students will need to carry instruments, backpacks, etc. Students may meet us at the OPRF Band Room at 4:30 p.m. if they are getting a ride to the event. Please let Mr. Barnard know in writing if you plan on meeting us at OPRF.

4:30 p.m. Meet with Julian/Roosevelt 8th graders and section leaders from the Marching Huskies in the OPRF Band Room.

5:00 p.m. Rehearsal pre-game show with the Marching Huskies on the practice field.

6:00 p.m. Pizza Dinner provided by the OPRF Band Parents.

7:00 p.m. Pre-game show for the Huskies Varsity Football Game. Students will sit in the stands with the OPRF Marching Huskies to play pep band tunes during the 1st Half. 8th graders will stay in the stands to watch the Marching Huskies perform this year's half-time show.

9:00 p.m. Following the half-time show, students will go back to the OPRF band room to pack up instruments and get picked up by parents at the main Scoville entrance. Students may stay to watch the rest of the game but will not be supervised by OPRF or D97 music staff.

All students are asked to wear orange and blue to represent OPRF's school colors.

If parents have any questions please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

CONCERT REMINDER: The first band concert of the school year is on Thursday, Oct. 28th @ OPRF Auditorium. The event is the D97 Instrumental Music Festival featuring Band and Orchestra students from both Brooks and Julian Middle Schools. There will be rehearsals at OPRFHS on Wed., Thurs. Oct 27th/28th during the school day and permission slips will be available soon for students to bring home.

Concert performances are part of the middle school music curriculum in D97 and students are expected to participate. If there is a conflict please contact Mr. Barnard no later than two weeks prior to any performance event. An alternate assignment will be given to those students with an excused absence and must be completed before the end of the trimester.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 4 is due this Monday, 9/20. All students are expected to practice 150 minutes this week for an A. Please remember that the practice records must be signed by a parent each week before it is turned in for credit.

Music Theory: (Wednesdays)

6th Graders: Alfred Book 1, Lessons 4-5, Homework: Activity Worksheet 1-1

7th/8th Graders: Alfred Book 2, Lesson 26-27, Homework: Activity Worksheet 7-1

All music theory assignments are due by Friday 9/24.

JAZZ PROGRAM:

Jazz Ensemble: 1st rehearsals this week, Tuesday & Thursday @ 8 a.m.
Jazz Lab Band: 1st rehearsal this Friday @ 8 a.m. Guitar & Bass players bring your patch chords.

All students are asked to meet Mr. Barnard at the main entrance at 7:50 a.m. in order to start rehearsals on time. All students must have a signed permission slip to participate.

Brooks Bands, Week of 9/13 - 9/17

Workshops and auditions for our 7th/8th Grade Jazz Ensemble are this week. The following is the schedule:

Monday, 9/13: 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. Saxes, Fl., Clar., Trumpet, Trombone, Vibraphone
3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Guitar, Piano, Bass, Drums

Wednesday, 9/15: 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Rhythm Section Auditions (Guitar, Piano, Bass, Drums)
Each student must sign up for an individual time.

Thursday, 9/16: 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. & 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Auditions (Saxes, Fl., Clar., Trumpet,
Trombone, Vibraphone) Each student must sign up for an individual time.

All students must have a signed permission slip before auditioning for Jazz Ensemble.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Records: Week 3 in due on Monday, Sep. 17th. Each practice record must be signed by a parent/guardian for credit. 6th graders (goal is 120 minutes for an A) 7th/8th graders (goal is the standard 150 minutes for an A). Practice records that are turned in late a penalized a letter grade for each day it is turned in late. Any practice record that is not turned in the week it is due will result in a 0. Practice records are 20% of the total band grade.

Music Theory: On Wednesday (9/15), students will have their first music theory lessons and homework assignments for the school year. Homework assignments are due by Friday (9/17).

6th Graders:
Alfred Book 1: Lessons 1-3, Homework: Treble/Bass Clef Supplement

7th/8th Graders:
Interval Review, Homework: Supplement Packet (Lessons 44-46)


7TH/8TH GRADE BAND SECTIONALS
The band sectionals start this week for all 7th/8th grade band students. Students come down from class once a week to work with similar instruments in a small group setting to work on instrument specific techniques and provide more individual help. The sectional time is also used for testing students' performance (playing) skills periodically which requires one on one assessment with the teacher. The sectional schedule does rotate so students should only miss the same class period every three weeks. Students are excused from a sectional if their class room teacher needs to have them take a test/quiz, lab, etc. If a student misses a sectional that requires a performance skills test, they must make it up within the week for credit (after school).

Students received a copy of the sectional schedule this past week. Students need to report to their classroom teacher first for attendance, turning in homework, etc. before coming down for their sectional lesson. The sectional schedule is also used as their pass so it is important to have it if their teacher asks for it.

We will be doing seating auditions this week in sectionals. Students will be auditioning on the following material that was given back in May.

Concert Band: IMEA Jr. Scale Sheet, March of the Roughnecks
Symphonic Band: IMEA Jr. Scale Sheet, Toccata for Band

Both bands have been working on this material since the beginning of the school year and should be prepared to play excerpts from these selections.

JAZZ PROGRAM
Workshops and auditions for Jazz Ensemble are this week. Please read above for detailed information. Students must have a signed permission slip by the time they audition.

Jazz Lab Band will have it's first rehearsal on Friday, Sep. 24th at 8:00 a.m. The Jazz Lab Band is open to students that play flute, clarinet, sax, trumpet, trombone (Euphonium), guitar, piano, bass, drums. There is no audition to participate in Jazz Lab Band and permission slips need to be turned in by the 1st rehearsal.

Brooks Bands, Week of Sep. 7th-10th

Hello Band Families,

The band kids are getting back into the swing of things by bringing their instruments, books and binders to class every day. Hopefully you are noticing those lovely sounds through your homes as our students are starting to practice again. Families should be on the lookout for a yellow cardstock chart which is our Practice Records students use to keep track of their practice times at home.

HOMEWORK/WHAT'S DUE?

Practice Records:
Students are to keep track of Week 3 practice times and turn them into Mr. Barnard on Monday 9/13. Normally practice records are collected on every Monday. Students must have a parent/guardian signature on the practice records to verify their child's practice minutes. Practice records that are turned in without a parent signature will not receive credit.

6th Graders: The goal this week is 120 minutes for A.

7th/8th Graders: 150 minutes for A.

Music Theory:

Music Theory will start next week on Wednesday, 9/15. Music theory lessons are usually done on Wednesdays and all music theory assignments are due by each Friday. All students should have the following books for music theory:

6th Gr. Alfred Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 1

7th/8th Gr. Alfred Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 2

Jazz Program:

Students interested in auditioning for our 7th/8th grade Jazz Ensemble or participate in our Jazz Lab Band must pick up a permission slip and have it turned in prior to auditioning/participating.

Jazz Ensemble workshops an auditions are next week, 9/13-9/16. Please see our previous post or the jazz permission slip for more details. Results will be posted no later than 9/20 and our first rehearsal is 9/21.

Jazz Lab Band rehearsals start on Friday 9/24.

Brooks Bands, Week of 8/30 - 9/3

Hello Band Families,

It has been a little slow start so far with our PBIS Activities and the ISAT Practice test the first week of school. We look forward to getting things really started this week since we will be on our regular daily class schedules. Students will need to bring their instruments to school starting this Monday, Aug. 30th. Percussion and other students that rely on our larger school instruments need to make sure that they bring their stick/mallet bags (percussion) and mouthpieces with reeds, etc (all other students). Students also should have their books that are required for their band classes. Please refer the the band supply list or scroll down to previous postings for more information.

6th Grade Students:
We will be reviewing out of the Standards of Excellence Bk 3 to cover some foundational concepts as well as help me get to know where each student is in their playing abilities.

7th/8th Grade Students:
We will be working on the IMEA Jr. Division Scale Sheet as well as working/reviewing out of the Standards of Excellence, Bk 3. These students also have Toccata for Band and March of the Roughnecks that was passed out at the end of last school year as well as again this past week. In a couple of weeks will we start up our sectional lessons and this material will be used for our seating test and first performance skills test for the Fall trimester.

HOMEWORK:
We will not start up Music Theory lessons right away to help students that still need to order/purchase their books. Practice records will be distributed sometime this week and expectations about practicing will be covered in class. More details about practice expectations will be posted this upcoming week. Parents should be on the lookout for a yellow cardstock sheet that has a grid chart on it titled "Instrumental Music Practice Record".

Students will need to record their at home practice times and a parent/guardian will need to sign the practice record for that particular week. Practice records are collected every Monday and are 20% of each student's band grade.

JAZZ PROGRAM
7th/8th grade students are invited to audition for our Jazz Ensemble. The Jazz Ensemble is our premiere jazz group at Brooks Middle School and performs several concerts and community events throughout the school year. The Jazz Ensemble rehearses every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 8:00-8:50 a.m. Students interested in auditioning for the Jazz Ensemble must pick up a Jazz Program Flyer and have the permission slip in before auditioning. The following is a list of workshop and audition dates.

Monday, Sep. 13th: Workshop (Saxes, Trombones, Trumpets) 8:00 - 8:50 a.m.

Rhythm Section Workshop (piano, guitar, bass, drum set, percussion)
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Sep. 15th: Rhythm Section Auditions @ 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, Sep. 16th: Auditions for Saxes, Trombones and Trumpets at 8:00 a.m. or 3:30 - 5:00
p.m. These students will need to sign up for an audition time.

Results will be posted no later than Monday, Sep. 20th and the first rehearsal starts on Tuesday, Sep. 21st.

6th Graders may participate in our Jazz Lab Band that meets on Friday mornings from 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. The first rehearsal for Jazz Lab Band is Sep. 24th. Students interested in participating in Jazz Lab Band need to pick up a Jazz Program Flyer and have a signed permission slip turned in before our first rehearsal. Students the play flute, clarinet and Euphonium may also participate in Jazz Lab Band. We are always looking for students with a solid background in piano, guitar and bass.

If anyone has any questions about the jazz program or other aspects of the band program please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

2010-2011 Brooks Band Events

Please mark these events down in your family calendars!

Fri. Sep. 24^th: OPRF Marching Huskies 8^th Grade Recruitment Night, all 8^th graders

invited to perform with the Marching Huskies for a night football game!

Sat. Oct. 2^nd: IMEA District I Jr. High Auditions, Summit Hill Jr. H.S., Frankfort,

select 7^th & 8^th grade students

Thurs. Oct. 28^th: Oak Park D97 Middle School Instrumental Music Festival, 7:00 p.m., OPRFHS Auditorium, Cadet, Intermediate, Concert and Symphonic Bands

Sat. Nov. 6^th: IMEA District I Jr. High Band, Choir and Orchestra Festival, Lincoln Way-North

H.S., Frankfort, select 7^th & 8^th grade students selected from auditions

Sat. Nov. 13^th: IMEA District I Jr./Sr. High Jazz Festival, Fenton H.S., Bensenville,

Select 7^th & 8^th grade students selected from auditions

Sun. Nov. 21st: Jazz Ensemble performance with The Chicago Grandstand Big Band,

5:00 p.m. Fitzgerald’s Nightclub 6615 W. Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn

Tues. Dec. 14^th: BRAVO! Holiday Concert, 7:00 p.m., GBMS Auditorium,

Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble & select small ensembles from Symphonic Band

Sat. Feb. 26th: BRAVO! Pasta Night and Music Showcase, 4-9 p.m. GBMS Auditorium & Commons, Jazz Ensemble, Cadet, Intermediate, Concert & Symphonic Bands

Wed. Mar. 9^th: D97 Art Show, 6:00 p.m. OPRFHS Student Center, Jazz Ensemble

Tues. Mar. 15th: BRAVO! Preview for 5^th graders. During the school day.

Jazz Ensemble, Cadet & Intermediate

Thurs. Apr. 7^th: “Brooks Jazz Night” featuring Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble and

Guest Artist, TBA. 7 p.m. GBMS Auditorium. Tickets $8 adults and $5 students

16 yrs/under.

Tues. May 17^th: 7^th & 8^th Grade Awards & Scholarship Concert, 7 p.m. GBMS

Auditorium, Concert, Symphonic, Jazz Ensemble

Thurs. May 19^th: 6^th Grade Awards & Scholarship Concert, 7 p.m. GBMS Auditorium

Cadet, Intermediate and Jazz Lab. This performance will start concluding the

elementary bands performances.

Thurs. June 2nd: 8^th Grade Graduation Ceremony, OPRFHS Auditorium

Select 6^th & 7^th Grade band students, time TBA.

Additional dates may be added for select students and ensembles. Please check the PTO listserve’s “What’s Happening”or www.brooksbands.blogspot.com for weekly event information.

Brooks Bands, Week of Aug. 24th - 27th

Hello Band Families,

Welcome new students to Brooks Middle School and welcome back returning members to another great year of learning and making great music! Since the first week of school we will be working with our PBIS Initiatives and our ISAT Practice tests this week, no one will need to bring their instrument for band until Monday, Aug. 3oth. Depending on your class period, I will only be seeing you once or twice this week and we will be covering various housekeeping duties and items.

For more information on instrument and band supply needs please read our previous post! We look forward to seeing everybody!!!

Back to School Essential Band Books

Welcome to the the beginning of school year 2010-2011!  We are looking forward to working again with our returning band students as well as greeting our new students, whether you are a 6th grader or a new student to Brooks Middle School.  Students will not need to bring their instruments the first day of school and will be instructed when to bring them.

The following are required books for all of the bands in the Brooks Band Program.

6th Grade Bands (Cadet & Intermediate)

Standards of Excellence Bk 1 (for review)  Students should already have this book (Red Cover).

Standards of Excellence Bk 2 (Blue Cover)

Alfred Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 1

7th & 8th Grade Bands (Concert & Symphonic)

Standards of Excellence Bk 3 (Green Cover)

Alfred Essentials of Music Theory, Bk 2

Jazz Program (Jazz Lab Band & Jazz Ensemble)

Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble (Red Cover)

All students need to have a one inch 3-ring binder to use for sheet music, music theory assignments and handouts.  The binders are used for portfolio assessment at least once a trimester to help students be organized.  Students also need to have a pencil everyday along with binder, required books and music everyday.

Instruments:

Students are required to have an instrument for school and at home practice in order to participate in band.  Students must have their own accessories such as reeds, neck straps, valve oil, percussion sticks/mallets, etc.  Percussion students need to have a percussion kit that comes with a bell set and practice pad/snare drum for at home practice.  Percussion students only need to bring their stick/mallet bag along with required sticks and mallets to school.

Students that play larger instruments such as Euphoniums, Tubas, Baritone Sax, etc.  may use a school instrument since it is very hard to carry them on buses or walk to school with them.  These students need to have an instrument at home to practice and must provide their own mouthpiece, reeds, valve oil, neck straps, etc. for the school instrument.  These items are not to be left in the school instrument cases, since multiple students play on these instruments.

FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING SUPPLIES AND LOCAL MUSIC VENDORS, PLEASE REFER TO THE SUMMER MAILING THAT WAS SENT OUT IN EARLY AUGUST.

If you have any questions please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

We look forward to seeing students in one week!

Oak Park D97 Music Camps in August

It's not too late to sign up for the D97 music camps scheduled for August 2nd - 13th at Brooks Middle School. The band, orchestra and choir camp is from 8:30 - 12:00 p.m. and students can sign up for one or two 1 hr. sessions. Classes include band, choir and jazz band. The cost for each session is $75. There will be a final concert on Friday, Aug. 13th in the morning for families to come out and hear there kids perform.

The D97 Jazz Camp is still looking for students who will be in 7th-9th grades this upcoming fall that play saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, bass and drum set. The jazz camp is from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. and consists of four different sessions including: big band rehearsal, jazz history/listening, jazz improvisation/theory and master classes with professional Chicago area jazz musicians. This year's masterclass teachers are Mark O'Connor (saxophones), Larry Pearce (trombones), Victor Garcia (trumpets) and Mark Maegdlin (rhythm section). The final concert will be at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 13th at the historic Fitzgerald's Night Club on Roosevelt Rd. The cost of the jazz camp is $150 which is a great deal!

To register for these camps click on the link on the upper right hand of this blog to download a copy of the registration forms. Checks need to be made out to: Board of Education, D97, 970 W. Madison St., Oak Park, IL 60302.

If anyone has any questions please feel free to email Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.