Jazz Night!!--Thursday, April 4th @ GBMS, 7 p.m.

Mrs. Albers and I are so excited to facilitate our 5th annual Jazz Night at Brooks Middle School! Our guest performers will be the Nia Quintet with vocalist Stephanie Aaron. Students from Jazz Lab Band and Jazz Ensemble will have the opportunity to participate in full band rehearsal clinics and/or sectional clinic with our visiting guest musicians before their performance. Dinner for students and guest artists is provided by BRAVO. Detailed schedules are being sent home with students this week, and must be signed and returned by March 21st. We are in need of parent volunteers to assist with dinner and room supervision during clinics. If you are available to assist please contact me!! Tickets are also available now on revtrack. Reserve your spot today, it's going to be a fantastic night!

Wrapping Up the Trimester

All I can say is WOW!!! I'm so pleased with the student's performances at our recent D97 Instrumental Music Festival. The students worked diligently to prepare for the performance, and represented themselves so well! I can't wait to start working on our next cycle of music!

There is also a lot of activity within all of our music classrooms in the next few weeks, and I wanted to take the chance to remind you of a few things:

• All students must complete a Concert Observation before the end of the trimester on November 16th. This cannot include any performances in which the students are performing. They may go see professional performances, peer performances, musicals, or any other concert event in the community as long as they are not personally part of the performance. Some upcoming events might include but are not limited to: the Jazz Night Concert at OPRF on Nov. 6th @ p.m., Once On This Island musical production at Brooks the first weekend of November, and the Autumn Choral Concert at Brooks on November 15th @7 p.m. If you have any questions regarding the eligibility of any event please let me know.
• 7/8th grade students will be taking their first playing exam of the year during sectionals the week of October 29th.
• 6th Grade students will be having their Unit 1 Music Theory Test on Tuesday, October 30th.
• A new, streamlined version of the practice record/journal will begin during 2nd trimester. This will allow the students to have access to clearer directions and expectations, as well as only have to turn in one paper every week with one parent/guardian signature. Look for it coming soon!
• Red Ribbon Week begins October 29th. We will be doing various activities within the school and music department to help students understand the importance of living a drug-free life. Therefore, next week's schedule is slightly altered. Please refer to the schedule listed below for details.
• Week of 10/29/12--Red Ribbon Week
  Monday 10/29/12
  6th Grade--Bring Instruments; Practice Records & Journals Due
  7/8th Grade--Normal Schedule w/Sectionals, Practice Journals Due, Playing Test 1 during sectionals
  Tuesday 10/30/12
  Jazz Ensemble Rehearsal 8-8:50 a.m.
  6th Grade--Unit 1 Music Theory Test; No Instruments
  7/8th Grade--Music Theory Day, No Instruments, Playing Test 1 during sectionals (Oboes, Bassoon & SB Saxophones need instruments)
  Wednesday 10/31/12
  Assembly Schedule
  6th Grade--No instruments, Red Ribbon Week Persuasive Writing
  7/8th Grade--, No Instruments for full class, Red Ribbon Week Persuasive Writing, Playing Test 1 during sectionals (Low Brass and SB Percussion need instruments)
  Music Theory Tutoring available after school with Ms. Friedrich
  Thursday 11/1/12
  Jazz Lab Band Rehearsal 8-8:50 a.m.
  6th Grade--Bring Instruments; Normal Schedule
  7/8th Grade--Bring Instruments, Normal Schedule w/Sectionals, Playing test 1 during sectionals
  Friday 11/2/12
  Jazz Ensemble Extra Rehearsal for Concert, 8-8:50 a.m. (Concert is Nov. 6th!!!)
  6th Grade--Bring Instruments; Normal Schedule
  7/8th Grade--Bring Instruments, Normal Schedule w/Sectionals, Playing test 1 during sectionals
   

Congratulations!!!!

All of our Brooks Band students did a FANTASTIC job at IMEA auditions this past Saturday, Sept. 29th. Our students did a great job of preparing for the event and had great composure during auditions. We are happy to announce that the following students have been accepted to participate in the IMEA District I Festival:
Ovya G.--IMEA Concert Band, November 3rd at Riverside-Brookfield
Jonathan B.--IMEA Jazz Band, November 10th at Lincoln-Way Central

Congratulations to all!!

Instrumental Music Festival!!!

Our D97 Instrumental Music Festival is right around the corner! It's so exciting to see the students progress towards their first performance of the year. All band and orchestra students from both Brooks and Julian Middle Schools will be performing together on Tuesday, October 16th at OPRF. In order to prepare, students will be rehearsing at OPRF on Monday, October 15th and Tuesday, October 16th. Please sign the online Permission Slip allowing your student to attend these essential rehearsals. In addition, we are in need of parent volunteers to assist with riding the buses and supervision to and from rehearsals. If you are able to help us out, please indicate it on the permission slip and I will contact you regarding specific times. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Getting Rolling...

All of our band students are settling into their routines, and it is great to see the music taking shape and progress being made. Please take a moment to talk with your student and make sure that they have everything they need for band class, including books, music, instrument accessories, reeds, and a 3 ring binder with 5 section dividers. It is important that students learn to organize the many components we have going on on band on a daily basis. You should also see and/or hear students practicing everyday, and asking you to sign their practice records each week. The sixth grade practice record is pink, and the 7/8th grade one is purple. Next week we will be starting our practice journal entries as well.

Every Wednesday is also a music theory day. Students should be bringing their Alfred Theory books to class on Wednesdays, and will have homework to turn in on Fridays.

Don't forget about the 8th grade performance with the OPRF Marching Band this Friday, Sept. 14!! Students will walk from Brooks to OPRF at 3:30 p.m. and will be dismissed after halftime. Wear your blue and orange to support our team!!

Student/Parent Information Sheet

All Band Parents:
Please make sure to click on the link to fill out your Student/Parent Information Sheet!!!

Greetings to our new and returning Brooks Band students and families! My name is Ms. Friedrich and I will be working with you throughout the school year. I am very excited to be a part of the Oak Park music program, and we have many exciting things lined up for this year! Please make sure you have checked out the supply list for the year (a few blogs down) so that you can be prepared for a great start. Working with middle school band students is truly a passion of mine and I cannot wait to meet all of you and get the music flowing! If you ever have any questions please feel free to email me at sfriedrich@op97.org. 

A little about me: I grew up in Joliet, IL in a strong and competitive instrumental program.  My primary instrument is clarinet but I also played alto saxophone in jazz band starting in 6th grade. In my freshman year of high school I also started learning flute and often performed with jazz band and in the pit orchestra for musicals. Throughout my high school experience I performed in the wind ensemble, orchestra, pit orchestra, marching band, and the Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra. I did my undergraduate work at Illinois State University with a double major in music performance on clarinet and music education. At ISU I performed as principal clarinet for the wind ensemble and marching band, and also performed in various chamber groups as well as orchestra. Most recently I completed a master's degree in music education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I have taught middle school band for 7 years, in public and private schools. My last position included many of the components that are also present here in Oak Park, including concert bands, jazz band, marching band, and preparation for organizational contests. It continues to be my goal to provide students with a well-rounded music curriculum that includes a variety of opportunities with high expectations for learning and musical growth. I am pleased to have the opportunity to do so here at Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School and I look forward to a wonderful and  successful year!

Welcome Ms. Sally Friedrich/IMEA Audition Material

We welcome, Ms. Sally Friedrich, who will be taking over for Mr. Barnard during the 2012-2013 school school year as Director of Bands.  Ms. Friedrich has taught several years in the Crete-Monee school district and has recently finished a maternity leave position at Homewood-Flossmoor High School.  Ms. Friedrich as an excellent teacher that has several years experience teaching band and jazz at the middle school level and we look forward to having her on board!

Audition Material for IMEA Jr. Band can be found on the right side for all students to download and print off for practicing.  7th & 8th graders should prepare both the scale sheet and audition material for their instrument for seating placements for the fall.

All students interested in auditioning for jazz ensemble will need to download the audition material on the right side of the blog.  6th graders interested in participating in Jazz Lab Band do not audition. Information about audition dates and the rehearsal start dates will be available soon through Ms. Friedrich.

I look forward to hearing great things about the band program while I am off taking care of baby Lily and I look forward to seeing you at some of our concerts this school year!

Mr. Barnard

Band Supply List 2012-2013 School Year

BAND EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY LIST

Parents are responsible in providing their student with an instrument, books and accessories needed in order to participate in the instrumental music program in District 97.  Students that qualify for the federally reduced lunch program may receive assistance through one of our community organizations, PING (Providing Instruments for the Next Generation), for a nominal fee.  For more information about the PING organization go to www.pingoprf.org.

6^th Grade Required Books:

            Standards of Excellence Book I (for review)

            Standard of Excellence Book 2

            Alfred Music Theory – Book 1

7^th & 8th Grade Required Books:

            Standards of Excellence Book 3

            Alfred Music Theory – Book 2

Refer to music vendors on the last page for book purchases.  BRAVO! does not pre-order books.

 All band students are required to have a 3-ring binder, 1” with side pockets, for securing music and books.  All students are also required to have a pencil in class for marking music, taking notes and working on music theory assignments.

Flutes: A cleaning/tuning rod with a small handkerchief.  Polishing cloth for outside

finish.  Optical size screw driver for adjusting loose screws.

Oboes/Bassoons:  An oboe swab, oboe reeds; medium-soft or medium (6^th graders),

medium or medium hard (7^th/8^th graders).  Optical size screw driver for adjusting  

loose screws. Small pipe cleaner for cleaning ½ hole vents (optional). A good 

quality store bought reed is Jones reeds; if you are studying privately, talk with

your private instructor for suggestions.

Clarinets:  A clarinet swab, reeds: 2 ½ (6^th graders) 2 ½ or 3 (7^th/8^th graders).  I

recommend Rico Royals, Mitchell Lurie or Vandoren Reeds.  If purchasing Vandorens please be aware that you might want a lower number reed because they are much denser than other brands. A reed holder/protector that holds 4 reeds for proper storage.  All students should have 4 playable reeds at all times.  An optical size screw driver for adjusting loose screws.  Bass clarinet students must purchase their own mouthpiece with ligature and cap. (Recommend Yamaha Stock)

Saxophones:  A neckstrap, a saxophone swab, reeds:  2 ½ (6^th graders) 2 ½ or 3 (7^th/8^th

graders).  I recommend Rico Royals or Vandoren Reeds.  If purchasing

Vandorens please be aware that you might want a lower number reed because they are much denser than other brands.  A reed holder/protector that holds 4 reeds for proper storage. All students are required to have 4 playable reeds at all times.  An optical size screw driver for adjusting loose screws. Tenor and baritone saxophones must purchase their own mouthpiece with ligature and cap. (Recommend Yamaha 4C or Selmer C-star)

Trumpets:  Valve oil (Alcass), slide grease, trumpet snakes for periodic cleaning,

mouthpiece brush. A straight mute (stone-line brand most affordable) to be used

periodically in performance.

French Horn:  Rotary Valve Oil, slide grease, French horn snakes for periodic cleaning,

mouthpiece brush.

Trombone:  Superslick or trombotine slide grease, tuning slide grease, trombone snake,

mouthpiece brush. A straight mute (stone-line brand most affordable)

Baritone/Euphonium:  Valve Oil (Alcass), slide grease, baritone snakes for periodic

cleaning, mouthpiece brush.  All students must have their own mouthpiece

with a mouthpiece pouch to protect it. Each student should have a euphonium at home as a practice instrument.  Recommend Bach 6 ½ AL for mouthpieces.

Tubas:  Valve oil, slide grease, mouthpiece brush.  All students must have their own

mouthpiece with a mouthpiece pouch to protect it. Each student should have

a euphonium or tuba at home as a practice instrument.  Recommend Bach 12

for mouthpieces.

Percussion:  Stick bag, snare drum sticks (Vic Firth SD1 or standard 2B), Bell Mallets

(plastic heads), Timpani Mallets (Vic Firth Generals) and medium yarn mallets.  Some companies do sell a complete percussion bag full of these items at a reasonable price.

All percussionists are required to have a percussion kit with bells and practice pad for at home practice.

Optional Accessories for everyone!

Electronic Metronome:  Used for providing a steady rhythmic pulse and is good for

developing accurate technique.

Tuner:  Important tool to help students play in tune and develop good intonation skills. 

This is highly recommended for double reed students.

Jazz Program

All students are required to have a copy of Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble, by Mike Steinel.  This book is the primary book for 6^th graders and will be used continually for improvisation study throughout the jazz program.

Guitar/Bass:  patch chords ( 2 recommended ), extra set of strings, electronic tuner.

Drumset:  a pair of 5A or 7A sticks, a set of wire brushes.

Instrument Rentals & Purchases

It is extremely important when you make a decision to purchase an instrument that you speak to either your child’s band director or private instructor.  We want you to invest in a high quality instrument that will perform well for your child and will stand the test of time.  We recommend that you do not purchase instruments from internet sites, at garage sales or at non-music retail outlets such as warehouse clubs, without speaking to a band director first.  What may look like a good instrument and a good deal can really be an instrument with many flaws.  Please consider the following recommendations when renting or purchasing a quality student instrument.

Flute/Piccolo:  Gemeinhardt, Armstrong, Yamaha

Oboe:  Selmer, Yamaha, Buffet

Clarinet:  Vito, Selmer, LeBlanc, Buffet, Yamaha

Saxophone:  Conn, Vito, Selmer, Yamaha, Cannonball, Jupiter

Trumpet:  Bach, Holton, Yamaha, Getzen, Jupiter

French Horn:  Holton, Conn or Yamaha

Trombone:  Bach, Yamaha or King, Conn, Jupiter

Euphonium/Tuba:  King, Bach, Holton, Jupiter, Yamaha

Percussion:  Ludwig, Yamaha Percussion Kits, Drumset:  Ludwig, Pearl, Yamaha

Please contact your band director or private instructor when deciding to purchase a step up or professional level instrument for further recommendations.

Local Music Vendors

 Austin Music Center                             Band So
 6815 North Ave.                                  2309 Maple Ave.
Oak Park, IL  60302                            Downers Grove, IL  60515
708/ 383-1961                                     630/447-0426
www.austinmusiccenter.net                   www.bandsourcecompany.com

Kagan & Gaines Music                        Music & Arts Center                         
7655 Roosevelt Rd.                            907 W. Irving Park Rd.

Forest Park, IL  60130                        Itasca, IL  60143

708/771-2152                                      630/258-1485
 www.kaganandgaines.com                    www.musicarts.

Quinlin & Fabish Music                        Woodwind & Brasswind (online)
166 Shore Dr.                                      4004 Technology Drive
Burr Ridge, IL  60527                          South Bend, IN  46628
630/654-4111                                      800/348-5003
www.qandf.com                                   www.wwbw.com

                     ONLINE SHEET MUSIC/BOOKS

J.W. Pepper Music Company

www.jwpepper.com

Prima Music Company

www.primamusic.com

GBMS does not carry accessories such as valve oil, slide grease, reeds, sticks, etc. and it is the responsibility of the student and their parents to purchase these items.

INSTRUMENT REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

Students and their families are responsible for the maintenance and repairs of their instruments and should have any repairs taken care of in a timely manner.  In the case that an instrument may have some problems it is the responsibility of the student to inform the band director and he/she will take a look at it and if possible fix the problem. 

If the repair requires taking it to a certified repair shop (music store), the band director will write a repair slip describing what the problem may be and what he/she tried to do in order to try to fix the problem.  This will help both parents and the repair technician know what to look for and will help speed up the repair process.

Parents are responsible for taking the instrument in for repairs.  If a student is renting an instrument from our district’s main supplier (Music & Arts Center) a phone call to the Itasca store can schedule a pick up at our school on Friday mornings.  If any family is still renting an instrument from a local music store it is recommended to ask if you can check out a loaner instrument while your child’s instrument is being repaired.  Most instrument rental agreements offer a loaner instrument for repair situations.

Brooks Bands, Week of May 21st-25th

Congratulations to all of our band students for a fantastic week of concerts and the St. Louis Music Tour this past weekend.  We are proud to announce that our combined 7th/8th grade bands received an "Excellent" rating and was placed 2nd overall in the Music in the Parks National Music Festival in St. Louis!  Even though we are only 9 days away from the end of the year there is still a lot of information to get out to parents.  Please read through this blog for all the information you will need for the remainder of the school year!

HOMEWORK: 

Practice Journals:  Week 11 is due on Monday, May 21st.  This is the last week to collect all practice journals.  No practice journals will be collected after May 25th.

Outside Concert Summaries:  are due no later than this Friday, May 25th.  If you are looking for any last minute concert opportunities there are two concerts this week, Tuesday Orchestra Concert and Thursday Choir Concert.  Again, no concert summaries will not be collected after May 25th.

GRADUATION BAND:
The 8th Grade Graduation Ceremony is next Thursday, May 31st at 7:30 p.m. in the OPRFHS Auditorium.  The band program provides a group for this very important district event!  The band that performs for this event consist of 6th & 7th grade volunteers from all of our bands.  Students will report to the OPRFHS Auditorium (back stage) no later than 6:40 p.m. to set up and get ready for this important performance.  The event will finish at approximately 8:45 p.m.  Dress for this event is formal but students do not need to wear our standard black and white concert attire.
 
Students interested in being a part of the graduation band will need to sign up on the Graduation Band List located in the front of the band room!  A one time combined rehearsal will happen on Tuesday, May 29th during 3rd & 4th periods.  6th graders will eat lunch at the beginning of 5th period and are encouraged to bring a sack lunch that day.

JAZZ PROGRAM:
Congratulations the the Jazz Lab Band & Jazz Ensemble for a successful 2011-2012 school year!  Last week wrapped up our rehearsals for the school year.  Students interested in auditioning for next year's jazz ensemble should pick up an audition packet from Mr. Barnard before the end of the school year.    6th & 7th graders should hold onto their Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble books for next year.

LAST DAY FOR INSTRUMENTS FOR CLASS:
Tuesday, May 29th due to grade level field trips and our school wide PBIS activity on May 30th & 31st.  Students will need to make sure that their band lockers are cleaned out by May 29th.

Brooks Bands, Week of May 14th - 18th

SPRING BAND CONCERTS THIS WEEK!

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

     5:30 p.m.  Jazz Ensemble Soundcheck in Auditorium
     6:30 p.m.  Symphonic Band Report in Room D105 (choir room)
                     Wind Ensemble Report in Room D110 (band/orchestra room)

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.





This concert also includes our elementary bands which will start at 6:30 p.m.  All 6th graders need to be in room D110 ready to go no later than 7:00 p.m.  The 6th grade portion of the concert will start at approximately 7:15 p.m.

CONCERT ATTIRE THIS WEEK:

Boys:  White button down dress shirt, black necktie, black dress pants, black dress shoes
Girls:  White blouse top covering the shoulders, black dress pants, black dress shoes

No Jeans or Gym Shoes,  No skirts

 

All jazz students will not wear the "Brooks Jazz T-Shirts" for these events.

 

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

 

BRAVO ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR, May 18th-20th, 7th/8th Graders

Don't forget to check your packing list so you don't forget anything!  All students should take their instruments home on Thursday so they do not need to go into the school building.  Parents please do not park on Washington Blvd. along the school so our Motor Coach Buses can pull up to load equipment and students.  If anyone has any questions please refer to the Final Itinerary Packet or contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

5:15 a.m. report time on Friday, May 18th. 

• Make sure to pack only a carry on size luggage bag and bring a carry on bag that can fit in under your seat.  Make sure you use the luggage tag that was provided to you for the trip.
• All band and orchestra instruments must have the tag provided to you on the case.  Make sure that if your instrument is not a carry on instrument that it is dropped off at the appropriate bus first thing in the morning.  BAND:  Bus 1 Blue,  ORCHESTRA:  Bus 2 Yellow.
• Any student that requires medicine will need to make sure they see Mr. Sindelar with your medication in a zip lock bag in the original container the medicine came in.
• Make sure to have your sack lunch!
• Make sure you have your money for meals not provided for the weekend!

 Arrive back to Brooks at approx. 4:00 p.m.

• Make sure you have everything with you!
• Check in with your chaperone before leaving!
• GO TO SCHOOL ON MAY 21st!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 
8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, 7:30, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students. Sign up sheet will be available this week.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 10 Due Monday, 5/14. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.



WEEK 11 will be the last week collected for the school year, due May 21st!

MUSIC THEORY:No Music Theory This Week! Practice for your upcoming performances!

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th

Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):
Tuesday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

              5:30 p.m. Soundcheck
              7:00 p.m. Concert

Jazz Lab Band:
Monday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. rehearsal in Auditorium
Thursday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. rehearsal in Auditorium

This week will be the last rehearsals for our jazz groups!  Audition material for the 2012-2013 jazz ensemble will be available this week for 6th-7th graders to pick up.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of 5/7 - 5/11

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
Final Informational Meeting has been changed to Tuesday, May 8th at 7 p.m. in the GBMS auditorium. At this meeting students and parents will receive the final trip itinerary, important contact information for that weekend, information on D97 medication policy, and an opportunity for students and parents to meet their chaperone for the trip.

Congratulations to all of our 7th/8th Graders for their outstanding performance at the Ethnic Festival Parade on Saturday!!!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

BRAVO St. Louis Music Tour, May 18th-20th, 7th/8th Graders
5:15 a.m. report time on Friday, May 18th. Arrive back to Brooks at approx. 4:00 p.m.

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, 7:30, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students. Sign up sheet will be available shortly.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 9 Due Monday, 5/7. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.


MUSIC THEORY:No Music Theory This Week! Practice for your upcoming performances!

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):
Tuesday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Thursday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Friday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. rehearsal
Additional rehearsals added on Monday, May 14th & Thursday, May 17th @ 8 a.m.

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of Apr. 30th - May 4th

D97 ETHNIC FESTIVAL PARADE, MAY 5TH @ JULIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
All 7th/8th grade band students are currently preparing for the D97 Ethnic Festival Parade at Julian Middle School on Saturday, May 5th.  The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and all 7th/8th grade band members need to report to the Percy Julian Auditorium at 9:15 a.m.  Students can wear any of the following for this event:
BRAVO T-Shirt, Brooks Wear, or Blue or Black t-shirt, jeans and gym shoes.  Weather permitting, students may wear shorts.  Students should be finished at approximately 10:45 a.m.

All students that have conflicts should have contacted Mr. Barnard.  Thank you to those families that have contacted Mr. Barnard well in advance.

Friday, May 4th is our combined marching rehearsal during 8th & 9th periods.  Only students that are performing in the Ethnic Festival Parade will be participating in this rehearsal.  Wind Ensemble students should immediately come down after their 7th period class.  

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
Final Informational Meeting has been changed to Tuesday, May 8th at 7 p.m. in the GBMS auditorium.  At this meeting students and parents will receive the final trip itinerary, important contact information for that weekend, information on D97 medication policy, and an opportunity for students and parents to meet their chaperone for the trip.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students. 

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

BRAVO St. Louis Music Tour, May 18th-20th, 7th/8th Graders

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.  Sign up sheet will be available shortly.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 8 Due Monday, 4/30. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.


MUSIC THEORY:No Music Theory This Week!

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):
Tuesday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Thursday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Friday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m. rehearsal

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of April 23rd - 27th

D97 ETHNIC FESTIVAL PARADE, MAY 5TH @ JULIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
All 7th/8th grade band students are currently preparing for the D97 Ethnic Festival Parade at Julian Middle School on Saturday, May 5th.  The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and all 7th/8th grade band members need to report to the Percy Julian Auditorium at 9:15 a.m.  Students can wear any of the following for this event:
BRAVO T-Shirt, Brooks Wear, or Blue or Black t-shirt, jeans and gym shoes.  Weather permitting, students may wear shorts.  Students should be finished at approximately 10:45 a.m.

Any families that have a conflict should contact Mr. Barnard immediately.  Thank you to those families that have contacted Mr. Barnard well in advance.

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
All participants & chaperones should be paid in full and all medical forms should be turned in at this time. Please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org or the BRAVO! office at 708-524-5621 regarding payment and medical forms.  All Chaperones are meeting the Thursday, April 26th @ 6 p.m. in room D110 to go over the trip itinerary, chaperone groups and chaperone responsibilities.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students. 

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

BRAVO St. Louis Music Tour, May 18th-20th, 7th/8th Graders

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 7 Due Monday, 4/23. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.


MUSIC THEORY:
No Music Theory this week due to 4 day week.

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):
Tuesday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Thursday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
No Rehearsal on Friday due to Teachers Institute

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of 4/16 - 4/20

Hello Band Families,

It is hard to believe that the school year is almost closing within the next month! As many of you know, May is arguably the most hectic time of the school year and want to make sure that everyone has down on their calendars our remaining performances for the school year. Please check your calendars to make sure that your child's schedules do have conflicts for our remaining performances of the school year. If there are conflicts that cannot be resolved, please contact Mr. Barnard immediately and we can work together to see if any compromise can be made.

Our 7th/8th Graders have their marching band event on Sat., May 5th for the D97 Ethnic Festival Parade at Julian Middle School. This event does conflict with many youth sports programs as well as important family events such as Bar Mitzvahs, Confirmations and other religious events. In the case of sports conflicts, most students will be able to work around their schedules. Parents please contact Mr. Barnard as soon as possible if you do see a conflict with this performance.

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
All participants & chaperones should be paid in full and all medical forms should be turned in at this time. Please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org or the BRAVO! office at 708-524-5621 regarding payment and medical forms.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students.

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

BRAVO St. Louis Music Tour, May 18th-20th, 7th/8th Graders

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 6 Due Monday, 4/16. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.

3rd Trimester Portfolio Assessments
Students will have their 3rd trimester Portfolio Assessments were accomplished last week. If anyone needs to accomplish this assessment they must do so this week. The following criteria is needed to receive an "A" for their portfolio assessment.

1. 3-Ring Binder with their name (first & last) and their class labeled on the outside cover.
2. Both required books for band with their name labeled on them.
3. All current sheet music (secured on the 3-rings) Marching Band music can be in the side
pocket of the binder.
4. All current supplemental exercises (secured on the 3-rings)
5. All current Music Theory Assignments (secured on the 3-rings)
6. 3rd Trimester Practice Journal (secured on the 3-rings)

For more information please refer to the Band Handbook.

MUSIC THEORY:
6th Grade: Lesson 25, Activity Worksheet 6-2
7th/8th Grades: No music theory due to Marching Band schedule.

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):
Tuesday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Thursday 8:00-8:50 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Friday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m.

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of 4/9 - 4/13

Congratulations to all of our Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble, Beautyshop, Barbershop and Shoppettes students for an excellent performance during our 4th Annual Brooks Jazz Night this past Thursday night! Both guest artists were amazed at the level of musicianship, positive attitude and our students' hunger to learn!

CDs for Mark O'Connor and Typhanie Monique can be ordered if you did not get a chance to purchase one on Thursday night! An order form will be available sometime this week for students to take home.

Our Student Teacher Starts This Week!
We welcome Mr. Lightbourne from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, who will be starting his student teaching assignment with us on Monday, April 9th. Mr. Lightbourne is from Nassau, Bahamas and is an alumnus of the award-winning concert band of C.V. Bethel Senior High School in Nassau. He is an active musician in the Chicago area performing at musical theater productions and with local musicians in the jazz community.

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
All participants & chaperones should be paid in full and all medical forms should be turned in at this time. Please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org or the BRAVO! office at 708-524-5621 regarding payment and medical forms.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Showcase, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium
3:00 - 5:00 p.m. clinics with guest artists, dinner provided to participants by BRAVO.

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students.

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

BRAVO St. Louis Music Tour, May 18th-20th, 7th/8th Graders

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 5 Due Monday, 4/9. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover. Week 4 (Spring Break) may be turned in for extra credit!

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.

3rd Trimester Portfolio Assessments
Students will have their 3rd trimester Portfolio Assessments this week. 6th Graders will have their assessment on Wednesday, 4/11 during class and 7th/8th graders will have them done during their band sectionals. Students should have the following in order to have a successful assessment.

1. 3-Ring Binder with their name (first & last) and their class labeled on the outside cover.
2. Both required books for band with their name labeled on them.
3. All current sheet music (secured on the 3-rings) Marching Band music can be in the side
pocket of the binder.
4. All current supplemental exercises (secured on the 3-rings)
5. All current Music Theory Assignments (secured on the 3-rings)
6. 3rd Trimester Practice Journal (secured on the 3-rings)

For more information please refer to the Band Handbook.

MUSIC THEORY:
6th Grade: Lesson 24, Activity Worksheet 6-1
7th/8th Grades: No music theory due to Marching Band schedule.

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):

No rehearsal Tuesday this week.

Thursday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Friday 8:00 - 8:50 a.m.

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of 4/2-4/6

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Show, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium (Click on the link on the upper right hand corner to order your tickets!)

BRAVO proudly announces their annual Brooks Jazz Night and Art Showcase with guest artists, the Mark O'Connor Quintet & vocalist Typhanie Monique. The evening concert will feature both our Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble, Barbershop, Shoppettes and Beautyshop ensembles, followed by a set by our guest artists. The event does start at 3 p.m. with rehearsal clinics for both of our bands and vocal groups with our guest artists and are free and open to the public. This year we are adding an art exhibit that will be available for viewing in the auditorium lobby and commons. Admission for the evening concert is $8 adults, and $6 students 16 yrs/under and can be purchased in advance through the BRAVO hotline at 708-524-5621 and will be available for purchase soon online through the D97 webstore. For more information regarding the Brooks Jazz Night, please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org

Brooks Jazz Night Itinerary:
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Jazz Ensemble Rehearsal Clinic
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Break out sessions (woodwinds, brass, rhythm section) Jazz Lab Band/Jazz
Ensemble students
5:00 p.m. Dinner provide by BRAVO! Art display in the main foyer and commons
5:30-7:30 p.m. Music & Arts Instrument Display in the Commons
6:30 p.m. Warm Up in D110 (All students should be changed into their performance attire!)
7:00 p.m. Brooks Jazz Night Concert!

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
Final payment for $130 or remaining balance for the tour was due on Mar. 15th along with all medical forms and copies of insurance information turned into the BRAVO office. Chaperones also need to submit their 2nd $110 payment by this date. Please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org or the BRAVO! office at 708-524-5621 regarding payment and paperwork.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Showcase, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium
3:00 - 5:00 p.m. clinics with guest artists, dinner provided to participants by BRAVO.

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students.

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 3 Due Monday, 4/2. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover. Week 4 (Spring Break) may be turned in for extra credit!

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.

MUSIC THEORY:
6th Grade: Lessons 22 & 23
7th/8th Grades: No music theory due to kickoff of Marching Band schedule.

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

BROOKS JAZZ NIGHT & ART SHOWCASE
3:00 P.M. Jazz Ensemble Rehearsal Clinic
4:00 P.M. Jazz Ensemble & Jazz Lab Band Break Out Sessions
5:00 P.M. Dinner Break
5:30 P.M. Music & Arts Professional Instrument Display starts (All students are invited to try
out step up model instruments with supervision of their parents).
All students change into their full performance attire.
6:30 P.M. All Jazz Students report to D110
7:00 P.M. Brooks Jazz Night Concert

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):

Tuesday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

Thursday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Monday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal (This is the last rehearsal before " Brooks Jazz Night".

In preparation for Brooks Jazz Night, we will be adding Monday rehearsals, 3/12, 3/19, 4/2 at 8:00 a.m.

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of 3/19-3/23

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Show, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium (Click on the link on the upper right hand corner to order your tickets!)

BRAVO proudly announces their annual Brooks Jazz Night and Art Showcase with guest artists, the Mark O'Connor Quintet & vocalist Typhanie Monique. The evening concert will feature both our Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble, Barbershop, Shoppettes and Beautyshop ensembles, followed by a set by our guest artists. The event does start at 3 p.m. with rehearsal clinics for both of our bands and vocal groups with our guest artists and are free and open to the public. This year we are adding an art exhibit that will be available for viewing in the auditorium lobby and commons. Admission for the evening concert is $8 adults, and $6 students 16 yrs/under and can be purchased in advance through the BRAVO hotline at 708-524-5621 and will be available for purchase soon online through the D97 webstore. For more information regarding the Brooks Jazz Night, please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org

Brooks Jazz Night Itinerary:
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Jazz Ensemble Rehearsal Clinic
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Break out sessions (woodwinds, brass, rhythm section) Jazz Lab Band/Jazz
Ensemble students
5:00 p.m. Dinner provide by BRAVO! Art display in the main foyer and commons
6:30 p.m. Warm Up in D110
7:00 p.m. Brooks Jazz Night Concert!

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
Final payment for $130 or remaining balance for the tour was due on Mar. 15th along with all medical forms and copies of insurance information turned into the BRAVO office. Chaperones also need to submit their 2nd $110 payment by this date. Please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org or the BRAVO! office at 708-524-5621 regarding payment and paperwork.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Showcase, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium
3:00 - 5:00 p.m. clinics with guest artists, dinner provided to participants by BRAVO.

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students.

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 2 Due Monday, 3/19. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.

MUSIC THEORY:
6th Grade: Unit 5 Ear Training & Review
7th/8th Grades: No music theory due to kickoff of Marching Band schedule.

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):

Tuesday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

Thursday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Monday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal
Friday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

In preparation for Brooks Jazz Night, we will be adding Monday rehearsals, 3/12, 3/19, 4/2 at 8:00 a.m.

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.

Brooks Bands, Week of 3/12-3/16

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Show, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium (Click on the link on the upper right hand corner to order your tickets!)

BRAVO proudly announces their annual Brooks Jazz Night and Art Showcase with guest artists, the Mark O'Connor Quintet & vocalist Typhanie Monique. The evening concert will feature both our Jazz Lab Band, Jazz Ensemble, Barbershop, Shoppettes and Beautyshop ensembles, followed by a set by our guest artists. The event does start at 3 p.m. with rehearsal clinics for both of our bands and vocal groups with our guest artists and are free and open to the public. This year we are adding an art exhibit that will be available for viewing in the auditorium lobby and commons. Admission for the evening concert is $8 adults, and $6 students 16 yrs/under and can be purchased in advance through the BRAVO hotline at 708-524-5621 and will be available for purchase soon online through the D97 webstore. For more information regarding the Brooks Jazz Night, please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org

Brooks Jazz Night Itinerary:
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Jazz Ensemble Rehearsal Clinic
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Break out sessions (woodwinds, brass, rhythm section) Jazz Lab Band/Jazz
Ensemble students
5:00 p.m. Dinner provide by BRAVO! Art display in the main foyer and commons
6:30 p.m. Warm Up in D110
7:00 p.m. Brooks Jazz Night Concert!

ST. LOUIS MUSIC TOUR (7TH/8TH Graders)
Final payment for $130 or remaining balance for the tour is due on Mar. 15th along with all medical forms and copies of insurance information turned into the BRAVO office. Chaperones also need to submit their 2nd $110 payment by this date. Please contact Mr. Barnard if you have submitted for being a chaperone and you have not heard from anyone. All student rooming assignments have been made.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Brooks Jazz Night & Art Showcase, Thursday, April 5th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium
3:00 - 5:00 p.m. clinics with guest artists, dinner provided to participants by BRAVO.

*D97 Ethnic Festival Parade, Saturday, May 5th @ 10 a.m., Julian Middle School. This is a
required performance for all 7th/8th Grade Band students.

*7th/8th Grade Spring Band Concert, Tuesday, May 15th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium.
This is a required performance for Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble
students.

*6th Grade Spring Band Concert, Thursday, May 17th @ 7 p.m., GBMS Auditorium. This
is a required performance for Cadet Band, Concert Band and Jazz Lab Band students.

8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, Thursday, May 31st, time TBA, OPRF Auditorium.
This performance is for select 6th/7th grade band students.

*These events are required performance events for 3rd trimester for all academic bands. Contact Mr. Barnard in writing (email preferred) no later than two weeks before this event if there is an important family conflict. Refer to the Band Handbook for more information.

HOMEWORK:

Practice Record Journals

Week 15 Due, Since we are on ISAT schedule, students should turn in this assignment the first day of class this week. Please make sure that the practice journal is also signed on the inside of the booklet as well as the front cover.

Practice records that are not turned in on time do receive a 10 point penalty each day it is late and will not receive credit if it is not turned in within the week. Make sure that both the cover as well as the assignments and goals page are signed to receive credit.

MUSIC THEORY:
6th Grade: Lessons 20 & 21.
7th/8th Grades: No music theory due to kickoff of Marching Band schedule.

3rd TRIMESTER OUTSIDE CONCERT SUMMARIES, Due May 25th
Students in any academic music elective are required to attend one live performance of a music, dance or theatrical event each trimester and fill out the Concert Observation Form based on what they saw at the event. A copy of the program or ticket stub from the event will need to be attached and the form requires a parent signature for credit.

Students can attend any event that is school related or out in the community (i.e. OPRF Concerts, community concerts and recitals, events in downtown Chicago such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Broadway in Chicago productions, etc.). Copies of this form can be downloaded from the link provided in the upper right hand corner of the band blog.

Concert Summaries are 5% of the total band grade so please do not forget to accomplish this assignment.

JAZZ PROGRAM

Jazz Ensemble (7th/8th Graders):

Tuesday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal
Wednesday 6:00 p.m. performance @ OPRFHS for D97 Art Show, 5:45 p.m. report time.

Thursday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

Jazz Lab Band:
Monday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal
Friday 8:00 a.m. rehearsal

In preparation for Brooks Jazz Night, we will be adding Monday rehearsals, 3/12, 3/19, 4/2 at 8:00 a.m.

All jazz students, 6th-8th grade, will need to have the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble book which will be used all three years of their jazz experience at brooks.

If students or families have any questions or concerns please contact Mr. Barnard at jbarnard@op97.org.