Our Music Department Mission
Music is universal, cultural, and individual. It is with this understanding that the Music
Department of Traughber Junior High School believes that every student should have the
opportunity to receive a high-quality musical training in school, regardless of grade level,
ability level, or background. The goal of this musical training is to help participants achieve a
personal level of understanding, appreciation, and passion for music.
It is undeniable that music has always been an integral part of human existence. Every culture
throughout history carries its own musical traditions. In our culturally diverse society, music is
one of the few common threads that links peoples and ideas together. Music education uses
the artistic medium of musical sound to give insight into the universal human experience.
Departmental Goals:
• Develop strong musicianship and cultivate aesthetic awareness in the classroom
through the preparation and performance of quality musical literature.
• Provide curricular and extra-curricular opportunities for all music students that enhance
their musical experience.
• Facilitate opportunities for students seeking musical self-enrichment.
• Empower students to create their own music through composition, arranging, and
improvisation
• Create community on all levels: within our classrooms, our department, our school
buildings, and our local population; as well as within the national and global community.
• Enrich students' appreciation of the musical arts by attending fine cultural events.
• Create the best possible learning environment for students to pursue an education in
the musical arts.
• Inspire students to become life-long learners and intelligent consumers of music.
• Address the needs of students seeking a future career in the field of music.
Traughber Band Vision Statement
The primary goal of all band classes at Oswego Junior High Schools is to heighten each
student’s aesthetic awareness through the musical art. While there are many secondary
objectives that are also set for the students, using sound as a means to communicate the
feelings embodied in a musical work is always the ultimate focus.
Dedication and maturity are required to develop this uniquely human ability. Dedication
because the skills needed to recreate music are both numerous and complex. Maturity
because, once the technical skills are learned, a musician must be patient and open minded in
order to understand and then communicate the essence of a composer’s work.
Many people go their entire lives without being aware of the power that art has to affect them.
We believe that junior high students are not too young to begin delving into the meaning of
music as art. We also believe there is no better way to accomplish that then to develop the
ability to perform to take the creation of an artist and bring it to life.
At the middle level we attempt to develop the musical skills necessary to recreate meaningful
music and listen critically to both ourselves and others as they perform. We emphasize the
inappropriateness of expressing a value judgment on a particular work or performance unless
one can articulate the reasons for his or her opinion and demonstrate an alternative. Criticism
that is unsupported and non-constructive will not and should not be taken seriously by others.
It would be naïve to suggest that such a lofty goal can be fully realized at the junior high level.
We therefore strive to start young people down a path that will eventually lead to aesthetic
awareness. We firmly believe that a person who is aesthetically aware will be better able to
reap all that life has to offer and to share with others the wealth of his or her talent.
Band in the Oswego School District is regarded as an academic subject for all who
participate. Students will receive a band grade on their report card at the end of each
quarter. Although band is an elective, a band member must adhere to all of the requirements.
The Traughber Band Program`s tradition of excellence is due to the high expectation level that
all of us have and must continue to have: directors, students, administrators and parents.
Program Structure
6TH Grade Beginning Band
The 6th Grade Band is a beginning band class with instruction beginning during the summer
prior to the current school year. The beginning band will perform in four concerts throughout
the year. They will also be required to prepare and perform a solo for the Oswego 6th Grade
Solo Recital. The 6th grade band class meets everyday and is part of the students` daily
academic routine at Traughber Junior High.
If a student in 7th or 8th grade who did not join band in 6th grade desires to be in band, that
student must start with the beginning band students and will be placed in 6th grade band for
the school year.
A student moving into the Oswego school district with experience in band will perform an
audition in order to determine proper placement in the band program.
7th Grade Concert Band
The Concert Band consists of primarily 7th Graders in their second year of instruction. The
Concert Band members will perform in four concerts, Oswego Organization Contest, and in
Solo and Ensemble Festival. Select students will also have the opportunity to audition for the
IMEA District IX Festival Concert Band and Jazz Band.
8th Grade Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band consists of primarily 8th Graders in their third year of instruction. The
Symphonic Band members will perform in four concerts, Oswego Fine Arts Festival, and
perform in the Solo and Ensemble Festival. Select students will also have the opportunity to
audition for the IMEA District IX Festival Concert Band and Jazz Band.
Sectional Rehearsals
All 7th & 8th grade band students will be heard by the director once each week and assigned
a weekly grade. Symphonic Band and Concert Band members will be required to attend one
technique class per week for the purpose of testing and rehearsing technical problems related
to the music. This Technique Class will be held during one half of one lunch period each week.
CLASSROOM GOALS, RULES, AND CONSEQUENCES
No large organization such as a band can function properly without well-disciplined
participants. Band is not a mandatory subject and it is assumed by the directors that all
students are willing participants. It is the responsibility of the students to adhere to the rules of
the classroom. Proper behavior at all performances is extremely important and expected. The
actions of one member reflect upon all members when dealing with a large organization.
Inappropriate behavior while in uniform will be grounds for serious consequences.
Traughber Band Goals:
In band this year everyone will…
show respect at all times to others in the group.
play with good tone, balance, blend, and pitch.
play musically.
play with good individual technique, posture, hand position and embouchure.
improve every time we play.
keep the room, instruments and music clean and neat.
be organized.
work as a group to reach our goals.
Traughber Band Rule:
Act in a way that does not cause problems for others.
This will include:
Come prepared with all supplies.
Be respectful (listen-pay attention-one person speaks at a time).
Do your best.
Play only when asked to.
Improve every time we play.
Handle only the equipment that you use.
No food or drinks in any music rooms.
Traughber Band Consequences:
Handled on an individual-as needed basis
*********All school rules apply to all band rehearsals and events.*******
Entering a Classroom
Rehearsal Etiquette
USE OF THE FACILITIES
We are very proud of the Band Rooms at Traughber JHS. They are truly a "showcase" for
what our school district has done to support band and the fine arts. It is the responsibility of
everyone to treat our facilities with the respect they deserve. Keep the band room clean.
Students must keep instruments in assigned storage lockers. Over 285 students use the
band room each day. This year there will be six different bands rehearsing in the band room
every day. Therefore, it is important that each student does his/her part in keeping things
orderly and functional. Items such as music, folder, instruments and personal belongings
should be kept in their proper places. Abuse of this rule will result in detention and possible
grade reduction. EVERY INSTRUMENT SHOULD HAVE A NAME-TAG WITH YOUR NAME AND
ADDRESS CLEARLY WRITTEN ON IT.
LOCKERS
A space in the storage cabinet will be issued to every band student. These lockers are to be
used and treated responsibly.
1. Lockers are to be used only by the person or persons assigned to one.
2.Instruments and music are the only items which should be stored in the locker. School
books and lunches should be stored in the hallway locker. No food or drink is allowed in the
band room or band locker at any time.
3.Music and band method books must be kept in a folder in the folio cabinet-not in your
locker. Do not leave loose music and music books in your locker.
4.Lockers will be inspected periodically during the school year. Anyone violating these rules
may lose the privilege of a band locker.
MUSIC
Music issued to stand partners or individuals becomes the responsibility of the band member.
All music is expensive and belongs to School District #308. Unless otherwise instructed all
music must be kept in the student`s individual 3-ring binder. Always use pencil, not a pen or
marker, to write reminders on the music. We would like future band members to be able to
perform this music.
GRADING POLICY
The band quarter grade will be determined by test and assignment grades, as well as
attendance and attitude. Students will be given assignments and tests appropriate to their
level in band. They will be graded on tone quality, posture, hand position, range, and
technical facility for tests involving the fundamentals of music performance such as scales,
rhythms, and articulations. When tested on concert music, students will be graded on general
interpretation, which includes: tempo, dynamics, and expression. Final grades for each
quarter will be determined by grade points earned on tests, attendance at band functions, and
the students` ability to demonstrate correct rehearsal behavior (ie: posture, preparation,
supplies). Consideration will be given for progress and attitude. Occasionally, during the
year, the director will offer extra credit points. A student`s grade may be lowered significantly
for not being prepared for class with the proper instrument, music, and pencil.
PRACTICE AND PRACTICE RECORDS
In addition to the regularly scheduled school rehearsals, it is necessary for each student to
practice at home or in a practice room when available. It is strongly suggested and
encouraged that a certain time each day be set aside for individual practice. Although a
specific amount of time is not required each student is expected to be prepared with all band
materials. Practice records may be turned in weekly for extra credit points.
PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE POLICY
The attendance policy for all performances is required attendance. Any absences (except for
school day excused absences) must be communicated to the director prior to the absence.
Absence from a performance without prior consent will have a considerable effect on the
quarter grade. The success of the band depends on you being in the RIGHT place at the
RIGHT time with the RIGHT attitude.
UNIFORMS
Please make sure that you have the following for each performance. It is unwise to wait until
the night before the performance to tell your parents you need concert attire!Each student is
expected to become acquainted with the proper and only way to wear and care for the
required dress. It should be considered the highest honor to be allowed to wear the uniform of
your organization. When in uniform, you are no longer an individual; you are a representative
of your school and community. The complete uniform is to be worn at appearances unless
specific instructions are made otherwise.
Each band member will need to purchase the following:
1 pair of all black dress pants
1 pair of all black socks
1 pair of all black shoes (no colors on the shoes other than black)
1 Music Department Polo Shirt available through the Music department or a black dress shirt
*Pants should fit in a conservative manner and be plain black with NO embroidery,
decorations, different colored zippers, etc.
Remember, the point of a uniform is so that the whole group looks the same. We don’t want
anyone to stick out and draw the audience’s attention away from the music. Concerts are
formal occasions and the performers should be dressed up! Thanks for your cooperation.
BAND SUPPLY LIST
School Owned Instruments
Students will need to take a get a contract from Mrs. Maxwell during the first week of school to
take home for parents to sign and return. Students using school-owned instruments will also
purchase their own mouthpiece and other accessories (valve oil, reeds, etc) as needed.
Please see the Grade Level Specific Supply List in the Forms link.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are the vehicle to make sure your child is getting the most of his/her band
experience. The one- on -one attention is paramount to our success. All students are
expected to make a reasonable effort to take private lessons. The musical enrichment derived
from private lessons will aid the student in strengthening his technical development and his
understanding of music. An individual improvement is a group improvement. Older students
should study with a professional teacher. Younger students should study with an advanced
high school student. Most teachers teach at the schools, some teach out of their home.
Please call the teacher to set up a lesson time. A list of teachers is available from the director
and on the Traughber Band web site.
Success comes when we understand “you PRACTICE at home, we REHEARSE at school”.
Your job is to come prepared every day!
JAZZ BAND
Jazz Band is open to 7th and 8th grade musicians enrolled in band at Traughber. Jazz Band I
will have standard jazz instrumentation: 2 alto saxes, 2 tenor saxes, 1 bari sax, 4 trumpets, 4
trombones, 1 drum set player, 2 keyboards. Students will perform at contests, concerts,
selected festivals and the Jr. High Coffeehouse. Jazz Band I will rehearse before school on
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Jazz Orchestra will be open to all interested students who attend all
rehearsals and learn the music. Rehearsals for Jazz Orchestra will be before school on Wed.
and Friday.
AUDIENCE EXPECTATIONS AT CONCERTS, PLAYS & FINE ARTS EVENTS
It is difficult to imagine our school gym as a performance hall but that is exactly what it is. We
must make every effort to make the concert experience rewarding for our young performers
and our audience. To show appreciation for our young performers and other audience
members, we must strive to be conscious of our actions in a concert setting. Here are some
points to consider as an audience member:
RECOMMENDED INSTRUMENT UPGRADES
Students who study privately and show a strong interest in band should consider an upgrade
during 7th grade. Students who have not upgraded during 7th grade but plan to participate in
band at the high school and study privately should consider an upgrade during 8th grade. If
you are ready to invest in an upgrade instrument then consider the quality of the instrument
as your number one priority. Invest in the best instrument that you can afford.
Factors to Consider:
The purchase of a professional model instrument will insure that…
the instrument is finely crafted, will require less repair and will last in excellent condition for as
long as your child may play (through college or adult years).
the instrument will be a one-time investment and will never need to be upgraded.
the instrument will hold its value (and some may appreciate) in the event that you choose to
sell it.
the instrument will be acceptable at any fine high school or college music program.
the instrument will allow your child to develop their musical skills to their full ability.
*Intermediate instruments are a huge waste of money! An intermediate instrument does not
play much better than a good beginner instrument and will cost only slightly less than a
professional-quality instrument. Try to not get drawn toward a lower price tag if it means a
lower quality instrument. In the long term, you will be throwing away your money. It has been
our experience that intermediate instruments do not hold their value and are difficult to resell.
If your child continues to play, they will eventually want to upgrade to a professional
instrument. Don`t buy two upgrade instruments if you do not have to!
Flute: Gemeinhardt 3KSB Trombone: Bach 42BO
Oboe: Fox/Renard 333 Protege Euphonium: Yamaha YEP321S
Bassoon: Fox Tuba: see your director
Clarinet: Buffet R13
Alto Sax: Yamaha Professional Line
Tenor Sax: Yamaha Professional Line
Trumpet: Bach Stradivarious
Horn: Conn 8D
Music is universal, cultural, and individual. It is with this understanding that the Music
Department of Traughber Junior High School believes that every student should have the
opportunity to receive a high-quality musical training in school, regardless of grade level,
ability level, or background. The goal of this musical training is to help participants achieve a
personal level of understanding, appreciation, and passion for music.
It is undeniable that music has always been an integral part of human existence. Every culture
throughout history carries its own musical traditions. In our culturally diverse society, music is
one of the few common threads that links peoples and ideas together. Music education uses
the artistic medium of musical sound to give insight into the universal human experience.
Departmental Goals:
• Develop strong musicianship and cultivate aesthetic awareness in the classroom
through the preparation and performance of quality musical literature.
• Provide curricular and extra-curricular opportunities for all music students that enhance
their musical experience.
• Facilitate opportunities for students seeking musical self-enrichment.
• Empower students to create their own music through composition, arranging, and
improvisation
• Create community on all levels: within our classrooms, our department, our school
buildings, and our local population; as well as within the national and global community.
• Enrich students' appreciation of the musical arts by attending fine cultural events.
• Create the best possible learning environment for students to pursue an education in
the musical arts.
• Inspire students to become life-long learners and intelligent consumers of music.
• Address the needs of students seeking a future career in the field of music.
Traughber Band Vision Statement
The primary goal of all band classes at Oswego Junior High Schools is to heighten each
student’s aesthetic awareness through the musical art. While there are many secondary
objectives that are also set for the students, using sound as a means to communicate the
feelings embodied in a musical work is always the ultimate focus.
Dedication and maturity are required to develop this uniquely human ability. Dedication
because the skills needed to recreate music are both numerous and complex. Maturity
because, once the technical skills are learned, a musician must be patient and open minded in
order to understand and then communicate the essence of a composer’s work.
Many people go their entire lives without being aware of the power that art has to affect them.
We believe that junior high students are not too young to begin delving into the meaning of
music as art. We also believe there is no better way to accomplish that then to develop the
ability to perform to take the creation of an artist and bring it to life.
At the middle level we attempt to develop the musical skills necessary to recreate meaningful
music and listen critically to both ourselves and others as they perform. We emphasize the
inappropriateness of expressing a value judgment on a particular work or performance unless
one can articulate the reasons for his or her opinion and demonstrate an alternative. Criticism
that is unsupported and non-constructive will not and should not be taken seriously by others.
It would be naïve to suggest that such a lofty goal can be fully realized at the junior high level.
We therefore strive to start young people down a path that will eventually lead to aesthetic
awareness. We firmly believe that a person who is aesthetically aware will be better able to
reap all that life has to offer and to share with others the wealth of his or her talent.
Band in the Oswego School District is regarded as an academic subject for all who
participate. Students will receive a band grade on their report card at the end of each
quarter. Although band is an elective, a band member must adhere to all of the requirements.
The Traughber Band Program`s tradition of excellence is due to the high expectation level that
all of us have and must continue to have: directors, students, administrators and parents.
Program Structure
6TH Grade Beginning Band
The 6th Grade Band is a beginning band class with instruction beginning during the summer
prior to the current school year. The beginning band will perform in four concerts throughout
the year. They will also be required to prepare and perform a solo for the Oswego 6th Grade
Solo Recital. The 6th grade band class meets everyday and is part of the students` daily
academic routine at Traughber Junior High.
If a student in 7th or 8th grade who did not join band in 6th grade desires to be in band, that
student must start with the beginning band students and will be placed in 6th grade band for
the school year.
A student moving into the Oswego school district with experience in band will perform an
audition in order to determine proper placement in the band program.
7th Grade Concert Band
The Concert Band consists of primarily 7th Graders in their second year of instruction. The
Concert Band members will perform in four concerts, Oswego Organization Contest, and in
Solo and Ensemble Festival. Select students will also have the opportunity to audition for the
IMEA District IX Festival Concert Band and Jazz Band.
8th Grade Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band consists of primarily 8th Graders in their third year of instruction. The
Symphonic Band members will perform in four concerts, Oswego Fine Arts Festival, and
perform in the Solo and Ensemble Festival. Select students will also have the opportunity to
audition for the IMEA District IX Festival Concert Band and Jazz Band.
Sectional Rehearsals
All 7th & 8th grade band students will be heard by the director once each week and assigned
a weekly grade. Symphonic Band and Concert Band members will be required to attend one
technique class per week for the purpose of testing and rehearsing technical problems related
to the music. This Technique Class will be held during one half of one lunch period each week.
CLASSROOM GOALS, RULES, AND CONSEQUENCES
No large organization such as a band can function properly without well-disciplined
participants. Band is not a mandatory subject and it is assumed by the directors that all
students are willing participants. It is the responsibility of the students to adhere to the rules of
the classroom. Proper behavior at all performances is extremely important and expected. The
actions of one member reflect upon all members when dealing with a large organization.
Inappropriate behavior while in uniform will be grounds for serious consequences.
Traughber Band Goals:
In band this year everyone will…
show respect at all times to others in the group.
play with good tone, balance, blend, and pitch.
play musically.
play with good individual technique, posture, hand position and embouchure.
improve every time we play.
keep the room, instruments and music clean and neat.
be organized.
work as a group to reach our goals.
Traughber Band Rule:
Act in a way that does not cause problems for others.
This will include:
Come prepared with all supplies.
Be respectful (listen-pay attention-one person speaks at a time).
Do your best.
Play only when asked to.
Improve every time we play.
Handle only the equipment that you use.
No food or drinks in any music rooms.
Traughber Band Consequences:
Handled on an individual-as needed basis
*********All school rules apply to all band rehearsals and events.*******
Entering a Classroom
- Enter the rehearsal room in a quiet, courteous, and orderly manner. Students are to
treat fellow students and staff members with respect. - Attitude is everything. Attitudes are contagious!
- Students are to be on time to class and are to be ready to play at the designated time.
- Most assignments, parent forms, etc. should be turned in the red “Collection Box”. This
is clearly marked in the rehearsal room. - Accessories (reeds, valve oil, etc) may be purchased before/after school or from a local
music store. - No school backpacks/materials allowed in rehearsal room. Smaller instrument cases and
equipment should be placed directly under your chair. The floor must be clear at all
times. - Quickly get your instrument and music and take your seat.
- Instruments are stored in CLOSED, LATCHED cases on designated shelves, no music
left on stands,no trash on the floor. - Each student is issued a music folder that is required for each class. You are to take it
home for home practice each day. Having your music daily is part of your grade! - Have a sharpened pencil at all rehearsals. Failure to have a pencil (not a pen) will result
in loss of daily points. Keep it in your music folder. - Each day begins with announcements either via PA announcement or from the
instructors. There is no talking allowed during this time.
Rehearsal Etiquette
- Students will check the marker board or overhead for the agenda for the day.
- No book bags or instrument cases can be left on the floor at any time. (small cases
under seats) - On a daily basis, all students must have a pencil, instrument and method book/music –
instrument cases must have an ID tag. Many instrument cases look similar. An
identification tag is a requirement! - The rehearsal begins when the conductor steps to the front of the classroom and raises
their hand. Noplaying should occur prior to the director’s downbeat. - Students will not play other student’s instruments. This includes percussion and district
owned instruments. No horseplay in the rehearsal rooms AT ANY TIME! - Good posture is of great importance at all times.
- Always raise your hand to ask a question.
- Absolutely NO GUM, CANDY, FOOD or DRINKS IN THE REHEARSAL ROOMS! EVER!!!
Take pride in our rehearsal area. - If your instrument is in the shop, please bring a note from home. Bring your mouthpiece
and music, for there is always the possibility that we might be able to provide a
temporary instrument.
USE OF THE FACILITIES
We are very proud of the Band Rooms at Traughber JHS. They are truly a "showcase" for
what our school district has done to support band and the fine arts. It is the responsibility of
everyone to treat our facilities with the respect they deserve. Keep the band room clean.
Students must keep instruments in assigned storage lockers. Over 285 students use the
band room each day. This year there will be six different bands rehearsing in the band room
every day. Therefore, it is important that each student does his/her part in keeping things
orderly and functional. Items such as music, folder, instruments and personal belongings
should be kept in their proper places. Abuse of this rule will result in detention and possible
grade reduction. EVERY INSTRUMENT SHOULD HAVE A NAME-TAG WITH YOUR NAME AND
ADDRESS CLEARLY WRITTEN ON IT.
LOCKERS
A space in the storage cabinet will be issued to every band student. These lockers are to be
used and treated responsibly.
1. Lockers are to be used only by the person or persons assigned to one.
2.Instruments and music are the only items which should be stored in the locker. School
books and lunches should be stored in the hallway locker. No food or drink is allowed in the
band room or band locker at any time.
3.Music and band method books must be kept in a folder in the folio cabinet-not in your
locker. Do not leave loose music and music books in your locker.
4.Lockers will be inspected periodically during the school year. Anyone violating these rules
may lose the privilege of a band locker.
MUSIC
Music issued to stand partners or individuals becomes the responsibility of the band member.
All music is expensive and belongs to School District #308. Unless otherwise instructed all
music must be kept in the student`s individual 3-ring binder. Always use pencil, not a pen or
marker, to write reminders on the music. We would like future band members to be able to
perform this music.
GRADING POLICY
The band quarter grade will be determined by test and assignment grades, as well as
attendance and attitude. Students will be given assignments and tests appropriate to their
level in band. They will be graded on tone quality, posture, hand position, range, and
technical facility for tests involving the fundamentals of music performance such as scales,
rhythms, and articulations. When tested on concert music, students will be graded on general
interpretation, which includes: tempo, dynamics, and expression. Final grades for each
quarter will be determined by grade points earned on tests, attendance at band functions, and
the students` ability to demonstrate correct rehearsal behavior (ie: posture, preparation,
supplies). Consideration will be given for progress and attitude. Occasionally, during the
year, the director will offer extra credit points. A student`s grade may be lowered significantly
for not being prepared for class with the proper instrument, music, and pencil.
PRACTICE AND PRACTICE RECORDS
In addition to the regularly scheduled school rehearsals, it is necessary for each student to
practice at home or in a practice room when available. It is strongly suggested and
encouraged that a certain time each day be set aside for individual practice. Although a
specific amount of time is not required each student is expected to be prepared with all band
materials. Practice records may be turned in weekly for extra credit points.
PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE POLICY
The attendance policy for all performances is required attendance. Any absences (except for
school day excused absences) must be communicated to the director prior to the absence.
Absence from a performance without prior consent will have a considerable effect on the
quarter grade. The success of the band depends on you being in the RIGHT place at the
RIGHT time with the RIGHT attitude.
UNIFORMS
Please make sure that you have the following for each performance. It is unwise to wait until
the night before the performance to tell your parents you need concert attire!Each student is
expected to become acquainted with the proper and only way to wear and care for the
required dress. It should be considered the highest honor to be allowed to wear the uniform of
your organization. When in uniform, you are no longer an individual; you are a representative
of your school and community. The complete uniform is to be worn at appearances unless
specific instructions are made otherwise.
Each band member will need to purchase the following:
1 pair of all black dress pants
1 pair of all black socks
1 pair of all black shoes (no colors on the shoes other than black)
1 Music Department Polo Shirt available through the Music department or a black dress shirt
*Pants should fit in a conservative manner and be plain black with NO embroidery,
decorations, different colored zippers, etc.
Remember, the point of a uniform is so that the whole group looks the same. We don’t want
anyone to stick out and draw the audience’s attention away from the music. Concerts are
formal occasions and the performers should be dressed up! Thanks for your cooperation.
BAND SUPPLY LIST
School Owned Instruments
Students will need to take a get a contract from Mrs. Maxwell during the first week of school to
take home for parents to sign and return. Students using school-owned instruments will also
purchase their own mouthpiece and other accessories (valve oil, reeds, etc) as needed.
Please see the Grade Level Specific Supply List in the Forms link.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are the vehicle to make sure your child is getting the most of his/her band
experience. The one- on -one attention is paramount to our success. All students are
expected to make a reasonable effort to take private lessons. The musical enrichment derived
from private lessons will aid the student in strengthening his technical development and his
understanding of music. An individual improvement is a group improvement. Older students
should study with a professional teacher. Younger students should study with an advanced
high school student. Most teachers teach at the schools, some teach out of their home.
Please call the teacher to set up a lesson time. A list of teachers is available from the director
and on the Traughber Band web site.
Success comes when we understand “you PRACTICE at home, we REHEARSE at school”.
Your job is to come prepared every day!
JAZZ BAND
Jazz Band is open to 7th and 8th grade musicians enrolled in band at Traughber. Jazz Band I
will have standard jazz instrumentation: 2 alto saxes, 2 tenor saxes, 1 bari sax, 4 trumpets, 4
trombones, 1 drum set player, 2 keyboards. Students will perform at contests, concerts,
selected festivals and the Jr. High Coffeehouse. Jazz Band I will rehearse before school on
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Jazz Orchestra will be open to all interested students who attend all
rehearsals and learn the music. Rehearsals for Jazz Orchestra will be before school on Wed.
and Friday.
AUDIENCE EXPECTATIONS AT CONCERTS, PLAYS & FINE ARTS EVENTS
It is difficult to imagine our school gym as a performance hall but that is exactly what it is. We
must make every effort to make the concert experience rewarding for our young performers
and our audience. To show appreciation for our young performers and other audience
members, we must strive to be conscious of our actions in a concert setting. Here are some
points to consider as an audience member:
- The audience should remain seated throughout the entire performance.
- Applause is appropriate at concerts or theatrical productions. Whistling, and yelling is
not appropriate in a performance setting. - Conversation is not appropriate while a group is performing.
- Small children and young siblings are always welcome at performances. We would ask
that you keep younger children seated with you at all times. If children become restless,
you are welcome to step out in the hallway at appropriate times.
- Please do not bring cellular phones and pagers from home. If you must, please turn
them off prior to the performance.
- Hold applause until you are certain a selection is over.
- All performers are expected to stay for the entire performance.
- Please join the efforts of the fine arts staff to promote an inviting and rewarding concert
hall experience for our young musicians and performers.
RECOMMENDED INSTRUMENT UPGRADES
Students who study privately and show a strong interest in band should consider an upgrade
during 7th grade. Students who have not upgraded during 7th grade but plan to participate in
band at the high school and study privately should consider an upgrade during 8th grade. If
you are ready to invest in an upgrade instrument then consider the quality of the instrument
as your number one priority. Invest in the best instrument that you can afford.
Factors to Consider:
The purchase of a professional model instrument will insure that…
the instrument is finely crafted, will require less repair and will last in excellent condition for as
long as your child may play (through college or adult years).
the instrument will be a one-time investment and will never need to be upgraded.
the instrument will hold its value (and some may appreciate) in the event that you choose to
sell it.
the instrument will be acceptable at any fine high school or college music program.
the instrument will allow your child to develop their musical skills to their full ability.
*Intermediate instruments are a huge waste of money! An intermediate instrument does not
play much better than a good beginner instrument and will cost only slightly less than a
professional-quality instrument. Try to not get drawn toward a lower price tag if it means a
lower quality instrument. In the long term, you will be throwing away your money. It has been
our experience that intermediate instruments do not hold their value and are difficult to resell.
If your child continues to play, they will eventually want to upgrade to a professional
instrument. Don`t buy two upgrade instruments if you do not have to!
Flute: Gemeinhardt 3KSB Trombone: Bach 42BO
Oboe: Fox/Renard 333 Protege Euphonium: Yamaha YEP321S
Bassoon: Fox Tuba: see your director
Clarinet: Buffet R13
Alto Sax: Yamaha Professional Line
Tenor Sax: Yamaha Professional Line
Trumpet: Bach Stradivarious
Horn: Conn 8D
traughber jhs bands
traughber jhs bands
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| all rights reserved. |
"You are what
you repeatedly
do. Excellence
then, is not an
act but a habit."
~Aristotle
you repeatedly
do. Excellence
then, is not an
act but a habit."
~Aristotle
| 570 colchester drive oswego, il, 60543 rmaxwell0515@oswego308.org |
| Band Handbook |
