Major Concepts/Content: The advanced band course is designed to acquaint students with advanced instrumental music skills. The content includes, but is not limited to, the following: the interpretation and analyzation of musical scores; the application of musical nuances in playing from a score; independent performance of all major and minor scales; advanced rhythm patterns; performance as a soloist and in small and large group ensembles; a variety of music repertoire including style, periods, forms, electronic music; intermediate to advanced level sight-reading exercises; and introduction to computer/synthesizer musical composition. 

Major Instructional Activities: Instructional activities will be provided through the following processes: using daily sight-reading exercises during regular full-group rehearsals; practicing aural dictation and ear-training; improvising to a given chord progression; playing in tune; performing as soloist and in small and large group ensembles; playing a wide variety of concert and jazz repertoire; training in, and the development of good practice habits; training in the basics of electronic music. 

Major Evaluative Techniques: Students will be required to pass an examination on all major and minor scales and to perform successfully instrumental music, independently and in group ensemble, by observing ail critical markings of interpretation from the score. 

Essential Objectives: Upon completion of the advanced band course, students should be able to:

• Develop individual performance to a high level.
• Perform for the community in festivals and local concerts.
• Demonstrate good practice habits.
• Display advanced development through solos or ensembles.
• Demonstrate independence in reading notation rhythmically and melodically.
• Play with confidence all major and minor scales.

Last Revised: July 18, 2005