MS Band
Instructor: Mr. Darryl Kniffen
Student Work Showcase
African Bell Carol- Arr. by Robert Smith
“African Bell Carol” is a multicultural setting of the traditional “Ukrainian Bell Carol.” Students in middle school concert band have been developing in their understanding of performing music expressively. During the performance, students are thinking about capturing the dramatic, serious, and exciting mood of this piece. This piece features the middle school percussionists, who have been developing their ability to improvise rhythms while maintaining a steady beat.
Shenendoah- Arr. by Bullock
In the words of the students, “Shenendoah”, or “Across The Wide Missouri”, is a calm, peaceful, and gentle piece. Students have been developing in their ability to perform this piece expressively. In order to create a calm, peaceful mood, students will be thinking about playing smooth, connected sounds which requires a large amount of breath control.
Smoke On The Water- By Blackmore, Arr. by Burtha
This popular rock tune recorded by Deep Purple was first released on their 1972 album, Machine Head. The song was ranked #4 in Total Guitar magazine’s “Greatest Guitar Riffs Ever.” Quite a contrast from Shenendoah, the middle school band students will be performing with intensity, excitement, edginess, and attitude.
Alto Saxophone Solo- Performed by Tess
"When words leave off, music begins." - Heinrich Heine
Course: MS Band
Instructor: Mr. Darryl Kniffen
Syllabus
Course Overview:
This course is designed to develop students' musical knowledge, skills and understanding. Some of the big ideas students will be exploring include: 1) music is a tool for expression 2) music has structure 3) music is a form of communication. During the course, students will participate in a variety of musical learning experiences which include performing music of different genres, composing music, arranging music, improvising music, describing and analyzing music, and evaluating music.
Assessment
Final grades are calculated by the following:
Playing Assignments: 100%
Students will be given regular practice assignments via Google Classroom throughout the course. In order to achieve the maximum grade in this area, students must complete all assignments to the best of their ability and complete them on time.
ADDRESS
Arlington Memorial High School & Middle School
529 East Arlington Road
Arlington, VT 05250
802.375.2589
Fisher Elementary School
504 East Arlington Road
Arlington, VT 05250
802.375.6409
© 2014 Arlington School District
Music Program