Greater Richmond
Homeschool Bands
September 5, 2012-June 5, 2013
Ensembles
The Beginning Band is a beginning level group for students who are learning to play a band instrument for the first time. Instruction is focused on developing a solid foundation in note reading, tone production, rhythm, articulation, proper posture/hand position, and instrument care and maintenance. Students also learn basic music theory concepts and ensemble skills, such as balance and blend. Beginning Band members receive a group lesson each week. The students are grouped with others who play the same instrument. As a performance date nears, the beginning band lesson groups join together and rehearse as a full ensemble. The minimum age to participate is 9 years old. No previous music experience is necessary.
The Concert Band is an intermediate level group for students who have had 1-3 years of experience playing a band instrument. Concert Band members receive a sectional rehearsal as well as a full ensemble rehearsal each week. In addition to continued development of basic instrumental music foundations, instruction focuses on the finer details of playing in an ensemble. Students in the Concert Band receive instruction on music theory and learn scales to improve technique and expand range. The sectional rehearsals offer the opportunity for the students to learn and perform chamber music or small ensemble pieces.
The Symphonic Band is an advanced level group comprised of students who have had 4+ years of experience playing a band instrument or have demonstrated a high level of proficiency on their instrument. Symphonic Band members receive a sectional rehearsal in addition to a full ensemble rehearsal each week. Students in the Symphonic Band rehearse and perform high quality music in many styles and genres. In rehearsals, instruction is focused on balance, blend, intonation, dynamics, articulation, phrasing, and accuracy of pitch and rhythm. Students learn all 12 major scales and music theory concepts. The sectional rehearsals offer the opportunity for the students to learn and perform chamber music or small ensemble pieces.
Rehearsal Location
Rehearsals for the homeschool band and choir take place at Saint Benedict Church located at 300 North Sheppard Street , Richmond, VA 23221.
Performances
There will be a minimum of two performances per year: one at Christmas and one in late spring. The dates for our Christmas and Spring concerts for 2012-2013 are TBA. The concerts will feature the homeschool band, choir and group guitar class. Concerts are free and open to the public.
Instrument Demonstration
On August 22, 2012 at 10:00am at Greenwood United Methodist Church, there will be a band instrument demonstration for any prospective beginning students who are interested in learning about and hearing the instruments that are offered for instruction. If you are going to attend the demonstration, please RSVP to info@grsm.net or 804-442-6158 by August 17 with family name and number of attendees.
Open House
On August 29, 2012 at 10:00am at Greenwood United Methodist Church, there will be an Open House where the director will talk about the program and answer questions. Parents can register students for the program at this meeting. There will also be a representative from a local music store who will have instruments available for rental and music accessories for sale. If you are going to attend the Open House, please RSVP to info@grsm.net or 804-442-6158 by August 22 with family name and number of attendees. Anyone needing a rental instrument please also indicate your instrument preference, if known.
Music
Beginning Band students will need to purchase Standard of Excellence, Book 1. Music will be provided for all other students.
Instruments
Students will need to provide their own instrument. Prospective members are welcome to come to the Open House to rent an instrument at that time. If you would like suggestions or help on where to rent/purchase an instrument or what brands are the most reliable please feel free to call the GRSM office at 804-442-6158 or email us at info@grsm.net. **Please be wary of an instrument that seems ‘too good to be true’; chances are it is. There are a many brand new instruments that look great and are priced very low. However, these instruments are generally made with poor workmanship and poor materials. They often break or malfunction quickly and are very difficult, if not near impossible, to repair. If you have an instrument in mind to purchase, please do not hesitate to run it by the director for approval.**
Weekly Schedule
Rehearsals will take place on Wednesdays at Saint Benedict Church. There will be no band lessons/rehearsals on the following days due to holidays: 11/21/12, 12/19/12, 12/26/12, and 4/3/13.
For ensemble rehearsal times, please call the GRSM office at 804-442-6158