MIDDLE SCHOOL SOLO & ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL

FEBRUARY 11, 2012

The Purpose of the Festival is:

1. To provide our students with an opportunity to play a solo, or in a small ensemble group setting.
2. For the student to become familiar with expected festival practices in preparation for high school festivals.
3. To receive positive, individual feedback on how the student is progressing, and helpful tips of how to improve.

We are so fortunate for our young musicians to have the opportunity to perform in this annual event. Students are able to perform a solo, or in a small group setting for an adjudicator. Students are given helpful tips and advice from select, local college students who are training to become band directors. The benefits of performing in this type of setting prove to be invaluable to our students.

Although this event requires regular practice time spent outside of the classroom, it is well worth the extra effort. If your student is unable to find an appropriate song to perform, he/she may ask me for music that they may borrow for the event. I will also be available for extra help after school.

Common Festival Practices:
1. Student should arrive 15 minutes before their assigned time slot. During this time, set up and warm up are crucial.

2. The student should label their music measures (in pencil!) on the music they will be using, the music for their accompanist, and the music for the adjudicator.

3. All students are asked to dress appropriately for this event. Jeans, exercise wear and t shirts are not appropriate for this event.

If you have any questions regarding music festival, please don’t hesitate to contact me!

Mrs. Grummett

Director of Bands

Will James Middle School

281-6142

grummette@billingsschools.org