Discussion Topic #4 - Conducting & New Repertoire

As we head into week four of the new "blog" era for the band program, I am so pleased with the quality of your responses. Reading the entry from "Anners N" last week made me think about my definition of those same responsibilities.

I will ask you to please remind your peers to get online and submit their entries. We're looking a little slimmer in responses this week.

So, for Week #4...

You are all well aware of what the important parts of the approach to a new piece of music. For this week's entry there are two parts.

First: Explain what you do (or should do!) when first handed a new piece of music.

Second: Tell me what you think a conductor might have to do when approaching a new piece of music.

(Bonus "points" if you connect these two items into one process.)

I hope your exams went well and I look forward to the countdown to San Francisco/Whistler! Today marks 75 days to SFO!

mr :)

Discussion Topic #3 - Roles and Responsibilities

Mr. Reid and Mr. Mathewson were discussing the role of the conductor this past week. It is interesting when a performing musician moves to the podium to become a conductor. There is a very different set of responsibilities for the performing musician and for the conductor. This week's discussion topic is likely to expose some interesting perspectives.

What do you believe is the role/responsibility of the performing musician? What do you believe is the role/responsibility of the conductor?

**Last week's posts were BEST when they included comments about other students' thoughts and ideas.**

Good luck on your exams!

-Reid

Discussion Topic #2 - Challenges

Thank you to the 75 students who posted on last week's discussion topic. The videos and resources were excellent. Congratulations to the student who shared NON-video web links! That showed creativity.

For this, our second discussion, we're looking for what you find challenging about playing and performing music in a wind band.

These answers could include challenges you encounter while practicing (at home) or rehearsing (at school) or in performance.

Once again, responses will be expected prior to January 23rd at 10pm (local time).

Discussion Topic #1 - What you can find on the "Interweb"

Welcome to our very first VT Band Online Discussion! Each week I will post a question for the students of the program to discuss and share. Obviously, it is important that your responses are well-written and acceptable to be publicly shared. Your ideas will not be evaluated, but you will be graded based on you ability to share ideas using thoughtful and musical language.

So, our first topic...

There are a number of you who have shared different suggestions for music, websites, youtube videos, or mp3s that you think I should see. Share a link for your fellow musicians to look at over the coming week. You are welcome to comment on the suggestions of your peers and let us know what you found useful or exciting also.

Participation is expected prior to 10pm on January 16th.

mr

SENIOR TOUR UPDATE

The parent meeting for the San Francisco tour participants will be held on January 28, 2008. The meeting will be held in the Band Room and will go from 6:15-7:00pm. If parents are unavailable to attend, it would be wise for the student to attend.