July 18
We are looking for a few good Bears for a video! This can be current Berry students or former Berry students. The video will be shown to teachers during staff development before the start of school (the video is not orchestra-related). If you are interested in being in the video, we are meeting on July 28th at 9am in the office. I will be there with my daughter, too. Hope to see you there!
We are looking for a few good Bears for a video! This can be current Berry students or former Berry students. The video will be shown to teachers during staff development before the start of school (the video is not orchestra-related). If you are interested in being in the video, we are meeting on July 28th at 9am in the office. I will be there with my daughter, too. Hope to see you there!
Summer 2016
We have closed out yet another successful year at Berry! Many of you asked for summer music to play. If you didn't get a copy, go to a local music store and find something you want to play. I suggest Suzuki books, easy pop music, anything - just keep playing! You can also check out free music apps like Chromatik (pop music), Cadenza (classical music), and Learn Double Bass. I'm sure there are many more than I've had time to find, so if you're bored just search for something! Some apps have optional upgrades to "premium" with unlimited access.
What do I need for next year?
Of course you need your instrument in good working condition (fine tuners move easily, pegs aren't stuck, strings aren't fraying or gunky), make sure your rosin is still good, your shoulder rest has all it's pieces, your cleaning cloth is clean, and a pencil. In addition, performance groups need:
Intermediate - You must provide your own tuner! You also need to purchase a copy of Essential Elements, book 2 for your instrument. The cover is cream with purple accents. Concert uniform is all black dress clothes from head to toe. Books are available at the local music stores or on Amazon. Order early - they do run out in August! This means dress slacks, dress shirts, and dress shoes for guys. Ladies have the option to wear dress pants and blouse or a dress (dresses must be below your knee, no bare shoulders).
Advanced - You must provide your own tuner! You also need to purchase a copy of Essential Technique (book 3) for your instrument. The cover is cream with green accents. Books are available at the local music stores or on Amazon. Order early - they do run out in August! Concert uniform is all black dress clothes from head to toe (same as last year). This means dress slacks, dress shirts, and dress shoes for guys. Ladies have the option to wear dress pants and blouse or a dress (dresses must be below your knee, no bare shoulders).
If you need me over the summer, please email me at [email protected]. I will try to check email at least once a week, but I will be out of town several times and may not have access to the web. DO NOT CALL the office phone - I won't get your message until August!!
We have closed out yet another successful year at Berry! Many of you asked for summer music to play. If you didn't get a copy, go to a local music store and find something you want to play. I suggest Suzuki books, easy pop music, anything - just keep playing! You can also check out free music apps like Chromatik (pop music), Cadenza (classical music), and Learn Double Bass. I'm sure there are many more than I've had time to find, so if you're bored just search for something! Some apps have optional upgrades to "premium" with unlimited access.
What do I need for next year?
Of course you need your instrument in good working condition (fine tuners move easily, pegs aren't stuck, strings aren't fraying or gunky), make sure your rosin is still good, your shoulder rest has all it's pieces, your cleaning cloth is clean, and a pencil. In addition, performance groups need:
Intermediate - You must provide your own tuner! You also need to purchase a copy of Essential Elements, book 2 for your instrument. The cover is cream with purple accents. Concert uniform is all black dress clothes from head to toe. Books are available at the local music stores or on Amazon. Order early - they do run out in August! This means dress slacks, dress shirts, and dress shoes for guys. Ladies have the option to wear dress pants and blouse or a dress (dresses must be below your knee, no bare shoulders).
Advanced - You must provide your own tuner! You also need to purchase a copy of Essential Technique (book 3) for your instrument. The cover is cream with green accents. Books are available at the local music stores or on Amazon. Order early - they do run out in August! Concert uniform is all black dress clothes from head to toe (same as last year). This means dress slacks, dress shirts, and dress shoes for guys. Ladies have the option to wear dress pants and blouse or a dress (dresses must be below your knee, no bare shoulders).
If you need me over the summer, please email me at [email protected]. I will try to check email at least once a week, but I will be out of town several times and may not have access to the web. DO NOT CALL the office phone - I won't get your message until August!!
May 17th
We are one week away from the Spring Concert, followed by NRH2O Competitions. See the front page or the post below for concert details.
Tomorrow (Wednesday) - Practice record #5 due. NRH2O rehearsal for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras from 3:30-4:15 in the choir room.
Thursday (May 19th) - NRH2O rehearsal for Beginners from 3:30-4:15 in the big room.
Friday (May 20th) - Final full orchestra rehearsal 3:30-4:15 in the big room. For those going to the Mark Wood Concert, we will meet at 5:45pm at the back doors of the orchestra room. As soon as the bus gets here, we will load and leave for Rockwall.
We are one week away from the Spring Concert, followed by NRH2O Competitions. See the front page or the post below for concert details.
Tomorrow (Wednesday) - Practice record #5 due. NRH2O rehearsal for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras from 3:30-4:15 in the choir room.
Thursday (May 19th) - NRH2O rehearsal for Beginners from 3:30-4:15 in the big room.
Friday (May 20th) - Final full orchestra rehearsal 3:30-4:15 in the big room. For those going to the Mark Wood Concert, we will meet at 5:45pm at the back doors of the orchestra room. As soon as the bus gets here, we will load and leave for Rockwall.
May 12
Once again, my apologies for the delayed post (this time due to STAAR testing). There is not much happening this week, but we WILL have full orchestra rehearsal on Friday from 3:30-4:15 in the orchestra room.
Next week there are several after school rehearsals going on from 3:30 - 4:15: Wednesday, May 18th is Adv/Int NRH2O rehearsal; Thursday, May 19th is Beginner NRH2O rehearsal; Friday, May 20 is the final Full Orchestra rehearsal.
Spring Concert
Tuesday, May 24th
6:30pm
Horn High School Auditorium
Tuning is from 5:45pm to 6:15pm
Beginner and Intermediate wear your orchestra uniform
Advanced Orchestra may wear dressy clothes - no jeans or athletic clothes/shoes!
All orchestra property must be brought back to Berry by Friday, May 27th.
Instruments, rock stops, shoulder rests, pencil bags, music stands, books, etc.
Once again, my apologies for the delayed post (this time due to STAAR testing). There is not much happening this week, but we WILL have full orchestra rehearsal on Friday from 3:30-4:15 in the orchestra room.
Next week there are several after school rehearsals going on from 3:30 - 4:15: Wednesday, May 18th is Adv/Int NRH2O rehearsal; Thursday, May 19th is Beginner NRH2O rehearsal; Friday, May 20 is the final Full Orchestra rehearsal.
Spring Concert
Tuesday, May 24th
6:30pm
Horn High School Auditorium
Tuning is from 5:45pm to 6:15pm
Beginner and Intermediate wear your orchestra uniform
Advanced Orchestra may wear dressy clothes - no jeans or athletic clothes/shoes!
All orchestra property must be brought back to Berry by Friday, May 27th.
Instruments, rock stops, shoulder rests, pencil bags, music stands, books, etc.
May 6
Sorry for not updating earlier this week! May snuck up on me and it's been a little crazy.
First, come out and support the orchestra students in the Berry musical, Wizard of OZ! Friday and Saturday at 7:00pm and Saturday at 2:00pm. Tickets are $8 at the door. Come see Lizzy, JJ, Kiley, and Erin W. as they take the stage!
Full Orchestra rehearsals are 3:30-4:15 on May 6th (today!), May 13th, and May 20th. Be in your seat on time please!
NRH2O Rehearsals: Advanced and Intermediate rehearsal is May 18th. Beginning Orchestra rehearsal is May 19th.
Sorry for not updating earlier this week! May snuck up on me and it's been a little crazy.
First, come out and support the orchestra students in the Berry musical, Wizard of OZ! Friday and Saturday at 7:00pm and Saturday at 2:00pm. Tickets are $8 at the door. Come see Lizzy, JJ, Kiley, and Erin W. as they take the stage!
Full Orchestra rehearsals are 3:30-4:15 on May 6th (today!), May 13th, and May 20th. Be in your seat on time please!
NRH2O Rehearsals: Advanced and Intermediate rehearsal is May 18th. Beginning Orchestra rehearsal is May 19th.
April 25
This week has several important dates. Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra will vote on awards at some point this week.
This week has several important dates. Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra will vote on awards at some point this week.
- Tuesday - 4/26 is the first FULL ORCHESTRA rehearsal from 3:30 - 4:15 in the big room. This is required for Advanced Orchestra students; optional for Intermediate (but if you are planning on performing with full orchestra, you need to be here).
- Wednesday - 4/27 all NRH2O money is due (as well as the practice record for week 2). No late money will be accepted. Other requirements for participation are listed on the NRH2O form. Make sure you know when your rehearsal takes place. Missing the rehearsals = missing the trip.
- Friday - 4/29 is Solo and Ensemble contest at Horn HS. Each student has been assigned an individual performance time and has paperwork with all the details.
April 18
Photos from the Beginner Festival have been uploaded. There are also a couple miscellaneous photos that are now in the photo section.
Solo and Ensemble is next week on Friday, April 29th. Individual performance times will be assigned this week. You will receive a letter with all pertinent information shortly. If you are an Intermediate or Advanced player, the accompanists will be working with you during class this week and next week.
NRH2O money is due April 27th. No late money will be accepted; I have to get a check cut from the school district to the festival and that takes a while to happen!
Photos from the Beginner Festival have been uploaded. There are also a couple miscellaneous photos that are now in the photo section.
Solo and Ensemble is next week on Friday, April 29th. Individual performance times will be assigned this week. You will receive a letter with all pertinent information shortly. If you are an Intermediate or Advanced player, the accompanists will be working with you during class this week and next week.
NRH2O money is due April 27th. No late money will be accepted; I have to get a check cut from the school district to the festival and that takes a while to happen!
April 11
Tomorrow is the biggest rehearsal and concert of the year for Beginning Orchestra! Maps to Poteet HS are being handed out today if you need one. The breakdown for tomorrow is listed under April 4th. Make sure you bring your folding music stand, instrument, music, and ROCK STOP for cellos/basses.
NRH2O information is out for all three orchestras. Forms and money are due no later than 3:45pm on April 27th if you want to participate. You can wait to decide until after report cards come out if you are worried about grades. Ladies, please see the swimsuit guidelines. The guidelines apply even if you are wearing a t-shirt over your suit. I will be checking before you get on the bus.
This Friday, April 15th is the end of the grading period
Tomorrow is the biggest rehearsal and concert of the year for Beginning Orchestra! Maps to Poteet HS are being handed out today if you need one. The breakdown for tomorrow is listed under April 4th. Make sure you bring your folding music stand, instrument, music, and ROCK STOP for cellos/basses.
NRH2O information is out for all three orchestras. Forms and money are due no later than 3:45pm on April 27th if you want to participate. You can wait to decide until after report cards come out if you are worried about grades. Ladies, please see the swimsuit guidelines. The guidelines apply even if you are wearing a t-shirt over your suit. I will be checking before you get on the bus.
This Friday, April 15th is the end of the grading period
April 4
There are two weeks left in this grading period. Please check with your teachers to make sure you have turned in ALL of your work. For many Intermediate and Advanced students, you are missing your solo performance grade. You must be passing ALL classes on the 5th six weeks report card to go on the Spring competition trip to NRH2O.
Beginning Orchestra has a performance next week (Tuesday, April 12th) at Poteet High School. Information and permission slips went out last week. There is a rehearsal during the day that we will ride the bus to and from. Parents are responsible for evening transportation for the concert.
The schedule is as follows:
There are two weeks left in this grading period. Please check with your teachers to make sure you have turned in ALL of your work. For many Intermediate and Advanced students, you are missing your solo performance grade. You must be passing ALL classes on the 5th six weeks report card to go on the Spring competition trip to NRH2O.
Beginning Orchestra has a performance next week (Tuesday, April 12th) at Poteet High School. Information and permission slips went out last week. There is a rehearsal during the day that we will ride the bus to and from. Parents are responsible for evening transportation for the concert.
The schedule is as follows:
- 3rd Period: Put all school binders, bags, etc. into locker and meet in the cafeteria to eat lunch. You can buy your lunch or bring it. NO FOOD ON THE BUS!
- 11:00am: Load bus and head to Poteet HS
- 12:00pm - 1:30pm: Rehearse at Poteet
- 1:40pm: Load bus to return to Berry
- 2:00pm: Eat snack (provided by Mrs. Algood or bring your own) at Berry
- Go to 7th period
- 6:20pm: Parents bring you to Poteet HS for uncasing/tuning/warm-up
- 7:00pm: Concert begins
- 7:30pm: Stack chairs and go home
March 28
This week marks the start of STAAR testing season. As I have to give the test, the portable will NOT be open Tuesday morning. The portable will also be closed THURSDAY when I have jury duty.
This week marks the start of STAAR testing season. As I have to give the test, the portable will NOT be open Tuesday morning. The portable will also be closed THURSDAY when I have jury duty.
- Tuesday no orchestra classes will meet. Sixth graders will report to the gym during their orchestra class period. Seventh and eighth graders will be testing - mostly with their DEN class. If there is any confusion about your testing room, please ask!
- Wednesday 8th grade is taking the writing test. Sixth and seventh graders will run on a normal schedule.
March 21
Reminder for Advanced and Intermediate Orchestra: You MUST have your solo recorded by next week on Thursday (3/31) at 3:45. Late recordings will not be accepted because you have known about this since JANUARY and had your solo music prior to Winter Break.
Beginning violas and cellos are learning their C string notes this week :) I know you've been waiting a long time! Our next concert is three weeks from tomorrow on April 12th. We will eat lunch early (10:00am) at Berry, travel by bus to rehearse at Poteet High School from 11:00am - 1:00pm, and return to Berry about 1:45. Because we are eating lunch so early, I will provide a snack for you when we return to school. You will go to 1st, 2nd, and 7th period so have your school binder with you! That same evening (April 12), your parents are responsible for bringing you to Poteet High School around 6:00 - 6:15pm for tuning. The concert will begin at 7:00pm (this is your performance grade for the 5th six weeks; it is 20% of your grade). Of course parents/relatives/friends are welcome to watch and it is FREE. Come early for close parking! There are over 500 students that perform at this concert.
Reminder for Advanced and Intermediate Orchestra: You MUST have your solo recorded by next week on Thursday (3/31) at 3:45. Late recordings will not be accepted because you have known about this since JANUARY and had your solo music prior to Winter Break.
Beginning violas and cellos are learning their C string notes this week :) I know you've been waiting a long time! Our next concert is three weeks from tomorrow on April 12th. We will eat lunch early (10:00am) at Berry, travel by bus to rehearse at Poteet High School from 11:00am - 1:00pm, and return to Berry about 1:45. Because we are eating lunch so early, I will provide a snack for you when we return to school. You will go to 1st, 2nd, and 7th period so have your school binder with you! That same evening (April 12), your parents are responsible for bringing you to Poteet High School around 6:00 - 6:15pm for tuning. The concert will begin at 7:00pm (this is your performance grade for the 5th six weeks; it is 20% of your grade). Of course parents/relatives/friends are welcome to watch and it is FREE. Come early for close parking! There are over 500 students that perform at this concert.
March 16
Sorry for the late update! I hope your Spring Break was relaxing. :)
This week in Orchestraland:
8th grade has a side-by-side rehearsal and concert with Horn's Varsity A Orchestra on Thursday, March 17th from 6-8pm. Enter through the orchestra room to find your place. We will have an informal concert about 7:30pm. The music is Viva La Vida and Telemann Sinfonia. Wear comfortable clothes - elementary dress code is fine.
All orchestras are working on music for the next concert and Spring Competition. Beginning Orchestra will perform on April 12th at Poteet HS. More details will be coming shortly - we will take a bus to the rehearsal during the school day and perform in the evening. Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra are working on NRH2O music, as well as Spring Concert and Full Orchestra music.
Sorry for the late update! I hope your Spring Break was relaxing. :)
This week in Orchestraland:
8th grade has a side-by-side rehearsal and concert with Horn's Varsity A Orchestra on Thursday, March 17th from 6-8pm. Enter through the orchestra room to find your place. We will have an informal concert about 7:30pm. The music is Viva La Vida and Telemann Sinfonia. Wear comfortable clothes - elementary dress code is fine.
All orchestras are working on music for the next concert and Spring Competition. Beginning Orchestra will perform on April 12th at Poteet HS. More details will be coming shortly - we will take a bus to the rehearsal during the school day and perform in the evening. Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra are working on NRH2O music, as well as Spring Concert and Full Orchestra music.
Feb. 29
There are no more sectionals this year; refer to the back of your practice record for the schedule of rehearsals for Full Orchestra (required for Advanced, optional for Intermediate and select Beginners) and NRH2O Competition. 8th Graders have a side-by-side rehearsal/concert/social with the HS Orchestra on March 17th, which is the first Thursday after break. I will be handing out music after UIL.
UIL contest is set for March 2, 2016 (THIS WEDNESDAY) for both Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. All students must be passing all classes on the 4th Six Weeks report card to be eligible to compete. The schedule is as follows:
Intermediate Orchestra
7:45am Meet in concert black with instrument, music, tuner, rosin, and rock stop
7:55am Load bus to go to WMHS
8:30am Warm-up
9:00am Concert Performance (March Heroic, Sword Dance, Medieval Kings)
9:25am Sight read
10:15am Return to Berry, change and go to 3rd period
Advanced Orchestra
2:34pm (7th period) Go to orchestra room, change into concert black
3:00pm Load bus
3:45pm Warm-up
4:15pm Concert Performance (Dabbling in the Dew, Rhumbolero, Dance Scenario)
4:40pm Sight read
5:15pm Dinner (Cheddars)
7:00pm Return to Berry
There are no more sectionals this year; refer to the back of your practice record for the schedule of rehearsals for Full Orchestra (required for Advanced, optional for Intermediate and select Beginners) and NRH2O Competition. 8th Graders have a side-by-side rehearsal/concert/social with the HS Orchestra on March 17th, which is the first Thursday after break. I will be handing out music after UIL.
UIL contest is set for March 2, 2016 (THIS WEDNESDAY) for both Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. All students must be passing all classes on the 4th Six Weeks report card to be eligible to compete. The schedule is as follows:
Intermediate Orchestra
7:45am Meet in concert black with instrument, music, tuner, rosin, and rock stop
7:55am Load bus to go to WMHS
8:30am Warm-up
9:00am Concert Performance (March Heroic, Sword Dance, Medieval Kings)
9:25am Sight read
10:15am Return to Berry, change and go to 3rd period
Advanced Orchestra
2:34pm (7th period) Go to orchestra room, change into concert black
3:00pm Load bus
3:45pm Warm-up
4:15pm Concert Performance (Dabbling in the Dew, Rhumbolero, Dance Scenario)
4:40pm Sight read
5:15pm Dinner (Cheddars)
7:00pm Return to Berry
Feb. 22
This is the last week of sectionals for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. It is extremely important you attend as it is the final chance to work on section-specific issues before UIL. There are no sectionals or after school rehearsals during the month of March, though 8th graders do have a concert on March 17th at Horn. See the back of your practice record for the full orchestra schedule and NRH2O rehearsals for the remainder of the year.
Today is test day for all grades - Beginners will play line 138 (El Gato y El Raton), Intermediate will play a selection from Sword Dance, and Advanced has passages from Dance Scenario.
UIL contest is set for March 2, 2016 for both Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. All students must be passing all classes on the 4th Six Weeks report card to be eligible to compete. The schedule is as follows:
Intermediate Orchestra
7:45am Meet in concert black with instrument, music, tuner, rosin, and rock stop
7:55am Load bus to go to WMHS
8:30am Warm-up
9:00am Concert Performance (March Heroic, Sword Dance, Medieval Kings)
9:25am Sight read
10:15am Return to Berry, change and go to 3rd period
Advanced Orchestra
2:34pm (7th period) Go to orchestra room, change into concert black
3:00pm Load bus
3:45pm Warm-up
4:15pm Concert Performance (Dabbling in the Dew, Rhumbolero, Dance Scenario)
4:40pm Sight read
5:15pm Dinner (Cheddars)
7:00pm Return to Berry
This is the last week of sectionals for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. It is extremely important you attend as it is the final chance to work on section-specific issues before UIL. There are no sectionals or after school rehearsals during the month of March, though 8th graders do have a concert on March 17th at Horn. See the back of your practice record for the full orchestra schedule and NRH2O rehearsals for the remainder of the year.
Today is test day for all grades - Beginners will play line 138 (El Gato y El Raton), Intermediate will play a selection from Sword Dance, and Advanced has passages from Dance Scenario.
UIL contest is set for March 2, 2016 for both Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. All students must be passing all classes on the 4th Six Weeks report card to be eligible to compete. The schedule is as follows:
Intermediate Orchestra
7:45am Meet in concert black with instrument, music, tuner, rosin, and rock stop
7:55am Load bus to go to WMHS
8:30am Warm-up
9:00am Concert Performance (March Heroic, Sword Dance, Medieval Kings)
9:25am Sight read
10:15am Return to Berry, change and go to 3rd period
Advanced Orchestra
2:34pm (7th period) Go to orchestra room, change into concert black
3:00pm Load bus
3:45pm Warm-up
4:15pm Concert Performance (Dabbling in the Dew, Rhumbolero, Dance Scenario)
4:40pm Sight read
5:15pm Dinner (Cheddars)
7:00pm Return to Berry
Feb. 17
NO SECTIONALS THIS WEEK!!
My apologies for not updating earlier in the week! Between staff development, Pre-UIL, and the 5th grade visit the blog got put on the back burner. Tonight 5th graders and their parents have the opportunity to visit Berry and hear a little more about the orchestra. I hope many of them will come to try out instruments on Saturday.
In Beginning Orchestra we are working hard on our music for our next concert in April. We are still working on F natural and C natural. We have just started learning Wipe Out, which has a lot of accidentals (notes not in the key signature) and slides for the violin and viola. There are only 12 pages left in the book!!
UIL contest is set for March 2, 2016 for both Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. All students must be passing all classes on the 4th Six Weeks report card to be eligible to compete. The schedule is as follows:
Intermediate Orchestra
7:45am Meet in concert black with instrument, music, tuner, rosin, and rock stop
7:55am Load bus to go to WMHS
8:30am Warm-up
9:00am Concert Performance (March Heroic, Sword Dance, Medieval Kings)
9:25am Sight read
10:15am Return to Berry, change and go to 3rd period
Advanced Orchestra
2:34pm (7th period) Go to orchestra room, change into concert black
3:00pm Load bus
3:45pm Warm-up
4:15pm Concert Performance (Dabbling in the Dew, Rhumbolero, Dance Scenario)
4:40pm Sight read
5:15pm Dinner (we will vote on a venue)
7:00pm Return to Berry
NO SECTIONALS THIS WEEK!!
My apologies for not updating earlier in the week! Between staff development, Pre-UIL, and the 5th grade visit the blog got put on the back burner. Tonight 5th graders and their parents have the opportunity to visit Berry and hear a little more about the orchestra. I hope many of them will come to try out instruments on Saturday.
In Beginning Orchestra we are working hard on our music for our next concert in April. We are still working on F natural and C natural. We have just started learning Wipe Out, which has a lot of accidentals (notes not in the key signature) and slides for the violin and viola. There are only 12 pages left in the book!!
UIL contest is set for March 2, 2016 for both Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra. All students must be passing all classes on the 4th Six Weeks report card to be eligible to compete. The schedule is as follows:
Intermediate Orchestra
7:45am Meet in concert black with instrument, music, tuner, rosin, and rock stop
7:55am Load bus to go to WMHS
8:30am Warm-up
9:00am Concert Performance (March Heroic, Sword Dance, Medieval Kings)
9:25am Sight read
10:15am Return to Berry, change and go to 3rd period
Advanced Orchestra
2:34pm (7th period) Go to orchestra room, change into concert black
3:00pm Load bus
3:45pm Warm-up
4:15pm Concert Performance (Dabbling in the Dew, Rhumbolero, Dance Scenario)
4:40pm Sight read
5:15pm Dinner (we will vote on a venue)
7:00pm Return to Berry
Feb. 8
Beginners are working hard to play new notes F natural and C natural. These two notes are lower than F sharp and C sharp. With the addition of these two notes, we will be able to play Soul Strings from our Festival packet!
Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra have a clinic with Mrs. Bailey during class on Wednesday. We will run through our three pieces first, then work on sections under Mrs. Bailey's guidance. Thursday is our trip to West Mesquite HS. We will depart at 10:00am and return to have lunch at school. We will eat in the orchestra portable so that we do not disrupt the cafeteria seating chart. Please be careful not to spill on the carpet! In other news, sectionals continue through the end of February.
Pre-UIL is next week on Tuesday, the 16th at Terry MS.
Beginners are working hard to play new notes F natural and C natural. These two notes are lower than F sharp and C sharp. With the addition of these two notes, we will be able to play Soul Strings from our Festival packet!
Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra have a clinic with Mrs. Bailey during class on Wednesday. We will run through our three pieces first, then work on sections under Mrs. Bailey's guidance. Thursday is our trip to West Mesquite HS. We will depart at 10:00am and return to have lunch at school. We will eat in the orchestra portable so that we do not disrupt the cafeteria seating chart. Please be careful not to spill on the carpet! In other news, sectionals continue through the end of February.
Pre-UIL is next week on Tuesday, the 16th at Terry MS.
- Advanced Orchestra: Arrive at 5:30pm; Warm-up at 5:40pm (on stage); Perform concert music 6:00pm; Sight-read 6:20pm; Done at 6:35pm
- Intermediate Orchestra: Arrive at 6:30; Warm-up at 6:40; Perform concert music 7:00; Sight-read at 7:20pm; Done at 7:35pm
February 1
Wow, it's February already! This month holds a few extra activities for the orchestra. Here is an overview for the month:
Wow, it's February already! This month holds a few extra activities for the orchestra. Here is an overview for the month:
- Sectionals continue during February
- 2/10: Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras will have a clinic during class with Mrs. Bailey on UIL music
- 2/11: Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras travel to WMHS (make sure you've turned in your permission slip; you must also be academically eligible)
- 2/15: No school (staff development day)
- 2/16: Pre-UIL concert and sight-reading at Terry Middle School (you provide your own ride)
- Advanced Orchestra: Arrive at 5:30pm; Warm-up at 5:40pm (on stage); Perform concert music 6:00pm; Sight-read 6:20pm; Done at 6:35pm
- Intermediate Orchestra: Arrive at 6:30; Warm-up at 6:40; Perform concert music 7:00; Sight-read at 7:20pm; Done at 7:35pm
- 2/17: 5th graders visit Berry; Advanced Orchestra will perform (approx. 9:30am)
- 2/19: End of 4th Six Weeks - make sure you are passing all your classes!
- 2/22: Camera will be set up in the cello/bass room to record solos for 5th six weeks performance grade (20% of your average)
Jan. 25
Activities for the week:
Activities for the week:
- Course request forms are due to the registrar this week. If you don't turn it in, you will get assigned to a random elective. I want every single orchestra member back next year because you are making great progress! I know some days it doesn't feel like it, but believe me you have come a long way!
- Monday, 1/25 - Advanced Orchestra in the portable 3:30 - 5:00 (optional). You may leave before 5:00 if you need.
- Tuesday - Friday: Sectionals as scheduled. See the Jan. 4 post if you need a reminder.
- Beginners will start working on a new technique: staccato!
Jan. 19
I hope everyone enjoyed their three-day weekend. Yesterday I found myself saying, "Wouldn't it be nice if we had three days to enjoy every weekend?" But back to reality today! We have plenty to do. :)
This week:
I hope everyone enjoyed their three-day weekend. Yesterday I found myself saying, "Wouldn't it be nice if we had three days to enjoy every weekend?" But back to reality today! We have plenty to do. :)
This week:
- NO morning tutoring because I have morning duty in the cafeteria
- YES you may still practice in the portable
- NO sectional for Intermediate violins and violas this Thursday because I have a dentist appointment
- YES sectionals for all other days
- Monday: Advanced Orchestra Event 3:30 - 5:00 in the portable
- Sectionals for everyone in Intermediate and Advanced!
Jan. 12
Sorry I didn't update the site yesterday - I was home sick with a virus. Still not feeling great, but back in action today! This week starts sectionals for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra (see schedule below). Just like last semester we will meet in the orchestra portable from 3:30 - 4:00. Attendance will be taken at 3:30 and if you are not there you will have points deducted. We will be focused on UIL music and sight-reading techniques.
Sorry I didn't update the site yesterday - I was home sick with a virus. Still not feeling great, but back in action today! This week starts sectionals for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra (see schedule below). Just like last semester we will meet in the orchestra portable from 3:30 - 4:00. Attendance will be taken at 3:30 and if you are not there you will have points deducted. We will be focused on UIL music and sight-reading techniques.
Jan. 4
Welcome back to school. Today is the day where (almost) everyone drags their feet and pries their eyes open as we head back into the bright lights of school. I was expecting many instruments to be severely out of tune, but have been pleasantly surprised so far!
Things to remember:
Welcome back to school. Today is the day where (almost) everyone drags their feet and pries their eyes open as we head back into the bright lights of school. I was expecting many instruments to be severely out of tune, but have been pleasantly surprised so far!
Things to remember:
- You do NOT have a practice record due this week. You will get your yellow practice record for the 4th six weeks on Wednesday. Check the grading scale at the bottom carefully.
- Sectionals for Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra start next week (this is for January and February). YOUR DAY MAY HAVE CHANGED!!
- Advanced viola, cello, bass - Tuesdays (no sectional 2/16)
- Advanced violin - Fridays
- Intermediate cello, bass - Wednesdays
- Intermediate viola, violins - Thursdays (no sectional 1/21)
- Pre-UIL is Tuesday, Feb. 16th after school at Terry. You will have to provide your own transportation to/from Terry. As soon as I know our time, I will pass that on to you! We hire judges to give us comments for our stage performance AND sight-reading. Parents are welcome in the sight-reading room, but you must remain still and silent so students can concentrate on their task. I encourage you to watch what they have to do in the sight-reading room. It is no easy feat!
Dec. 17
I hope everyone has a great Winter Break. Enjoy your time off with family and friends. Please don't leave your instrument at school over break - it will be very lonely - and the lack of heat in the building can cause damage to the wood! There is no practice record over break, but pull out your instrument and play if you can. :) We will see you back on January 4th.
I hope everyone has a great Winter Break. Enjoy your time off with family and friends. Please don't leave your instrument at school over break - it will be very lonely - and the lack of heat in the building can cause damage to the wood! There is no practice record over break, but pull out your instrument and play if you can. :) We will see you back on January 4th.
Dec. 10
For Intermediate Orchestra ONLY: Starting in January, how I get your average will change. There are five categories of work (participation, tests, performances, practice records, and daily work/quizzes) that are weighted. Participation will count less, while tests and quizzes/daily work will count more. My hope is that this change will encourage people to practice for MASTERY of their music instead of just taking up minutes. You must keep improving every time you practice and retain what you have learned/fixed!
For Intermediate Orchestra ONLY: Starting in January, how I get your average will change. There are five categories of work (participation, tests, performances, practice records, and daily work/quizzes) that are weighted. Participation will count less, while tests and quizzes/daily work will count more. My hope is that this change will encourage people to practice for MASTERY of their music instead of just taking up minutes. You must keep improving every time you practice and retain what you have learned/fixed!
Dec. 9
Thank you to everyone who came out to hear the Winter Concert last night! It was a great performance by all groups. I am especially proud of the Intermediate Orchestra because they kept playing even when a stage light popped (very loudly) during their performance and they kept playing without missing a beat!
For Intermediate and Advanced, we will be sight reading a lot between now and Winter break. We will also start working UIL music for competition in early March. Beginners continue working on G string note reading, eighth note reading, bow distribution, and composition. We will learn how to tune our own instruments in January!
Thank you to everyone who came out to hear the Winter Concert last night! It was a great performance by all groups. I am especially proud of the Intermediate Orchestra because they kept playing even when a stage light popped (very loudly) during their performance and they kept playing without missing a beat!
For Intermediate and Advanced, we will be sight reading a lot between now and Winter break. We will also start working UIL music for competition in early March. Beginners continue working on G string note reading, eighth note reading, bow distribution, and composition. We will learn how to tune our own instruments in January!
Dec. 8
The Winter Concert is 7pm here at Berry in the cafeteria. Tuning will take place in the orchestra room from 6:15pm to 6:45pm. Students need to wear their concert uniform, but may add a holiday hat or scarf if they wish. We will do our traditional Cookie Social afterwards; please sign up in the orchestra room to bring either cookies or 2 liter beverages. The orchestra will provide cups, plates, and napkins.
The Winter Concert is 7pm here at Berry in the cafeteria. Tuning will take place in the orchestra room from 6:15pm to 6:45pm. Students need to wear their concert uniform, but may add a holiday hat or scarf if they wish. We will do our traditional Cookie Social afterwards; please sign up in the orchestra room to bring either cookies or 2 liter beverages. The orchestra will provide cups, plates, and napkins.
Dec. 1
Where did the time go?! It's hard to believe that it is December already and our Winter Concert is one week from today!!
The Winter Concert is 7pm here at Berry in the cafeteria on December 8th. Students need to wear their concert uniform, but may add a holiday hat or scarf if they wish. Tuning will take place in the orchestra room from 6:15pm to 6:45pm. We will do our traditional Cookie Social afterwards; please sign up in the orchestra room to bring either cookies or 2 liter beverages. The orchestra will provide cups, plates, and napkins.
There will be no sectionals in December, except for the Intermediate violin sectional this Thursday, Dec. 3rd.
Where did the time go?! It's hard to believe that it is December already and our Winter Concert is one week from today!!
The Winter Concert is 7pm here at Berry in the cafeteria on December 8th. Students need to wear their concert uniform, but may add a holiday hat or scarf if they wish. Tuning will take place in the orchestra room from 6:15pm to 6:45pm. We will do our traditional Cookie Social afterwards; please sign up in the orchestra room to bring either cookies or 2 liter beverages. The orchestra will provide cups, plates, and napkins.
There will be no sectionals in December, except for the Intermediate violin sectional this Thursday, Dec. 3rd.
Nov. 26
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope you have a wonderful day with your family. I am thankful for all the wonderful students that walk into the orchestra room each day.
Next week there are two extra credit opportunities: Dec. 1st, 7pm at Terry MS (Terry orchestra winter concert) and Dec. 3rd, 7pm at Horn HS (Horn orchestra winter concert, including full orchestra). You must stay for the whole concert and get a program signed by the conductor at the end.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope you have a wonderful day with your family. I am thankful for all the wonderful students that walk into the orchestra room each day.
Next week there are two extra credit opportunities: Dec. 1st, 7pm at Terry MS (Terry orchestra winter concert) and Dec. 3rd, 7pm at Horn HS (Horn orchestra winter concert, including full orchestra). You must stay for the whole concert and get a program signed by the conductor at the end.
Nov. 20
- I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving break! When we return on Monday, Nov. 30th you will have a sub because I will still be out of town. Intermediate and Advanced Orchestra should be prepared to run their own rehearsals.
- Wednesday, Dec. 2 (the Wednesday after break) you have 2 practice records due - week 3 and week 4
- Don't forget about our next concert on Tuesday, December 8th at 7pm in the Berry cafeteria!
Nov. 13
The All-City Concert went off with great success! I am so proud of the work and dedication you all put into it from learning the audition cuts to the hours of rehearsal today. Thank you to our clinicians, Mrs. Bailey and Dr. Holt for working with our kids in this musical opportunity. CD's will be delivered soon - as soon as I have them I will pass them on to those who ordered.
The All-City Concert went off with great success! I am so proud of the work and dedication you all put into it from learning the audition cuts to the hours of rehearsal today. Thank you to our clinicians, Mrs. Bailey and Dr. Holt for working with our kids in this musical opportunity. CD's will be delivered soon - as soon as I have them I will pass them on to those who ordered.
Nov.11
The All-City orchestra sectional is tomorrow from 4:30 to 6:00 at Wilkinson MS. Bring your instrument, music, pencil, and brain!
Clinicians will be at the rehearsal during school Friday. We will ride the bus together and a pizza lunch is provided. Be prepared to go the 7th period.
Call time for for tuning is 6:15 at the Mesquite Arts Center and the concert will begin at 7:00pm. See your handout for rehearsal details.
The All-City orchestra sectional is tomorrow from 4:30 to 6:00 at Wilkinson MS. Bring your instrument, music, pencil, and brain!
Clinicians will be at the rehearsal during school Friday. We will ride the bus together and a pizza lunch is provided. Be prepared to go the 7th period.
Call time for for tuning is 6:15 at the Mesquite Arts Center and the concert will begin at 7:00pm. See your handout for rehearsal details.
Nov. 2
The first beginner concert of the year is nearly here! Thursday, Nov. 5th at Horn HS the Beginning Orchestra will combine with TMS Beginning Orchestra for the annual demonstration concert. Please park near the tennis courts/field house and enter through the BACK of Horn HS, not the front. Tuning is 6:20pm - 6:45pm and the concert will start promptly at 7:00pm.
The first beginner concert of the year is nearly here! Thursday, Nov. 5th at Horn HS the Beginning Orchestra will combine with TMS Beginning Orchestra for the annual demonstration concert. Please park near the tennis courts/field house and enter through the BACK of Horn HS, not the front. Tuning is 6:20pm - 6:45pm and the concert will start promptly at 7:00pm.
Oct. 20
Congratulations to the All-City Orchestra Members!
The performance will be the same night (Nov. 13). Call time for the concert is 6:00pm. The concert will begin promptly at 7:00pm at the Mesquite Arts Center. |
Congratulations to Danny O. and Tyler F. for making the All-Region Orchestra. You did an amazing job representing Berry!!
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Oct. 9
The first concert was a smashing success! I am very proud of all the work our orchestra put into making the music sound great. Many parents, including another middle school orchestra teacher, complimented the performances. Now we continue...
The first concert was a smashing success! I am very proud of all the work our orchestra put into making the music sound great. Many parents, including another middle school orchestra teacher, complimented the performances. Now we continue...
- All-Region auditions are tomorrow. Good luck to Tyler, Danny, Just, Ariana, and Kimberly!
- All-City auditions are next week during sectionals for violas. Violins, cellos, and basses have requested audition times before or after school since we are not able to record during sectionals.
- The Beginning Demonstration concert is Thursday, Nov. 5th.
- The Winter concert is Tuesday, December 8th for all level orchestras. We will begin working on that music next week in Intermediate and Advanced. Advanced Orchestra will also get their caroling packets.
Oct. 5
It's amazing how time gets away from me! We have been working hard in all classes.
It's amazing how time gets away from me! We have been working hard in all classes.
- Beginners now can bow on open strings, as well as pizzicato fingered notes E, F#, G, and A. We are paying close attention to our bow holds, staying parallel to our bridge and using big bow strokes every time. Our left hands must be straight at the wrist, hold the string firmly down to the fingerboard, and be centered on the correct tape. We should be practicing about 10 - 15 minutes a day, including pizzicato, arco, and flashcards.
- Intermediate Orchestra is adjusting to playing in 4-5 part harmony on all pieces, continuing to improve intonation, and strengthening rhythm reading skills. Practice should be about 20 - 25 minutes a day.
- Advanced Orchestra is working on All-City and All-Region Audition music, shifting to third position (violins/violas), third and fourth position (cellos), and fourth through 6th position (basses). Practice should be about 30 - 35 minutes daily, but some who have higher goals like All-Region would be closer to 45 minutes a day.
Oct. 15
Advanced Orchestra: If you have not recorded your All-City audition, you will complete it tomorrow in class. Judging will be Monday, October 19th after school. You will know on Tuesday what orchestra you made! (Fingers crossed)
Intermediate Orchestra: You need your purple book starting next week. No excuses. We are 8 weeks into the school year.
Beginning Orchestra: You need to practice the pages we are working on in class (currently p. 16 and 17). Pay attention to the details; it will make it easier to play later:
Advanced Orchestra: If you have not recorded your All-City audition, you will complete it tomorrow in class. Judging will be Monday, October 19th after school. You will know on Tuesday what orchestra you made! (Fingers crossed)
Intermediate Orchestra: You need your purple book starting next week. No excuses. We are 8 weeks into the school year.
Beginning Orchestra: You need to practice the pages we are working on in class (currently p. 16 and 17). Pay attention to the details; it will make it easier to play later:
- Left hand position. Violin/Viola your thumb should point at the sky. Cello/Bass your thumb should point at you, making a "C" shape with the left hand. Everyone should have a straight wrist. Do not let it curve in towards your instrument!
- Bow hold: Make sure the thumb is released and the pinky is relaxed.
- Bowing must be parallel to the bridge. To achieve this, you have to move your wrist!!
Sept. 18
Thank you to everyone who came out to open house last night! It is always nice to get to know orchestra parents. If you are interested in chaperoning or helping with an orchestra event, please fill out the background check form at http://www.mesquiteisd.org/volunteering/
Thank you to everyone who came out to open house last night! It is always nice to get to know orchestra parents. If you are interested in chaperoning or helping with an orchestra event, please fill out the background check form at http://www.mesquiteisd.org/volunteering/
Sept. 8
The school year is off to a running start. Please check the front page to make sure you have all your supplies - including your book! Next week your participation grade will be docked (5 points/day) when you can't participate by writing in your book as directed.
The school year is off to a running start. Please check the front page to make sure you have all your supplies - including your book! Next week your participation grade will be docked (5 points/day) when you can't participate by writing in your book as directed.
August 25
Welcome to the 2015 - 2016 school year! We started off with Bear Camp and a quick run-through of the schedule yesterday. Today students will be in DEN until 4th period, and then run a normal schedule in the afternoon. Because of this, we will not be playing instruments today. On Wednesday, all students need to bring their instruments. Intermediate and Advanced will play; Beginners will begin learning instrument care and parts of the instrument.
I'm looking forward to a great year!
~ Mrs. A
Welcome to the 2015 - 2016 school year! We started off with Bear Camp and a quick run-through of the schedule yesterday. Today students will be in DEN until 4th period, and then run a normal schedule in the afternoon. Because of this, we will not be playing instruments today. On Wednesday, all students need to bring their instruments. Intermediate and Advanced will play; Beginners will begin learning instrument care and parts of the instrument.
I'm looking forward to a great year!
~ Mrs. A