Welcome to Mr. Livingston's
Music Pages for Bigelow Middle School.
(return to Bigelow Middle School main page)
(updated May 19, 2013) Please scroll all the way down the page because I keep adding things.
MUSIC CLASSES THIS WEEK (May 20-24, 2013)
The 6th grade classes are in our Melody Unit. The National Standards for Music specifies "playing, alone and with others, a variety of music". We use alto and soprano recorders, and all students are reading music and learning to play together. Those who play in the band or orchestra may substitute their ensemble instrument for the recorder. I have plenty of recorders, and kids are free to bring their own from home if they like.
The 7th grade classes are about to finish the Piano Unit. One class had their piano recital on Friday and the other class goes tomorrow. I know they are nervous! But I tell them that life, and growing up, is all about facing small challenges with growing confidence and you can't do that while hiding in your comfort zone. I always play at the end, and the work I play is the March from "Parades" by Vincent Persichetti, a wonderful modern piano composition that I studied when I was in the 7th grade.
Next up after the piano recitals is the Essential Questions unit, where we explore important facts about music.
Each 6th and 7th grader in the Music Classes will be expected to attend a concert of live music and write a report on the concert (the Concert Critique). It counts for 10% of the term grade. Each child will receive specific instructions over the next few days on how to do this.
Good luck to the 8th graders who are leaving for New York City and Quebec this week!
Symphonic Band members should be working on their May playing tests. They are due on May 31, and it counts as a test grade. I can help before or after school.
ENSEMBLE REHEARSALS THIS WEEK (May 20-24, 2013)
Monday-Jazz Band, Concert Band
Tuesday- Symphonic Band
Wednesday- Orchestra (6th and 7th graders only)
Thursday- Jazz Band and Concert Band. Twinkies after school.
Friday- Symphonic Band (7th graders only)
* * *
Each instrument case MUST have a nametag on it!
Your child will be expected to practice his or her instrument for a
minimum of 100 minutes each week, all year long. Please help your child
set up a good routine as early as possible. Your child will need a
metronome, a music stand, and a quiet place in the home for practice.
Percussionists will also need a practice pad, and a stickbag for their
drumsticks and mallets.
Please note the concert dates on the Music Department Dates page, and make
sure they get written on the family calendar. Unlike elementary school,
your child will receive a report card grade for Band or Orchestra.
You can reach Mr. Livingston by...
or telephone- 617-559-6828
or by fax- 617-552-7752
(but email is best!)
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