Dec. 5th there will be an aural interval quiz during class.
Only Major and Perfect intervals.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Jazz Ensemble Performance \\ December 11, 2008
Concert is upon us and in addition to Thursday's rehearsal please attend the following sectional.
Rhythm section; Monday 12/1 after school in the band room
Saxes: Tuesday 12/2 seventh period in the band room
Trumpets: Tuesday after school until the program is done.
Rhythm section; Monday 12/1 after school in the band room
Saxes: Tuesday 12/2 seventh period in the band room
Trumpets: Tuesday after school until the program is done.
Concert Band Performance // December 9, 2008
Concert Band Students have an individual performance exam during the week of December 1st. All students were to have signed up for an available period prior to Thanksgiving. Test material is any section of all concert pieces. Music must be prepared; all right notes and rhythms, articulation, dynamics and in the correct tempi.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Music Theory I
Monday will be a quiz on Intervals.
Identifying Major, minor, diminished, and augmented intervals.
Completing given intervals.
Altering given intervals.
Bring Keyboards.
Identifying Major, minor, diminished, and augmented intervals.
Completing given intervals.
Altering given intervals.
Bring Keyboards.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Concert Band lessons for this week 9/24-9/30
Tentative Lesson Schedule
From Wed., 9/24 through Tues., 9/30
Wed., 9/24
Per. 3 Alto Saxophones
Per. 5 Baritone Horns
Per. 6 Clarinets
Thur., 9/25
Per. 3 Tenor Saxophones
Per. 5 Trombones
Per. 6 Bass Clarinets
Fri., 9/26
Per. 3 Flute 1
Per. 5 Tubas
Per. 6 Baritone Saxophones
Mon., 9/29
Per. 3 Flute 2
Per. 5 Trumpet 1
Per. 6 Trumpet 2 & 3
Tues., 9/30
Per. 3 Oboes
Per. 5 French Horns
Per. 6 Percussion
From Wed., 9/24 through Tues., 9/30
Wed., 9/24
Per. 3 Alto Saxophones
Per. 5 Baritone Horns
Per. 6 Clarinets
Thur., 9/25
Per. 3 Tenor Saxophones
Per. 5 Trombones
Per. 6 Bass Clarinets
Fri., 9/26
Per. 3 Flute 1
Per. 5 Tubas
Per. 6 Baritone Saxophones
Mon., 9/29
Per. 3 Flute 2
Per. 5 Trumpet 1
Per. 6 Trumpet 2 & 3
Tues., 9/30
Per. 3 Oboes
Per. 5 French Horns
Per. 6 Percussion
Music Theory HW for 9/24
Construct in the treble clef the major scale from the 3rd step using A# and construct in the bass clef the major scale from the 5th step using G#. Also construct each of these scales' enharmonic equal in the same clefs. Construct also the enharmonic scale to Bb major in the bass clef.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Jazz Ensemble Auditions
All students interested in Jazz Ensemble:
Auditions are tomorrow, WED., 9/24, in the music suite after school starting at 2pm. The rehearsal night is not set for Wed. Students will be polled at the audition regarding availability. Please direct all inquiries to Mr. Cassera.
Auditions are tomorrow, WED., 9/24, in the music suite after school starting at 2pm. The rehearsal night is not set for Wed. Students will be polled at the audition regarding availability. Please direct all inquiries to Mr. Cassera.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Jazz Ensemble
The Jazz Ensemble is a performance group with one musician on a part and its success is directly related to attendance at rehearsal.
This year's rehearsals will be on Wed. nights from 7pm to 9pm from September through June with additional performances.
You may get audition materials on Tuesday 9/16 and auditions will be during the week of 9/22.
In general:
Your ability to read music in time with a metronome is a must.
Quality of tone and cleanliness of performance reflects your ability to play an individual part and is considered as part of the audition.
Brass students your ability to tongue quickly and play an extended upper register and lower register. Your experience and accuracy with chromatic exercises and two octave scales at quick tempi work in your favor.
Saxophone students your articulation skills and experience and accuracy with chromatic exercises and two octave scales at quick tempi work in your favor.
Drummers, guitarists, bass guitarists, and pianists knowledge and experience with chord symbols and progressions will be necessary. Knowledge and experience in the styles of swing, blues, funk, jazz waltzes, latin and rock with an ability to accompany and solo work in your favor.
All inquiries see Mr. Cassera
This year's rehearsals will be on Wed. nights from 7pm to 9pm from September through June with additional performances.
You may get audition materials on Tuesday 9/16 and auditions will be during the week of 9/22.
In general:
Your ability to read music in time with a metronome is a must.
Quality of tone and cleanliness of performance reflects your ability to play an individual part and is considered as part of the audition.
Brass students your ability to tongue quickly and play an extended upper register and lower register. Your experience and accuracy with chromatic exercises and two octave scales at quick tempi work in your favor.
Saxophone students your articulation skills and experience and accuracy with chromatic exercises and two octave scales at quick tempi work in your favor.
Drummers, guitarists, bass guitarists, and pianists knowledge and experience with chord symbols and progressions will be necessary. Knowledge and experience in the styles of swing, blues, funk, jazz waltzes, latin and rock with an ability to accompany and solo work in your favor.
All inquiries see Mr. Cassera
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Brass Music Students
There will be an informational meeting Wed., 9/17 after school in the Band room @ 2:05 pm concerning the formation of this years co-curricular brass group. Anyone who is interested should be at this 30 minute meeting.
Concert Band Auditions/ Test /Scmea recommedation
Everyone will have received all audition materials by Friday, 9/12. Auditions will be on a first come, first served basis by signing up on preferably a free period. Students who sign up and audition during the week of 9/15 will be qualifying for their first test grade, their seating placement within the band and the possibility of a Scmea All-County recommendation.
Music Theory I First Quiz
This is a reminder that Thurs., 9/11 there will be a quiz on the material we have covered. Remember to use www.musictheory.net to strengthen your ability to identify pitches in the treble and bass clef and in ledger lines.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Concert Band 2008-09 Class Policy
SMITHTOWN HIGH SCHOOL - WEST CAMPUS
CONCERT BAND CLASS POLICY
Mr. Cassera
Class Objective: The students will be able to express themselves through musical performance in a concert band setting. This music performance class stimulates the students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and creatively which aides in the development of a ‘well rounded person’.
Required Materials: Instrument must be in working condition. Students must have a PENCIL, metronome, ensemble music, and the necessary supplies for their particular instrument such as reeds, valve oil, drum sticks, neck straps, etc….
Rehearsal Behavior: Each rehearsal will be conducted as a practice performance. Wearing of hats, any kind of food or drinks, lateness to class and inappropriate behavior will not be permitted or tolerated.
Grading Objective: The grading policy is designed to reflect the students’ individual effort, participation and growth.
Grading: An alphabetical grade is earned each marking period. The average of rotation class assignments equals one quarter of the grade. The second quarter of the grade is the average of performance exams. The balance of the grade is based on the average of daily rehearsal grades which encompasses class preparation, conduct and participation.
Course Criteria:
Performances: Attendance is mandatory for all performances and are also
understood as performance exams.
Rotation classes: Each class represents a grade. The grade will be based upon the completion of the given assignment. Students may also be given written exams to further assess their understanding of material. It is building policy that students must attend scheduled rotation classes. Should a student have a testing conflict, then a make up class will be provided. Students are expected to communicate testing conflicts prior to their rotation class. If a student misses a rotation class without proper notice the student will have earned an ‘F’ for that class. All make up classes must be completed within the week of the missed class. If a rotation class falls on a student’s lunch period, the student should bring a bag lunch to eat in the rotation class.
Daily rehearsals: Prepared for class, includes instruments in working condition, PENCIL, ensemble music, lesson book, seated and ready to participate two minutes after the bell. Cooperative participation includes appropriate behavior, improvement on daily music and following all instructions given. Rehearsal conduct is expected which includes but not limited to, courtesy for the conductor and proper classroom manners toward fellow students.
Student success: The development of instrumental skills requires self-discipline and focused practice toward the given assignments on a daily basis.
First Assignment: Students will prepare assigned music, all major scales and percussion rudiments for a test grade. The results will also be used for section seating and the Suffolk County Music Educator’s Asso.’s (SCMEA) Division 3 All County recommendations.
Performance Dress: Concert Dress: white formal top, black dress slacks, black dress, black or dark tie, black socks and shoes, NO jeans, flip flops or sneakers. Parade Dress: Long Sleeve shirts (provided by school), Tan khakis, and white sneakers provided by student.
Students are responsible for their instruments (rented or owned) concerning theft or damage. Usually, homeowners’ insurance can offer a rider for protection. You will need to know the serial and model number and the instrument’s brand name. Space is available during the school day to store instruments but protection cannot be guaranteed.
Extra help is available for two periods per week by appointment with Mr. Cassera.
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE DATES
HALLOWEEN RAGAMUFFIN PERFORMANCE
Smithtown Elementary School
October during the end of the school day.
WINTER CONCERT I
Concert Band
Tuesday, December 9, 2008 7:30pm
NYSSMA Major Organization Festival
specifics will be announced
Possible dates could be
May 18th, 19th or 20th, 2009
SPRING CONCERT I
Concert Band
Thursday, May 28, 2009 7:30pm
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE.
Concert Band
MAY, specifics to be announced
The Smithtown Friends of Music, our booster organization, will have its Recruitment and Showcase evening at the High School East Wednesday, October 15th at 7 pm. “Meet the Teacher” night will be Thursday, October 16, 2008. Gala Concert is March 28, 2009 at 8:00pm. The New York State School Music Association’s SOLO Festival will be April 15th and 16th. NYSSMA All-State SOLO festival will be April 24th and 25th.
=============================================================
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Please record the performance dates and concert/parade dress for this year. Note also, student attendance and dress at performances is mandatory requirements for music performance courses. Students need to return this form with signatures, which will reflect that you are aware of the Concert Band’s class policy and course requirements. Should you have any questions or concerns you may contact me at the Smithtown High School-West Campus.
Thank you for your cooperation and support,
Mr. Cassera
382-3044
tcassera@smithtown.k12.ny.us
Student name________________________________________________
Student Signature____________________________________________
Parent/Guardian name Mr./Mrs/Ms._________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian signature_____________________________________________________
Contact telephone number:______________________________________
E-Mail address:_______________________________________________
CONCERT BAND CLASS POLICY
Mr. Cassera
Class Objective: The students will be able to express themselves through musical performance in a concert band setting. This music performance class stimulates the students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and creatively which aides in the development of a ‘well rounded person’.
Required Materials: Instrument must be in working condition. Students must have a PENCIL, metronome, ensemble music, and the necessary supplies for their particular instrument such as reeds, valve oil, drum sticks, neck straps, etc….
Rehearsal Behavior: Each rehearsal will be conducted as a practice performance. Wearing of hats, any kind of food or drinks, lateness to class and inappropriate behavior will not be permitted or tolerated.
Grading Objective: The grading policy is designed to reflect the students’ individual effort, participation and growth.
Grading: An alphabetical grade is earned each marking period. The average of rotation class assignments equals one quarter of the grade. The second quarter of the grade is the average of performance exams. The balance of the grade is based on the average of daily rehearsal grades which encompasses class preparation, conduct and participation.
Course Criteria:
Performances: Attendance is mandatory for all performances and are also
understood as performance exams.
Rotation classes: Each class represents a grade. The grade will be based upon the completion of the given assignment. Students may also be given written exams to further assess their understanding of material. It is building policy that students must attend scheduled rotation classes. Should a student have a testing conflict, then a make up class will be provided. Students are expected to communicate testing conflicts prior to their rotation class. If a student misses a rotation class without proper notice the student will have earned an ‘F’ for that class. All make up classes must be completed within the week of the missed class. If a rotation class falls on a student’s lunch period, the student should bring a bag lunch to eat in the rotation class.
Daily rehearsals: Prepared for class, includes instruments in working condition, PENCIL, ensemble music, lesson book, seated and ready to participate two minutes after the bell. Cooperative participation includes appropriate behavior, improvement on daily music and following all instructions given. Rehearsal conduct is expected which includes but not limited to, courtesy for the conductor and proper classroom manners toward fellow students.
Student success: The development of instrumental skills requires self-discipline and focused practice toward the given assignments on a daily basis.
First Assignment: Students will prepare assigned music, all major scales and percussion rudiments for a test grade. The results will also be used for section seating and the Suffolk County Music Educator’s Asso.’s (SCMEA) Division 3 All County recommendations.
Performance Dress: Concert Dress: white formal top, black dress slacks, black dress, black or dark tie, black socks and shoes, NO jeans, flip flops or sneakers. Parade Dress: Long Sleeve shirts (provided by school), Tan khakis, and white sneakers provided by student.
Students are responsible for their instruments (rented or owned) concerning theft or damage. Usually, homeowners’ insurance can offer a rider for protection. You will need to know the serial and model number and the instrument’s brand name. Space is available during the school day to store instruments but protection cannot be guaranteed.
Extra help is available for two periods per week by appointment with Mr. Cassera.
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE DATES
HALLOWEEN RAGAMUFFIN PERFORMANCE
Smithtown Elementary School
October during the end of the school day.
WINTER CONCERT I
Concert Band
Tuesday, December 9, 2008 7:30pm
NYSSMA Major Organization Festival
specifics will be announced
Possible dates could be
May 18th, 19th or 20th, 2009
SPRING CONCERT I
Concert Band
Thursday, May 28, 2009 7:30pm
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE.
Concert Band
MAY, specifics to be announced
The Smithtown Friends of Music, our booster organization, will have its Recruitment and Showcase evening at the High School East Wednesday, October 15th at 7 pm. “Meet the Teacher” night will be Thursday, October 16, 2008. Gala Concert is March 28, 2009 at 8:00pm. The New York State School Music Association’s SOLO Festival will be April 15th and 16th. NYSSMA All-State SOLO festival will be April 24th and 25th.
=============================================================
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Please record the performance dates and concert/parade dress for this year. Note also, student attendance and dress at performances is mandatory requirements for music performance courses. Students need to return this form with signatures, which will reflect that you are aware of the Concert Band’s class policy and course requirements. Should you have any questions or concerns you may contact me at the Smithtown High School-West Campus.
Thank you for your cooperation and support,
Mr. Cassera
382-3044
tcassera@smithtown.k12.ny.us
Student name________________________________________________
Student Signature____________________________________________
Parent/Guardian name Mr./Mrs/Ms._________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian signature_____________________________________________________
Contact telephone number:______________________________________
E-Mail address:_______________________________________________
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Music Theory I 1st Assignment
It was great meeting you today and I get the sense we'll have a great year.
Just as a reminder this Friday's, 9/5/08 assignment is to bring in a music recording or audio sample and identify the beat or pulse. Also don't forget to pick up a manuscript book.
Thank you,
Mr. Cassera
Just as a reminder this Friday's, 9/5/08 assignment is to bring in a music recording or audio sample and identify the beat or pulse. Also don't forget to pick up a manuscript book.
Thank you,
Mr. Cassera
Graduates
Dear Music Graduates,
You are officially alumni of our Smithtown High and I wanted to take a moment to thank all of you for you hard work, dedication, determination, work ethic, your passion and the joy you have shared. It has truly been the relations with great students like yourselves throughout the years that makes teaching music so special. The great achievements and moments and growth we have to boast about are in part due to your contributions. All of you through all the past years are missed and I wish you great happiness and success where ever your lives may take you.
All the Best,
Mr. Cassera
You are officially alumni of our Smithtown High and I wanted to take a moment to thank all of you for you hard work, dedication, determination, work ethic, your passion and the joy you have shared. It has truly been the relations with great students like yourselves throughout the years that makes teaching music so special. The great achievements and moments and growth we have to boast about are in part due to your contributions. All of you through all the past years are missed and I wish you great happiness and success where ever your lives may take you.
All the Best,
Mr. Cassera
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Greetings to all of my incoming 2008-09 students,
I'm looking forward to an exciting year with you.
To all of my returning concert band students, we'll be raising the bar a bit and I'll be looking to you for your leadership. We finished up last year on a wonderful high point.
To all my band students we'll have one ninth through twelfth grade concert band with an upcoming Halloween performance, two parades and two concerts and possibly a field trip and a NYSSMA competition performance. As a heads up your first performance test will determine seating placement, be the first test grade and play a big role in your SCMEA All County recommendation. My offer for extra credit to participate in the NYSSMA solo festival still stands and if you score an 'A' or 'O' on the solo you'll be exempt from the final exam.
Music Theory I students please see my class policy post and realize extra credit will be available to you through school concert performances or stage hand help for concerts.
Brass students interested in the brass quintet get your solo chops up and keep your ears open for an informational meeting.
To all students interested in the Jazz Ensemble watch for an audition posting here and in the music suite towards the middle of September.
To all students interested in the orchestra pit for the Musical production watch for postings here and in the music suite during the end of December or beginning of January.
I wish you all a great new school year and much success in all of your classes.
Mr. Cassera
I'm looking forward to an exciting year with you.
To all of my returning concert band students, we'll be raising the bar a bit and I'll be looking to you for your leadership. We finished up last year on a wonderful high point.
To all my band students we'll have one ninth through twelfth grade concert band with an upcoming Halloween performance, two parades and two concerts and possibly a field trip and a NYSSMA competition performance. As a heads up your first performance test will determine seating placement, be the first test grade and play a big role in your SCMEA All County recommendation. My offer for extra credit to participate in the NYSSMA solo festival still stands and if you score an 'A' or 'O' on the solo you'll be exempt from the final exam.
Music Theory I students please see my class policy post and realize extra credit will be available to you through school concert performances or stage hand help for concerts.
Brass students interested in the brass quintet get your solo chops up and keep your ears open for an informational meeting.
To all students interested in the Jazz Ensemble watch for an audition posting here and in the music suite towards the middle of September.
To all students interested in the orchestra pit for the Musical production watch for postings here and in the music suite during the end of December or beginning of January.
I wish you all a great new school year and much success in all of your classes.
Mr. Cassera
Music Theory I Class Policy
Smithtown High School
West Campus
Music Theory I
Class Policy
Mr. Cassera
Class Objective:
Students will be able to identify and understand the basic fundamentals of music composition from a college level perspective and apply this knowledge to their own endeavors of performance, composition, media production, education, and all other relevant aspects of the music industry.
Required Materials:
Manuscript notebook, all work is in pencil only-no ink, cardboard Larrabee keyboard, metronome, and chromatic tuner.
Classroom Behavior:
Courtesy and respect between each student and teacher is expected. All building policies will be reinforced appropriately.
Grading Objective:
Will reflect assessment of individual comprehension of material through participation, quizzes and examinations.
Grading:
An alphabetical grade will be earned each marking period. Participation is half of the quarter grade and quizzes and examinations are the balance of the remaining half of the quarter grade.
Course Criteria:
Participation in class must include the vocalization of rhythm and pitches as well as being prepared with pencil and manuscript notebook. Mastery of topics is essential to succeed.
Student Success:
Daily time spent vocalizing rhythms and pitch relationships is essential for success.
Extra help is available two periods per week by appointment.
West Campus
Music Theory I
Class Policy
Mr. Cassera
Class Objective:
Students will be able to identify and understand the basic fundamentals of music composition from a college level perspective and apply this knowledge to their own endeavors of performance, composition, media production, education, and all other relevant aspects of the music industry.
Required Materials:
Manuscript notebook, all work is in pencil only-no ink, cardboard Larrabee keyboard, metronome, and chromatic tuner.
Classroom Behavior:
Courtesy and respect between each student and teacher is expected. All building policies will be reinforced appropriately.
Grading Objective:
Will reflect assessment of individual comprehension of material through participation, quizzes and examinations.
Grading:
An alphabetical grade will be earned each marking period. Participation is half of the quarter grade and quizzes and examinations are the balance of the remaining half of the quarter grade.
Course Criteria:
Participation in class must include the vocalization of rhythm and pitches as well as being prepared with pencil and manuscript notebook. Mastery of topics is essential to succeed.
Student Success:
Daily time spent vocalizing rhythms and pitch relationships is essential for success.
Extra help is available two periods per week by appointment.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Low Brass Quintet and Jazz Ensemble Fans
Dear Music Supporters,
Smithtown High School West has a Jazz Ensemble and Low Brass Quintet. The students involved in these performance groups have a healthy interest in continuing their study of jazz and brass chamber music throughout and beyond high school. Currently both groups have been invited and scheduled to perform at Walt Disney World by winning their auditions. We are fundraising to enhance these programs and travel to Walt Disney World.
The Jazz Ensemble and Low Brass Quintet are in the process of setting up a Chinese raffle and we are seeking contributions. These groups will also play for a donation or an opportunity to fundraiser at an event that you may be planning. The kids are very committed to these groups and their involvement in fundraising does expand their education in occupational situations which is our true goal.
All who elect to contribute may call the music office number at 631 382-3044.
Respectfully,
Tim Cassera
Music Teacher
Smithtown High School West
631 382-3044
Smithtown High School West has a Jazz Ensemble and Low Brass Quintet. The students involved in these performance groups have a healthy interest in continuing their study of jazz and brass chamber music throughout and beyond high school. Currently both groups have been invited and scheduled to perform at Walt Disney World by winning their auditions. We are fundraising to enhance these programs and travel to Walt Disney World.
The Jazz Ensemble and Low Brass Quintet are in the process of setting up a Chinese raffle and we are seeking contributions. These groups will also play for a donation or an opportunity to fundraiser at an event that you may be planning. The kids are very committed to these groups and their involvement in fundraising does expand their education in occupational situations which is our true goal.
All who elect to contribute may call the music office number at 631 382-3044.
Respectfully,
Tim Cassera
Music Teacher
Smithtown High School West
631 382-3044
JAZZ FESTIVAL rescheduled
We have been rescheduled for April 8, 2008 @ 7:30pm in the Library of Smithtown HS WEST
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Jazz Festival Canceled for tonight
Sorry for the late notice but I just found out myself thanks to Corey. We'll work it out during the school day.
Once again I apologize to everyone but there's no arguing with mother nature and safety comes first.
Thank you, keep warm and settle in with some jazz recordings to ease the delay.
Mr. Cassera
Once again I apologize to everyone but there's no arguing with mother nature and safety comes first.
Thank you, keep warm and settle in with some jazz recordings to ease the delay.
Mr. Cassera
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Jazz Ensemble
We are rehearsing tonight from 7:00pm to 9:00pm in the Band room. Our video recording session will be Friday @ 11:30am in the Little Theater. Uniform is dressy black --all Black.
Recording session tunes are;
Bag's Groove
St. James Infirmary
September
Jazz Festival tunes will be;
Jumpin' at the Woodside
Bag's Groove
St. James Infirmary
Mr. Casual
Adrenaline Attack
Mercy, Mercy, Mercy
September
Gala Concert Tunes are;
St. James Infirmary
Jumpin' at the Woodside
Recording session tunes are;
Bag's Groove
St. James Infirmary
September
Jazz Festival tunes will be;
Jumpin' at the Woodside
Bag's Groove
St. James Infirmary
Mr. Casual
Adrenaline Attack
Mercy, Mercy, Mercy
September
Gala Concert Tunes are;
St. James Infirmary
Jumpin' at the Woodside
Brass Quintet
Rehearsal is tonight from 5:00pm to 6:30pm in the Band room. Our video recording session is Thursday 1/24/08 from 2:00pm to maybe 5:00pm in the Little Theater. You will need the uniform for Thursday's shoot.
South Pacific Orchestra Pit
Reminder that there is full orchestra rehearsal this Wednesday 1/23/08 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm in the Band room.
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