Congratulations to All Performing groups for an OUTSTANDING Winter Concert series!!

Symphonic Band please thank Mr. Link, Will's Dad, for the  video copy of your performance 12/18/2014 at the following link;


https://www.dropbox.com/s/lryjyt2jclzatsa/Symphonic%20Band%20winter%20Concert%2012-18-14-HD.mpg?dl=0




 Many thanks Mr. Link for your copy of the concert!!

Jazz Ensemble Fundraiser This Sunday Dec. 7th

Advent Breakfast with Santa will be from 10:00am -12:00pm  They will share the same stage as Santa .  Bring a music stand, jazz shirts, holiday colors, instruments and music.


Christ the King Roman Catholic Church
2 Indian Head Road
Commack, NY 11725
Phone: (631) 864-1623

All County JAZZ auditions

Please read all info for next week's audition.

 The auditions WILL NOT take place in the music wing! 


John Jung
4:15
Piano

Justin Termotto
4:15
Bass

Robert Marino
4:15
Trombone

Blake Carey
4:30
Trombone

Andrew Golub
4:30
Tenor Sax

William Allen
5:15
Alto Sax



Below are the audition requirements:

1. Solo Requirements
Prepare a Level VI solo from the current NYSSMA Manual. 9th grade musicians may audition on a Level 5 solo; however, a level 6 would be preferred. Grades 10 – 12 musicians must audition on a level 6 NYSSMA Jazz Solo from the current manual.

2. Specific Instrumental Requirements:
The improvisation song required is Billie’s Bounce from the Charlie Parker, Volume 6, All “Bird”

Bass Trombone, pick 16 measures of any jazz piece that shows off your lower range in the jazz style. This will be in place of the improvisation.

Lead Trumpet – Download, through your music teacher, the excerpt of the lead player audition sheet. Play along with MP3 track provided. This will be in place of the improvisation. However, if a student would also like to audition for the Jazz Chair, they may play the required improvisation after finishing the Lead Player Audition. *Please indicate this on the form so extra time can be added for the student musician. Straight Ahead MP3

3. Improvisation Requirements (excluding Lead Trumpet and Bass Trombone)
The following instruments; Alto, Tenor, Baritone Saxes, Trumpets, Trombones, will perform Billie’s Bounce the following way: Play Head, solo 2 choruses, play 1st 8 bars of head again.
Bass players will play the head, walk for 2 choruses, improvisation 1 chorus, and play 1st 8 bars of head.

Guitar, Piano and Vibes will play head, improvisation for 2 choruses, comp for 1 chorus, and play 1st 8 bars of head.

Drummers: Improvisation and Ensemble Skills as required by Level VI NYSSMA Manual Jazz Solo. NYSSMA Level V requirements for 9th grade musicians.

4. Auditioning Student Responsibilities:
 a. The host site will provide Billie’s Bounce (both the book and CD) and a CD player for all those auditioning.
 b. Drummers must bring your own set and CD/sound system set-up as is required by a NYSSMA All-State audition.
 c. Bass, and Guitar players, bring the rig (Amp, Effects Pedals, etc.) that you would use in a performance setting.
 d. An acoustic piano will be provided.
 e. Vibes: you will have to bring your own or your schools vibes. If you are not able to bring vibes, you can use a Marimba, which will be provided.


DIRECTIONS TO BAYPORT-BLUE POINT HS
- Montauk Highway to Snedecor Avenue (in between Broadway Avenue & Nicolls Road)
- After crossing over the train tracks, make immediate right onto Railroad Street
- Cross over the island to get to the eastbound side of Railroad Street
- Make a right into the parking lot and travel to the rear - Please, DO NOT enter through the gymnasium

Symphonic Band

I have just been notified that our homecoming parade has been cancelled for today and you should expect a connect ed phone call.

All-County Jazz registrations are happening this week

Please see me to register.

Symphonic Band Homecoming

Please arrive at the Plymouth Blvd., Fire house parking lot by 2pm.  We will step off between 2:15 and 2:30pm and march to the High School. 


You will need the Music Parade shirt, Tan or Khaki shorts, and white-ish sneakers, instrument lyre and music. 


Large instruments and Percussion be aware that the equipment truck will be leaving 10 minutes before the parade starts.


The only acceptable absences are by students' parents who communicated by email prior to Friday, 10/9/2014.


Should the parade be cancelled you will receive a Connect ED phone call from the school administration.  If weather is questionable,  arrive at the fire house regardless.

Jazz Ensemble

Hey Jazzers,

A job well done.   We received many great comments on this evening's performance and you should be proud.  Good job on your solos, lead trumpet playing and ensemble work.  Many thanks to our Star Spangled Banner players, Great Job.  We are off to a great year, see you at rehearsal. 

Enjoy your weekend!!!

Jazz Ensemble

We will be performing this Sat., 9/20 at the Cleary School for the Deaf for the Suffolk County Parks fundraiser to refurbish the farmhouse at the WS Commerdinger Park in Nesconset.  The event is an ice cream social and Chinese auction located at 301 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset NY 11767.

All performers will be admitted for free, accompanying guests will need to pay the admission fee.

Players must bring;
Music stand
Instrument and gear (cords, cables, reeds oil, etc...)
Music
DRESS is all black, jazz shirts, black pants ,and black shoes.


Please arrive between 6 - 6:30pm
Ready to play @ 7pm
Done @ 7:30pm

Concert Band 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 class stimulates the students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and creatively which aides in the development of a ‘well rounded person.  It is also designed to prepare students for future participation with a performing group.  

 

Required Materials for rehearsal: Instrument must be in working condition. Students must have a PENCIL, ensemble music, and the necessary supplies for their particular instrument such as reeds, valve oil, drum sticks, neck straps, etc….

 

Required Materials for home practice and exam preparation: Lesson book, assigned music, metronome, tuner, practice record, (smart phone apps may be used).  I highly recommend an app that is only useful on a tablet or computer called smart music which has a built in metronome, recording and correction app, and access to hundreds of method books, solos, and ensemble music.  

 

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 based on a student's performance in rotation class assignments, daily rehearsal classes and on exam scores. Exams are worth 30%, rotation classes are worth 30% and daily rehearsals are worth 40% of the quarter grade. Daily rehearsal grades encompass class preparation, conduct and participation.

 

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.

 

Performances: Performances are exams which are calculated into the quarter grade. Attendance is mandatory for all performances.

 

Rotation classes: Each class represents a grade. The grade will be based upon the completion of a 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 a zero 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 instructions given. Rehearsal conduct is expected which includes but not limited to, respect and courtesy for the conductor and respect and 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 not including rehearsal and lesson time.

 

First Audition: The results are used for section seating, the Suffolk County Music Educator’s Assn.’s (SCMEA) Division 3 (9^th and 10^th grades only) All County recommendations and count as the first test score.

Performance Dress: Concert Dress: white formal top, black dress slacks, black dress, black or dark tie, black socks and shoes, NO tee or tank shirts, 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 care and 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 in lockers but protection cannot be guaranteed.  

 

Extra help is available by appointment.

 

Announcements: Students will be informed during class and by way of the following website; www.mrcassera.blogspot.com.Students should become followers of the website to be alerted when new announcements are made.

 

REQUIRED PERFORMANCE DATES

 

WINTER CONCERT

 

Concert Band Period 2

Thursday, December 11, 2014 7:30pm

 

Concert Band Period 8

Tuesday, December 16, 2014 7:30pm

 

NYSSMA Major Organization Festival

 

Monday, April 27, 2015 TBD

 

SPRING CONCERT

 

Concert Band Period 2

Tuesday, May 19, 2015 7:30pm

 

Concert Band Period 8

Thursday, May 18, 2015 7:30pm

 

ALL PARADE PERFORMANCES

Memorial Day Parade

Monday, May 25, 2015

 

Upcoming Department Dates

 

Smithtown Friends of Music will be present at “Back to School” night September 11, 2014.

SCMEA Day of Tuba is November 14, 2014.

All County Concert is November 21, 2014.

SCMEA All County Jazz Auditions are November 24, 2014.

The New York State School Music Association’s SOLO Festival is April 15th & 16th, 2015.

Jazz Festival is April 22, 2015.

The New York State School Music Association’s ALL-STATE SOLO Festival will be May 15th & 16th, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

=============================================================

Detach and return please

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:______________________________________________________________

 

Symphonic Band Class Policy 2014-15

SMITHTOWN HIGH SCHOOL- WEST CAMPUS

SYMPHONIC BAND CLASS POLICY

Mr. Cassera

 

Class Objective: The students will be able to express themselves through musical performance in an advanced band setting. This music performance class stimulates the students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and creatively which aids in the development of a ‘well rounded person’.  The class is also designed to prepare students for college level performance.

 

Required Materials for rehearsal: Instrument must be in working condition. Students must have a PENCIL, ensemble music, and the necessary supplies for their particular instrument such as reeds, valve oil, drum sticks, neck straps, etc….

 

Required Materials for home practice and exam preparation: Lesson book, assigned music, metronome, tuner, practice record, (smart phone apps may be used).  I highly recommend an app that is only useful on a tablet or computer called smart music which has a built in metronome, recording and correction app, and access to hundreds of method books, solos, and ensemble music.  

 

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 based on a student's performance in rotation class assignments, daily rehearsal classes and on exam scores.  Exams are worth 30%, rotation classes are worth 30% and daily rehearsals are worth 40% of the quarter grade.  Daily rehearsal grades encompass class preparation, conduct and participation.

 

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. 

 

Performances: Performances are exams, which are calculated into the quarter grade. Attendance is mandatory for all performances.

 

Rotation classes: Each class represents a grade.  The grade will be based upon the completion of a given assignment.  It is a building procedure 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 a zero 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 instructions given. Rehearsal conduct is expected which includes but not limited to, respect, good manners and courtesy for the conductor and fellow students.

 

Student Success: The development of instrumental skills requires self-discipline and focused practice toward the given assignments on a daily basis, which does not include rehearsal and lesson time.

 

First Audition: The results are used for section seating, the Suffolk County Music Educator’s Assn.’s (SCMEA) Division 3 (9^th and 10^th grades only) All County recommendations and count as the first test score.

 

Performance Dress: Concert Dress: white formal top, black dress slacks, black dress, black or dark tie, black socks and shoes, NO tee or tank shirts, jeans, flip flops or sneakers. Parade Dress: Long Sleeve shirts (provided by school), Tan khakis, and white sneakers provided by student.

 

Instrument safeguard: Students are responsible for their instruments (rented or owned) concerning care and 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 in lockers but protection cannot be guaranteed.  

 

Extra help is available by appointment.

 

Announcements: Students will be informed during class and by way of the following website; www.mrcassera.blogspot.com.  Students should become followers of the website to be alerted when new announcements are made.

 

 

 

 

REQUIRED PERFORMANCE DATES

 

ALL PARADE PERFORMANCES

Homecoming Parade

October 11, 2014 2:00pm

 

WINTER CONCERT

 

Thursday, December 18, 2014 7:30pm

 

GALA CONCERT

 

Saturday, March 28, 2015 7:30pm

 

 NYSSMA Major Organization Festival

 

Monday, April 27, 2015 TBD

 

SPRING CONCERT

 

Monday, June 2, 2015 7:30pm

 

Upcoming Department Dates

 

Smithtown Friends of Music will be present at “Back to School” night September 11, 2014.

SCMEA Day of Tuba is November 14, 2014.

All County Concert is November 21, 2014.

SCMEA All County Jazz Auditions are November 24, 2014.

The New York State School Music Association’s SOLO Festival is April 15th & 16th, 2015.

Jazz Festival is April 22, 2015.

The New York State School Music Association’s ALL-STATE SOLO Festival will be May 15th & 16th, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

===========================================================

 

Detach and return please

 

 

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 Symphonic 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_____________________________________________________

Jazz Ensemble Audition Results 2014

After much a do and several phone calls working out issues with the new system the district is using that is associated with teacher accounts and Blogger application, I only NOW have access to my Blogspot.  I do apologize for the delay of results but it was out of my hands.


Alto Sax I          William A.
Alto Sax II         Kristen F.
Tenor Sax I        Andrew G.
Tenor Sax II       Shannon-Kate K.
Baritone Sax      Diego R.

Trombone I        Rob M.
Trombone II       Blake C.
Trombone III      Matt H.
Bass Trombone  Steve M.

Trumpet I           Melissa B.
Trumpet II          Rob B.
Trumpet III         David S.
Trumpet IV        Sara J.
Trumpet V         Chris M.

Piano                  John J.
Guitar                 John C.
Bass                   Justin T.
Drum Set           Derek M.

Alternate players will be asked to step in permanently if selected players do not maintain group responsibilities, or on a substitute basis if selected players become ill for either rehearsals or performances.  Players should attend rehearsals regularly.

Alternate players:
William L., Joseph A. on Baritone Sax, Thomas R.,

All-County 2014-15 for 11-12 grade

Congratulations on being nominated! I need paper work from the following students by Tuesday 6/16/2014;

Rebecca C. Flute
Melissa C. Flute
Melissa B. Flute
Erin H. Clarinet
William A. Alto Sax
Michael G. Alto Sax
Andrew G. Tenor Sax
Shannon K. Tenor Sax
Diego R. Baritone Sax
Melissa B. Trumpet
Robert B. Trumpet
Brittany B. Trumpet
Robert M. Trombone
Derek M. Snare Drum
Rachel R. Mallets

Symphonic Band, Jazz and Brass, here is the Gala Link

Town of Smithtown Youtube link of our Gala 2014

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm1PoCqOhTs&list=PL552FE0A7956A1807&feature=share&index=15

2014-15 Jazz Ensemble Auditions

Auditions for the 2014-15 HS West Jazz Ensemble


WHEN:
Wednesday, June 18, 2013 from 2:30pm -6pm first come first served.
Middle school students please email if attending the auditions and the approx. time you choose to arrive. tcassera@smithtown.k12.ny.us

WHERE:
IN THE MUSIC SUITE OF  High School West Bldg.


WHY:
THE PURPOSE OF YOUR AUDITION IS TO DETERMINE PLACEMENT INTO JAZZ ENSEMBLE and PART TO BE PLAYED.

ALL 2014-15  9TH –12TH GRADE INSTRUMENTAL STUDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE and WELCOME to audition.

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:

ALL STUDENTS: MUST BE PART OF THE MUSIC PROGRAM full time & COMMITED FOR THE ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR.


1. PREPARE A JAZZ SOLO from the NYSSMA Manual

2. SIGHT-READING

3. CHROMATIC AND MAJOR SCALES

4. Improvise over a Bb or F blues. Not mandatory.

All students IN ADDITION TO ABOVE

BRASS Players:
PREPARE TO DEMONSTRATE YOUR RANGE

1. CONSISTENTLY PLAY YOUR HIGHEST NOTE CLEANLY
2. PLAY A SCALE FROM YOUR LOWEST TO YOUR HIGHEST NOTE


WOODWINDS Players:
1. Prepare to play in 2 octaves with good intonation.
2. DEMONSTRATE WOODWIND DOUBLING
ON FLUTE, CLARINET, AND OTHER SAXES IF POSSIBLE
3. DEMONSTRATE YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE ALTISSIMO REGISTER.

PERCUSSIONISTS:
PREPARE SEVERAL STYLES (LATIN, ROCK, SWING,
FUNK, BOSSA, JAZZ WALTZ, ETC.) AND BE ABLE
TO DO 4 BAR FILLS AND RETURN TO THE PATTERN.


PIANO, GUITAR AND BASS, (ACOUSTIC OR ELECTRIC):

PREPARE TO READ A CHORD PROGRESSION AND MELODY.

All results will be posted here on this blogspot.

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE