1. Introduction

Instrumental Music Objectives

Bonnie Branch Middle School's bands always strive to perform at the highest level possible. This is an on-going process that requires each student musician to have a commitment and dedication to his or her performing ensemble. The primary objective of our band program is for each student musician to develop an appreciation of music as both a performer and listener. In our journey to achieve this primary objective, the Bonnie Branch band experience is designed to foster in each student musician several secondary skills that will improve the student's quality of life while in school and after. These skills include:

1. The ability to perform on a musical instrument.

2. Working together in groups to achieve goals.

3. Responsibility � each member of a musical ensemble plays a specific role in the ensemble and is needed by the group for rehearsals and performances.

4. Commitment - what it means to work hard to achieve a goal and witness its completion. Any time you practice an exercise or song and play it correctly, you complete a goal. Sometimes, this can take a lot of time and be frustrating...but that is the way life can be.

We consider our performing music ensembles a year-long commitment. Planning and decision-making relating to instrumentation and music selection are based on all students fulfilling this year-long commitment.