Great Valley High School Instrumental Music
Course Syllabus Concert Band
Symphonic Band
I. Course Description
Symphonic Band is made up of brass, woodwind, and percussion students typically in grades 9-11. Concert Band is made up of brass,
woodwind, and percussion students typically in grades 10-12. Emphasis is placed on the development of individual and ensemble musical skills
and performance excellence through group rehearsals, public performances, and individual practice. Occasional rehearsals will be scheduled
outside the normal school day. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is required. Students in the Symphonic Band and Concert Band are
encouraged to continue private instruction and to participate in local, district, regional, state, and national concert festivals and contests. This
course may be repeated.
II. Material and Equipment
Music: Students will be supplied with music and folders which are to be stored carefully in the instrumental hall. Each student should bring his or
her music every day to make markings. Music must be marked in pencil only and erased upon return. Students are financially responsible for all
music until returned at the end of the school year.
Pencil: All students must have a sharpened pencil at every rehearsal
Instruments:
● Most students will use personal instruments.
● Students who require the use of school-owned instruments should see Mr. Cohen to sign them out. These instruments should be treated with
care and any damage beyond normal "wear and tear" will be the financial responsibility of the student. If a school-owned instrument needs
repair for any reason see Mr. Cohen immediately, please do not make repairs on your own.
● Generally, instruments need to be kept in the storage area, which is available for students during the school day.
● Students need to practice every day and thus instruments should go home at the end of each day. GVHS is not responsible for lost or stolen
personal instruments.
● A detailed supply list will be available in September
III. Course Goals and Objectives
● To develop sense of intonation, rhythm, tone quality, balance, blend, dynamics, phrasing, and musical expression
● To develop instrumental and/or vocal performance skills in individual and ensemble settings
● To develop sight-reading skills
● To develop aural recognition and discrimination skills
● To develop ability to read and notate music
● To listening to, analyze, and describe music
● To evaluate music and music performances
● To understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts
● To understanding music in relation to history and culture
● To reinforce music theory concepts through analysis and performance
IV. Expectations
● Respect for all people, materials, and resources
● A positive attitude, an open mind, and always try your best
● All students fully ready 3 minutes after bell, 3 minutes will be given to clean-up
● No food, drink, gum, or candy allowed in the instrumental hall. Clear water is acceptable.
● Compliance with all school and district rules and regulations
● All students must practice outside of rehearsal. Students are encouraged to organize sectional time or seek out Mr. Cohen to schedule
sectional time.
● Attendance at all performances and rehearsals (during school and outside of the school day)
V. Course Topics
Instrument Care and Maintenance Rhythm
Playing Position and Posture Phrasing and Dynamics
Tuning and Intonation Articulation
Mr. Sean Cohen -- Email: scohen@[Link]
Class Website: [Link]
[Link]
Great Valley High School Instrumental Music
Musical Symbols Ensemble Performance
Key Centers, Scales, Arpeggios Balance and Blend
Notes and Fingering Instrumental and Practice Technique
Meter and Tempo
VI. Assignments and Grading
Student Grades will be calculated as follows:
Testing, Evaluations, Assignments 35%
Concert and Rehearsal Attendance 35%
Class Participation 20%
Preparedness for Class 10%
VI. CHARMS Information
The instrumental music ensembles will be using CHARMS for communication and various logistical functions. Student and parents can access
CHARMS at [Link] The school code is: GVSDMusic Your password can be obtained from your ensemble director.
CHARMS also contains a calendar for the music department and a section for forms and handouts. A detailed Instrumental Music Handbook will
be available to answer frequently asked questions. Or you can always feel free to email Mr. Cohen at scohen@[Link]
Great Valley Music Parents Association is currently looking for new members and volunteers for GVHS Music Events. [Link] or
CHARMS can provide you with more information on needs and membership. You can also contact the GVMPA President, Tom DeTulleo at
[Link]@[Link]
Mr. Sean Cohen -- Email: scohen@[Link]
Class Website: [Link]
[Link]
