2020-2021-Austin- Orchestra-Friday Assignments
- Instructor
- Mrs. Diana Austin
- Term
- 2020-2021 School Year
- Department
- Music
- Description
-
Upcoming Assignments
No upcoming assignments.
Past Assignments
Due:
05-14-21- Orchestra
Here is the Practice Log for this week.
Due:
05-07-21- Orchestra
Here is the Practice Log for this week.
Due:
04-30-21
Here is the practice log for this week.
Due:
04-23-21
Here is the practice log for this week.
Due:
04-09-21
Here is the practice log for this week.
Due:
04-2-21- Orchestra
Hello!
This week we started by working out seating assignments and class procedures. When you enter you should grab a Clorox wipe on your way in. Get your instrument, stand, and chair but be mindful of not creating a logjam at any of those points. A seating chart is attached here. Please check your seating assignment so that you can go right to it when we get to class next week and avoid any log jams.
Also, we will continue to record practice time using the practice log we have used all year. I will include it in every assignment from now to the end of the year. Please be sure to submit them at home. Let me know if there is difficulty doing this.
We played through "Knight Errant" and "Across the Wind". With "Knight Errant" we focused on measures 59 to the end and on getting power out of our sound. For some reason everyone is having trouble really making volume with their instrument after such a long break. For "Across the Wind" we talked about the spiccato bowing and how that a can help with that tricky fast repeated rhythm in the violins and violas.
All in all both pieces sounded like students had done a great job working on their instruments at home! Great job!
This week continue to work on those pieces. We may try to play "Pirates" next week but I have a feeling we will have our hands full with these two pieces.
Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
This week we started by working out seating assignments and class procedures. When you enter you should grab a Clorox wipe on your way in. Get your instrument, stand, and chair but be mindful of not creating a logjam at any of those points. A seating chart is attached here. Please check your seating assignment so that you can go right to it when we get to class next week and avoid any log jams.
Also, we will continue to record practice time using the practice log we have used all year. I will include it in every assignment from now to the end of the year. Please be sure to submit them at home. Let me know if there is difficulty doing this.
We played through "Knight Errant" and "Across the Wind". With "Knight Errant" we focused on measures 59 to the end and on getting power out of our sound. For some reason everyone is having trouble really making volume with their instrument after such a long break. For "Across the Wind" we talked about the spiccato bowing and how that a can help with that tricky fast repeated rhythm in the violins and violas.
All in all both pieces sounded like students had done a great job working on their instruments at home! Great job!
This week continue to work on those pieces. We may try to play "Pirates" next week but I have a feeling we will have our hands full with these two pieces.
Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
03-19-2021
Hello Orchestra! I hope you are doing well and that you survived the blizzard well with your family!
You made it to Spring Break!!! Can you believe it!? Congratulations! And now we get to come back and play together again! WooHooo! When you come back I just wanted to let you know that you will still drop your instruments off in my classroom in the morning before you go to your first class. Orchestra is the last class of the day so you will simply bring you instrument home with you after class is done. In class we will be spaced 6 ft apart and each of you will have your own stand. I think it will work just fine and we will all feel safe and be able to enjoy playing together again. For those of you who can't join us, know that we still love you and will miss you and be so glad when we can play instruments together again! I will be live streaming my Orchestra class as well as recording the recording. You are then free to join us online and play along (you on mute so that the lag time doesn't effect anyone), or watch it later and focus in on the songs that are challenging you most.
For practice this week I want you to just practice the 120 minutes of a normal week even though there's two weeks before I see you again. Give yourself some time off to relax and enjoy! If you would please, it would be helpful if you turned it in on the online practice log the day before we come back to practice together. That will just give us more time in class to play and less time to do paperwork.
I miss you all and can't wait to see you!
Mrs. Austin
You made it to Spring Break!!! Can you believe it!? Congratulations! And now we get to come back and play together again! WooHooo! When you come back I just wanted to let you know that you will still drop your instruments off in my classroom in the morning before you go to your first class. Orchestra is the last class of the day so you will simply bring you instrument home with you after class is done. In class we will be spaced 6 ft apart and each of you will have your own stand. I think it will work just fine and we will all feel safe and be able to enjoy playing together again. For those of you who can't join us, know that we still love you and will miss you and be so glad when we can play instruments together again! I will be live streaming my Orchestra class as well as recording the recording. You are then free to join us online and play along (you on mute so that the lag time doesn't effect anyone), or watch it later and focus in on the songs that are challenging you most.
For practice this week I want you to just practice the 120 minutes of a normal week even though there's two weeks before I see you again. Give yourself some time off to relax and enjoy! If you would please, it would be helpful if you turned it in on the online practice log the day before we come back to practice together. That will just give us more time in class to play and less time to do paperwork.
I miss you all and can't wait to see you!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
03-12-21- Orchestra
Hello Orchestra! I cannot believe that we will actually be able to have real classes before this school year ends! I am so excited that I will be able to see some of you again. Orchestra is one of the easiest classes to hold in a distanced learning environment because it is easy to play while wearing a mask and easy to be social distanced. Getting to play live together sounds like such an amazing experience right now! I know there are those who still have reasons they will need to stay virtual. Take heart. Hold tight. And know that you will be loved and deeply missed. We may have rehearsals without you but you will still be a part of our group. I will not forget you as we move into this next transition stage.
I hope you have had a wonderful week and had a chance to enjoy some sunshine! Keep on practicing this week and if you haven't sent me your recording of Across the Wind be sure to do that as soon as possible. If you have any questions or thoughts on the music email me or stop by my office hours on Friday mornings.
This week I'm including a musician that Mia Hess submitted to me. I hope you find her story inspiring-- think about how you would make music if you couldn't hear what you were doing. What would you use to tell you were doing it correctly? How would you know you were on pitch?
Stay warm and healthy. I love and miss you all!
Mrs. Austin
I hope you have had a wonderful week and had a chance to enjoy some sunshine! Keep on practicing this week and if you haven't sent me your recording of Across the Wind be sure to do that as soon as possible. If you have any questions or thoughts on the music email me or stop by my office hours on Friday mornings.
This week I'm including a musician that Mia Hess submitted to me. I hope you find her story inspiring-- think about how you would make music if you couldn't hear what you were doing. What would you use to tell you were doing it correctly? How would you know you were on pitch?
Stay warm and healthy. I love and miss you all!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
03-05-21- Orchestra
Hello Orchestra! I sure am missing you this week!
You guys have been doing so wonderful in everything-- I don't know if you realize how strong this class is as a group. Keep up with your work on "Knight Errant" and "Across the Wind". Don't forget to turn in your practice log each week and to turn in this assignment as well.
This week I would like you to send me a recording of "Across the Wind" measures 13-28 so I can see where we are with that piece. I'm trying to keep these recordings short so that they don't take too much of your time but long enough that I get a good gauge on the piece. The assignment should be available in SmartMusic now for you to access (if not, let me know).
This week I realized that I missed posting a song to you all back in the first semester that really is a special one. This is a TED talk called "The Transformative Power of Classical Music" and it really addresses how knowing how to listen to music and having something to listen for can transform the listening experience entirely for anyone. Some of you may have heard it before because I did post it to choir, but in case you missed it, this is a really good one.
And because I feel like this week deserves a follow up piece, I've also included a video of one of my all time favorite orchestral pieces by Edward Elgar. It's only 4 minutes-- you have time! And this piece will bring the sort of calm that makes you breathe deeper and think clearer. I can hardly listen to it without wanting to direct along with the recording-- especially around the three and a half minute mark where it really is so moving and the dynamics and instrumentation reach a climax. I hope you enjoy these
I miss you all! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
You guys have been doing so wonderful in everything-- I don't know if you realize how strong this class is as a group. Keep up with your work on "Knight Errant" and "Across the Wind". Don't forget to turn in your practice log each week and to turn in this assignment as well.
This week I would like you to send me a recording of "Across the Wind" measures 13-28 so I can see where we are with that piece. I'm trying to keep these recordings short so that they don't take too much of your time but long enough that I get a good gauge on the piece. The assignment should be available in SmartMusic now for you to access (if not, let me know).
This week I realized that I missed posting a song to you all back in the first semester that really is a special one. This is a TED talk called "The Transformative Power of Classical Music" and it really addresses how knowing how to listen to music and having something to listen for can transform the listening experience entirely for anyone. Some of you may have heard it before because I did post it to choir, but in case you missed it, this is a really good one.
And because I feel like this week deserves a follow up piece, I've also included a video of one of my all time favorite orchestral pieces by Edward Elgar. It's only 4 minutes-- you have time! And this piece will bring the sort of calm that makes you breathe deeper and think clearer. I can hardly listen to it without wanting to direct along with the recording-- especially around the three and a half minute mark where it really is so moving and the dynamics and instrumentation reach a climax. I hope you enjoy these
I miss you all! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
02-26-20 Orchestra
Hello Orchestra Students!
I think everything is posted and we are in good shape to let you all just continue practicing this week!
Pirates of the Caribbean: I heard from almost all of you, and have come to a decision on the piece. Most of you said something similar to, "I like this piece, but it just doesn't work to practice it alone at home", which I totally and completely understand. To be honest I was hesitant to order this piece in the first place but SO many people kept asking me for it that I thought maybe it would work. But I'm okay setting it aside. This piece will be so much better when we can work out the tempo changes and key signature and all of that together. If we start meeting in person the last few weeks then we can talk together about trying make it happen this year. If not then we will save it for another year.
I do have another piece we could replace it with if you're interested so let me know by email if you want a third piece or if two is enough. The third piece, so you know is called "Cathedral Grove". Give it a listen in SmartMusic if you want and tell me your opinion. I'll be looking for an email or comment from you in this assignment on if you would to add this piece.
Practice Logs: I got behind on recording them in Infinite Campus but they should be up to date now. If you forgot to turn in a practice log just fill the log out with the correct amount of time and I will count it. You can see the same form below to fill out any weeks you have missed as well as your current practice. I know how easy it is to lose track of these things, so plan on doing it as soon as you read my lessons each Friday morning if possible.
I'm including another Lindsey Stirling piece for you to watch and listen to. I would love to see something like this live some time! Oh for the day when we will be able to hear lots of live music again! I hope it comes soon.
You all are amazing and I miss our time together so much! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
I think everything is posted and we are in good shape to let you all just continue practicing this week!
Pirates of the Caribbean: I heard from almost all of you, and have come to a decision on the piece. Most of you said something similar to, "I like this piece, but it just doesn't work to practice it alone at home", which I totally and completely understand. To be honest I was hesitant to order this piece in the first place but SO many people kept asking me for it that I thought maybe it would work. But I'm okay setting it aside. This piece will be so much better when we can work out the tempo changes and key signature and all of that together. If we start meeting in person the last few weeks then we can talk together about trying make it happen this year. If not then we will save it for another year.
I do have another piece we could replace it with if you're interested so let me know by email if you want a third piece or if two is enough. The third piece, so you know is called "Cathedral Grove". Give it a listen in SmartMusic if you want and tell me your opinion. I'll be looking for an email or comment from you in this assignment on if you would to add this piece.
Practice Logs: I got behind on recording them in Infinite Campus but they should be up to date now. If you forgot to turn in a practice log just fill the log out with the correct amount of time and I will count it. You can see the same form below to fill out any weeks you have missed as well as your current practice. I know how easy it is to lose track of these things, so plan on doing it as soon as you read my lessons each Friday morning if possible.
I'm including another Lindsey Stirling piece for you to watch and listen to. I would love to see something like this live some time! Oh for the day when we will be able to hear lots of live music again! I hope it comes soon.
You all are amazing and I miss our time together so much! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
02-19-21
Hello Orchestra! I will be listening to your recordings that you send in this week. You can submit recordings via SmartMusic or simply upload them to this assignment. I just need to see where everyone is in order to make a good judgment on where to go next.
In case you missed it, "Pirates", "Knight Errant", and "Across the Wind" are listed in the resources so you can now print them out. Hopefully you saw my announcement last week about Pirates. If not, look back and read it through. I will soon be adding a recording as well as any directions for the songs in these resources areas.
BUT... Please take the time to fill out the survey on Pirates. I need to know if this is a song we should continue working on or let go until another time. The survey will take you less than two minutes. Thanks!
Also, I need an update on what you are doing with your small group. Remember, there are not requirements here-- it is for your benefit. As of last fall some groups were meeting once a week, some were meeting once a month, some were communicating about their music through email. Let me know what your group is doing. I've heard from two or three of you but not others. Just let me know what your routine is with your group, if it's working, and if you need anything changed.
Don't forget to turn in your practice log!
I'm including a really funny video that Abbie sent me-- I hope you like it as much as I did!
Mrs. Austin
In case you missed it, "Pirates", "Knight Errant", and "Across the Wind" are listed in the resources so you can now print them out. Hopefully you saw my announcement last week about Pirates. If not, look back and read it through. I will soon be adding a recording as well as any directions for the songs in these resources areas.
BUT... Please take the time to fill out the survey on Pirates. I need to know if this is a song we should continue working on or let go until another time. The survey will take you less than two minutes. Thanks!
Also, I need an update on what you are doing with your small group. Remember, there are not requirements here-- it is for your benefit. As of last fall some groups were meeting once a week, some were meeting once a month, some were communicating about their music through email. Let me know what your group is doing. I've heard from two or three of you but not others. Just let me know what your routine is with your group, if it's working, and if you need anything changed.
Don't forget to turn in your practice log!
I'm including a really funny video that Abbie sent me-- I hope you like it as much as I did!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
02-12-21- Orchestra
Hello Orchestra!
I am finally attaching the sheet music for you to print out! I'm so sorry I didn't realize I'd neglected to do that! Hopefully you have been doing okay.
This week I would like you to send me a recording of the last section of "Pirates" so I can assess if we are going to keep doing that one or not. I think I said before that I've gotten really mixed responses on this song and I want to make sure we are unified in what we are working on.
Also, the deadline for Solo and Ensemble Registration is Monday so if you are interested you must email me this morning to assure that I can respond in time.
I'm including a fun video of monks "singing" the Alleluja Chorus. Such a funny video-- I hope you smile!
I am finally attaching the sheet music for you to print out! I'm so sorry I didn't realize I'd neglected to do that! Hopefully you have been doing okay.
This week I would like you to send me a recording of the last section of "Pirates" so I can assess if we are going to keep doing that one or not. I think I said before that I've gotten really mixed responses on this song and I want to make sure we are unified in what we are working on.
Also, the deadline for Solo and Ensemble Registration is Monday so if you are interested you must email me this morning to assure that I can respond in time.
I'm including a fun video of monks "singing" the Alleluja Chorus. Such a funny video-- I hope you smile!
Due:
02-05-21- Orchestra
Hello Orchestra!
A few pointers for your practice this week! Hopefully you are enjoying your new music!
This week you will see a new assignment in SmartMusic. Please turn in a recording of "Knight Errant" measure 13-30. If you are having trouble with SmartMusic you may simply upload a recording to google classroom or email it to me.
This week please watch through my video for pointers on the other pieces as well. I look forward to when we can play together again!
PLEASE click turn in when you've finished my video below. Do not wait until you've finished the SmartMusic assignment. Remember, watching these videos is how I mark your attendance for the week so I appreciate you turning those in as soon as possible. The SmartMusic assignment will be a separate grade in the grade book. I will be grading on participation, not on excellence, particularly because I'm trying to gauge how you are doing with this piece. Thank you so much for all of your hard work!
Mrs. Austin
A few pointers for your practice this week! Hopefully you are enjoying your new music!
This week you will see a new assignment in SmartMusic. Please turn in a recording of "Knight Errant" measure 13-30. If you are having trouble with SmartMusic you may simply upload a recording to google classroom or email it to me.
This week please watch through my video for pointers on the other pieces as well. I look forward to when we can play together again!
PLEASE click turn in when you've finished my video below. Do not wait until you've finished the SmartMusic assignment. Remember, watching these videos is how I mark your attendance for the week so I appreciate you turning those in as soon as possible. The SmartMusic assignment will be a separate grade in the grade book. I will be grading on participation, not on excellence, particularly because I'm trying to gauge how you are doing with this piece. Thank you so much for all of your hard work!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
1-29-2021 Orchestra
Hi guys! My video today is announcements on songs and lessons. Watch and let me know if you have any questions. I am assigning a new song called "Across the Wind" by Doug Spata. I hope you enjoy it! I won't take listening samples of this song for another week or two but I will start asking you to post onto SmartMusic about every other week soon.
I've also added a fun video for you to watch-- thank you, Caitlyn for submitting it! I love getting videos from you all so please keep them coming-- videos of you playing, and videos of great performances and music fun that you find online are all such a joy for me!
I miss you and hope you are having a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
I've also added a fun video for you to watch-- thank you, Caitlyn for submitting it! I love getting videos from you all so please keep them coming-- videos of you playing, and videos of great performances and music fun that you find online are all such a joy for me!
I miss you and hope you are having a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
01-22-21
Hello Orchestra!
This week's video may not answer many questions, but hopefully it's at least a point of connection for us.
Continue to practice "Pirates" and "Knight Errant" at home or with your group. Remember that practicing together with your group is not a requirement, just an option. I'm also including a video for you this week that is just to make you laugh. Maybe you'll appreciate me more as a director afterwords! (Just kidding).
I will have a more clear plan in place soon for us as far as music to work on and ways to practice. Hopefully you are healthy and happy and playing your instrument!
I miss you!
Mrs. Austin
This week's video may not answer many questions, but hopefully it's at least a point of connection for us.
Continue to practice "Pirates" and "Knight Errant" at home or with your group. Remember that practicing together with your group is not a requirement, just an option. I'm also including a video for you this week that is just to make you laugh. Maybe you'll appreciate me more as a director afterwords! (Just kidding).
I will have a more clear plan in place soon for us as far as music to work on and ways to practice. Hopefully you are healthy and happy and playing your instrument!
I miss you!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
1-15-21
Hello Strings Students! I hope you had a stupendous break! Tell me something you did in the comments!
A quick review of expectations for this semester: I will post lessons by 8:30 the morning of class. My hope is that you will watch my lesson on Friday and then click "turn in" when you've finished watching it. If you can't get to it on Friday you have until the end of the following Thursday to complete it. This is how I record attendance for the week so if you do not "turn in" the assignment or reach out in another way then you will be marked absent the following week. Then throughout the week you are expected to practice 120 total minutes. You can count your time spent watching the lesson as part of your practice time. Please turn in your practice log by Friday morning the following week. I will also be sending other activities periodically that I think will help, so watch for those and complete them during the week they are assigned. Remember, my goal is to help you pursue excellence in your instrument, not add stress to your life. If you need any kind of adaptations or adjustments to these expectations or help of any kind reach out to me and I am here to help.
For now, we will continue with our same small group assignments from last semester as they appear to be working. If you need adjustments to your group contact me through email.
This week I need to have feedback from you on the music you have so far. I planned on being finished with "Gloria" and "Les Patineurs". Are you also finished with "Knight Errant" or should we continue that for this semester? We will definitely continue working on "Pirates of the Caribbean", focusing on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th sections. Let me know how this sounds to you and/or your group. Do you need more music? Less? Do you want to work on pieces longer?
I am looking into other options for this semester for us as a class. I will give you more details on what I learn next week.
I hope you enjoy this fun video about the Marble Machine! The first video is a chance to see it in action. The second is an interesting look into how other machines like it in the past have been created. You don't need to watch both but I believe you'll find them both fascinating!
Have a stupendous week!
Mrs. Austin
A quick review of expectations for this semester: I will post lessons by 8:30 the morning of class. My hope is that you will watch my lesson on Friday and then click "turn in" when you've finished watching it. If you can't get to it on Friday you have until the end of the following Thursday to complete it. This is how I record attendance for the week so if you do not "turn in" the assignment or reach out in another way then you will be marked absent the following week. Then throughout the week you are expected to practice 120 total minutes. You can count your time spent watching the lesson as part of your practice time. Please turn in your practice log by Friday morning the following week. I will also be sending other activities periodically that I think will help, so watch for those and complete them during the week they are assigned. Remember, my goal is to help you pursue excellence in your instrument, not add stress to your life. If you need any kind of adaptations or adjustments to these expectations or help of any kind reach out to me and I am here to help.
For now, we will continue with our same small group assignments from last semester as they appear to be working. If you need adjustments to your group contact me through email.
This week I need to have feedback from you on the music you have so far. I planned on being finished with "Gloria" and "Les Patineurs". Are you also finished with "Knight Errant" or should we continue that for this semester? We will definitely continue working on "Pirates of the Caribbean", focusing on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th sections. Let me know how this sounds to you and/or your group. Do you need more music? Less? Do you want to work on pieces longer?
I am looking into other options for this semester for us as a class. I will give you more details on what I learn next week.
I hope you enjoy this fun video about the Marble Machine! The first video is a chance to see it in action. The second is an interesting look into how other machines like it in the past have been created. You don't need to watch both but I believe you'll find them both fascinating!
Have a stupendous week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
12-11-20
Hello Orchestra! Congratulations, you made it to the end of the semester!
I don't know if you guys realize it, but this class has had some of the best attendance and participation in the school. We still have 18 students in the Orchestra and I have heard from you guys so often, or those in your groups to tell me how you're doing, what you are working on, and how it's all coming together. I'm so proud of you guys for keeping music in your lives during this time and I hope that you have felt the benefit of it in your life.
I do want to say a big goodbye to Mary Goodhew who will be moving to Oregon! Mary, you've been part of the Orchestra for so many years it is hard to think of it without you. Hopefully you can still stay in touch with us virtually!
Next week I will be available for office hours but there is no class or homework except to turn in this assignment when you're done reading. I'm including a fun video and I hope at least one of you gets the chance to make music in an ice castle this year! I will not assign practice for this week because... well you guys have earned it! So this week, just enjoy playing, listen to something fun, and think of something creative to do over the break! (My latest creative venture has been learning to play the ukulele!)
I miss you all and am so honored to teach this class. You are an amazing group and I'm so proud of you.
Mrs. Austin
I don't know if you guys realize it, but this class has had some of the best attendance and participation in the school. We still have 18 students in the Orchestra and I have heard from you guys so often, or those in your groups to tell me how you're doing, what you are working on, and how it's all coming together. I'm so proud of you guys for keeping music in your lives during this time and I hope that you have felt the benefit of it in your life.
I do want to say a big goodbye to Mary Goodhew who will be moving to Oregon! Mary, you've been part of the Orchestra for so many years it is hard to think of it without you. Hopefully you can still stay in touch with us virtually!
Next week I will be available for office hours but there is no class or homework except to turn in this assignment when you're done reading. I'm including a fun video and I hope at least one of you gets the chance to make music in an ice castle this year! I will not assign practice for this week because... well you guys have earned it! So this week, just enjoy playing, listen to something fun, and think of something creative to do over the break! (My latest creative venture has been learning to play the ukulele!)
I miss you all and am so honored to teach this class. You are an amazing group and I'm so proud of you.
Mrs. Austin
Due:
12-04-20
Hi there guys! I hope you had a fabulous Thanksgiving break!
I'm sending you Pirates of the Caribbean on SmartMusic this week! I put a lot of details about it in my video. The main idea is that this is for you to start to experiment and play around with. I don't know if the SmartMusic file is good enough to use. Take a listen and we will see what we do next based on the feedback I get from you. Focus just on the measures 122 to the end (that's the fun part anyway!). I can scan individual parts so you can print the sheet music but I need to know if this piece will work before I do that so give it a shot and tell me what you think.
Don't forget to fill out your practice log! I miss you guys! Have a super week!
-Mrs. Austin
I'm sending you Pirates of the Caribbean on SmartMusic this week! I put a lot of details about it in my video. The main idea is that this is for you to start to experiment and play around with. I don't know if the SmartMusic file is good enough to use. Take a listen and we will see what we do next based on the feedback I get from you. Focus just on the measures 122 to the end (that's the fun part anyway!). I can scan individual parts so you can print the sheet music but I need to know if this piece will work before I do that so give it a shot and tell me what you think.
Don't forget to fill out your practice log! I miss you guys! Have a super week!
-Mrs. Austin
Due:
11-20-20
Hi Orchestra! I hope this finds you well!
Nothing new this week except for my video and a video of one of the great classics in orchestral music-- I know you'll love this one, so let yourself lay down and really listen to it!
Please fill out the practice log for what you practiced over the past week. Since next week is Thanksgiving you don't have to do any practicing until the week after that. That means that when we have class on 12/4/20 you should have practiced for 120 minutes (one week's worth, not 240 minutes that would have been two weeks worth.
Have a stupendous holiday! I hope it's a wonderful time for you and your family and that you make some wonderful memories together!
Love to you,
Mrs. Austin
Nothing new this week except for my video and a video of one of the great classics in orchestral music-- I know you'll love this one, so let yourself lay down and really listen to it!
Please fill out the practice log for what you practiced over the past week. Since next week is Thanksgiving you don't have to do any practicing until the week after that. That means that when we have class on 12/4/20 you should have practiced for 120 minutes (one week's worth, not 240 minutes that would have been two weeks worth.
Have a stupendous holiday! I hope it's a wonderful time for you and your family and that you make some wonderful memories together!
Love to you,
Mrs. Austin
Due:
11-13-20
Hello Orchestra!
Keep up the great work! I am going to assign a new song for you this week! If your group feels like the music you have is enough for now then you can let this other piece sit on the sidelines for a while. But a few groups have asked for more! So I've ordered the song "Knight Errant" for us. It can be found on SmartMusic and you can start playing it today! Thanks to Abbie Phillips for the suggestion of this piece! Don't forget that you all have a Premium Subscription to SmartMusic now so you can browse through the music and find something you like! I love suggestions!
I have also ordered a version of Pirates of the Caribbean! Yes! I have heard you! Unfortunately that one is not part of SmartMusic's library so I will not be able to get you copies of it until I have the print version in hand. But we can all plan on learning it and hopefully putting together a performance of it before the end of the school year!
I miss you all and hope you are doing really well! Keep practicing and let me know how it's going. What's the hardest thing about practicing with your group? What's the best thing? Do you have any suggestions? Have you found any new pieces on SmartMusic?
Do not forget to turn in your practice log. All practice log times are up to date in Infinite Campus so if you aren't sure if you've turned one in you can always check there and then if you realize you practiced a week but forgot to submit it then just put it into the log with the dates you are submitting for.
I love and miss you all!
Mrs. Austin
Keep up the great work! I am going to assign a new song for you this week! If your group feels like the music you have is enough for now then you can let this other piece sit on the sidelines for a while. But a few groups have asked for more! So I've ordered the song "Knight Errant" for us. It can be found on SmartMusic and you can start playing it today! Thanks to Abbie Phillips for the suggestion of this piece! Don't forget that you all have a Premium Subscription to SmartMusic now so you can browse through the music and find something you like! I love suggestions!
I have also ordered a version of Pirates of the Caribbean! Yes! I have heard you! Unfortunately that one is not part of SmartMusic's library so I will not be able to get you copies of it until I have the print version in hand. But we can all plan on learning it and hopefully putting together a performance of it before the end of the school year!
I miss you all and hope you are doing really well! Keep practicing and let me know how it's going. What's the hardest thing about practicing with your group? What's the best thing? Do you have any suggestions? Have you found any new pieces on SmartMusic?
Do not forget to turn in your practice log. All practice log times are up to date in Infinite Campus so if you aren't sure if you've turned one in you can always check there and then if you realize you practiced a week but forgot to submit it then just put it into the log with the dates you are submitting for.
I love and miss you all!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
11-06-20
Hello Orchestra! It has been great to hear from so many of you during the week! I've gotten some great suggestions on songs you like or are working on as a group. I've heard about rehearsals and gotten some great suggestions of favorite songs.
Keep up the good work, keep submitting your practice through the practice log form, and keep playing music! We've made it to November-- can you believe it?
This week I've got a favorite song submitted by Ryan Carmichael. This is such a fun version of this song if you haven't seen it yet!
As you're practicing this week, make sure you are connecting with your group to think about who has the melody in the songs you are working on. It's really important as you practice to think about what is going on with other musicians. Another idea is to go into the pdf's I sent you and try looking at their music. What does your measure 12 look like? How does that compare with the same measure in other instruments? You might not be able to play on all of the different clefs, but you can still make educated musician's notes like noticing if they have the same rhythm or how their rhythm connects with yours.
Keep the comments coming and let me know how it's all going! I love and miss you all!
Mrs. Austin
Keep up the good work, keep submitting your practice through the practice log form, and keep playing music! We've made it to November-- can you believe it?
This week I've got a favorite song submitted by Ryan Carmichael. This is such a fun version of this song if you haven't seen it yet!
As you're practicing this week, make sure you are connecting with your group to think about who has the melody in the songs you are working on. It's really important as you practice to think about what is going on with other musicians. Another idea is to go into the pdf's I sent you and try looking at their music. What does your measure 12 look like? How does that compare with the same measure in other instruments? You might not be able to play on all of the different clefs, but you can still make educated musician's notes like noticing if they have the same rhythm or how their rhythm connects with yours.
Keep the comments coming and let me know how it's all going! I love and miss you all!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
10-30-2020
Hi Orchestra!
I hope all is going well with you this week! I've heard some great feedback from every group on how things are going. If you are connecting with your group here's a couple of things you can do:
- Use a metronome. This can be hugely helpful with both of these songs. You can also have everyone clap outloud and/or tap their foot to the beat. It can be very tricky to bring your music together after practicing by yourself.
- Listen for the melody: Especially with a song like Les Patineurs where the melody can be passed from one part to another, it is very helpful if you allow your focus to shift to where the melody is. Go through the song and decide who has the melody. If it's you, put a star on that measure. If it's not, then write who does have it. Then when it switches, write that in your music as well. This will help you know where you should be listening as you play.
- Don't be afraid to pick a slower tempo. Fast is not always better.
For your listening pleasure today, I have included a video of Ben Folds with the National Orchestra (of The Great USA) composing a piece in ten minutes. I hope you love this one! It was stuck in my head for three days! Imagine how fun it would be to do this!
It sounds like you all are doing amazing things! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
I hope all is going well with you this week! I've heard some great feedback from every group on how things are going. If you are connecting with your group here's a couple of things you can do:
- Use a metronome. This can be hugely helpful with both of these songs. You can also have everyone clap outloud and/or tap their foot to the beat. It can be very tricky to bring your music together after practicing by yourself.
- Listen for the melody: Especially with a song like Les Patineurs where the melody can be passed from one part to another, it is very helpful if you allow your focus to shift to where the melody is. Go through the song and decide who has the melody. If it's you, put a star on that measure. If it's not, then write who does have it. Then when it switches, write that in your music as well. This will help you know where you should be listening as you play.
- Don't be afraid to pick a slower tempo. Fast is not always better.
For your listening pleasure today, I have included a video of Ben Folds with the National Orchestra (of The Great USA) composing a piece in ten minutes. I hope you love this one! It was stuck in my head for three days! Imagine how fun it would be to do this!
It sounds like you all are doing amazing things! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
Share your favorites!
Hi Orchestra! I've shared a lot of music with you this semester! Now it's your turn! Share something with me that you've loved! It could be a favorite classical piece, a favorite composer, a favorite piece to play, a strings group that you really enjoy... sky's the limit!
I can't wait to hear what you send me!
Mrs. Austin
I can't wait to hear what you send me!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
10-23-20
Hello Orchestra!
I miss you and can't wait to see you! I'm not assigning anything on SmartMusic. I just want you to enjoy listening and practicing this week.
I have heard from someone from every group and it sounds like there's some really wonderful things going on! I do want to make sure everyone knows that getting together in person each week is NOT an expectation. These groups are for YOUR benefit. For some of you, getting together each week will be wonderful and fun. For others, that would be far too much for you. I set these groups up to give you the opportunity to make live music together. I want it to be a gift to you, not a stressor. Make live music, and enjoy each other. Let me know how it's going and what you're up to and know that I'm here to help and cheer you on every step of the way!
I love hearing from you all! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
I miss you and can't wait to see you! I'm not assigning anything on SmartMusic. I just want you to enjoy listening and practicing this week.
I have heard from someone from every group and it sounds like there's some really wonderful things going on! I do want to make sure everyone knows that getting together in person each week is NOT an expectation. These groups are for YOUR benefit. For some of you, getting together each week will be wonderful and fun. For others, that would be far too much for you. I set these groups up to give you the opportunity to make live music together. I want it to be a gift to you, not a stressor. Make live music, and enjoy each other. Let me know how it's going and what you're up to and know that I'm here to help and cheer you on every step of the way!
I love hearing from you all! Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
10-16-20
Hi guys! I hope this week finds you feeling well and hopeful for the future!
This week I really want to hear from you. Right now, before you click "turn in", please make sure to send me a message about how your group is doing. Have you connected? Have you met to practice? Do you have a plan to be able to perform? Remember, you can perform virtually, you can send each other recordings, you can perform outdoors, you can meet in a park... whatever works for you guys! I just want to make sure no one is getting forgotten though so please let me know how you are doing with this.
Next: I just updated you all to SmartMusic Premium! You can now access all of the music in SmartMusic's library and play it together! Please let me know any songs you decide to do as a group so I can look into ordering that music!
Finally, I want to assign a second song for you to try to do with your group. It is called "Les Patineurs", otherwise known as the Skaters Waltz. It's a lovely song in 3/4 time and I will be assigning it to you on SmartMusic so that you have a digital copy and also including a pdf of the music for you to print. I think one or two groups will not be able to make this song work for their group but most of you can. I am really looking forward to hearing you!
For this week:
1) Watch my video.
2) Record your practice from last week on the Practice Log.
3) Send me a private message when you "turn in" this assignment letting me know how your small ensemble group is going.
4) Check out "Les Patineurs" on SmartMusic.
5) Print the music if you think it will work for your group.
This week I really want to hear from you. Right now, before you click "turn in", please make sure to send me a message about how your group is doing. Have you connected? Have you met to practice? Do you have a plan to be able to perform? Remember, you can perform virtually, you can send each other recordings, you can perform outdoors, you can meet in a park... whatever works for you guys! I just want to make sure no one is getting forgotten though so please let me know how you are doing with this.
Next: I just updated you all to SmartMusic Premium! You can now access all of the music in SmartMusic's library and play it together! Please let me know any songs you decide to do as a group so I can look into ordering that music!
Finally, I want to assign a second song for you to try to do with your group. It is called "Les Patineurs", otherwise known as the Skaters Waltz. It's a lovely song in 3/4 time and I will be assigning it to you on SmartMusic so that you have a digital copy and also including a pdf of the music for you to print. I think one or two groups will not be able to make this song work for their group but most of you can. I am really looking forward to hearing you!
For this week:
1) Watch my video.
2) Record your practice from last week on the Practice Log.
3) Send me a private message when you "turn in" this assignment letting me know how your small ensemble group is going.
4) Check out "Les Patineurs" on SmartMusic.
5) Print the music if you think it will work for your group.
Due:
10-09-20
Hello Orchestra!
I'm hoping all of you are doing really well this week! I have not gotten SmartMusic recordings from everyone yet. If you are really struggling with that then just take a recording of you playing and upload it here to this assignment and I can see how you're doing that way. I just really need to see how everyone's doing before I add any more.
For now, here's what I'd like you to do for this week:
1) Fill out your practice log for this week (see below). Remember that your practice time can include other music you are working on.
2) Watch my video-- just a few quick announcements.
3) Watch the new Joshua Bell video that I included. How often do we walk by amazing beauty every day?
4) Click "turn in" for this assignment-- leave me a comment so I know what you thought!
5) Practice your music the rest of this week.
Also, I want to say a quick work about grading. Grades for Orchestra are divided into three sections: Participation grades, Practice grades, and Performance graders. Each week when you click "turn in" to these assignments I am able to mark you present in class and also give you your participation points for the week. I love to hear your comments on the week's lesson or listening assignment or how practice is going. I also am giving a grade for practice time. 110-120 minutes=5pts; 80-109 min=4pts; 50-79min=3pts; 25-49min=2pts; 2-24min=1pt; 0 practice minutes=0 points. You can always turn in practice time late if you need to, and any music you practice counts toward this total number of practice minutes. Finally, when I ask for a recording I will give you a preformance grade. These are mostly just that you did them, not how well you did them, but always do your best you will find me intervening. The point of grading is just to show that you are making progress and not to be a penalty. Let me know if you ever have questions.
Have a super week! I love you guys!
Mrs. Austin
I'm hoping all of you are doing really well this week! I have not gotten SmartMusic recordings from everyone yet. If you are really struggling with that then just take a recording of you playing and upload it here to this assignment and I can see how you're doing that way. I just really need to see how everyone's doing before I add any more.
For now, here's what I'd like you to do for this week:
1) Fill out your practice log for this week (see below). Remember that your practice time can include other music you are working on.
2) Watch my video-- just a few quick announcements.
3) Watch the new Joshua Bell video that I included. How often do we walk by amazing beauty every day?
4) Click "turn in" for this assignment-- leave me a comment so I know what you thought!
5) Practice your music the rest of this week.
Also, I want to say a quick work about grading. Grades for Orchestra are divided into three sections: Participation grades, Practice grades, and Performance graders. Each week when you click "turn in" to these assignments I am able to mark you present in class and also give you your participation points for the week. I love to hear your comments on the week's lesson or listening assignment or how practice is going. I also am giving a grade for practice time. 110-120 minutes=5pts; 80-109 min=4pts; 50-79min=3pts; 25-49min=2pts; 2-24min=1pt; 0 practice minutes=0 points. You can always turn in practice time late if you need to, and any music you practice counts toward this total number of practice minutes. Finally, when I ask for a recording I will give you a preformance grade. These are mostly just that you did them, not how well you did them, but always do your best you will find me intervening. The point of grading is just to show that you are making progress and not to be a penalty. Let me know if you ever have questions.
Have a super week! I love you guys!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
10/2/20
Hello Orchestra! How has your week been? Are you hanging in there? I'm going to give you one more week of just looking at Gloria In Excelsis. From what I've gathered this is simple for some and a big challenge for others. This is good for me to know! Remember, I don't need your perfection, I need your honesty, so let me know how it's going for you. I would like you to do one more recording on SmartMusic this week which I've added to your SmartMusic account. This time it will be measures 38-47.
My listening piece for you this week is world famous violinist Joshua Bell doing a virtual performance in honor of the medical workers who are also musicians. Music can prepare you for EVERY career out there and I can't wait to see what you all pursue as you grow up and become adults!
Remember to fill out your practice sheet for last week (you can include all playing time, not just the time on Gloria in Excelsis) and don't forget to click "turn in" when you are done listening to these pieces! I love the comments I am getting from all of you! Have a stupendous week!
Mrs. Austin
Quick checklist for the week:
1) Fill out Practice Log
2) Watch Joshua Bell Tribute, turn in assignment
3) Record measures 38-47 on SmartMusic.
4) Practice 120 minutes at home each week-- all playing on your instrument counts!
My listening piece for you this week is world famous violinist Joshua Bell doing a virtual performance in honor of the medical workers who are also musicians. Music can prepare you for EVERY career out there and I can't wait to see what you all pursue as you grow up and become adults!
Remember to fill out your practice sheet for last week (you can include all playing time, not just the time on Gloria in Excelsis) and don't forget to click "turn in" when you are done listening to these pieces! I love the comments I am getting from all of you! Have a stupendous week!
Mrs. Austin
Quick checklist for the week:
1) Fill out Practice Log
2) Watch Joshua Bell Tribute, turn in assignment
3) Record measures 38-47 on SmartMusic.
4) Practice 120 minutes at home each week-- all playing on your instrument counts!
Due:
09-25-20
Hi Orchestra! I sure miss you! For this week, watch my video and then here are your tasks:
1) Fill out the practice log for what you practiced last week (remember the goal is 120 minutes per week but be honest so I know how everyone is doing).
2) Practice and submit measures 1-27 of "Gloria In Excelsis Deo" (the assignment is listed in SmartMusic).
3) Try the "Eat With Your Ears" activity (it involves great music and chocolate... seriously, this is cool!). You will definitely want to try this with your whole family. Let me know what you think!!! Did it work for your family?
4) Don't forget to "turn in assignment" when you've gone through these things! You can submit the assignment here before you submit your recording on SmartMusic so that I know you have the information and are working on it.
1) Fill out the practice log for what you practiced last week (remember the goal is 120 minutes per week but be honest so I know how everyone is doing).
2) Practice and submit measures 1-27 of "Gloria In Excelsis Deo" (the assignment is listed in SmartMusic).
3) Try the "Eat With Your Ears" activity (it involves great music and chocolate... seriously, this is cool!). You will definitely want to try this with your whole family. Let me know what you think!!! Did it work for your family?
4) Don't forget to "turn in assignment" when you've gone through these things! You can submit the assignment here before you submit your recording on SmartMusic so that I know you have the information and are working on it.
Due:
09-18-2020
Hello Orchestra! I hope you have done well practicing this past week. I am giving you an example of Gloria In Excelsis Deo for you to be able to listen to at home. Enjoy practicing and let me know how it is going learning this piece. For this week I would like to make sure that everyone has mastered the first 15 measures of the music. If you are struggling let me know how I can help and if this is simple for you go on through the end of the song. Please leave me a comment so I know how things this is going for you. Starting next week I will also include a place for you to record your weekly practice time. I hope you all are doing well! I look forward to having time to play together again!
Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Have a wonderful week!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
09-11-20
Hi everyone! I'm giving you a new assignment on SmartMusic! My younger boys really wanted to be in on my video today... so get ready for their goofiness. No, they are not joining orchestra just yet! I have given you a new piece of music on SmartMusic and I will post a pdf of it online for you to be able to print at home. We will be working on this for the semester so just start to familiarize yourself with it and work on the first section this week.
I hope you are all doing well and I hope to see you soon!
Mrs. Austin
I hope you are all doing well and I hope to see you soon!
Mrs. Austin
Due:
09-04-20
Hello Orchestra! I will try each week to post an instructional video first. Make sure you watch that, then read these instructions, and then complete the assignment. Don't forget to click the "Turn In" button so I know you've done it! For some of these assignments (like the one this week) you don't have to type anything or attach any work. Just click "Turn In" to let me know that you've completed the activity.
In an effort to connect to good music, this week I'm giving you one piece of music to listen to. Close your eyes, imagine the picture the composer is trying to paint with his music in this composition. Some of you may have heard this piece of music before but it is one of my favorites and I don't think you can hear it too often. It is called "The Moldau" and is by Bedrich Smetana. It is written about the Moldau River in the Czech Republic. You'll hear scenes change as you float down the river: a hunt, a peasant party, a fairy tale... what do you hear? Write me a note to let me know what you thought of this piece.
In an effort to connect to good music, this week I'm giving you one piece of music to listen to. Close your eyes, imagine the picture the composer is trying to paint with his music in this composition. Some of you may have heard this piece of music before but it is one of my favorites and I don't think you can hear it too often. It is called "The Moldau" and is by Bedrich Smetana. It is written about the Moldau River in the Czech Republic. You'll hear scenes change as you float down the river: a hunt, a peasant party, a fairy tale... what do you hear? Write me a note to let me know what you thought of this piece.
Due:
09-04-20
Hello Orchestra! I will try each week to post an instructional video first. Make sure you watch that, then read these instructions, and then complete the assignment. Don't forget to click the "Turn In" button so I know you've done it! For some of these assignments (like the one this week) you don't have to type anything or attach any work. Just click "Turn In" to let me know that you've completed the activity.
In an effort to connect to good music, this week I'm giving you one piece of music to listen to. Close your eyes, imagine the picture the composer is trying to paint with his music in this composition. Some of you may have heard this piece of music before but it is one of my favorites and I don't think you can hear it too often. It is called "The Moldau" and is by Bedrich Smetana. It is written about the Moldau River in the Czech Republic. You'll hear scenes change as you float down the river: a hunt, a peasant party, a fairy tale... what do you hear? Write me a note to let me know what you thought of this piece.
In an effort to connect to good music, this week I'm giving you one piece of music to listen to. Close your eyes, imagine the picture the composer is trying to paint with his music in this composition. Some of you may have heard this piece of music before but it is one of my favorites and I don't think you can hear it too often. It is called "The Moldau" and is by Bedrich Smetana. It is written about the Moldau River in the Czech Republic. You'll hear scenes change as you float down the river: a hunt, a peasant party, a fairy tale... what do you hear? Write me a note to let me know what you thought of this piece.
Due:
Sign Up for SmartMusic
Set up your SmartMusic account. If you already have a SmartMusic account be sure you can see the class 20-21 Orchestra when you go into your account. Instructions are on the attached document. Let me know if you have any problems!