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August 31, 2006

The orchestra handbook contains important information for students and families. Please mark all calendar dates that apply to you on your family calendar. Practice records are on the last 3 pages. Please review the list of class expectations. The supply list will outline what is needed for class every day. There are also sections on our uniform, “How To Practice” and a “Parent Guide” that will help you help your child get the most out of orchestra. In the 7th/8th grade handbook are forms for both Solo & Ensemble Festival and All-State Orchestra.
These handbooks were sent home with all students this week.
Click here here to view and download the 6th grade handbook.

Click here to view and download the 7th/8th grade handbook

Posted by Doemel at 09:55 PM

August 26, 2006

A warm welcome to the new 6th grade orchestra members. I begin each year with excitement and anticipation about the possibilities in each new group of beginners. In the little time that I've actually spent with them so far, I get the feeling that this group has the potential to be really special.

Your child should have come home with an equipment list on Thursday or Friday. Please use this list as a 'shopping' list when you go to rent an instrument. These are important items that your child will need for class. I'd like every student to have a book on Monday (8/28) so we can begin.

Learning an instrument is not easy. It takes effort and regular practice. The time during class is for learning new skills and reviewing learned ones. Class time will not be used doing the 'reps' that are necessary for each student to 'own' these skills. Please help your student develop and maintain a habit of regular daily practice. While 20 to 30 minutes of practice is ideal, even 10 minutes of good, sustained practice at home every night will make a huge difference. And daily practice is ALWAYS better than cramming in 2 hours of practice on Sunday afternoon.

Welcome!

This will be my primary method of mass communication. Please check in often.

Posted by Doemel at 07:29 PM

August 09, 2006

Click start to hear important information about becoming a musician at Mabry.

Posted by Doemel at 09:31 PM

Click play to view the video.

Posted by Doemel at 08:52 PM

Welcome Back! I hope you had a WONDERFUL summer! We'll share all the fun stuff we did during the first few days of school. We'll also play the first day of school! So make sure you bring your instrument and new book! For 7th graders it's the Essential Elements 2000, Book 2. For 8th graders it's the Essential Techniques 2000 book.

I'm really excited about this year. We've got an awesome 7th and 8th grade orchestra and I'm looking forward to another great 6th grade.

HELP!! Talk to all the 6th graders you know and that ride your bus or live in your neighborhood! Tell them about us and suggest they give us a try. They'll believe it if they hear it from you!

See you Monday!

Posted by Doemel at 04:42 PM