Band / Winds

Winds is a beginning band class in which students will have the opportunity to learn how to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. The class is designed to be the foundation of a three-year program which students have the opportunity to continue in seventh and eighth grade. Which instrument a student is assigned to is a joint decision between student and teacher, depending on the instrumentation of the class. Before playing begins, all students will learn about the families of instruments and basic musical concepts. Throughout the year, in addition to learning how to play their instruments, students will learn to read and write notes and rhythms, to critically evaluate musical performances, and to conduct themselves professionally on stage. Each semester the class will culminate in an evening concert, showcasing the student’s mastery of first year repertoire and performance practices. This class is also appropriate for incoming 6th graders that have private lesson experience, as they will receive more advanced instruction tailored to their skill level. Students in the 7th grade and 8th grade may join this course if their schedule permits. 

 

This class is the second level course in the three-year winds program at Walter Reed. This year will be a more intensive step forward from beginning winds, as we will perform more comprehensive and technically advanced repertoire. Performances include four evening concerts and a local instructional festival. Prerequisite: Introduction Band and/or an audition.

 

This class is the highest-level course in the three-year winds program at Walter Reed. This class is an intensive step forward from seventh grade, as the students will perform more comprehensive and technically challenging repertoire. Students must uphold excellent behavior and performance standards in order to remain in this advanced class. Performances include 4 evening concerts, one local district instructional festival and a four-day overnight trip to San Francisco. Prerequisites: Introduction Band, Beginning Concert Band, and/or audition.