May 23, 2014

Posted: May 23, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

Indianapolis 500 Rehearsals & Final Thoughts –

The band will have a final rehearsal on Saturday, May 24 from 9 – 11 am. This rehearsal is crucial to the success of the band’s performance. Mr. Jones has asked the kids to wear the shoes they plan on wearing in the parade for this practice so he can verify the color. The students will load instruments and equipment on to the semi after rehearsal.

The students should arrive at 3:30 am on Sunday morning and report to the BNL Band Wing (entrance 33). Students may bring a few snacks for the day in a small cooler, but they should stick to water and avoid junk food before the parade and be smart about what they have. All drinks need to have a lid. What the kids eat and drink before the parade will have a direct impact on how they feel, perform and affect the group.

They should bring money for snacks and extra souvenirs. The Motor Speedway will provide a lunch, entrance to the race, and a small souvenir to mark the occasion.

We should arrive back to BNL around 5:30 pm on Sunday.

Here is a link to more information and a schedule from Mr. Jones: https://bedfordmsband.com/indianapolis-500-performance-info/

2014-15 Beginning Band Approaching 100 Members –

Next year’s beginning band continues to grow as more forms arrive. Share this link: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info/, if you know someone who needs a form and would like to sign up. They can also email me at bergere@nlcs.k12.in.us.

Paige’s Music will have another Instrument Display and opportunity to rent an instrument from them in August. You can also rent online at www.paigesmusic.com at your convenience. Drop me an email anytime and I can confirm the instrument your child should line up for next fall.

There will be more used instruments (that look brand new) available to rent now than what will be available in the fall. Anything rented this summer will be delivered by Paige’s to BMS for the start of school. Here is direct link to the Paige’s Music rental page: https://secure.paigesmusic.com/rentals/. Locate Bedford MS on the list of schools to start the process. You can also call Paige’s to see what other special offers may be available.

Year End Instrument Thoughts –

Paige’s customers may want to send instruments in for maintenance and cleaning. It is a free service if you have the maintenance agreement . You can call Paige’s at 1-800-337-0471 to arrange an instrument pick-up, ask any questions or request a loaner. Paige’s can then ship the instrument back to you or deliver it to BNL or BMS.

Some that rented at Melody Music in Bloomington for the school year may have a return date coming up soon. Also note that Melody Music Shop has moved to a new location.

School instruments will be sent in for cleaning and maintenance over the summer.

All instruments that are not school instruments need to be taken home for the summer. It will be a good idea to get them out every few weeks to keep valves and slides moving.

Washington D.C. 2016 –

We hope to return to Washington D.C. during Spring Break in 2016. The trip will include our present 6th graders and incoming 5th graders. It isn’t too early to start saving. Setting aside $25 dollars a month will generate most of what you will need for the trip in 23 months. If you start saving this month you will have $100 saved for the trip when you add the $25 in August  to your trip fund at home.

Fundraising –

A few students have fundraising money out. We need to wrap those projects up before school lets out for the summer.

Have a great Memorial Day Weekend!

May 16, 2014

Posted: May 16, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

Congratulations 7th and 8th Grade Bands –

I would like to congratulate our 7th and 8th Grade Bands on a great concert performance. The concert bands tackled some difficult music and the inaugural BMS Jazz Band had an awesome first performance. I am very proud of the effort and dedication displayed by so many of our band students. It was a terrific night and a fitting way to end another fantastic year.

Congratulations to Corbin Bushey –

A big congratulations goes out to Corbin Bushey for receiving the “Director’s Award” for 2014. This award is given to just one 8th grade band student each year and Corbin was this year’s recipient. The award acknowledges a year’s worth of outstanding effort inside and outside the band building.

2014-15 Beginning Band Approaching 100 Members –

Next year’s beginning band continues to grow as more forms arrive. Share this link: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info/, if you know someone who needs a form and would like to sign up. They can also email me at bergere@nlcs.k12.in.us.

It was a pleasure to meet several band parents at the Paige’s Instrument Display last night at BMS. I always enjoy the opportunity to meet parents and the chance to get to know them. I was able to spend a lot of time with our band parents as a high school director years ago. Those opportunities don’t present themselves as much at the middle school level. 

Paige’s Music will have another Instrument Display and opportunity to rent an instrument from them in August. You can also rent online at www.paigesmusiccom at your convenience. Drop me an email anytime and I can confirm the instrument your child should line up for next fall.

There will be more used instruments (that look brand new) available to rent now than what will be available in the fall. Anything rented this summer will be delivered by Paige’s to BMS for the start of school. Here is direct link to the Paige’s Music rental page: https://secure.paigesmusic.com/rentals/. Locate Bedford MS on the list of schools to start the process. You can also call Paige’s to see what other special offers may be available.

Indianapolis 500 Rehearsals –

The Indianapolis 500 rehearsals begin for everyone next week. The band will rehearse on Tuesday, May 20 from 6 – 8 pm and again on Saturday, May 24 from 9 – 11 am. These rehearsals are crucial to the success of the band’s performance.

Here is a link to more information and a schedule from Mr. Jones: https://bedfordmsband.com/indianapolis-500-performance-info/

Year End Instrument Thoughts –

Paige’s customers may want to send instruments in for maintenance and cleaning. It is a free service if you have the maintenance agreement . You can call Paige’s at 1-800-337-0471 to arrange an instrument pick-up, ask any questions or request a loaner. Paige’s can then ship the instrument back to you or deliver it to BNL or BMS.

Some that rented at Melody Music in Bloomington for the school year may have a return date coming up soon. Also note that Melody Music Shop has moved to a new location.

School instruments will be sent in for cleaning and maintenance over the summer.

All instruments that are not school instruments need to be taken home for the summer. It will be a good idea to get them out every few weeks to keep valves and slides moving.

Fundraising –

A few students have fundraising money out. We need to wrap those projects up before school lets out for the summer.

Have a great week!

 

May 9, 2013

Posted: May 9, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

7th & 8th Grade Concert –

The remaining concert for the band program is on May 13. The 7th and 8th grade bands will present a spring concert featuring all four 7th and 8th grade concert bands and our Jazz Ensemble. The concert will begin with the 7th Grade Bands at 7:00 pm in the BMS Schafer Auditorium. The concert is free and all are welcome to come out and hear our 7th and 8th graders.

The 7th Grade Band members should report to Schafer Auditorium at 6:30 and be seated on stage by 6:40. They will begin at 7:00 and play for about 45 minutes.

The Jazz Ensemble members should be backstage around 7:35 and be ready to adjust the stage after the 7th grade bands perform.

The 8th Grade Band members should arrive by 7:50 and quietly wait backstage until the Jazz Ensemble finishes. They may sit out in the audience until the Jazz Ensemble finishes if they would like to hear them.

The performance flow of the evening will be 7th Grade Bands at 7:00, Jazz Ensemble at approximately 7:45, and 8th Grade Bands at approximately 8:00.

500 Festival Drumline –

The 8th grade percussionists performing in the drumline at the Indianapolis 500 will resume rehearsals next week. The percussionists need to be at these rehearsals if they are planning to participate at the race. The rehearsals will be on Monday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the BNL Band Room. Entrance #33. Make sure to wear tennis shoes and socks. Equipment will be at BNL.

Indy 500 Race Day Performance –

The 8th grade band has been invited to perform with the BNL Marching Stars at the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, May 25. We have been discussing this special event in class and have over 80 BMS Band students interested in participating. More information will be shared as it is received, but here are a few items that have been confirmed.

The students will wear matching shirts designed for the occasion (cost $8) with tan shorts and mostly white tennis shoes. BMS students can make shirt checks out to BMS Band. The trip will cost $8 (shirt) and any amount you may want to bring for your own extra concessions and souvenirs.

The Full Band and Drumline will rehearse together at BNL from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday May 20 and on Friday May 23.

The motor speedway will provide a box lunch and drink for the kids. They will also provide admission for the kids to enjoy the race after performing.

We will be marching around the race track before the pre-race festivities begin.

We will leave very early Sunday morning, stay for the race and then return home. Mr. Gales has offered to provide a church service Saturday night at the Community Baptist Fellowship on Hwy 58 near BNL for those interested.

Times and logistics will be passed on after they are received from the raceway.

Elementary School Visits Have Wrapped Up –

I enjoyed visiting our elementary schools and talking to the 5th graders. It was a great time to talk about signing up for band and I had the chance to show them some of the band instruments and talk about our program. Here is a link to the beginning band sign up form: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info?. We have a lot to offer here at BMS and the band program is a great way to get involved in our school. These forms can still be dropped off at the BMS office. 

Melody Music Shop Rentals –

I received an email from Wilbur Price at Melody Music Shop this week with some exciting news. Melody Music Shop in Bloomington has moved to a newly expanded facility and is located at 1355 W Bloomfield Rd Ste 1 at the intersection of 2nd St. and Landmark Ave. Wilbur has very reasonable rates for renting instruments. He has increased the inventory and is ready to meet our student needs. Those that are returning instruments for the summer should take note of the new location.

The website is www.melodymusicshop.com.

Paige’s Music Display on Thursday, May 15

Paige’s music will conduct an instrument display at Schafer Auditorium on Thursday, May 15. Feel free to stop by any time between 6:00 and 7:30 pm. You will have a chance to look over instruments, talk with Paige’s Music representatives, and even rent an instrument that evening. Feel free to visit the Paige’s Music Website at: https://www.paigesmusic.com/paiges/run?id=6. All current band students and prospective band students are welcome.

Have a great week!

May 2, 2014

Posted: May 2, 2014 in Uncategorized

Indy 500 Race Day Performance –

The 8th grade band has been invited to perform with the BNL Marching Stars at the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, May 25. We have been discussing this special event in class and have over 80 BMS Band students interested in participating. More information will be shared as it is received, but here are a few items that have been confirmed.

The students will wear matching shirts designed for the occasion (cost $8) with tan shorts and mostly white tennis shoes. BMS students can make shirt checks out to BMS Band. The trip will cost $8 (shirt) and any amount you may want to bring for your own extra concessions and souvenirs.

The Full Band and Drumline will rehearse together at BNL from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday May 20 and on Friday May 23.

The motor speedway will provide a box lunch and drink for the kids. They will also provide admission for the kids to enjoy the race after performing.

We will be marching around the race track before the pre-race festivities begin.

We will leave very early Sunday morning, stay for the race and then return home. Mr. Gales has offered to provide a church service Saturday night at the Community Baptist Fellowship on Hwy 58 near BNL for those interested.

Times and logistics will be passed on after they are received from the raceway.

Elementary School Visits Have Wrapped Up –

I enjoyed visiting our elementary schools and talking to the 5th graders. It was a great time to talk about signing up for band and I had the chance to show them some of the band instruments and talk about our program. Here is a link to the beginning band sign up form: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info?. We have a lot to offer here at BMS and the band program is a great way to get involved in our school. These forms can still be dropped off at the BMS office. 

Butter Braid Money Due –

The butter braids arrived on Tuesday, March 18. We are now in the process of delivering the butter braids and collecting payments. We would like to wrap up the project and have the money turned in as soon as you can.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

Upcoming 7th & 8th Grade Concert –

The remaining concert for the band program is on May 13. The 7th and 8th grade bands will present a spring concert featuring all four 7th and 8th grade concert bands. The concert will begin at 7:00 pm in BMS Schafer Auditorium. The concert is free and all are welcome to come out and hear our 7th and 8th graders.

Melody Music Shop Rentals –

I received an email from Wilbur Price at Melody Music Shop this week with some exciting news. Melody Music Shop in Bloomington has moved to a newly expanded facility and is located at 1355 W Bloomfield Rd Ste 1 at the intersection of 2nd St. and Landmark Ave. Wilbur has very reasonable rates for renting instruments. He has increased the inventory and is ready to meet our student needs. Those that are returning instruments for the summer should take note of the new location.

The website is www.melodymusicshop.com.

Paige’s Music Display on Thursday, May 15

Paige’s music will conduct an instrument display at Schafer Auditorium on Thursday, May 15. Feel free to stop by any time between 6:00 and 7:30 pm. You will have a chance to look over instruments, talk with Paige’s Music representatives, and even rent an instrument that evening. Feel free to visit the Paige’s Music Website at: https://www.paigesmusic.com/paiges/run?id=6. All current band students and prospective band students are welcome.

Have a great week!

April 25, 2014

Posted: April 25, 2014 in Uncategorized

Elementary School Visits Have Wrapped Up –

I enjoyed visiting our elementary schools and talking to the 5th graders. It was a great time to talk about signing up for band and I had the chance to show them some of the band instruments and talk about our program. Here is a link to the beginning band sign up form: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info?. We have a lot to offer here at BMS and the band program is a great way to get involved in our school. I also received a helpful link to information about selecting instruments and locating instruments. Here is that link:  http://conn-selmer.com/en-us/parents/. These forms can still be dropped off at the BMS office. 

Butter Braid Money Due –

The butter braids arrived on Tuesday, March 18. We are now in the process of delivering the butter braids and collecting payments. We would like to wrap up the project and have the money turned in as soon as you can.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

500 Festival Drumline –

The 8th grade percussionists performing in the drumline at the Indianapolis 500 have started rehearsals. The rehearsals are on Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the BNL Band Room. Entrance #33. Make sure to wear tennis shoes and socks. Equipment will be at BNL.

Upcoming 7th & 8th Grade Concert –

The remaining concert for the band program is on May 13. The 7th and 8th grade bands will present a spring concert featuring all four 7th and 8th grade concert bands. The concert will begin at 7:00 pm in BMS Schafer Auditorium. The concert is free and all are welcome to come out and hear our 7th and 8th graders.

Melody Music Shop Rentals –

I received an email from Wilbur Price at Melody Music Shop this week with some exciting news. Melody Music Shop in Bloomington has moved to a newly expanded facility and is located at 1355 W Bloomfield Rd Ste 1 at the intersection of 2nd St. and Landmark Ave. Wilbur has very reasonable rates for renting instruments. He has increased the inventory and is ready to meet our student needs. Those that are returning instruments for the summer should take note of the new location.

The website is www.melodymusicshop.com.

Paige’s Music Display on Thursday, May 15

Paige’s music will conduct an instrument display at Schafer Auditorium on Thursday, May 15. Feel free to stop by any time between 6:00 and 7:30 pm. You will have a chance to look over instruments, talk with Paige’s Music representatives, and even rent an instrument that evening. Feel free to visit the Paige’s Music Website at: https://www.paigesmusic.com/paiges/run?id=6. All current band students and prospective band students are welcome.

Have a great week!

April 18, 2014

Posted: April 18, 2014 in Uncategorized

Annual Big Splash Trip on Tuesday, April 22 –

I have been so impressed with our bands. Our next event is a trip to the Big Splash Water Park to reward the band students for playing at the concerts and rehearsing so well. The cost is $25 and it covers supper at the water-park, swimming and buses. Everyone that participated in either the fall cookie dough fundraiser or the spring butter braid fundraiser can deduct $5 from the cost for helping with the fundraiser and pay just $20. We hope to leave at 4:00 pm and return around 9:00 pm on Tuesday, Apr. 22. We are going on a week night in order to rent out the entire facility for just the BMS Band Dept. We will be only people in the water park, along with the Big Splash lifeguards and staff. Here is a link to more information and a permission form: https://bedfordmsband.com/big-splash-info-2013/. The permission form and fee were due to the band office by Friday, April 18.

Congratulations Blue Band Members –

Congratulations to five of our current 8th grade band members for being selected for the top concert band at BNL. It is quite and honor and accomplishment to be selected to perform with this advanced group as a freshman. The students selected are Jenna Lane (flute), Sarah Lowery (french horn), Zach Maudlin (french horn), Calab Long (trombone), and Corbin Bushey (percussion).

Elementary School Visits Are Underway –

I have started my yearly visits to the elementary schools to see the 5th graders. It has been a great time to talk about signing up for band. Here is a link to the beginning band sign up form: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info/. We have a lot to offer here at BMS and the band program is a great way to get involved in our school.

Butter Braid Money Due –

The butter braids arrived on Tuesday, March 18. We are now in the process of delivering the butter braids and collecting payments. We would like to wrap up the project and have the money turned in as soon as you can.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

500 Festival Drumline –

The 8th grade percussionists performing in the drumline at the Indianapolis 500 will begin rehearsals next week. The rehearsals will be on Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the BNL Band Room. Entrance #33. Make sure to wear tennis shoes and socks. Equipment will be at BNL.

Upcoming 7th & 8th Grade Concert –

The remaining concert for the band program is on May 13. The 7th and 8th grade bands will present a spring concert featuring all four 7th and 8th grade concert bands. The concert will begin at 7:00 pm in the BMS Schafer Auditorium. The concert is free and all are welcome to come out and hear our 7th and 8th graders.

Paige’s Music Display on Thursday, May 15

Paige’s music will conduct an instrument display at Schafer Auditorium on Thursday, May 15. Feel free to stop by any time between 6:00 and 7:30 pm. You will have a chance to look over instruments, talk with Paige’s Music representatives, and even rent an instrument that evening. Feel free to visit the Paige’s Music Website at: https://www.paigesmusic.com/paiges/run?id=6. All current band students and prospective band students are welcome.

Have a wonderful Easter!

April 11, 2014

Posted: April 11, 2014 in Uncategorized

Congratulations 6th Grade Band –

Congratulations to the 6th grade bands on a great performance at this year’s Fine Arts Festival. I am very proud of the tremendous effort and show of support on Tuesday night. CD’s of the performance can be purchased for $5. The students can simply bring the form or a note and money to the band building.

Annual Big Splash Trip on Tuesday, April 22 –

I have been so impressed with our bands. Our next event is a trip to the Big Splash Water Park to reward the band students for playing at the concerts and rehearsing so well. The cost is $25 and it covers supper at the water-park, swimming and buses. Everyone that participated in either the fall cookie dough fundraiser or the spring butter braid fundraiser can deduct $5 from the cost for helping with the fundraiser and pay just $20. We hope to leave at 4:00 pm and return around 9:00 pm on Tuesday, Apr. 22. We are going on a week night in order to rent out the entire facility for just the BMS Band Dept. We will be only people in the water park, along with the Big Splash lifeguards and staff. Here is a link to more information and a permission form: https://bedfordmsband.com/big-splash-info-2013/. The permission form and fee are due to the band office by Friday, April 18.

Elementary School Visits Are Underway –

I have started my yearly visits to the elementary schools to see the 5th graders. It has been a great time to talk about signing up for band. Here is a link to the beginning band sign up form: https://bedfordmsband.com/beginning-band-sign-up-info/. We have a lot to offer here at BMS and the band program is a great way to get involved in our school.

Butter Braid Money Due –

The butter braids arrived on Tuesday, March 18. We are now in the process of delivering the butter braids and collecting payments. We would like to wrap up the project and have the money turned in as soon as you can.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

BNL Winter Guard Auditions Underway-

Auditions for next year’s Color Guard have started. Current BNL students and 8th graders will be eligible. All rehearsals are at BNL. If you have any questions feel free to contact our Color Guard Director, Lori Elkins, at 583-2984

Audition Night – April 14 5:30 – 8:00 pm

BNL Jazz Ensemble Auditions –

The BNL Jazz Ensemble audition materials are available. 8th grade students can take advantage of many opportunities to receive help with the audition material. Students can stay after school or come to the band building during advisor time on Wednesdays when I am available to help. There are also great private lesson opportunities available through our program here at BMS. We’ve got some very strong candidates and the process is upon us. There is more information and a form that needs signed available at the band office. Good luck!

Upcoming 7th & 8th Grade Concert –

The remaining concert for the band program is on May 13. The 7th and 8th grade bands will present a spring concert featuring all four 7th and 8th grade concert bands. The concert will begin at 7:00 pm in the BMS Schafer Auditorium. The concert is free and all are welcome to come out and hear our 7th and 8th graders.

Have a great week!

April 4, 2014

Posted: April 4, 2014 in Uncategorized

6th Grade Band Fine Arts Festival April 8 –

I am excited to announce the 6th Grade Band will be combined with the bands from Shawswick and Oolitic to perform at this year’s NLCS Fine Arts Festival. The festival will be at the BNL Performing Arts Center from April 7th  to 10th .

The 6th grade band will perform on Tuesday, April 8. The students will ride buses to BNL the morning of the performance to rehearse together for the concert that night.  That night the students will report to BNL at 6:30 pm to prepare for the concert at 7 pm wearing the orange festival shirt and blue jeans. Permission forms and shirts were passed out in class. Here is a link to the information and form: https://bedfordmsband.com/6th-grade-fine-arts-festival-information/. These forms and fee were due on March 12.

Butter Braids Arrived Tues. March 18 –

The butter braids on Tuesday, March 18. We are now in the process of delivering the butter braids and collecting payments. We would like to wrap up the project and have the money turned in soon.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

BNL Winter Guard Auditions Underway-

Auditions begin for next year’s Color Guard begin have started. Current BNL students and 8th graders will be eligible. All rehearsals are at BNL. If you have any questions feel free to contact our Color Guard Director, Lori Elkins, at 583-2984

Dates to learn basic skills – April 8 from 5:30 – 8:00 pm

Learn Audition Routine – April 10 5:30 – 8:00 pm

Audition Night – April 14 5:30 – 8:00 pm

BNL Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble Auditions –

The BNL Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble audition materials are available. 8th grade students can take advantage of many opportunities to receive help with the audition material. Students can stay after school or come to the band building during advisor time when I am available to get some help. There are also great private lesson opportunities available through our program here at BMS. We’ve got some very strong candidates and the process is upon us. There is more information and a form that needs signed available at the band office. Students do not need to audition for the White Band (freshman band), the Red Band or the Marching Band. Good luck!

Private Lessons Becoming Popular and Expanding –

I have offered free help after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few students and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are at the band building and what they are working on. These free help sessions are great, but they don’t replace a true weekly lesson. I know I was fortunate to take lessons in middle school when I was much younger and I am sure many of our band parents benefited from private lessons too. Private lessons help struggling students catch up, advanced students find challenges, and the average student continue to improve. All our students would benefit from private lessons. I will continue to offer free help sessions, but I would encourage students to develop the habit of practicing regularly and taking lessons.

These lessons will be offered from trained music teachers with years of experience. If you would be interested in having a child participate in lessons just drop me an email or leave a voice message on our BMS voice mail. (extension 11506). The cost will range from  $5 to $15 a half hour.

Weather has really disrupted our usual flow and has caused delays and cancellations over the past few weeks. Schedules should become more consistent with the arrival of Spring.

Percussion Lessons –

Mr. Jones has percussion lessons available after school on Thursdays. Percussion students are starting to take advantage of this great opportunity. Contact the band office if you are interested in advancing your percussion skills and performance opportunities.

Flute Lessons –

Mrs. Jones is offering flute lessons at BMS after school on Thursdays. She also offers flute lessons at BNL (Mondays and Tuesdays) and at Oolitic MS (Fridays). The cost is $5 for 30 minutes. Mrs. Jones has been teaching flute for 20 years and has a music education degree form Ball State University. Please contact the band office if you are interested in taking lessons or participating in a flute choir. A letter to our flute students from Mrs. Jones was sent home with our flute students detailing more information and a sign up form.

North Lawrence Flute Choir Message –

Flute Choir will meet next Wednesday April 9 in the BNL band room from 4-5:00pm. Anyone in grades 7-12 is welcome to join us as we work on improving flute technique and have fun playing music written just for flutes. If there is enough interest and participation in the flute choir we will play on the high school band spring concert on May 4. I am realizing that most of the flute players are also involved in spring sports, so if flute choir doesn’t work out this semester, I will try again in the fall after marching band is over. I am also beginning to put together my lesson schedule for the rest of this semester and this summer. I plan to teach on Mondays and Tuesdays this summer. If any flute players would like to take lessons, please feel free to contact me at Jonesh@nlcs.k12.in.us.

Thanks!

Heather Jones

Alto Sax Lessons –

We have a BNL high school student interested in offering 30 minute alto sax lessons to students for $5. If interested please contact the band building at 279-9781 ext 11506.

Oboe Lessons –

We have a BNL high school student interested in offering 30 minute oboe lessons to students for $5. If interested please contact the band building at 279-9781 ext 11506.

Have a great week!

March 21, 2014

Posted: March 21, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

Butter Braids Arrived Tues. March 18 –

The butter braids arrived at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 18. We are now in the process of delivering the butter braids and collecting payments. We would like to wrap up the project and have the money turned in by Friday, March 28.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

Washington DC trip Update –

The rehearsals have come to and end and final packing is underway. The band will meet at 6:00 am instead of 5:30 am on Monday to begin loading the charter buses for the trip. I plan to arrive around 5:30 am and we hope to pull away from BMS around 6:30 am. We’ll need to be careful about how we park when we arrive that morning so the buses can enter from N street and pull along the sidewalk by the auditorium. This will allow us to load the coaches safely.

Here is a note from our travel company.

Dear Bedford Trip Participants:

In reviewing the trip itinerary with the motor coach company and to better accommodate all of our travel needs we will be meeting at the school at 6am now.  Therefore, everyone will get an extra ½ hour to sleep on Monday morning!  The new departure schedule is below.

 6:00am                 Load the Coaches

6:30am                 Depart for Washington D.C. 

Thank you so much for your flexibility.  Have a great day.

We will try to stream the Tuesday morning concert around 10:30 am using Ustream. Our band site is: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/bedford-ms-band. Use can also use the Ustream app to watch the performance. Just search for Bedford MS Band.

Be sure to get a copy of the Times Mail and read about the band’s trip. A big thank you goes out to the staff at the Times Mail for the help and coverage. It is greatly appreciated and very nice of the paper to cover this exciting trip for the kids.

6th Grade Band Fine Arts Festival April 8 –

I am excited to announce the 6th Grade Band will be combined with the bands from Shawswick and Oolitic to perform at this year’s NLCS Fine Arts Festival. The festival will be at the BNL Performing Arts Center from April 7th  to 10th .

The 6th grade band will perform on Tuesday, April 8. The students will ride buses to BNL the morning of the performance to rehearse together for the concert that night.  That night the students will report to BNL at 6:30 pm to prepare for the concert at 7 pm. Permission forms and information were passed out in class. Here is a link to the information and form: https://bedfordmsband.com/6th-grade-fine-arts-festival-information/. These forms and fee were due on March 12.

Congratulations to the Varsity BNL Winter Guard –

We would like to congratulate the BNL Varsity Winter Guard on finishing 5th at the IHSCGA Class AA State Championships last weekend. Auditions begin for next year’s Color Guard begin after spring break. Current 8th graders will be eligible. All rehearsals are at BNL. If you have any questions feel free to contact our Color Guard Director, Lori Elkins, at 583-2984

Dates to learn basic skills – April 1, April 3 and April 8 from 5:30 – 8:00 pm

Learn Audition Routine – April 10 5:30 – 8:00 pm

Audition Night – April 14 5:30 – 8:00 pm

BNL Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble Auditions Are Underway –

The BNL Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble audition materials are available. 8th grade students can take advantage of many opportunities to receive help with the audition material. Students can stay after school or come to the band building during advisor time when I am available to get some help. There are also great private lesson opportunities available through our program here at BMS. We’ve got some very strong candidates and the process is upon us. There is more information and a form that needs signed available at the band office. Students do not need to audition for the White Band (freshman band), the Red Band or the Marching Band. Good luck!

Private Lessons Becoming Popular and Expanding –

I have offered free help after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few students and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are at the band building and what they are working on. These free help sessions are great, but they don’t replace a true weekly lesson. I know I was fortunate to take lessons in middle school when I was much younger and I am sure many of our band parents benefited from private lessons too. Private lessons help struggling students catch up, advanced students find challenges, and the average student continue to improve. All our students would benefit from private lessons. I will continue to offer free help sessions, but I would encourage students to develop the habit of practicing regularly and taking lessons.

These lessons will be offered from trained music teachers with years of experience. If you would be interested in having a child participate in lessons just drop me an email or leave a voice message on our BMS voice mail. (extension 11506). The cost will range from  $5 to $15 a half hour.

Weather has really disrupted our usual flow and has caused delays and cancellations over the past few weeks. Schedules should become more consistent with the arrival of Spring.

Percussion Lessons –

Mr. Jones has percussion lessons available after school on Thursdays. Percussion students are starting to take advantage of this great opportunity. Contact the band office if you are interested in advancing your percussion skills and performance opportunities.

Flute Lessons –

Mrs. Jones is offering flute lessons at BMS after school on Thursdays. She also offers flute lessons at BNL (Mondays and Tuesdays) and at Oolitic MS (Fridays). The cost is $5 for 30 minutes. Mrs. Jones has been teaching flute for 20 years and has a music education degree form Ball State University. Please contact the band office if you are interested in taking lessons or participating in a flute choir. A letter to our flute students from Mrs. Jones was sent home with our flute students detailing more information and a sign up form.

Alto Sax Lessons –

We have a BNL high school student interested in offering 30 minute alto sax lessons to students for $5. If interested please contact the band building at 279-9781 ext 11506.

Oboe Lessons –

We have a BNL high school student interested in offering 30 minute oboe lessons to students for $5. If interested please contact the band building at 279-9781 ext 11506.

Have a great spring break!

 

March 14, 2014

Posted: March 14, 2014 in Uncategorized

Butter Braids Arrive Tues. March 18 –

The butter braids are arriving at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 18. It will take a little time to unload the truck and organize everything in the band building. Students can pick up orders at the end of the school day or parents may return before 8:00 pm that night to pick up the orders. The students will need to deliver these right away or put them in a freezer until they can be delivered.

I can’t begin to express how appreciative I am for all that participated. The support was tremendous and the kids will benefit from all the hard work. Thank you for all your help and dedication.

Washington DC trip Update –

The band will rehearse after school next week on Monday until 5:00 pm and on Tuesday from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. I will also have a short meeting with our trip chaperones after rehearsal on Tuesday in the auditorium. There will not be a rehearsal on Wednesday or Friday. We will present a concert on Thursday, March 20 at 7:00 pm in Schafer Auditorium to perform the music being played in Washington D.C. for family and friends to hear.

I’m really excited about this trip and the band couldn’t be more balanced. The instrumentation is ideal and the kids seem to have a pretty good grasp of the parts. Now is when we are making music of all those notes and rhythms. These rehearsals are crucial to the success of our performance.

6th Grade Band Fine Arts Festival April 8 –

I am excited to announce the 6th Grade Band will be combined with the bands from Shawswick and Oolitic to perform at this year’s NLCS Fine Arts Festival. The festival will be at the BNL Performing Arts Center from April 7th  to 10th .

The 6th grade band will perform on Tuesday, April 8. The students will ride buses to BNL the morning of the performance to rehearse together for the concert that night.  That night the students will report to BNL at 6:30 pm to prepare for the concert at 7 pm. Permission forms and information were passed out in class. Here is a link to the information and form: https://bedfordmsband.com/6th-grade-fine-arts-festival-information/. These forms and fee were due on March 12.

BNL Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble Auditions  –

The BNL Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble audition materials are available. 8th grade students can take advantage of many opportunities to receive help with the audition material. Students can stay after school or come to the band building during advisor time when I am available to get some help. There are also great private lesson opportunities available through our program here at BMS. We’ve got some very strong candidates and the process is upon us. There is more information and a form that needs signed available at the band office. Students do not need to audition for the White Band (freshman band), the Red Band or the Marching Band. Good luck!

Private Lessons Becoming Popular and Expanding –

I have offered free help after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few students and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are at the band building and what they are working on. These free help sessions are great, but they don’t replace a true weekly lesson. I know I was fortunate to take lessons in middle school when I was much younger and I am sure many of our band parents benefited from private lessons too. Private lessons help struggling students catch up, advanced students find challenges, and the average student continue to improve. All our students would benefit from private lessons. I will continue to offer free help sessions, but I would encourage students to develop the habit of practicing regularly and taking lessons.

These lessons will be offered from trained music teachers with years of experience. If you would be interested in having a child participate in lessons just drop me an email or leave a voice message on our BMS voice mail. (extension 11506). The cost will range from  $5 to $15 a half hour.

Weather has really disrupted our usual flow and has caused delays and cancellations over the past few weeks. Schedules should become more consistent with the arrival of Spring.

Percussion Lessons –

Mr. Jones has percussion lessons available after school on Thursdays. Percussion students are starting to take advantage of this great opportunity. Contact the band office if you are interested in advancing your percussion skills and performance opportunities.

Flute Lessons –

Mrs. Jones is offering flute lessons at BMS after school on Thursdays. She also offers flute lessons at BNL (Mondays and Tuesdays) and at Oolitic MS (Fridays). The cost is $5 for 30 minutes. Mrs. Jones has been teaching flute for 20 years and has a music education degree form Ball State University. Please contact the band office if you are interested in taking lessons or participating in a flute choir. A letter to our flute students from Mrs. Jones was sent home with our flute students detailing more information and a sign up form.

Alto Sax Lessons –

We have a BNL high school student interested in offering 30 minute alto sax lessons to students for $5. If interested please contact the band building at 279-9781 ext 11506.

Oboe Lessons –

We have a BNL high school student interested in offering 30 minute oboe lessons to students for $5. If interested please contact the band building at 279-9781 ext 11506.

After School Help and Open Band Practice Time –

I will be directing several band rehearsals the next few weeks after school and in the evenings to prepare for the Washington D.C. trip. Times can be scheduled with me around these rehearsals to receive extra help by calling me at 279-9781 (ext. 11506), emailing me at school, or just simply having your child ask me for available times.

Have a great week!

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