March 7, 2014

Posted: March 7, 2014 in Uncategorized

Washington DC trip Update –

The rehearsals have started and will lead up to trip. The band rehearses after school on Mondays and Fridays until 5:00 pm and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. There will not be any rehearsals on Wednesdays.

We will have a trip meeting for parents to attend on March 13th at 8:00 pm to receive final itineraries and luggage tags. We will also present a concert on 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 will begin 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 this week in class. Here is a link to the information and form: https://bedfordmsband.com/6th-grade-fine-arts-festival-information/. These forms and fee are due back by 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.

NLCS Flute Choir to Begin –

The first meeting of the NLCS Flute Choir will take place on Wednesday, March 12 at 3:45 in the BNL band room. All flute players from NLCS are welcome and encouraged to attend and participate. The flute choir will be under the direction of Mrs. Heather Jones and will offer great insight to improving as a flautist and provide the opportunity to perform some great flute literature.

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.

Good Luck to the Lady Stars –

We would like to wish the BNL Basketball Lady Stars the best of luck this weekend in the State Championship Game. It wasn’t too long ago some of them were sitting in the band building playing in the BMS band.

Moments come along in life that define us. We hopefully live our lives and work hard to be ready when the moments arrive. This is one of many moments in life to come. The players and coaches have worked hard to prepare for this. Grab the moment and bring the title back to BNL. We are all very proud of you and say, “Good Luck.”

Have a great week!

February 28, 2014

Posted: February 28, 2014 in Uncategorized

Annual Butter Braid Sale Has Ended –

The Annual Butter Braid Sale has come to an end and the forms were due Tuesday, Feb. 25.  The delivery is set for Tuesday March 18.  There is also a chance for sellers to earn a $1000 scholarship.

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!

Washington DC trip Update –

The final trip preparation is building as the month March arrives. Students have been preparing music for our upcoming full ensemble rehearsals, parents have been making payments, and final trip plans are lining up. Trip lists and times are being finalized and printed. Final billing notices with remaining balances based on the number of participants and roommates should be sent out soon.

The upcoming full ensemble rehearsals are crucial to the success of our trip performance. We have students from four different bands coming together to perform 12 pieces of music. These rehearsals will be needed to prepare the kids to perform together as a cohesive ensemble and not just a bunch of band kids playing some music together. We have been discussing these upcoming rehearsals in class and how important it is for the kids to be prepared and in attendance.

The rehearsals will begin in March and lead up to our trip. The band will rehearse after school on Mondays and Fridays until 5:00 pm and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. There will not be any rehearsals on Wednesdays.

We will have a trip meeting for parents to attend on March 13th to receive final itineraries and luggage tags. We will also present a concert on 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 will begin making music of all those notes and rhythms. We may even be able to cut a few rehearsals if things fall into place quickly.

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 more information will be passed out this week in class. Here is a link to the information and form: https://bedfordmsband.com/6th-grade-fine-arts-festival-information/

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.

Percussion Lessons –

Mr. Jones will have 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 will be 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. She is a wonderful flute teacher and is also thinking about starting a NLCS Flute Choir. Lots of exciting things for our flute players to take advantage of.

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!

 

February 21, 2014

Posted: February 21, 2014 in Uncategorized

Annual Butter Braid Sale Ends Tuesday, Feb. 25 –

The Annual Butter Braid Sale is coming to an end next week. The forms need to be filled out, totaled up, and returned by Tuesday, Feb. 25. The kids are not required to participate, but if we could get participants to just sell 3 – 4 butter braids we will have a tremendous sale. It takes a lot of resources to keep a program of nearly 300 operating and this sale is a big part of meeting that need.

The sale runs from Feb. 12 to Feb. 25. The delivery is set for Tuesday March 18.  There is also a chance for sellers to earn a $1000 scholarship.

8th Grade Tubing on Feb. 28 –

The 8th grade tubing trip to Paoli Peaks will be after school on Friday, Feb. 28th. The 8th grade band members look forward to this trip every year and we have a great time.  The fee is $30 to cover tubing costs, pizza after school, and bus transportation. Students that sold the cookie dough fundraiser in the fall pay $20. Parents will need to fill out, initial the arrows, and sign the Paoli Peaks tubing release form. The release form can be found at http://paoli.peakresorts.com/cmsfiles/file/Tubing%20Release%20Form.pdf

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 Available –

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.

Percussion Lessons –

Mr. Jones will have 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 will be 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. She is a wonderful flute teacher and is also thinking about starting a NLCS Flute Choir. Lots of exciting things for our flute players to take advantage of.

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.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

A Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for students wanting to raise some funds for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. This opportunity will be available for one more week.

After School Help and Open Band Practice Time –

I am available many days after school to help students with music. The focus right now is directed toward the students participating in the Washington D.C. trip and on our 6th graders. I will be available after school on Tuesday 2-24 for as long as students are staying for help. This will be the last help session before the rehearsals begin for the trip in March. Washington D.C. trip participants are expected to be able to play all the music before rehearsals begin and many are putting this off. These March rehearsals are used to combine the music from the 4 participating bands.

Have a great week!

February 14, 2014

Posted: February 15, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

Annual Butter Braid Sale Started Feb. 12 –

Butter Braid time has rolled around again. This band fundraiser is the most anticipated and profitable fundraiser of the year. People are always asking when this sale begins. The kids are not required to participate, but if we could get participants to just sell 3 – 4 butter braids we will have a tremendous sale. It takes a lot of resources to keep a program of nearly 300 operating and this sale is a big part of meeting that need.

The sale will run from Feb. 12 to Feb. 25. The delivery is set for Tuesday March 18.  There is also a chance for sellers to earn a $1000 scholarship.

Congratulations To Our Solo & Ensemble Participants –

Some of our 7th and 8th grade band members participated in the ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival and I am so proud of them all. Our students combined to bring home 12 Gold Medals and 2 Silver Medals last Saturday.

Band Pictures Taken On Monday Feb. 10 –

Any students still wishing to order band pictures need to turn in the picture form and money to the band office to receive a picture. Extra forms are available in the band office. A big thank you goes out to Mr. Holle for working around all the delays and weather conditions to take our picture.

8th Grade Tubing on Feb. 28 –

The 8th grade tubing trip to Paoli Peaks will be after school on Friday, Feb. 28th. The 8th grade band members look forward to this trip every year and we have a great time.  The fee is $30 to cover tubing costs, pizza after school, and bus transportation. Students that sold the cookie dough fundraiser in the fall pay $20. Parents will need to fill out, initial the arrows, and sign the Paoli Peaks tubing release form. The release form can be found at http://paoli.peakresorts.com/cmsfiles/file/Tubing%20Release%20Form.pdf

8th Grade Band Signing Up For BNL Bands –

The 8th grade band members will begin the process of signing up for high school classes soon. We have a lot of talent in the 8th grade and I hope they continue playing in the BNL Bands. They have a lot of requirements to fulfill for various diplomas and have received a lot of information. I encourage parents to take some time and look at the college admission requirements online for themselves. I found it very enlightening when my son was preparing for college. It also relieved some of the fear, stress and worry about the scheduling.

Mr. Jones provided a lot of great information at last week’s BNL Band orientation in Schafer Auditorium. He provided information on the marching band’s trip to Disney next fall, audition music for the BNL Blue Band and Jazz ensemble, fundraising information, and sample high school class schedules.

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. Make sure to have the permission form signed and returned for the audition. There is more information and the form that needs signed is 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 Available –

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.

Percussion Lessons –

Mr. Jones will have 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 will be 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. She is a wonderful flute teacher and is also thinking about starting a NLCS Flute Choir. Lots of exciting things for our flute players to take advantage of.

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.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

A Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for students wanting to raise some funds for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. This opportunity will be available through Feb.

After School Help and Open Band Practice Time –

I am available many days after school to help students with music, unfortunately I won’t be able to stay after school the week of Feb. 17.  Times will start again the week of Feb. 24.

Have a great week!

February 7, 2014

Posted: February 7, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

Our Annual Butter Braids Sale Begins Feb. 12 –

Butter Braid time has rolled around again. This band fundraiser is our most anticipated and profitable fundraiser and starts in early Feb each year. The orders will be due back on Feb. 25 and the butter braids are set to be delivered on Tuesday, March 18. There is also a chance for sellers to earn a $1000 scholarship.

Good Luck to Our Solo & Ensemble Participants –

Some of our 7th and 8th grade band members have signed up for the ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival and I wish them the best of luck. The festival will be held at Bloomington North HS on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014. Any cancellation announcements will be aired on 103.7 (WFIU) and posted on the Bloomington North Band website (www.bhsnbands.com).

The performers had the opportunity to rehearse with our accompanist and take private lessons to prepare for the event.  They have done a great job preparing and all have grown as musicians.

Everyone has been given the performance times and locations and I look forward to seeing you at the festival. Have a safe trip to Bloomington and good luck on a fantastic performance.

Band Pictures Rescheduled for Monday Feb. 10 –

For several years we have had the opportunity to have band pictures taken by the locally owned Artistic Image Photography Studio. Many parents that were in band years ago can remember having individual and group pictures taken. Parents have asked me about having this done for our current students and Mr. And Mrs. Holle have been gracious to help us and even make a donation back to the band.

The group pictures will be taken in the auditorium on Feb. 10 and the individual pictures will be taken the same day if time permits. The students don’t need to necessarily dress up and can wear whatever they would like to for the individual pictures.

Order forms are available in the band office and list several packages and options.

BNL Music Orientation rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 13 –

All BMS 8th grade band students are invited to an orientation on Thursday, Feb. 13 at 7:00 pm. The orientation will be in Schafer Auditorium at BMS and will explain the BNL band offerings and upcoming trips to the 500 Parade in May and to Disney next fall. The staff will also show you how to work music into the high school schedule and answer questions.

Our 8th grade bands are doing very well this year. These students have taken on some difficult music and the spring concert could prove to be one of our most challenging. Our students have so much to offer. I really hope they will continue band at BNL and I encourage our parents to encourage them as well. There are many band classes available. The three concert bands meet during the day and the concert band schedules don’t conflict with other activity schedules. BNL also has Jazz Ensembles, a volunteer Pep Band and a volunteer Marching Band. There are offerings to fit any student’s playing level and schedule.

Follow this link to an invitation from Mr. Jones, the BNL Director of Bands. https://bedfordmsband.com/bnl-band-orientation-invitation/

Private Lessons Available –

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 here 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.

Percussion Lessons –

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

Flute Lessons –

Mrs. Jones will be offering flutes 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. She is a wonderful flute teacher and is also thinking about starting a NLCS Flute Choir. Lots of exciting things for our flute players to take advantage of. 

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 will be sent home with our flute students next week detailing more information and a sign up form.

Cookie Dough Money Due –

The cookie dough fundraiser has come to an end and the money is now past due. The sale was a huge success, but now we have the job of collecting all the money. Thank you to all that helped with this project.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

The Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. The first batch of cards have arrived and are available. The sale will run through Feb.

After School Help and Open Band Practice Time –

I am available many days after school to help students with music, unfortunately I won’t be able to stay after school the week of Feb. 10.  Times will start again the week of Feb. 17.

Have a great week!

 

January 31, 2014

Posted: January 31, 2014 in Uncategorized, Weekly Information Blog

Our Annual Butter Braids Sale Begins Feb. 12 –

Butter Braid time has rolled around again. This band fundraiser is our most anticipated and profitable fundraiser and starts in early Feb each year. The orders will be due back on Feb. 25 and the butter braids are set to be delivered on Tuesday, March 18. There is also a chance for sellers to earn a $1000 scholarship.

Last Week for ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Help –

Some of our 7th and 8th grade band members have signed up for the ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival. It will be held at Bloomington North HS on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014. This is not a required event. Many of our participants have been putting in extra practice time and have been preparing well. The students that are participating have been given the performance times and locations for the festival.

Some brass soloists have the opportunity to rehearse with our accompanist this Saturday morning (2-1) and have been given times to arrive.

The woodwind soloists have the opportunity to rehearse with a solo accompanist in the band building next Tuesday (2-4) or Thursday (2-6) after school.

I plan to be available Mon. (2-3), Thur. (2-6), and Fri. (2-7) after school until 4:00 to help students with music. I will also have additional times on Thursday (2-6) evening. Students can check with me at school for these additional Thursday times if interested.

Good luck and keep working!

8th Grade Pep Band on Feb. 4 –

The 8th grade bands will combine to play at the BMS Boys Basketball games on Tuesday, Feb. 4. There isn’t a cost for the band students. The band department will provide shirts, pizza and a drink for supper and popcorn and a drink at the game. The band students should stay after school that day to practice together and eat dinner before going to the gym. The games should end around 8:00 pm and students should have things put away and be ready for pick-up around 8:15 pm. Come on out and enjoy the evening.

Band Pictures To Be Taken Feb. 6 and 7 –

For several years we have had the opportunity to have band pictures taken by the locally owned Artistic Image Photography Studio. Many parents that were in band years ago can remember having individual and group pictures taken. Parents have asked me about having this done for our current students and Mr. And Mrs. Holle have been gracious to help us and even make a donation back to the band.

The group pictures will be taken in the auditorium on Feb. 6 and the individual pictures will be taken in the band building on Feb. 7. The students don’t need to necessarily dress up and can wear whatever they would like to for the individual pictures.

Order forms are available in the band office and list several packages and options. The forms should be filled out and paid for on picture day.

BNL Music Orientation rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 6 –

All BMS 8th grade band students are invited to an orientation on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7:00 pm. The orientation will be in Schafer Auditorium at BMS and will explain the BNL band offerings and upcoming trips to the 500 Parade in May and to Disney next fall. The staff will also show you how to work music into the high school schedule and answer questions.

Our 8th grade bands are doing very well this year. These students have taken on some difficult music and the spring concert could prove to be one of our most challenging. Our students have so much to offer. I really hope they will continue band at BNL and I encourage our parents to encourage them as well. There are many band classes available. The three concert bands meet during the day and the concert band schedules don’t conflict with other activity schedules. BNL also has Jazz Ensembles, a volunteer Pep Band and a volunteer Marching Band. There are offerings to fit any student’s playing level and schedule.

Follow this link to an invitation from Mr. Jones, the BNL Director of Bands. https://bedfordmsband.com/bnl-band-orientation-invitation/

Private Lessons Available –

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 here 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.

Percussion Lessons –

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

Flute Lessons –

Mrs. Jones will be offering flutes 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. She is a wonderful flute teacher and is also thinking about starting a NLCS Flute Choir. Lots of exciting things for our flute players to take advantage of. 

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 will be sent home with our flute students next week detailing more information and a sign up form.

Indiana University Young Winds –

The 2014 Indiana University Young Winds program begins on Feb. 1 and our students are invited to participate. It is a program designed for middle school instrumental students as a supplement to the instruction they receive in school. The program focuses on small-group lessons as well as a full band experience for students surrounding the Bloomington campus. It is a wonderful program. Many of our students have participated over the years. I can’t speak highly enough about this opportunity and the benefits of participating. More information is available in the band building and at www.music.indiana.edu/precollege/year-round/wind/. It is still not too late to register. The program meets on Saturday mornings this spring and has a $75 fee.

Cookie Dough Money Due –

The cookie dough fundraiser has come to an end and the money is now past due. The sale was a huge success, but now we have the job of collecting all the money. Thank you to all that helped with this project.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

The Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. The first batch of cards have arrived and are available. The sale will run through Feb.

After School Help and Open Band Practice Time –

I am available many days after school for free help sessions. There are often playing tests for all the bands during class time. The sessions are available until 4:00 and I can help our students on whatever they need help with. The band building is also open to any band student just wanting to practice. I plan to be available after school on Monday Feb. 3, Thursday Feb. 6 and Friday, Feb. 7.

Have a great week!

January 24, 2014

Posted: January 24, 2014 in Uncategorized

8th Grade Pep Band on Feb. 4 –

The 8th grade bands will combine to play at the BMS Boys Basketball games on Tuesday, Feb. 4. There isn’t a cost for the band students. The band department will provide shirts, pizza and a drink for supper and popcorn and a drink at the game. The band students should stay after school that day to practice together and eat dinner before going to tha game. The games should end around 8:00 pm and students should have things put away and be ready for pick-up around 8:15 pm. Come on out and enjoy the evening.

BNL Music Orientation rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 6 –

All BMS 8th grade band students are invited to an orientation on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7:00 pm. The orientation will be in Schafer Auditorium at BMS and will explain the BNL band offerings and upcoming trips to the 500 Parade in May and to Disney next fall. The staff will also show you how to work music into the high school schedule and answer questions.

Our 8th grade bands are doing very well this year. These students have taken on some difficult music and the spring concert could prove to be one of our most challenging. Our students have so much to offer. I really hope they will continue band at BNL and I encourage our parents to encourage them as well. There are many band classes available. The three concert bands meet during the day and the concert band schedules don’t conflict with other activity schedules. BNL also has Jazz Ensembles, a volunteer Pep Band and a volunteer Marching Band. There are offerings to fit any student’s playing level and schedule.

Follow this link to an invitation from Mr. Jones, the BNL Director of Bands. https://bedfordmsband.com/bnl-band-orientation-invitation/

Private Lesson Program Begins –

I am excited to announce the launch of a private lesson program here at BMS. I have offered free lessons after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are here 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  $10 to $15 a half hour.

Indiana University Young Winds –

The 2014 Indiana University Young Winds program begins in Feb. and our students are invited to participate. It is a program designed for middle school instrumental students as a supplement to the instruction they receive in school. The program focuses on small-group lessons as well as a full band experience for students surrounding the Bloomington campus. It is a wonderful program. Many of our students have participated over the years. I can’t speak highly enough about this opportunity and the benefits of participating. More information is available in the band building and at www.music.indiana.edu/precollege/year-round/wind/. The program meets on Saturday mornings this spring and has a $75 fee.

Cookie Dough Money Due –

The cookie dough fundraiser has come to an end and the money is now past due. The sale was a huge success, but now we have the job of collecting all the money. Thank you to all that helped with this project.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

The Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. The first batch of cards have arrived and are available. The sale will run through Feb.

After School Lessons –

I am available many days after school for free help sessions. There are often playing tests for all the bands during class time. The sessions are available until 4:00 and I can help our students on whatever they need help with. The band building is also open to any band student just wanting to practice. I plan to be available after school on Monday Jan. 27, Tuesday Jan. 28, Thursday Jan. 30 and Friday, Jan. 31.

Have a great week!

January 17, 2014

Posted: January 19, 2014 in Uncategorized

BNL Music Orientation on Tuesday, January 21 –

All BMS 8th grade band students are invited to an orientation on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7:00 pm. The orientation will be in Schafer Auditorium at BMS and will explain the BNL band offerings and upcoming trips to the 500 Parade in May and to Disney next fall. The staff will also show you how to work music into the high school schedule and answer questions.

Our 8th grade bands are doing very well this year. These students have taken on some difficult music and the spring concert could prove to be one of our most challenging. Our students have so much to offer. I really hope they will continue band at BNL and I encourage our parents to encourage them as well. There are many band classes available. The three concert bands meet during the day and the concert band schedules don’t conflict with other activity schedules. BNL also has Jazz Ensembles, a volunteer Pep Band and a volunteer Marching Band. There are offerings to fit any student’s playing level and schedule.

Follow this link to an invitation from Mr. Jones, the BNL Director of Bands. https://bedfordmsband.com/bnl-band-orientation-invitation/

Private Lesson Program Begins –

I am excited to announce the launch of a private lesson program here at BMS. I have offered free lessons after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are here 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  $10 to $15 a half hour.

Indiana University Young Winds –

The 2014 Indiana University Young Winds program begins in Feb. and our students are invited to participate. It is a program designed for middle school instrumental students as a supplement to the instruction they receive in school. The program focuses on small-group lessons as well as a full band experience for students surrounding the Bloomington campus. It is a wonderful program. Many of our students have participated over the years. I can’t speak highly enough about this opportunity and the benefits of participating. More information is available in the band building and at www.music.indiana.edu/precollege/year-round/wind/. The program meets on Saturday mornings this spring and has a $75 fee.

Cookie Dough Money Due –

The cookie dough fundraiser has come to an end and the money is now past due. The sale was a huge success, but now we have the job of collecting all the money. Thank you to all that helped with this project.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

The Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. The first batch of cards have arrived and are available. The sale will run through Feb.

After School Lessons –

I am available many days after school for free help sessions. There are often playing tests for all the bands during class time. The sessions are available until 4:00 and I can help our students on whatever they need help with. The band building is also open to any band student just wanting to practice. I plan to be available after school on Monday Jan. 20 and Friday, Jan. 24.

No Percussion Lessons This Thursday –

Mr. Jones will be attending the Indiana Music Educator’s Conference later this week, so no lessons this Thursday (Jan. 23). This special opportunity with Mr. Jones will begin again next week on Thursday, Jan. 30

Have a great week!

January 10, 2014

Posted: January 10, 2014 in Uncategorized

BNL Music Orientation on Tuesday, January 21 –

All BMS 8th grade band students are invited to an orientation on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7:00 pm. The orientation will be in Schafer Auditorium at BMS and will explain the BNL band offerings and upcoming trips to the 500 Parade in May and to Disney next fall. The staff will also show you how to work music into the high school schedule and answer questions.

Our 8th grade bands are doing very well this year. These students have taken on some difficult music and the spring concert could prove to be one of our most challenging. Our students have so much to offer. I really hope they will continue band at BNL and I encourage our parents to encourage them as well. There are many band classes available. The three concert bands meet during the day and the concert band schedules don’t conflict with other activity schedules. BNL also has Jazz Ensembles, a volunteer Pep Band and a volunteer Marching Band. There are offerings to fit any student’s playing level and schedule.

Follow this link to an invitation from Mr. Jones, the BNL Director of Bands. https://bedfordmsband.com/bnl-band-orientation-invitation/

Private Lesson Program Begins –

I am excited to announce the launch of a private lesson program here at BMS. I have offered free lessons after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are here 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  $10 to $15 a half hour.

Indiana University Young Winds –

The 2014 Indiana University Young Winds program begins in Feb. and our students are invited to participate. It is a program designed for middle school instrumental students as a supplement to the instruction they receive in school. The program focuses on small-group lessons as well as a full band experience for students surrounding the Bloomington campus. It is a wonderful program. Many of our students have participated over the years. I can’t speak highly enough about this opportunity and the benefits of participating. More information is available in the band building and at www.music.indiana.edu/precollege/year-round/wind/. The program meets on Saturday mornings this spring and has a $75 fee.

Cookie Dough Money Due –

The cookie dough fundraiser has come to an end and the money is now past due. The sale was a huge success, but now we have the job of collecting all the money. Thank you to all that helped with this project.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

The Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. The first batch of cards have arrived and are available. The sale will run through Feb.

After School Lessons –

I am available many days after school for free lessons. There are often playing tests for all the bands during class time. The lessons are available until 4:00 and I can help our students on whatever they need help with. I plan to be available after school on Monday Jan. 13, Thursday Jan. 16 and Friday, Jan. 17.

Have a great week!

December 20, 2013

Posted: December 20, 2013 in Uncategorized

BNL Music Orientation on Tuesday, January 21 –

All BMS 8th grade band students are invited to an orientation on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7:00 pm. The orientation will be in Schafer Auditorium at BMS and will explain the BNL band offerings and upcoming trips to the 500 Parade in May and to Disney next fall. The staff will also show you how to work music into the high school schedule and answer questions.

Our 8th grade bands are doing very well this year. These students have taken on some difficult music and the spring concert could prove to be one of our most challenging. Our students have so much to offer. I really hope they will continue band at BNL and I encourage our parents to encourage them as well. There are many band classes available. The three concert bands meet during the day and the concert band schedules don’t conflict with other activity schedules. BNL also has Jazz Ensembles, a volunteer Pep Band and a volunteer Marching Band. There are offerings to fit any student’s playing level and schedule.

Follow this link to an invitation from Mr. Jones, the BNL Director of Bands. https://bedfordmsband.com/bnl-band-orientation-invitation/

Private Lesson Program To Begin –

I am excited to announce the launch of a private lesson program here at BMS. I have offered free lessons after school for years. Some afternoons I’ll have just a few and some afternoons I’ll have several. The amount of time I spend with the students varies on how many are here 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  $10 to $15 a half hour.

Indiana University Young Winds –

The 2014 Indiana University Young Winds program begins in Feb. and our students are invited to participate. It is a program designed for middle school instrumental students as a supplement to the instruction they receive in school. The program focuses on small-group lessons as well as a full band experience for students surrounding the Bloomington campus. It is a wonderful program. Many of our students have participated over the years. I can’t speak highly enough about this opportunity and the benefits of participating. More information is available in the band building and at www.music.indiana.edu/precollege/year-round/wind/. The program meets on Saturday mornings this spring and has a $75 fee.

Cookie Dough Money Due –

The cookie dough fundraiser has come to an end and the money is now past due. The sale was a huge success, but now we have the job of collecting all the money. Thank you to all that helped with this project.

Papa John’s Pizza Cards –

The Papa John’s Pizza Card sale for the Washington D.C. trip is underway. The cards sell for $10 each and have stickers on the back for a free pizza and several special pizza deals. Only students performing on the Washington D.C trip are selling the cards and all the profits go straight to the balance of that student’s account. The first batch of cards have arrived and are available. The sale will run through Feb.

After School Lessons –

I am available many days after school for free lessons. There are often playing tests for all the bands during class time. The lessons are available until 4:00 and I can help our students on whatever they need help with. After break I plan to be available after school on Monday Jan. 6, Tuesday Jan. 7, Thursday Jan. 9 and Friday, Jan. 10.

First Period 8th Grade Band Takes The Lead –

The 6th, 7th and 8th grade bands earn points for group work ethic, concentration and effort. Individual tardiness, talking and lack of effort lower the ensemble’s daily score. The third round was won by the first period 8th grade band. Here are the final results:

Period 1 8th Grade Band: 24 points

Period 2 8th Grade Band: 9 points

Period 4 6th Grade Band: 6 points

Period 5 6th Grade Band: 10 points

Period 6 7th Grade Band: 17 points

Period 7 7th Grade Band: 16 points

Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

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