Concert Band

MAJOR SCALE ASSESSMENT

Each member of the Concert Band must correctly perform the 12 major scales listed below. Notice that freshmen must play 7 of the scales from memory. All 10th, 11th, and 12th graders must play all scales from memory. All of the required scales can be found in the book, Foundations for Superior Performance, on pages 42-43.

I will evaluate your performance of each scale based on the following criteria:

• Correct notes
• Steady tempo
• Correct posture/hand position
• Tone quality (focus on this!!)

All scales will be graded on a pass/fail basis and will be performed in class. The metronome will be set at 84. Each scale is worth 20 points (240 points total). To check for comprehension, I may ask you to: give the key signature, “spell” the scale, or name specific notes. If you want to finish ahead of schedule, you may play them for me at tutorial. Extra credit can be earned for extra octaves played or scales done in cut time. All scales must be completed by January 30^th at 3:30pm. 

Some free advice from your friendly, neighborhood band director…..

1. Consistent and correct practice will produce lasting knowledge and significantly reduce your fear of playing in front of the class. See #4.
2. Always play IN TONE and IN TIME. Make every note beautiful.
3. Practice with a metronome and play with it, not against it.
4. Preparation breeds confidence and being prepared feels good!
5. Play the ink! Do not improvise rhythms and notes.
6. Take my word for it…..start working on these now.
7. I want to hear you perform the scale, not practice it. If you’d like help practicing, see me at tutorial.