The COUGAR BLUES

The Cougars are rolling again! We are so proud of NEW Jazz Messengers members Joseph A. and Raven O. and former jazz band member Corinthia F. who played for an event this weekend for Secretary of State Elaine Marshall. These 2 students did a great job and received many compliments from all in attendance.Looking for another great year from the Jazz Messengers.

I am very happy with the start of the school year we have had. Parents I do need your help with a couple of items.  Please, make sure your student is bringing their instrument daily, which is part of their daily grade.  Also, make sure your student takes their instrument home each night and practices (10 Minutes a night for 6th Grade and 20 Minutes a night for 7th & 8th Grade). Students are supposed to record their practice time on their practice chart that was in the band handbook they received at the beginning of the year. I will check the charts periodically as part of the homework grade.

I want to remind everyone to secure the book for their instrument as soon as possible, because we have already begun using them in class.  If your student bring me the money I can get the book if getting to the music store is a problem.  6th Grade needs Measures of Success Book 1 $9 immediately.  They will need Foundations for Superior Performance $7, later in the year.  7th Grade should already have Measures of Success Book 1 $9 and they will also use Foundations for Superior Performance $7. 8th Grade is using the Foundations for Superior Performance $7. Baritones players will need to secure their own personal mouthpiece and clarinet and saxes need 5 good reeds at all times.

This is an exciting week coming up as we introduce BAND KARATE! Before you get really concerned, let me explain. This is an incentive program where as students complete specific band assignments, they will be awarded colored belts. This is a partial fulfillment of the 9 weeks assignments. Only students who complete the belt program for each 9 weeks will qualify for and "A" for that 9 weeks. This is a fun way to award the excellence that so many students display. Students will receive a list of assignments for the Band Karate Program on Monday.

THIS WEEK:
The jazz band will rehearse tomorrow after school until 4:30pm, and the pep band will practice Tuesday after school until 4:30pm.  The pepe band will be playing at this Wednesday's home football game

BAND NIGHT OUT is this Friday, October 5th at Hunter Huss. 7th & 8th Grade Band students will play along side the Hunter Huss Band in the stands.  Students will get into the game free and they will be given snacks during the 3rd quarter. It will be a fun night to let our Cougars experience a little of what it will be like to play in the high school band. Students will receive further information to take home tomorrow.

Cougar Band family, thank you for all that you do.  You are a great group to work with and I look forward to great things all year long. GO COUGARS!