Introduction
Thank you for taking the time to visit the Web site of the Ypsilanti Community Middle School bands! Mr. Ringle and the students have spent the month of September getting acquainted with each other. The advanced bands have all begun playing their instruments and the beginning bands will start within the next week.
Important Items
Please remember that it is important to come to class prepared and ready to learn. Getting to know a new teacher is always challenging, but I promise that you will see strong forward progress when you come to class on time, ready to learn.
Please remember our expectations:
It is important to note that all expectations of the YCMS Code of Conduct are expected to be upheld at all times on school grounds.
Please remember our expectations:
- Be Polite
- Be Prepared
- Be Productive
- Leave food, drink, and gum at home
- Speak when it's your turn
- Only use your assigned instrument
- Use positive language at all times
It is important to note that all expectations of the YCMS Code of Conduct are expected to be upheld at all times on school grounds.
SQUILT Excerpts
We have listened to two vastly different examples of high quality wind instrument performance. The students were expected to answer nine questions while listening to the music. Please take a moment to ask students about what they have listened to in band class.
The first excerpt is from a group called Youngblood Brass Band, called "Brooklyn." They are a group that does not use a guitar player or bassist. They are influenced by roots of New Orleans jazz/dixieland combined with modern influences of hip hop and rock.
The first excerpt is from a group called Youngblood Brass Band, called "Brooklyn." They are a group that does not use a guitar player or bassist. They are influenced by roots of New Orleans jazz/dixieland combined with modern influences of hip hop and rock.
This second excerpt is a piece called "Ghost Train" written by the composer Eric Whitacre. Better known for choral compositions, Whitacre has composed and arranged for concert band on several occasions. "Ghost Train" has some very haunting symphonic moments, combined with various effects, and driving jazz and blues influenced sections.
Home Practice
Beginning Band
- Practice Posture and Breathing
- Practice proper hand position
- Go U Northwestern
- Go U Northwestern Exercise page (given out on 9-25)
- Warm-up Exercises