NSMS Electives

Mr. Knasas & Mrs. Greco ~ Music Class

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For more information about the Music Department, please visit the North Smithfield Music Website,
http://www.nsmusic.org/

To visit the North Smithfield Middle School Music page, please visit http://nsmsmusic.weebly.com/ (site currently under construction)

Music Course Descriptions

SIXTH GRADE BEGINNING BAND – The Sixth Grade Band is a performing ensemble consisting of beginning band students in the first year of the North Smithfield band program. This class is open to any sixth grader with a desire to learn how to play a band instrument. Students will learn proper instrument technique, good sound production, and basic music reading. Students will perform and practice using the Essential Elements of Music 2000 Book 1 as well as appropriate band literature. Students will also be using music technology such as Smartmusic to complete assignments in school and at home. The Sixth grade band will be required to perform at two school concerts during the year. Students in this ensemble are strongly encouraged to study with a private teacher to continue their development on their instrument. 

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERT BAND – The Middle School concert band is the next step our sixth grade students take as they continue their musical abilities. Students in this ensemble will perform and practice using the Essential Elements of Music 2000 Book 2 as well as more difficult band literature. The band will perform a number of required concerts at the school during the year as well as RIMEA state band festival. In addition to school concerts, students are encouraged to audition for the Jr Division All-State Band as well as participate in the Solo and Ensemble Festival. Training at this level will prepare the young musician for the senior high concert band. Students must be members of this group to audition for All-State, participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival, or participate in the one of the Middle School Jazz Bands. Daily practice cards will be graded on a weekly basis. Students in this ensemble are strongly encouraged to study with a private teacher to continue their development on their instrument. 

MIDDLE SCHOOL CHORUS – The Middle School Chorus is an opportunity for students to learn the basics of music and perform in a vocal setting. These students will learn basic vocal techniques, music theory, and sight singing. Students will gain an appreciation of music through listening activities, composing, rhythmic exercises, and playing instruments. They will be required to perform in two concerts during the year and may participate in the RIMEA choral festival. These students are encouraged to audition for both the Jr. Division All-State Chorus and the Solo and Ensemble Festival. Students will be required to prepare for singing assignments in class and at home and will have basic music theory assignments.

NSMS JAZZ BAND II – The NSMS Jazz Band II is an instrumental ensemble consisting of beginning level middle school instrumental students that have no Jazz Band experience. This ensemble meets before school on Wednesday mornings from 6:40-7:10am in the middle school band room. Students will learn the basics of playing in a variety of styles including rock, latin, swing, funk, and other styles. Students may be auditioned for this group if necessary and participation must be approved by Mr. Knasas.

NSMS JAZZ BAND I – The NSMS Jazz Band I is an instrumental ensemble consisting of mostly more experienced middle school instrumental students that have some Jazz Band experience. Most students in this group have participated in NSMS Jazz Band II. This ensemble meets before school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:40-7:10am in the middle school band room. Students play in a variety of styles including rock, latin, swing, funk, and other styles. Students may be auditioned for this group if necessary and participation must be approved by Mr. Knasas.