7 O’Clock Jazz Band

Letter from Mr. Hartman – 18 Nov 2010  [PDF Version]

Jazz Band 2nd Quarter Exam Requirements
(East period 1, West periods 2 &7)

Each student will be graded individually on his/her ability to play and “mark” the entire written solo along with the ATS background* recording of one of the following tunes: “I Got Rhythm” (West students); “Cottontail” (East students ) . Singers will scat. Percussionists will play drum set following the percussion instructions below. Each student will:

  1. 50 Points: Perform the written solo with all of the musicianship, subtleties, and details demonstrated on the professional ATS recording.
  2. 50 Points: Submit a “MARKED” copy of the solo they are performing, which must include all slurs, accents, dynamics, subtleties, and details demonstrated on the professional ATS recording. Students must submit this copy just before performing, so students need to make an additional copy for their own use during the exam performance. (Reading an additional marked copy is highly recommended).

*The background recording is the 2nd track on the CD for each song. It includes rhythm section instruments only.

PERCUSSIONISTS
Students will perform along with the same tune and play-a-long track as all other students (described above). However, drummers will be graded based upon their ability to play a steady tempo along with the CD while demonstrating a variety of fills and set-ups (although the teacher understands that are no actual figures to “set-up”), an understanding of the form, appropriate style/technique, and stopping at the end of one complete chorus. All set-ups, fills, and figures should be precisely in the pocket.

As mandated by Lakota administrators, the exam performances will take place during the exam period and the student’s grade will count as 10% of his/her quarter grade. Please see us in advance if you have any questions or concerns. We look forward to hearing your great accomplishments. Good luck!

Mr. Hartman and Mr. Thomas