Welcome to the Nobel Music Department This presentation is designed to inform and prepare music parents and students on how to be successful in Mr Espinosa’s music class.

Communication is crucial to the success of our journey together so make sure you fill out the student information sheet. Email communication is the primary way we will be communicating due to the large amount of students in the music department. Make sure the parents’ email address is on the information sheet. Students will be signing up for Edmodo. This is a safe way for students and teachers to communicate. They can listen to music links, view media, download practice logs and music, collaborate with class mates and much more. Students will receive a code to sign up. Once signed up a parent code can be generated from the student page. Parents please help your student complete part of their first assignment by subscribing to my page on the Nobel website.

Schoology for Grades Nobel is one of many schools being asked to launch the use of Schoology this year. Like Engrade pro, you should be able to access my class grades, calendars, communicate via messages, send homework and other important files. It’s a great way to stay on top of your child’s progress to ensure success. The Nobel Website is a great resource too. I will use it to keep you connected to important information. Make sure to subscribe to my pages. “nobelms.com”

Let’s get started with some FAQ’S

The Beginning String Class What is the primary goal of the Beginning String Class? How should my child select the right instrument for him/her? How much practice time should my kid be logging? How does my kid get an instrument? How many performances will my child have a year?

From Beginning Strings to Advanced Orchestra What is the primary goal of the Beginning String Class? From Beginning Strings to Advanced Orchestra It almost seems impossible but with hard work and practice, anything is possible!

The Beginning Strings Class What is the primary goal of the Beginning String Class? How should my child select the right instrument for him/her? How much practice time should my kid be logging? How does my kid get an instrument? How many performances will my child have a year?

Challenge yourself to play the lower instruments How should my child select the right instrument for him/her? Double Bass Cello Challenge yourself to play the lower instruments Every great Orchestra has balance. Play the Viola, Cello, or Bass!

The Beginning Strings Class What is the primary goal of the Beginning String Class? How should my child select the right instrument for him/her? How much practice time should my kid be logging? How does my kid get an instrument? How many performances will my child have a year?

Practice makes Permanent How much practice time should my kid be logging? Practice makes Permanent Students should be practicing for two hours a week minimum. Three hours is encouraged!

The Beginning Strings Class What is the primary goal of the Beginning String Class? How should my child select the right instrument for him/her? How much practice time should my kid be logging? How does my kid get an instrument? How many performances will my child have a year?

How does my kid get an instrument? Students will have the opportunity to enter a lottery for the instruments that Nobel currently has available. Once the lottery is done, students who don’t get their instrument of choice will need to choose one that is available or check into another elective class Every student must have an instrument to continue in the class.

What Supplies will I Need? Every String instrument except the Cello and Bass will need a Shoulder Rest or make one. All String instruments will be using a bow so they will need Rosin and a polishing cloth. String Players will need a music stand for practicing at home. Metronomes are recommended Chromatic Tuners are necessary at the second semester for all string players. We will be teaching students how to tune their own instruments. I have included free online tuner and metronome links on the Nobel website.

All necessary instructional supplies will be furnished to students without charge. Donations of materials, money and supplies are much appreciated, but they are not required. If you are interested in donating funds to the music department please make out your checks to our club account; “Nobel Charter Middle School Musician’s Club” at the student store.

The Beginning Strings Class What is the primary goal of the Beginning String Class? How should my child select the right instrument for him/her? How much practice time should my kid be logging? How does my kid get an instrument? How many performances will my child have a year?

Winter and Spring Concerts How many performances will my child have a year? Winter and Spring Concerts This is a performance driven class Each performance is worth 500 points. In case students can not attend their concert for what ever reason an alternative assignment consisting of a concert viewing with a report assignment can be turned in to make up the 500 points. I know it’s not the same but hopefully the student can understand the collaboration that a musical performance gives them.

Are you ready to make music? Don’t be a Zombie! Practice smart make the commitment Treat your instrument with respect! Remember it is a privilege to do music Have high expectations

Thank you and Let’s have a great positive musical experience together!