Grade 5 Band

Avon Lake City Schools

Curriculum Framework

Grade 5 Band

Course Overview:

Fifth Grade Band introduces students to the fundamentals of wind and percussion instruments and is designed for students with little to no prior experience in playing a musical instrument. Students will develop essential musical skills including reading music, understanding basic music theory, building instrumental proficiency, and ensemble playing. The primary goal is to provide a strong foundation in playing a wind/percussion instrument while fostering a love for music.

Students will have opportunities to showcase their progress through performances/concerts.

Textbook (Title and Publishing Company):

Method Book: Measure of Success Method Book - A Comprehensive Musicianship Band Method, book one by Deborah A. Sheldon, Brian Balmages, Timothy Loest, and Robert Sheldon. Percussion written and edited by David Collier. The FJH Publishing Company, Inc.

Online/Supplemental Materials:

Grade .5 - 1 musical compositions from classical standard band literature to current modern musical compositions

Assessments:

Teacher created assessments may include worksheets and playing tests to assess student progress on instrument playing progress and music reading comprehension.

Content/Topics/Learning Goals

Subject to Pacing and Schedules

First Quarter

  • Instrument set up and care
  • Embouchure, hand positions, posture
  • Basic music fundamentals introduction
  • Tone production and technique
  • Rhythmic and melodic exercises
  • Ensemble Playing

Second Quarter

  • Building on skills from 1st quarter
  • More complex rhythmic and melodic exercises
  • Introduce independent parts in ensemble playing
  • Key signatures
  • First performance preparation and execution
  • Concert reflection

Third Quarter

  • Building on skills from previous quarters
  • Advancing playing techniques and terminology
  • Dynamics and expression
  • Introduction of “Full Band” music

Fourth Quarter

  • Building on skills from previous quarters
  • Advancing ensemble playing
  • Spring performance preparation and execution
  • Self reflection on performance and growth as a musician

Updated: September, 2023