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

1st Quarter- 

  • Instrument set up and care

  • Embouchure, hand positions, posture 

  • Basic music fundamentals introduction

  • Tone production and technique

  • Rhythmic and melodic exercises

  • Ensemble Playing

2nd 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 

3rd Quarter- 

  • Building on skills from previous quarters

  • Advancing playing techniques and terminology

  • Dynamics and expression

  • Introduction of “Full Band” music

4th Quarter -  

  • Building on skills from previous quarters

  • Advancing ensemble playing

  • Spring performance preparation and execution

  • Self reflection on performance and growth as a musician

Last Updated:

September, 2023