Klarinet Archive - Posting 000223.txt from 1998/03

From: Roger Garrett <rgarrett@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: Band Policies (was Marching Band)
Date: Wed, 4 Mar 1998 12:46:43 -0500

On Wed, 4 Mar 1998 Gary_VanCott@-----.com wrote:
> Music is competitive enough without the challenge
> system. Jr High and High School students have enough stress already.
> Challenges can create antagonisms and divisions in a band and waste
> valuable rehearsal time.
>
> I believe directors should place students based on their overall ability
> and make adjustments as necessary, but infrequently, probably at the
> semester.
>
> If players are very close in ability, seniority can be used as part of the
> seating mix. If top players are very close solos or even chairs can be
> alternated on a regular basis.

Lots to think about with regard to challenges. There are variations of
the challenge system that would allow for the stress to be lessened. For
example, a student could earn the right to challenge by learning a certain
amount of material to be heard in advance of such a challenge. Then,
class time does not have to be wasted.....nor rehearsal time. Listen to
the challenge outside of class....tape it for obvious reasons, and then
make a decision.

Beyond that, if the challenge is for a principal position, make sure that
eveyone involved understands that being a principal player involves more
than being just the best player.

Gary's concern is a valid one......some students do not respond well to a
challenge system.....but, something needs to be available for the student
who works hard enough to move up.

Roger Garrett
IWU