Miss Anderson’s E-mails Archived E-mails

November 3, 2020: for all 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Band Parents- Band Update #2

Hello!

October 7, 2020: for all 6th Grade Band Parents- 6 Concert Band Update #1

Hello,

This is the first of regular updates you will be receiving about Sixth Grade Concert Band and BJH Music Department news and events. In a recent “student survey” I asked the musicians to complete–they indicated that YOU should be on our mailing list. 🙂 If you do NOT want to receive future “Band Updates” or would like to receive these emails at a different address, please reply and I will update my contact information. 

We are now 3 weeks into our “rehearsals” and I am thankful for our musicians’ positive attitudes and effort! My main goal for our “remote rehearsals” is to KEEP EVERYONE PLAYING! I will be the FIRST to admit that what we are doing is NOT “band” as we know it: focus on collaborative work, responding and adapting “in the moment”, and making musical, emotional, and social connections with other musicians. There is NOTHING like creating music as part of an ensemble! But until we are able to play together again (which WILL happen!!), I want to encourage the students to “hang in there” and to just keep playing!

We will be using the band method book “Measures of Success- Book 1” to help fill in the gaps for musicians whose playing time last spring was limited and to reinforce musical concepts and sequential technique that is so important for developing musicians! I think at this point MOST of the musicians have their book or it’s on it’s way. Please let me know if you need help getting “Measures of Success” for your musician. We will also be using our BJH “Band Binder”–a collection of materials that we will be adding to throughout the year. All musicians SHOULD have received the “starting packet”. If your musician hasn’t already done so, please make sure that this packet goes into a 3-ring binder to keep it organized! Thanks for your help with this!!

In addition to the materials they currently have, students will be receiving literature geared specifically for their ability level, including solos and chamber music as well as “full band” pieces that we’ll be working on together. 

We will also be using MusicFirst: a learning management system for music education that we have been using at BJH for a number of years. I am setting up our 6th grade student accounts now and will be teaching the musicians how to access their account and use the software in the next couple of weeks. This is a GREAT program which enables our musicians to work independently at a level which will challenge them musically and allows me to assess musicians and provide individual feedback–a challenge in a large group rehearsal!

Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble are extracurricular ensembles that meet outside of the school day. For now, these groups will rehearse remotely with rehearsal times to be determined. Both are “auditioned” groups open to musicians in grades 6 through 8 who would like an “extra challenge”. Audition materials for Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble will be posted soon. I’ll hold several “practice sessions” before audition recordings are due. I’ll let the musicians know where to find the information and audition music in rehearsal as soon as they are available. All interested 6th grade musicians are encouraged to audition!!

BJH Music Department News: 

• Each year the BJH Music Boosters (now the BSPAB – Brunswick Schools Performing Arts Boosters/BJH) sponsors a basket raffle. We were just getting this started last year when we went remote. We are completing this fundraiser by auctioning off the baskets. There are many amazing items in our baskets! If you would like to bid, the auction will continue until Oct 15 at 8:00pm when the winners will be awarded their baskets! The link to the raffle is:  BSPAB/BJH Basket Auction

Note: if you are the parent/guardian/friend/relative of a BJH musician, YOU are a BJH Music Booster! There are many opportunities throughout the year for you to support our musicians at BJH. Be watching for more information about our first meeting (remote) of the 20-21 school year!

• The BJH Husky Howl will be shared on Friday, Nov. 20 virtually. This is our “Talent Share” opportunity. Students who wish to participate should be practicing their talent (ALL talents will be considered, not just music performance–magic tricks, stand-up comedy, dramatic reading, etc…). We will be accepting video submissions at the end of October. This event will be premiered on You-Tube. Any and all talent is welcomed and family members can join is as well! 

This was a LOT of information! Future updates will NOT be this lengthy. (I promise!) Please email me with any questions. As always, but ESPECIALLY in these challenging times, thank you for your support of your young musician and performing arts in Brunswick Schools!

With gratitude,

Heidi Anderson, Director of Instrumental Music, Brunswick Junior High School
handerson@brunswicksd.org

September 17, 2020: for 7th & 8th Grade Band Musicians and Parents- Welcome Back!!!

Dear Musicians (and Parents),

Welcome back! (You can’t imagine how happy I am to say that!!) This year will be…different, to be sure…but also pretty exciting! The entire school has created some pretty innovative approaches to how we’ll “do things”–the Music Department is no exception!

Mrs. Tarleton and I spent quite a bit of time this summer participating in professional development with music educators from around the state and country! We learned effective ways to teach ensembles online; how to create a YouTube channel; safety protocols for playing and singing “in person”–and much, much more! We have developed a plan for our year that will maintain much of what we all love about music at BJH along with “new and different” focuses and experiences for the BJH musicians. 

What follows is a LOT of information. Please take the time to read through everything carefully so that you know what Band will “look like” this year and my expectations for you as we begin our rehearsals together. If you have any questions after reading this email, please feel free to contact me! handerson@brunswicksd.org (I’ll also post this on our BJH Music website)

How/When/Where?

The plan for band rehearsals is to start with everyone remote. When it is safe to do so, we will begin “in person” small group rehearsals, expanding on those groups, and eventually, we will ALL be together again to play! Hybrid learners: you have probably figured out that Band rehearsal is scheduled for a day when you are home. Distance learners: depending on your schedule, if you’d like, you MAY be able to attend a couple of rehearsals each week! During Band, we WILL be playing! When you join our “class meet”–from now on referred to as “rehearsal”, be sure you are ready to play! NOTE- I will be dividing each “cohort band” into smaller ensemble/lesson groups. This may or may not impact your scheduled band time but it will NOT impact any other classes (chorus included!) and these rehearsal times will be consistent. Also note that Mrs. Lewis and Mr. Schuft are still working on a few “glitches” with our performing ensemble schedules. Everything should be “ready-to-go” by Monday (9/21).

Our first rehearsal for all cohort groups will be a google meet. After that, we’ll be using Zoom for our rehearsals. Zoom will allow us to adjust our audio settings for better sound quality for instrumental music. Note- Zoom is ONLY being used for performing ensembles (Band at the Jr. High and High School). If you haven’t used Zoom before and would like more information about this platform, please let me know. It’s very user friendly!

What do I need for Band?

For every band rehearsal you will need:

• A place to play: try to find a spot that will be quiet. You should have a chair that will allow you to play with good posture, a music stand, and a secure spot for your computer. 

• Your instrument in good working order (reeds, valve oil, sticks/mallets, etc…) If you feel like your instrument isn’t working properly, please let me know asap so we can make arrangements for our school repair technician to take a look at it!

• You’ll find that a pair of wired headphones will be very helpful…but not required. Note that wireless headphones/earbuds cannot be used. 

• A music stand–if you need one, let me know. I’d be happy to loan you one!

• Your “new and improved” band binder – You’ll provide the binder. I’ll provide the BRAND NEW insert full of new music for us to work on in our rehearsals and for you to practice on your own! We’ll also be adding some solo, small ensemble, and full band music as we get into things. 

• IMPORTANT for 7th graders only: you’ll also need the band method book “Measures of Success” Book 2 for your instrument. If you haven’t already gotten this book, it is available at the Music Center in the Tontine Mall; from David French Music (call or order on their website); Amazon; or most online sheet music stores. Be sure to get BOOK 2 and be sure you are purchasing the correct book for YOUR instrument! If you haven’t done much playing and are feeling REALLY “rusty”, you might want to consider also purchasing Book 1 to do some review. You could also use your EE 2000 book for review. 

What will we be learning/playing/working on?

Our focus this year will be on:

• Individual technique- that’s a lot of what we focused on last spring but our approach will be much more collaborative, should be more effective, and hopefully lots of fun!

• Small ensemble work: Duets, Trios, Quartets – Chamber music is a great way to improve our playing and is SO MUCH FUN!! We’ll be working on preparing small ensemble pieces for performance in a variety of different ways!

• Full band: We’ll be working on some full band pieces…some that we’ll put together virtually but could ALSO be performed together once it’s safe to do so! We’ll also be working on some brand new compositions that were created specifically for a “live virtual meeting” setting–the composers actually use the “sound lag” issues as part of the composition. It’s a really cool effect…and pretty exciting to see what we can create using this format—but of course, we’ll have to learn the music first!  

What about concerts, District 3 Honors Band Auditions, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble….????

Mrs. Tarleton and I are happy to announce that all of the above WILL be happening…in some format! We even have a virtual “Husky Howl” scheduled!! …so start working on your act (playing, singing, dancing, juggling, pet tricks, comedy routine, magic act….?????).

We’ll share more about these opportunities in the coming weeks. 

Note- Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble are auditioned groups (same as always). Audition materials will be available soon. There will be several audition prep sessions scheduled before audition recordings are due. 

This has been a lot of information….

I know I just shared a GOBS of information. Along with all of your other classes and our new school format, this may all seem overwhelming! I know some of you didn’t like “online Band” last year and may be considering not continuing with us… I’d like to ask you to give it a try before making any decisions! I will be the FIRST to admit, that until we are able to be together, in our crowded band room, playing and laughing together, Band won’t be Band….BUT….what it WILL be is still pretty amazing! 

I’m excited to begin! See you soon….

-Miss Anderson
Director of Instrumental Music, Brunswick Junior High School
handerson@brunswicksd.org

March 16, 2020: for all Band Parents- retrieving instruments, remote learning

Dear Band Parents,

Your musician will need their band instrument (for percussionists that means your stick bag!) and their band binder. Most of our work will be geared towards individual skills (rather than ensemble skills) but I WILL be sharing some experimental “challenges” to allow musicians to connect with each other virtually. 

January 10, 2020: for 7th and 8th Grade Band Parents- Concert Tuesday

Hello,

January 3, 2020: for all Band Parents– Band update

Happy New Year!

October 6, 2019: for all Band Parents–Information about Halloween Parade

Hello!

September 8, 2019: for all Band Parents

Hello!

2018-2019 Emails:

June 17, 2019: for Eighth Grade Band Parents

Dear 8^th Grade Band Parents,

It’s hard to believe our “crew of musicians” has made it through 3 years and will be heading off to their next adventure! Boy, does time fly!! I always get very “sentimental” at this time of year—remembering all of them as 6^th graders and reflecting on the growth they’ve made—musically and personally. I am so proud of each of them!!

We do have a bit of “housekeeping” to take care of before the end of the week! I will see them for class (for the last time😢) tomorrow (Tuesday). I’ll remind them of the following at that time as well:

1. Any student using a school instrument should check with me before the end of the week. Most are using “BJH instruments” so those will stay here. There will be a high school instrument for them for next year—if they would like to have an instrument over the summer, we can arrange for that!
   1. BJH owned instruments should be left on the shelf with identification of who was using it on (or in) the case.
   2. Please be sure mouthpieces have been cleaned and the case has been cleaned out—that includes old reeds/reed cases, old music, personal belongings (lyres, neckstraps, etc….that YOU have purchased)
   3. AND PLEASE, NO food or trash left in cases. You’d be surprised (or maybe you wouldn’t….) at the stuff I find in cases when I get to them mid-summer! 😬
2. Any musician wanting/needing District III and/or All-State audition materials to work on over the summer should check with Mr. Scarpone this week or me anytime between now and the end of summer!!
3. Before school starts, we’ll be having a “meet and greet” event (I’m sure food will be involved) with the new high school band director (yet to be hired—but we’re in the process!). Check the Brunswick High School Music Boosters facebook for info on that. I’ll also post something on the BJH Music website and the BJH facebook. Such an exciting time and what a cool opportunity for our class of 2023—our new director’s “first class”! 🙂
4. I have had quite a few requests for a copy of “The Book of Anderson: A collection of phrases, sayings and words commonly used by Miss Anderson in the band room”. I’ll scan it and post it on the website. It’s quite amusing—but now I know that they are listening!! 😊

This is the last year your musician will be eligible to participate in Merrymeeting Summer Band Camp. This year’s camp is the week of July 8. I’ve attached a registration form in case you are interested. Right now, we are very low on brass players (but are accepting registration forms for ALL sections!) Please consider joining us for a week of band camp fun!! (If you play trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, or horn; BJH Music Boosters can offer you scholarship assistance!!)

Thank you for your support of your young musician and for Music at Brunswick Junior High School! Enjoy your summer!!

-Heidi

PS- Also, thank you so much for the thoughtful gifts presented to me from the 8^th grade band at the Outdoor Concert. All will be put to good use!!

April 29, 2019: for ALL Band Parents (Important Band Update)

Hello Band Parents!

Please read the following carefully for important information about NEXT WEEK’s annual All-Town Band Concert, the upcoming Memorial Day Parade, and information on summer camp opportunities.

There are several attachments to this email. All this information, including the attachments, can also be found on the BJH Music website.

All-Town Concert:

The annual Brunswick All-Town Band Concert is Tuesday, May 7 at 6:30 PM in the Brunswick High School Gymnasium.

• • Musicians need to be in their seats, “ready to play” at 5:45. The doors will open for audience members at 6:15. (Note—we’ll have close to 400 musicians arriving at this time. I anticipate a bit of a traffic jam….it would be better to be early than late. We are rehearsing the 5-12 combined piece promptly at 5:45 in order to be able to open doors at 6:15.
  • Dress for this performance is “formal concert attire”: black from neck to toes.
  • When students arrive, they should leave their coats/cases in the theater.
  • If your musician has a “portable” music stand (wire or compact), it would be helpful for them to bring it for the concert “grand finale”—they may or may not use it…but it would be good to have in case they need it. Don’t buy one special…if you already have one, bring it. 🙂
  • As in past years, we’ll be selling “souvenir t-shirts” commemorating the 2019 All-Town Band. T-shirts are $10, cash or check and can be purchased in the lobby the night of the concert (flyer attached to this email).

Memorial Day Parade:

The Brunswick Junior High Marching Band (all band students in grades 6-8) will be participating in this year’s Brunswick/Topsham Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 27. Your musician should have brought home a “hard copy” of an informational letter and a participation form (which should be returned by ALL band students). If you have not seen this yet, please ask your musician for it or download it from the online “Document Holder” on the BJH Music website. The participation form is due this Friday, May 3.

We will need volunteers for our two marching practices and for the parade. Please let me know (either via email or on the participation form) if you can help!

**We are also looking for someone with a connection to BIW who might be able to recruit some naval personnel to come work with the kids during marching practices** This has worked out so well in the past—a great chance for community service/involvement for the personnel stationed here or at the shipyard and so awesome for our kids!! Please let me know if you can help with this!

 Outdoor Concert and Awards Presentation:

More about this later…Just want to be sure everyone has it on their calendar: Thursday, June 6 at 6:00 PM on the BJH Athletic Field. In case of rain, the concert will be held on the same day and time in our gymnasium. Put in your order now for a dry, warm evening! 😊

Summer Band Camp Opportunities:

Band Camp is a great way to keep your musician playing during the summer and a fun way to spend time with other musicians from schools around the area!

• Attached is a registration form for Merrymeeting Band Camp—a day camp for musicians entering grade 6 through entering grade 9. This camp is held at Mt. Ararat Middle School from 9AM- 3PM the week of July 8-12. Traditionally, we have LOTS of Brunswick musicians at this camp. It’s great fun….and the band room at Mt. Ararat Middle School is AIR CONDITIONED!! 😃
• The University of Southern Maine hosts a great “overnight” camp for middle school students: Southern Maine Junior Music Academy, Sunday, July 21 to Saturday, July 27, 2019.The camp “fills” as band sections fill. As of 4/23, there were openings for musicians in the following sections: Flute, Oboe, Alto Sax, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba. If your musician is interested in attending but their section is full, the camp keeps a running “waiting list”. It’s worth completing a registration form and getting on the list! You can find more info about the camp here: https://usm.maine.edu/music/summer-camp-registration-form
• Some other summer camps to check out:
• • SYMS Jr. at UNH https://www.unh.edu/youthprograms/course/syms-summer-youth-music-school
  • Camp Encore/Coda https://www.encore-coda.com/
  • MSYM (Jr. Camp) at U Maine  https://umaine.edu/spa/msym2019/
  • New England Music Camp https://snowpond.org/nemc/

The BJH Music Boosters offer summer music camp scholarships to any BJH musician attending a music camp. The Music Boosters Camp Scholarship application can be found on the online “Document Holder” on the BJH Music website or your musician can pick up an application on the “hard copy” document holder outside my office door.

I’ll be sending more reminders in the next weeks about our upcoming events. You can always find the most up-to-date calendar and other info on the BJH Music website and we often post updates on the BJH Music Boosters Facebook.

Finally, as many of you know, the Brunswick High School Music Department recently traveled to Florida to participate in “Festival Disney”. Here are the results (from Brunswick High School: Music Boosters Facebook):

At Festival Disney, Ensembles are rated out of 100 and given a “fair, good, excellent, and superior rating” based upon the rubric score.

The details:

The concert band earned a rating of excellent. 
The treble choir received a rating of superior. 
The wind ensemble received a rating of superior and was 2 points away from being the highest scoring band of the weekend! 
Chamber choir received a superior rating and was the top scoring choir in their division, earning them a “best in class” rating, and was 1 point away from being the highest scoring choir of the weekend!
Thursday Jazz ensemble received a superior rating and was not only the top scoring jazz ensemble in their division (a “best in class” rating) but was the top scoring jazz ensemble of all the jazz ensembles in the entire festival earning them a “Gold rating”

Additionally, we had 3 musicians who were selected for “outstanding musicianship” awards. These are open awards that can come from any school of any size in any discipline. Nolan Marblestone, a freshman, was awarded an “outstanding musicianship” award for his accompanying the chamber choir. Katie Bojarski, a Junior, was awarded an “outstanding musicianship” award for her euphonium solo with the Wind ensemble. Finally, Joshua Flanagan, a senior, was awarded an “outstanding musicianship” award for his tenor saxophone soloing with the Thursday night jazz ensemble! These awards are highly coveted and it is truly an honor to be selected.

We are SO proud of our BJH Music alumni! Congratulations!!

As always, thank you for your support of Music Education in Brunswick! I look forward to seeing you at the All-Town Concert next week!! (Tuesday, May 7)

-Heidi

March 20, 2019: for Sixth Grade Band Parents

Dear 6^th Grade Band Parent,

The Spring 6^th Grade Band and Chorus Concert is Tuesday, March 26! 

Our 6^th grade students will be performing at 7:00pm in the BJH gym for our families and friends. Students should plan to arrive between 6:30 and 6:40 in all-black concert attire. All band students will report to the band room and all chorus students who are not in band will report to the chorus room. This concert is free to the public and should last about 45 minutes.

We will also be selling raffle tickets for a chance to win one (or more!) of our “Theme Baskets”. The baskets are on display in the main lobby for the entire month of March as we celebrate Music in our Schools Month. Tickets are $1.00 or 6 for $5.00. Winning tickets will be drawn after the 7/8^th grade chorus concert on April 2. Thank you to those of you who contributed to our baskets, helped put them together, and have volunteered to sell tickets at this month’s concerts! All of our fundraising money goes back into the music program and supports scholarships to summer music camps, festivals and other needs of the music department.

We are looking forward to performing for you next week! See you on Tuesday!! (7:00 PM; Jr. High Gymnasium)

-Heidi

March 17, 2019: for Jazz Parents

Dear Jazz Parent:

Attached is the State Jazz Festival permission slip. Please return no later than Tuesday. If you’d rather not use the attachment, your musician can pick up a hard copy on the document holder outside my office door on Monday.

Here are the details for Saturday (March 23):

• We will be loading the bus at 6:30 AM!! Please help your musician be on time. We’ll be “cutting it close” to be ready for our 8:00 AM warm-up!
• Performance attire is “all black”.
• All instruments and music, with the exception of rhythm section equipment, will need to go home with your musician on Friday!
• The festival is at Westbrook HIGH SCHOOL (NOT the middle school where we were for the regional festival).
• Entrance fees are $5 general; $3 student/senior; $15 family
• We perform in the GYMNASIUM at 8:30.
• After our performance, we’ll have our picture taken by a professional photographer. I’ve attached the order form. They also have these on site. I THINK you also have the option of ordering from the photographer’s website.

After we perform, we’ll stay for a couple of hours to watch other performances and visit the vendor area. There will be festival t-shirts and concessions for sale!! (I should be getting more info this week with t-shirt prices, etc… I’ll share as soon as I get that!) We’ll load the bus at 11:00. We should be back in Brunswick around 12:00. I’ll use our remind group to give an accurate ETA once we’re on the road.

If your musician IS NOT returning to Brunswick on the bus, please note on the permission slip.

Let me know if you have any questions! (The attachments are also available on the BJH Music site “Document Holder”)

-Heidi

March 4, 2019: for all 8th Grade Band Parents

Hello 8^th Grade Band Parents!

Attached is an important letter from Mike Scarpone, the Brunswick High School instrumental music teacher, for all band parents of “incoming freshman”—wow—hard to believe it’s time to start saying that!! ☺

If you have any questions feel free to contact me or Mr. Scarpone directly: mscarpone@brunswick.k12.me.us

-Heidi

You can find the attachment in the “Document Holder” on this site.

January 28, 2019: for all BJH Band Parents (Gr. 6-8)

Good Afternoon,

Below is some important information for all Band Parents regarding upcoming events and fundraisers. As always, our BJH Music Website is a great resource for information on these and other events, calendar updates, etc…

Husky Howl:

Please join us for a fun night of performances by BJH students at this year’s “Husky Howl” Talent Exhibition. You’ll see instrumental and vocal performances, dancing, tumbling, skits and more! The show begins at 7:00 PM on Friday, February 1 in the BJH Gymnasium. Admission is $5 per person. Proceeds benefit the BJH Music Department.

Music Boosters Meeting:
If your student is a member of band and/or chorus, YOU are a BJH Music Booster! We meet regularly on the first Monday of every month. Our next meeting is Monday, February 4 at 6:30 PM in the BJH Band Room. This month’s agenda will include discussion of upcoming events and brainstorming funding sources for a major equipment need. The meeting will last under an hour. We hope you can join us!

We Need Your Help: Music Booster “Basket Raffle”:
We are excited to announce the annual BJH Music Boosters’ “Basket Raffle”. This year, the raffle tickets will be sold during the month of March with the baskets on display at our March performance events! Funds raised from this raffle will be used for Music Camp Scholarships and to help provide supplemental financial support for our performing groups for items such as music, equipment, supplies, and repairs. We also use this money to provide our musicians with special opportunities like guest clinicians, commissioned works, and concert trips.

We are asking for band and chorus families to contribute to this important fundraiser by providing an item(s) for our theme baskets. You can find a list of specific items we are look for at the link below:

 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B084BACAF2DA64-2019

We’ve tried to include a variety of item requests and a wide range of price points. If you’d prefer, there is an option for a cash donation to be used as needed AND the opportunity for your family to donate a COMPLETED basket with the theme of your choice or a “stand-alone” item or service to raffle separately.

We will need all donations at BJH no later than Friday, February 15. We will also need volunteers to help put the baskets together and wrap them for display. Our Basket Raffle Work Session is scheduled for Monday, March 4 at 6:30 PM in the BJH Band Room. 

Please take a moment to visit the sign-up link above and select an item to donate. If you like to shop online and would like to have your donation shipped directly to the school, please have your item sent to “BJH Music Department, Brunswick Junior High School, 65 Columbia Ave., Brunswick, ME 04011”. Be sure that the item will arrive before March 4. (Sorry. We don’t have direct links to purchase any of the items. Feel free to do a “search” on your favorite online retail website.)

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR YOUNG MUSICIANS!

-Heidi

November 30, 2018: for all 6th Grade Concert Band Parents- Concert Tuesday, Dec. 11

Hello!
This is just a reminder that the Sixth Grade Band will be performing in the 6^th Grade Band & Chorus Concert on Tuesday, December 11. The concert will be held in the Brunswick Junior High School Gymnasium. It begins at 7:00 PM and should last about 45 minutes. I am SO excited to share your young musician’s hard work with you. I think you will be amazed at the progress they have made! The concert is open to the public and admission is free. Invite your relatives, friends, and neighbors!
The building will open at 6:30. The musicians should arrive between 6:30 and 6:40 and should report directly to the band room.
Dress for this concert is our “formal concert attire”: black from “neck to toes”. Boys may wear a long tie if they’d like. If you are curious about the “look” we are after, there are some pictures posted on the website to use as a reference. You can find that post here:

http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/2017/09/21/new-look-for-bjh-performing-groups-concert-attire/

Also, TOMORROW (December 1) is the Annual Music Boosters Christmas Tree and Wreath and Community Bake Sale! The sale begins at 8 AM and ends at 11:00 AM or when we sell out: Freshly cut trees, decorated wreaths, delicious baked goods featuring our families’ favorite recipes. There should be a WIDE range of breads, candy, and other goodies for sale including our “cookie bar” where you can fill a box with an assortment of your favorites. Come early for the best selection! We will have student musicians performing all morning!
You can find more information on the Brunswick Junior High School Music Boosters facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Brunswick-Junior-High-School-Music-Boosters-884981201591883/ and on our Music Department website: http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/

Thanks for all you do to support your young musician!

See you soon!

-Heidi Anderson, BJH Band Director

November 19, 2018: for all BJH Concert Band Students (Gr. 6-8)

Dear BJHS music families,

The annual BJHS Music Boosters Tree & Wreath Sale and Community Bake Sale is Saturday, December 1 from 8:00-11:00 AM. This sale is our biggest fundraiser to benefit our student musicians, and it has been a Brunswick tradition for more than thirty years. Live performances by our band and chorus students are the highlight of this event. In order to make this year’s sale a success, we need YOUR help!

To work a shift selling trees and wreaths on Saturday, December 1, please sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0c48aaa822a31-annual1
Tree & Wreath Sale Coordinators: Kristi Hatrick & Becky Wilkoff

To sign up to bake or work a shift at the bake sale on Saturday, December 1, please visit:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090c45aaaa2aa1fd0-community
Bake Sale Coordinators: Amanda Menard & Jen Bubar

What should you bake? We’re glad you asked!

We encourage you to bring goodies from your cultural, family and holiday traditions. Popular items in past years have been breads (especially savory breads, cinnamon rolls, holiday specialty breads), whoopee pies, and candy. We will be doing a cookie buffet—customers will be able to fill containers with their own selection of cookies—so we need LOTS and LOTS of cookies! We’d also like to have some gluten-free options.

Please label your baked goods and let us know if they contain nuts. Cookies do NOT need to be wrapped for individual sale. All other items (breads, whoopee pies, candy, brownies, etc.) SHOULD be packaged for individual sale. You don’t need to price anything.

Please plan to bring your baked goods to school on Friday, November 30 (main office or band room), or bring them early on Saturday. The sale begins at 8:00 AM on Saturday, December 1. Set-up begins at 7:00 AM.

If you have questions about the bake sale, please contact Amanda Menard at mander33@gmail.com or Jen Bubar at jlbubar@aol.com.

Thank you so much for your help!

BJHS Music Boosters
Find us on Facebook: Brunswick Junior High School Music Boosters

October 24, 2018: for all BJH Concert Band Students (Gr. 6-8)

Hello!

This is a busy time in the Music Department! Here is an update with important information about next week’s Parade and other upcoming events!

Halloween Parade Information (Wednesday, October 31):

• Students will be staying after school to prepare. 
• Students should NOT wear their costume to school. They will only have about 10 minutes after school to change. They won’t be able to apply make-up, hair spray, etc… at school. Please help them make appropriate choices. 🙂
• I’ve gotten many questions about wearing masks and gloves… Here are the guidelines: musician needs to be able to play their instrument as well as they are able WITHOUT the mask/gloves; in the case of a mask, it is important that they can see clearly in front of them and have good peripheral vision as well. This is for their safety, and the safety of the other students. Again, thanks for helping them make good costume choices! 🙂
• If your child chooses not to wear a costume, they should wear “school colors”: Red and/or White. 
• EVERYONE (costumed or not) should dress for the weather. It’s going to be cool!!
• At the end of the parade all students will return to the Jr. High on busses. You should plan on picking them up at the Jr. High between 5:15 and 5:30. 
• In the case of inclement weather, a decision about participating will be made by 1:00. Please check the school and/or music department website or call the main office if you are not sure of our marching status. 

If your child is participating in the parade, be sure they have a “marching lyre”—the device that attaches to their instrument to hold their music. Most 7^th & 8^th graders should have one from previous years but most 6^th grade students will need to purchase one! You should be able to find lyres at any store that sells band supplies including the Music Center (Tontine Mall) and from David French Music https://www.davidfrenchmusic.com (under “accessories”, look for “marching”.) You can even find them on Amazon! NOTE: not all trumpet and sax lyres fit all instruments. If you’re purchasing locally, bring the instrument with you. If you’re ordering online, look carefully at the lyre “design”—straight, “L” shaped, etc…

Parade volunteers will be getting a separate email with some details before the end of the week. If you did not check the “volunteer” box on your child’s form, not to worry! It’s not too late! Be in the Jr. High gymnasium at 2:30 on October 31! The more, the merrier….Costumes for parents are optional. ☺

We have several other music department events coming up that we will need help with:

• The first is a request for “food platters” or beverages for this year’s BJH Musical “cabaret table” auction. You can find more information and sign-up to help here:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B084BACAF2DA64-bjhmusical1
• BJH is hosting this year’s MMEA District III 7^th& 8^th Grade Honors Auditions on Thursday, November 15. Please be looking for more information on how you can help with this monumental undertaking!! 
• The Annual BJH Music Boosters Tree, Wreath, and Bake Sale is scheduled for Saturday, December 1! Thank you to all of the parents who are organizing this major fundraiser! You’ll be hearing from them soon on how you can help!

Please note: once the Musical, Auditions, and Tree & Wreath Sale are over, we’ll have quite a break before we’ll be asking for your help again. I didn’t want to scare anyone away…. ☺

 Thank you in advance for your help with our upcoming events! We could not “do what we do” without the fantastic support of our parents and family members!!

-Heidi

October 1, 2018: for all BJH Concert Band Students (Gr. 6-8)

Hello,

This is the first of regular “Band Updates” you’ll be receiving this year. I use the BSD data management system to create my email distribution lists. Please reply to this email if you’d like to add someone to the list or would like to receive emails at a different address.

All emails can also be found on my “E-Mail Archive” page on the Music website: http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/

The website is a great resource for information you may be looking for about ALL things “BJH Music”! We encourage you to “check the website” first…but feel free to email if you can’t find the info you are looking for!

Other than to let you know that we are off to a great start, this email will be very brief with just a few reminders. Be looking for a more “in-depth” update in the next week!

• The first Music Boosters meeting of the school year is Monday, October 1! Please join us in the BJH Band Room at 6:30. Our meetings last no more than an hour—we shoot for shorter! We’ll be talking about parent support requests for some upcoming events and about this year’s fundraising efforts! This is a great opportunity to get to know other music parents and to learn how you can help support your musician and music in Brunswick Schools. We hope to see you Monday! (We’ll be meeting this year on the first Monday of the month—mark your calendars and join us!)
• Our first performance of the year is the Brunswick Park & Rec’s “Goblin Parade” on Wednesday, October 31! The parade is right afterschool, musicians are back at the Jr. High around 5:15. We’ll need parent volunteers for this event. You’ll be receiving more information SOON, but I wanted to be sure everyone had it on their calendar.
• I am happy to announce an exciting new program at the Jr. High: Bowdoin/BJH Musical Mentorships! You’ll be hearing more about this program in the coming weeks. Please take a moment to read the attached letter from Bowdoin student Kathryn McGinnis. Let either Kathryn or me know if you have any questions or would like us to pair your musician with a mentor!

As always, thank you for your support of your young musician and Music Education in Brunswick!

Sincerely,

Heidi Anderson, BJH Band Director

August 3, 2018: For all incoming 6th Grade Band Parents (Information about BJH Band and Band-a-Palooza)

Dear Band Parent,

My name is Heidi Anderson. I am one of two music educators at the Junior High. My teaching responsibilities include all Concert Bands, 6^th Grade General Music Performance Class, and all of the instrumental extra-curricular performing groups. Welcome to BJH and the “Husky Music Department” family! It’s hard to believe that in just a few short weeks, we’ll be starting a new school year! This is such an exciting time for our rising Sixth Graders and their families; a time filled with many new experiences and opportunities!! All of the “new” can cause anxiety for some students (and parents!). Please know that everyone at the Jr. High will do all we can to make your student’s transition a smooth one!

Here are some things that you and your musician can do to be sure they are ready for our first Band class!

• All BJH Band students need a 1 Inch 3 Ring Binder for Band. They will keep all of their instructional materials for Band in this binder, including the sheet music we will be rehearsing in preparation for performances. There is no requirement for the “design”/color of the binder, but it should have your child’s name clearly visible on the outside of the binder. They will need their “Band Binder” for the very first class. I’ll be passing out LOTS of materials on that first day!! Each musician should also have a pencil with them for each class.
• Please have your child’s first and last name clearly displayed on the OUTSIDE of their case. Lots of musicians use a luggage tag but duct tape works well also!
• Be sure that your child’s instrument is in good working order, including reeds, valve oil, cork grease, etc… If you find that your instrument is in need of repair, please be in touch so we can figure out a plan to have it looked at by our repair technician before school begins.
• Before the first Band class, your musician should spend some time reviewing fingerings, literacy skills (note and rhythm reading), and playing some favorite music! This is ESPECIALLY important for those who haven’t played since June! ☺
• Band at the Jr. High is an elective class and students will receive a grade. The class meets every other day in the rotation—every Day 2 & Day 4. It is important that your musician comes to class prepared and able to participate fully (with instrument, band binder, necessary supplies).

In the coming weeks, you’ll also receive information about our Music Boosters group; where to find information about upcoming events, etc…; a performance calendar; information about extra-curricular music opportunities; and more. Email is my “go-to” way to communicate and the easiest way to get in touch with me. If you’d like to receive emails at a different address or would like me to add anyone to the 6^th Grade Band distribution list, please let me know. 

Finally, to help ease the transition to a new building and a new band director ☺, we will be holding our annual “Band-a-palooza” event on Tuesday, August 28:

 Band-a-Palooza 2018 is a fun day of full band time; sectional rehearsals and “masterclasses”; team building activities; and activities designed to get to know the Junior High! Palooza is open to all incoming Grade 6 Band students. The event begins at 9:00 AM on Tuesday August, 28 and culminates with an “Ice Cream Social” for family members at 2:00. Participating students need to bring: their instrument and supplies (reeds, valve oil, etc…), their Essential Elements book (Gr. 5 Band Book), and a bag lunch. There is no charge to participate in Band-a-Palooza.

You can register here:

 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSenme23s-d9l1YTEx0T7r-m49aG2Q5UKnSqmJ3YftoPPWYiNw/viewform?usp=sf_link

Registration is open now and closes on August 26. Band-a-palooza is open to any new BJH Band student with at least one year of playing experience and is especially geared towards our incoming 6^th graders!

Please let me know if you have any questions about Band at the Jr. High! I look forward to meeting you soon.

Enjoy the remaining days of summer!!

Sincerely, 
Heidi

PS- I’ve attached a Band-a-Palooza “flyer”. Please feel free to share with anyone you think may be interested in attending who might not have received this email!

May 20, 2018: Sent to ALL 6-8 Band Parents (information about Memorial Day Parade and other upcoming events)

Dear Band Families,

The next few weeks are very busy for our music families! Please check the website for new information and updates on upcoming events! 

This week:
Monday- marching practice (only for musicians participating in the Memorial Day Parade)
Wednesday- “extra” rehearsal for Wind Ensemble (7:05)
Thursday- marching practice (neighborhood parade)
Friday- Wind Ensemble/Advanced Choir trip to participate in the Great East Music Festival, NO Jazz rehearsal.

Next week:
Monday- Memorial Day Parade (see info below!)

Week of June 4-8:
Monday, 6/4- BJH 6-8 Choral Concert, 7 PM, BJH Gymnasium
Thursday, 6/7- BJH “Celebrate Summer” Outdoor Band Concert, 6 PM, BJH Athletic Field (or gymnasium in case of rain)

FYI- Brunswick High School Concerts: BHS Band Concert- May 23, 7 PM, Crooker Theater; BHS Spring Jazz Night-June 1, 7 PM, Crooker Theater
Note: Jr. High musicians are not involved in the BHS Concerts but the concerts are a wonderful opportunity to hear our AMAZING high school musicians perform and a great inspiration to our younger musicians.

Memorial Day Parade Information:

Thanks to everyone who has volunteered to help out with the parade. You will not receive a separate email from me, but please know that if you indicated that you were willing to assist during the parade, I have you on my volunteer list! It’s not too late… We can never have too many parents marching with us, so if you’d like to help, just be at the Jr. High ready to load the busses to the parade formation site at 7:45 Monday morning (5/28). The parade is really lots of fun and is such an important part of our community’s Memorial Day Celebration. The kids and I really appreciate your help!

We still need a “support vehicle” for the parade. In the past we’ve used trucks, convertibles, jeeps….Any “open” vehicle. The purpose of the support vehicle is to carry water and emergency supplies for the band and to be available in case we need to transport equipment (for example, if a drum carrier breaks or a sousaphone player needs a break, etc…). Honestly, in the last couple of years, we haven’t even needed the water BUT it is good to know we have the support available “just in case”. If you can help with this or you know someone who has a secret desire to show off their car in a parade, please let me know!! Thanks in advance!

A quick reminder on details for Memorial Day:

• Our marching uniform is black pants and red band polo shirt. Parents: please help your kids make a good “footwear choice”. Flip flops and sandals are not safe for marching. Students should be wearing comfortable, flat, closed toed shoes—athletic shoes (sneakers) are ideal. Thanks for your help with this!
• All students who ordered shirts will get them by Wednesday. I have a LIMITED number of “extra” shirts. Please try to let me know before the end of the school day on Thursday if you discover there is an issue with your child’s shirt: too small, big mustard stain on the front, can’t find it, etc… I can PROBABLY come up with something for them!
• There have been lots of questions about “wearing shorts”. I have explained to the kids that if it is hot, they can wear knee length or longer shorts/capris (no “leggings”). Several students asked about skirts—knee length or longer would be fine with me. Right now, the forecast is calling for it to be cool and showery. Thanks for helping them make an appropriate clothing choice!!
• Students will need to be at the Jr. High by 7:45 Monday morning (5/28). They should leave their coats, cases, etc…in the car and ONLY have what they will be marching with: instrument, lyre, music. There is no place to leave things at the parade formation site and you will be picking them up “downtown” at the end of the parade. The building will be locked Monday morning! Please remind your child (as will I!) to bring everything they need home with them on Friday. 
• We will be disbanding on “Station Ave.” (off from Maine St.)—just up from the Hannaford Parking Lot. Please plan on meeting your child there OR make clear arrangements with your child on where you would like them to meet you at the end of the parade (usually around 10:00). There will be no transportation back to the school. 
• The weather forecast for Monday is “ever-changing”. In the case of rain, the other band directors and I will make a collective decision about participation—damp is ok for marching, but actual rain—even light—can be bad for instruments. Depending on the conditions, it is conceivable that the parade is a “go” but the bands might not participate. Check the BJH Music website (http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/) for updates!
• Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns!

We have marching practice tomorrow (Monday) morning (9-10:30) and Thursday (12:45-2:30) afternoon! Several of you have graciously volunteered to assist. If your schedule allows, and you’d like to help either tomorrow morning or Friday afternoon, we’d love to have you! No previous marching experience is needed. Tomorrow we’ll do some marching “skill work” on the soccer field in smaller squads and spend some time on music rehearsal. On Thursday, we’ll be heading “off campus” for our annual neighborhood parade: first stop, Coffin School; and then over to Thornton Oakes. Students should dress appropriately for the weather conditions (they do not need to wear their marching uniform for practices). Students will need their music mounted on cardboard or in a flip folder and their lyre for BOTH marching practices.

As always, thank you for your support of your young musician and Music in Brunswick Schools!

-Heidi

May 1, 2018: Sent to ALL 6-8 Band Parents (information about upcoming events!)

Hello!

This email contains a LOT of information about upcoming performances and events for all band students in grades 6 through 8! Please read carefully to the end. There are also several attachments included. Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band Parents: I’ll be sending out separate emails about upcoming events for those groups.

All Town Band Concert: Tuesday, May 8; Brunswick High School Gymnasium; Concert begins at 6:30 PM

• Dress for this concert is “formal concert attire”: Black from “neck to toes”, shoulders should be covered.
• Please note the start time of this concert—6:30! 
• Performers need to be in their seats ready to rehearse the combined piece at 5:30. Doors for the audience will open at 6:00. There will be close to 400 musicians performing at this concert! Traffic will be heavy. Please keep this in mind as you plan a “drop-off time” for your musician.
• 2018 Brunswick All Town Band T-shirts will be on sale at the concert. $10 each. Cash or check only. I’ve attached the flyer—shirts will be black with white ink (there are pictures posted on the BJH Music website). If we run out of the size you need, there will be order forms on hand. Shirts ordered and paid for at the concert will be delivered to your child’s school in a week to 10 days. We’ll only be doing a “second run” if we run out of shirts in a particular size and orders will only be accepted the night of the concert. Any proceeds after covering the costs of the shirts will go to the Brunswick Schools Instrumental Music Programs. Thank you for your support!

Memorial Day Parade: Monday, May 28

All of the students received an informational letter and participation form last week. I’ve attached these in case you haven’t seen it yet! Forms are due by Friday, May 4. This is ESPECIALLY important for any student who needs to order a marching band polo! 

To prepare for the parade, we will have marching practices on Monday, May 21 (8:50 AM- 10:40 AM) and Thursday, May 24 (12:40 PM-2:20 PM). I am in need of parent volunteers to assist with marching practices. Although marching experience (band or military/color guard) would be nice, it’s not necessary! Please let me know if you are available or know of someone (a former band member home from college, perhaps?) who might be able to assist! It’s fun and will be very rewarding to see our amazing musicians marching down Maine Street in straight rows and columns! 🙂 Thanks in advance for considering volunteering your time!

Annual Outdoor Band Concert and Awards Presentation: Thursday, June 7; BJH Athletic Field; 6:00 PM (in case of rain, this concert will be held in the gymnasium)

I’ll send another reminder about our final concert of the year–our annual Outdoor Concert–as we get closer to the performance date but I DID want to be sure everyone has the date on their calendar during this busy time of year!

For the convenience of concert-goers, BJH Music Boosters will be selling concessions. We’ll be in touch soon about volunteers to help with that!

Thank you for all you do to support your young musician! I look forward to seeing you at our All Town Concert next week!

-Heidi Anderson, BJH Band

PS- As some of you may have heard, the town of Brunswick was recently named a 2018 “Best Community for Music Education” by the NAMM Foundation! We are one of only 2 Maine school districts to be recognized for this national distinction! Hopefully you’ll be hearing more about this award in the media over the next few weeks! In a nutshell, the award recognizes the outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education in Brunswick a priority. Again, THANK YOU for all you do!!

March 19, 2018: Sent to 6th Grade Band Parents (information about concert on 3/27)

Hello!

This email is a reminder about our Sixth Grade Concert Band and Chorus Concert on Tuesday, March 27 at 7:00 PM in the BJH Gymnasium.

This concert is part of our “Music in Our Schools” month-long celebration! Along with enjoying performances by our 6^th grade musicians, we will have our “theme baskets” on display and raffle tickets for sale: $1 each/6 for $5. (The basket raffle drawing will be Wednesday, April 4.)

We expect the concert to last about 45 minutes. Admission is free.

Dress for this concert is our “formal concert attire”—all black (“from neck to toes”). Musicians should arrive between 6:30 and 6:40. Doors for the audience will open at 6:30.

I think you’ll be quite impressed by the progress of our musicians! We look forward to performing for you!!

See you next week!

-Heidi Anderson, BJH Instrumental Music

PS- FYI, I have set up a “Practice Assignment” page on the Music Website for 6^th grade band students. Yes, your musician should be practicing at home on a regular basis. ☺ Hopefully this list will help those musicians who know they are SUPPOSED to practice, but don’t know WHAT to practice. You can find the page via the top menu of the website (http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/Instrumental Music- Concert Band- “Sixth Grade Practice Assignments”.

March 19, 2018: Sent to Wind Ensemble and Jazz Parents about 3/20 concert

Good afternoon everyone! 

This email is a reminder that there is a concert for our extra-curricular ensembles tomorrow, Tuesday, March 20, at 7:00pm in the BJH gym. You will have the opportunity to hear our Advanced Choir, Jazz Choir, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band as we celebrate Music In Our Schools Month. We will also have a display of our theme baskets and you can purchase raffle tickets at this event to win one (or more!) of these baskets. Tickets are $1.00 or 6 for $5.00. The concert is, as always, free to the public.

We are trying something new for this concert. We have created an “electronic” program. (We will still have a few paper copies as well!) The link below will take you to the program that is located on the BJH Music website. There will also be a QR code displayed at the concert that will link you to the program! You can then access the program on your electronic device. We have noticed many programs make their way back onto our program table, or are left behind in the audience seating area. Other schools around the country are using the “paperless program” with great success. We feel it is time to explore this option at BJH. We look forward to your opinion!

  http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/files/2018/03/MIOSM-Concert-2018.pdf  

Please remind your musician that dress for this concert is our formal concert attire (all black) and they need to be in the band room at 6:30.

I am so incredibly proud of the work the Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble have done in the past few months. We are excited to play for you! See you tomorrow!!

-Heidi

PS- I apologize to all of you who are receiving this twice and for those that got an almost identical email from Shari on Friday! We have lots of musicians who perform in multiple groups!!

March 13, 2018: Sent to Wind Ensemble Parents (information about upcoming performances)

Hello,

We have a busy few weeks ahead with several performances!

*Wind Ensemble will be performing at the annual “Music In Our Schools Month” Extra-curricular Ensembles Concert on Tuesday, March 20! The concert begins at 7:00 PM in the BJH Gymnasium. Concert attire is our formal concert wear: All black, neck to toes. ☺ Musicians should be at school by 6:30. Please report directly to the band room.

We’ll have our Fundraiser Baskets on display and raffle tickets available to purchase! Tickets are $1/6 for $5. The baskets are amazing!! We’ll be drawing winners on April 4.

*We’ve been selected to participate in the 2018 Maine Band Directors Association “Festival of Bands” at Scarborough High School on Wednesday, March 28.

I’ve attached a permission slip. You can also find this on our “online document holder” page on the music website. I’ll be giving the musicians a hard copy at rehearsal on Thursday!

The important details are:

1. Busses leave BJH at 1:45.
2. We warm-up at 3:30; perform at 4:00, clinic at 4:30.
3. We will plan on leaving Scarborough around 5:15. Back to BJH around 6:00

This festival performances are open to the public! We hope you can join us!

I’ve created a “Remind Class” for the 2018 Wind Ensemble. By joining this “class”, you will receive text or email updates from me regarding travel details or other important notices. Please note: I recently archived last year’s Wind Ensemble classes. If you had signed up for one or both of those (a parent and a student class), you’ll need to sign up again for the current WE class. Sorry for the inconvenience! The link is: remind.com/join/922f92

I need at least one chaperone for the MBDA Festival trip on 3/28. Please let me know if you are interested and available! Thank you in advance!!

See you at the concert next week!

-Heidi

February 25, 2018: Sent to Jazz Band Parents (reminder about Monday evening rehearsal and Jazz Festival on Thursday)

Hello Jazz Families!

I hope everyone had a fun and relaxing week! We are certainly jumping back in with both feet this week!

Here are some important reminders about “stuff” this week: (the Music Website is a great resource to check for this information as well: http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson )

1. I have scheduled an extra rehearsal for MONDAY, February 26 from 5:30-7:00 PM (with pizza from 7-7:30). It is very important that we have everyone at this rehearsal! Please rearrange schedules if at all possible! Could you please let me know if your jazz student will be staying for pizza? (7-7:30) It will help me know how much to order!
2. Our first performance of “jazz season” is this week!!: the MMEA District 2 Jazz Festival at Falmouth High School on Thursday, March 1. Permission slips for this are now “past due” and there are several students who need to get them in. They know who they are…please ask your musician if they’ve turned in the permission slip. Please note- ALL jazz band students should return the permission slip….EVEN if they’ve turned one in for Jazz Choir! Thanks for your help with this! (You can find the permission slip online on the “Document Holder” page of our website. You are looking for “District Jazz Group Adjudication Festival Permission”)
3. Hopefully everyone has found the “Jazz Page” on the website and has been doing some listening this week! Could you ask your Jazz Student to check out this page if they haven’t done so already?

http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/jazz-band/

In my last jazz email (if you missed that one, it’s on my email archives on the website), I mentioned that I’ll be getting out UNH Jazz Festival information this week. It will be a hard copy “packet” of information that your jazz student will be bringing home. If you don’t see that by Friday, please ask them for it! I also need volunteers to chaperone! It’s a fun trip! Let me know if you’re interested!

Don’t forget to let me know if your jazz student will be staying for pizza after our rehearsal tomorrow night (Monday, Feb. 26!): Rehearsal- 5:30-7:00; Pizza- 7:00-7:30.

Thank you for supporting your young musician during this busy month! Be sure to continue to check the Music Department Website for the latest, most up-to-date information!!

-Heidi

February 16, 2018: Sent to Jazz Band Parents (info about evening rehearsal on 2/26 and Festival performance on Thursday, March 1)

Dear Jazz Parents,

This is just a reminder about our first performance of “jazz season”: the MMEA District 2 Jazz Festival at Falmouth High School on Thursday, March 1. Permission slips for this are now “past due” and there are several students who need to get them in. They know who they are…please ask your musician if they’ve turned in the permission slip. Please note- ALL jazz band students should return the permission slip….EVEN if they’ve turned one in for Jazz Choir! Thanks for your help with this! (You can find the permission slip online on the “Document Holder” page of our website.)

In order to be prepared for our performance, I have scheduled an extra rehearsal for MONDAY, February 26 from 5:30-7:00 PM (with pizza from 7-7:30). It is very important that we have everyone at this rehearsal! Please rearrange schedules if at all possible!

 In order to help the kids work on our “competition program”, I’ve uploaded some listening files to the Jazz Page on the website. I am 99.9% sure I forgot to mention this to them at rehearsal this morning. Could you please ask your musician to check out the page and do some listening this coming week! THANK YOU!

I just received our performance time for the UNH Jazz Festival on March 10. I’ll be sending home a packet of UNH Jazz Festival information (including the full schedule, trip details, and a permission slip) after vacation BUT, for your planning purposes: We warm-up at 1:35, perform at 2:00, clinic at 2:30. We will most likely leave for UNH around 8:00 AM and should be home by 10:30 PM. We do need chaperones for this trip. Please let me know if you’re interested!

As always, thank you for your support of your young jazz musician and for music education in Brunswick! Have a fantastic week!

-Heidi

February 15, 2018: Sent to ALL Band Parents (Help needed for annual Basket Raffle)

We are excited to announce the annual BJH Music Boosters’ “Basket Raffle”. This year, the raffle tickets will be sold during the month of March with the baskets on display at our March performance events! Funds raised from this raffle will be used for Music Camp Scholarships and to help provide supplemental financial support for our performing groups for items such as music, equipment, supplies, MusicFirst subscriptions, etc… and to provide our musicians with special opportunities like guest clinicians, commissioned works, concert trips, etc….

We are asking for band and chorus families to contribute to this important fundraiser by providing an item(s) for are theme baskets. We’ve tried to “streamline” the process this year by asking for some SPECIFIC items: 

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084bacaf2da64-basket1

We’ve tried to include a variety of item requests and a wide range of price points. If you’d prefer, there is an option for a cash donation to be used as needed AND the opportunity for your family to donate a COMPLETED basket with the theme of your choice or a “stand-alone” item or service to raffle separately.

We will need all donations at BJH no later than Friday, March 2. We will also need volunteers to help put the baskets together and wrap them for display. Our Basket Raffle Work Session is scheduled for Monday, March 5 at 6:30 PM in the BJH Band Room. 

Please take a moment to visit the sign-up link above and select an item to donate. If you like to shop online and would like to have your donation shipped directly to the school, please have your item sent to “BJH Music Department, Brunswick Junior High School, 65 Columbia Ave., Brunswick, ME 04011”. Be sure that the item will arrive before March 5.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR YOUNG MUSICIANS!

February 5, 2018: Hard copies sent home with Jazz Band Students on 2/6

Dear Jazz Band Parents,

As you know, the BJHS Jazz Band will be participating in the MMEA District II Jazz Festival at Falmouth High School on Thursday, March 1. This festival will provide us with a chance for comments and adjudication from professional jazz musicians and educators before our “big” UNH Jazz Festival Performance on March 10.

I have attached the DII Jazz Festival schedule and permission slip. The Jr. High Jazz Band is scheduled to perform in the Music Room at Falmouth High School at 5:10 followed by an “on stage” judge’s clinic. The BJH Jazz Choir performs at 6:30. The performances are open to the public and we, as always, would appreciate a “friendly” audience to support us!!! Admission to the festival is $5.00 (set by MMEA District II). Your $5 admission fee will enable you to attend all of the scheduled performances in all of the performance rooms. Please note that the State Jazz Committee’s rule of not allowing audience members to enter or leave the performance area during a performance must be strictly enforced! In order to not miss your child’s performance plan on arriving early!!!

We will be traveling to Falmouth High School by bus. We’ll leave BJH at 2:45 and should be home by 8:00. I’ve set up a “Remind” group for Jazz Band. Joining will allow you to receive a “group text” of trip updates—mainly, our ETA back home so you don’t need to sit and wait in the parking lot if we are running late (or early!). If you were part of the Jazz Remind Group last year, you will have to sign up again as I set-up a new “Jazz Class” each year. If you’ve never used Remind before, I can’t recommend it enough! You can find out more information about how it works here: https://www.remind.com/families

Sign-up for “Jazz 2017-2018” here: https://www.remind.com/join/hd7f8e

Dress for the festival is our “jazz uniform”: All Black. Since we will be at the festival through “dinner time”, please make sure your student has money to purchase from the festival concessions (pizza, water, baked goods) or brings a bag dinner.

Because of the number of students who are unable to attend, I have cancelled the clinic scheduled for February 20. Depending on how things go over the next 2 weeks, I may need to schedule an extra evening rehearsal when we get back from vacation.  

Here are the important upcoming jazz dates:

2/26-29 Possible evening jazz rehearsal at BJH

3/1        DII Jazz Festival, Falmouth

3/9        DIII Honors Jazz for selected 7^th & 8^th gr. students (not the whole group—students attending this know who they are!)

3/10      University of New Hampshire Clark Terry Jazz Festival: more information coming soon…this an ALL DAY event (early am to late pm). We’ll need chaperones!

Please return the attached participation slip as soon as possible. As always, thanks for your support of Brunswick Junior High Music!!!!

-Heidi Anderson

PS- This letter will be posted on my email archive page on the website. The permission slip and schedule can be found on website’s “Document Holder” page.

January 24, 2018: Sent to 8th Grade Band Parents

Hello!

Attached is a letter from Mike Scarpone, Band Director at Brunswick High School. He is extending an invitation to all BJH 8^th Grade Band students to participate in BHS Pep Band for the February 6 basketball game. All of the details are in the letter. I’ve also attached the “participation form” (which is due THIS Friday—January 26). The students received hard copies of the letter and participation form today in rehearsal and both will be posted in the “document holder” on the BJH Music website.

Traditionally, the “Pep Band Event” has been a really great way to “ease” into high school life for our 8^th graders! The whole night is designed to be a fun, low-key and stress-free time for the 8^th graders. They’ll have the opportunity to reconnect with some of their older band friends and will have a chance to talk with upperclassmen about BHS: balancing band, sports, and academics; clubs and activities that might be of interest; how does lunch “work”; how to find their way around; etc… Probably the most inspirational part of the event, is the opportunity to be a part of the amazing BHS Band!!

I hope you will encourage your 8^th grader to participate! Participation forms are due Friday.

-Heidi

PS- Just another reminder that our Winter Band Concert is next week: Wednesday, January 31 at 7:00 PM in the BJH Gymnasium!

Note- The attachments to this email can be found in the “Document Holder” (see top menu bar).

January 22, 2018: Sent to 7th & 8th Grade Band Parents

Hello!

The 7^th & 8^th Grade Winter Band Concert has been rescheduled to Wednesday, January 31 at 7:00 PM in the BJH Gymnasium. Doors will open at 6:30. Admission is free. The concert should last about 45 minutes.

Musicians should plan on arriving between 6:30 and 6:40. Dress is our “formal concert attire”: black from neck to toes.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility! See you on 1/31!

-Heidi

January 4, 2018: Sent to Seventh and Eighth Grade Band Parents

Happy New Year!

I hope this email finds you and your family safe and warm! The weather forecast sure is ominous!

I wanted to remind everyone about the BJH Seventh and Eighth Grade Bands Concert scheduled for Wednesday, January 17 at 7:00 PM in the BJH Gymnasium.

Each band will perform separately and then we will combine for three pieces. I anticipate the concert will last about 45 minutes. It should be an awesome night of music!! Admission is free. Please invite family, friends, and neighbors! We love performing for a large, appreciative crowd! ☺

Musicians will need to be at school between 6:30 and 6:40 PM on concert night. (Doors will open at 6:20). Dress for musicians is “formal concert attire”—all black. This is a change from last year. The “look” we are going for was shared in a website post back in September. You can find that here:

http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/2017/09/21/new-look-for-bjh-performing-groups-concert-attire/

If you are not able to pull together “all black” for this concert, last year’s concert attire (black from the waist down, white dress shirt) will be fine.

We are looking forward to sharing our music with you on 1/17/18! See you then!

-Heidi Anderson, BJH Band Director

PS- Thank you to everyone for the notes, cards, and gifts over the holidays. They were much appreciated!!  

December 4, 2017: Sent to Sixth Grade Band Parents

Hello!
This is just a reminder that the Sixth Grade Band will be performing in the 6^th Grade Band & Chorus Concert on Monday, December 11. The concert will be held in the Brunswick Junior High School Gymnasium. It begins at 7:00 PM and should last about 45 minutes. I am SO excited to share your young musician’s hard work with you. I think you will be amazed at the progress they have made since September! The concert is open to the public and admission is free. Invite your relatives, friends, and neighbors!
The building will open at 6:30. The musicians should arrive between 6:30 and 6:40 and should report directly to the band room.
Dress for this concert is our “formal concert attire”: black from “neck to toes”. Boys may wear a long tie if they’d like. If you are curious about the “look” we are after, there are some pictures posted on the website to use as a reference. You can find that post here:

http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/2017/09/21/new-look-for-bjh-performing-groups-concert-attire/

Also coming up THIS Saturday (December 9) is the Annual Music Boosters Christmas Tree and Wreath and Multicultural Bake Sale! The sale begins at 8 AM and ends at 11:00 AM or when we sell out! Freshly cut trees are $30 each (there are usually a HUGE variety of sizes). Decorated wreaths are $15 and $25. There should be a WIDE range of breads, candy, etc… for sale including our “cookie bar” where you can fill a box with an assortment of your favorites. Come early for the best selection!
Just a reminder that we are asking all music parents who are able, to bring in something for the bake sale. There is no “sign up” but we are looking for your family’s favorite “festive treats”: cookies, bars, breads (sweet or savory), fudge, etc….

You can find more information on the Brunswick Junior High School Music Boosters facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Brunswick-Junior-High-School-Music-Boosters-884981201591883/ and on our Music Department website: http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson/

The email I sent out to band parents about this event is posted on my email archive page:

(This page. Scroll down…. November 16)

Thanks for all you do to support your young musician!

See you soon!

-Heidi Anderson, BJH Band Director

November 16, 2017: Sent to ALL Band Parents

October 27, 2017: Sent to ALL Band Parents

Hello!

We have two “big events” in the next couple of weeks and we need your help!

1.) On Friday, Nov. 3 and Saturday, Nov. 4; the BJH Music Department will present our annual musical production—this year “Homeroom”. Hopefully you caught the great article in last week’s Forecaster about the show and cast!

For both evening shows, we will be “auctioning” cabaret seating as a fundraiser for the Music Department. We will have 5 tables that seat 6-8 and each table will be set with an assortment of goodies for the “high bidders” to enjoy during the show or take home for later. We still have quite a few “slots” unfilled for this event. Could you please take a look at the sign-up and help where you can?

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084bacaf2da64-bjhmusical

2.) On Thursday, Nov. 9; BJH is hosting the Maine Music Educators Association District III 7^th & 8^th Grade Honors Band and Chorus Auditions. Between 3:00-8:00, we’ll have approximately 575 students and their teachers from around the region, coming to the school to audition. We have a number of “man power” needs (working concessions, supervising audition areas to be sure we are keeping “on schedule”, providing dinner for judges and audition support staff) as well as some donations needed for the concession sales (proceeds to benefit the BJH Music Department). This is a HUGE undertaking and we need your help. (We also will have 20-30 student volunteers!) Please check out the Auditions volunteer sign-up and help if you can! We are particularly in need of someone to take on the “Judges’ Supper” and some folks to work concessions!

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084bacaf2da64-district

Thanks in advance for your help!!

Halloween Parade Reminders:

• Participating students will stay afterschool on Tuesday to prep for marching. They should bring everything they need for the parade with them in the morning (instrument, lyre, music prepped for marching, costume!).
• You should pick your musician up at the Junior High following the parade (around 5:15). For safety reasons, all participants are required to take the busses back to the Jr. High. (They’ll need to pick up all of their belongings from the school anyway.)
• If you volunteered to help with the parade on your child’s participation slip, I NEED YOU. ☺Please be in the gymnasium at the Junior High by 2:45 to help the students line-up. You’ll be marching down to the mall with us, help supervise while we are waiting for the parade to begin, march the parade, and return to the school on the busses with the students. Costumes are optional!

Thanks again to everyone who has volunteered!! See you soon!!

-Heidi Anderson, BJH Bands

October 16, 2017: Sent to ALL Band Parents

Hello!

This is just a reminder that Halloween Parade Forms were due today from ALL band students. If your child has not returned the form yet, please help them get that in as soon as possible. If you need a form, you can find it on the “Document Holder” page of the BJH Music website. To clarify: this is not a permission slip—it is a “participation form” so that I know who is participating and who is NOT participating.

If your child IS participating in the parade, be sure they have a “marching lyre”—the device that attached to their instrument to hold their music.

Most 7^th & 8^th graders should have one from previous years but most 6^th grade students will need to purchase one! You should be able to find lyres at any store that sells band supplies including the Music Center (Tontine Mall) and from David French Music https://www.davidfrenchmusic.com (under “accessories”, look for “marching”.) You can even find them on Amazon! NOTE: not all trumpet and sax lyres fit all instruments. If you’re purchasing locally, bring the instrument with you. If you’re ordering online, look carefully at the lyre “design”—straight, “L” shaped, etc… I’ll post more lyre tips and suggestions for “type” on the website!

Parade volunteers will be getting an email with some details next week. If you did check the “volunteer” box on your child’s form, not to worry! It’s not too late! Be in the Jr. High gymnasium at 2:30 on October 31! The more, the merrier….Costumes for parents are optional. ☺

We have several other music department events coming up that we will need help with:

• The first is a request for “food platters” or beverages for this year’s BJH Musical “cabaret table” auction. You can find more information and sign up to help here: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b084bacaf2da64-bjhmusical
• BJH is hosting this year’s MMEA District III 7^th & 8^th Grade Honors Auditions on Thursday, November 9. Please be looking for more information on how you can help with this monumental undertaking!!
• The Annual BJH Music Boosters Tree, Wreath, and Bake Sale is scheduled for Saturday, December 9! Thank you to Becky Wilkoff (tree/wreath coordinator) and Darcee Pantaz (bake sale coordinator) who are organizing this major fundraiser! You’ll be hearing from them soon on how you can help!

Please note: once the Musical, Auditions, and Tree & Wreath Sale are over, we’ll have quite a break before we’ll be asking for your help again. I didn’t want to scare anyone away…. ☺

 Thank you in advance for your help with our upcoming events! We could not “do what we do” without the fantastic support of our parents and family members!!

-Heidi

September 29, 2017: Sent to ALL Band Parents 

Hello!

If you are receiving this, you are the parent/guardian of a band student!

We are off to a great start this year and are already producing some good music! I am VERY impressed with the hard work of the students during rehearsals! If you haven’t heard much practicing at home, please know that “home practice” IS an expectation. ☺ Because practice needs are individualized, if your child isn’t sure what they should be working on, have them see me and I can be sure they have a practice list specifically targeted for the skills they need to work on.

Here are a few important “Housekeeping” things:

1. If you haven’t already done so, please bookmark (and check often) the BJH Music Website. You can navigate to the site from the BJH homepage—Departments (top menu bar)—Music or go directly to http://www.brunswick.k12.me.us/handerson. The site is updated regularly and will have all the information you need. Some of the “features” I’d like to highlight:
   1. E-mail archive: find past emails that have been sent—organized by date, newest on top.
   2. “Document Holder”- find downloadable permission slips, etc…
   3. Calendar- you can merge our google calendar with yours! ☺ (please note: not ALL events on the BJH Music Calendar involve ALL band students!)
   4. Please “subscribe” to receive new posts via email!
2. Our first “Music Parent Night” is THIS TUESDAY, October 3 from 6:30 to 7:30 in the band room. The Music Parent Night is a wonderful chance to find out how you can help support your child and the BJH Music Program as well as connect with other music parents and ask any questions you may have. We have a couple of events coming up that will need significant parent support:
   1. MMEA District III 7^th & 8^th Grade Honors Auditions on November 9 (we’ll be hosting 500+ students and their teachers from 30 schools around the region as they audition for a spot in the DIII 7^th & 8^th Grade Honors Band and Chorus)
   2. Our annual Tree, Wreath, and Multi-Cultural Bake Sale on December 9. The trees and wreaths have been ordered but we still have some logistical details that need to be worked out.
3. Please check and make sure that your child’s first and last name is clearly labeled on the outside of their case and also on the outside of their “band binder”. This helps get “lost” items back to their owners! ☺
4. Your child has a couple of assignments due on MusicFirst (our online classroom). All students have received their log-in info and a brief demo of the site. Please ask them to show you what it’s all about!
5. Percussion Parents: you will be receiving a separate email from me in the next week or so with a list of stick bag requirements for your percussionist. Please remind your percussion student that their personal sticks and mallets should be labeled with their name (a fine point permanent marker usually works for this) and should be kept in their stick bag (which is best stored in their locker). More to come in the e-mail….. ☺

If you would like to receive updates at a different address or would like to add people to this distribution list, please respond to this email and I will adjust my list! You can also find a copy of this email on the website’s “E-mail archive” page—see above.

I look forward to seeing you at our Music Parent Night on Tuesday! If you can’t make it but would like to help with any of our upcoming events, please let me know and I will keep you in the loop!

Thank you for your support of Music Education in Brunswick!

See you Tuesday!!,

Heidi Anderson, BJH Instrumental Music