The Curriculum

All about the PASS-OFF system!
Elementary bands are using the pass-off system this year. The idea is to make class (and practicing) more competitive and (hopefully) more fun. The advantages of this system include constant individual assement by the teacher and a completely self paced progress by each student. Each student can work to their potential and be rewarded for it.
Here is how it works:
Each student has a band book which contains roughly 160 exercises. In each class students "pass-off" each exercise by performing it "perfectly" for the teacher and the rest of the class. This teaches each student critical listening skills and confidence. If even one mistake is made the students turn is over and we move on to the next student. UNLESS!!! If the student has any "Extra Turn Credits" they can redeem one for another chance to play the exercise. Extra Turn Credits are earned by good behaviour, silent practice while other students are passing off and various other good things. Extra turn credits can be taken away for talking, or playing out of turn, forgetting instruments or books, or other not so good things.
each pass off turn begins with the entire class playing the song with the student, which keeps everyone involved and helps everyone practice.
The students sit in the order of the number of pass-offs earned, regardless of instrument. For example our first chair player is on exercise #60 and plays the saxophone, the second chair player is on #58 and plays the trumpet. On down the line to the last chair which may be on exercise #16. We always start a round with the lowest number, which serves as a good warm-up for the more advanced players and gives the less accomplished players a chance to catch up.
Free turn credits and pass-offs are given out for a variety of "extra" things such as home practice, attending concerts, attending school events, writing songs, etc. There are many variations to the basic curriculum including: Team Day, Las Vegas Day, Lightning Round, and may others.
Any parent is welcome and encouraged to come by and observe this exciting system in use on band class days (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday)