Unit Plan 9 (Grade 5 Band): First Performance Experience

Focus: Prepare and perform a short beginning band piece demonstrating basic tone, rhythm, and ensemble focus in a supportive first-performance setting.

Grade Level: 5

Subject Area: Band (Performing • Presenting • Reflecting)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (1–2 weeks), 30 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, students experience their first performance as beginning band members. They rehearse a short, age-appropriate concert piece or unison tune, focusing on accurate notes, steady beat, and appropriate tone while playing with others. Students learn what it means to perform as an ensemble, watch the conductor, and show basic performance etiquette (starting and stopping together, staying focused, and responding to cues). The unit culminates in a mini-performance for a small audience (another class, families, or a recorded run-through) where students can feel proud of their early progress.

Essential Questions

• What does it mean to perform as a band instead of just practicing?
• How do accurate notes, a steady beat, and good tone help a band piece sound strong?
• Why is it important to watch the conductor and listen to others during a performance?
• How can we show focus and respect before, during, and after our first band performance?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Perform a short beginning band piece with mostly accurate notes and a steady beat in an ensemble setting.
2. Demonstrate appropriate tone by using correct posture, breathing, embouchure, and stick/mallet control while performing.
3. Show basic ensemble skills, including starting and stopping with the conductor’s cues and tracking simple rests.
4. Maintain performance etiquette (quiet readiness, respectful listening, and staying in position) before and after playing.
5. Reflect briefly on their first performance experience, naming one success and one area to improve.

Standards Alignment — 5th Grade Band (custom, NAfME-style)

• BD:Pr6.5a — Perform beginning band music with accurate notes, steady beat, and appropriate tone in an ensemble setting.
  • Example: Students perform a unison class piece together with a steady tempo.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can play my part in our performance piece with mostly correct notes and a steady beat.
• I can use good posture, breathing, and tone while performing with the band.
• I can watch the conductor, start and stop with the group, and track simple rests.
• I can show good performance behavior by being quiet and focused before, during, and after we play.
• I can say one thing I did well in the performance and one thing I want to improve next time.