Unit Plan 9 (Grade 6 Band): First Ensemble Performance
Prepare Grade 6 band students for their first performance by building accuracy, ensemble listening, focused rehearsal habits, and professional stage etiquette.
Focus: Perform band repertoire with accurate notes, rhythms, and tone, while demonstrating focus, ensemble listening, and appropriate performance etiquette on stage and in rehearsal.
Grade Level: 6
Subject Area: Band (Performing • Rehearsing • Reflecting)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students prepare for their first ensemble performance of the year. They work on playing accurately together—matching notes, rhythms, and dynamics—while also learning what it means to be professional performers: focused body language, watching the conductor, quiet transitions, and respectful audience behavior. Through targeted run-throughs, section work, and reflection, students discover how their individual preparation and etiquette contribute to the ensemble’s overall success on stage.
Essential Questions
- What does it mean to perform accurately and musically as part of a band, not just as an individual player?
- How do performance etiquette and focus (on stage and in rehearsal) affect the band’s sound and audience’s experience?
- How can I use rehearsal strategies and feedback to get ready for a strong first performance?
- What responsibilities do I have before, during, and after a performance to support my section and the full ensemble?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Perform concert repertoire with accurate notes and rhythms, maintaining a steady tempo and characteristic tone.
- Demonstrate basic expression in performance using written dynamics, articulations, and phrasing.
- Show appropriate performance etiquette: entering and exiting, posture, focus, watching the conductor, and quiet transitions.
- Follow conductor cues and listen across the ensemble to support balance and timing.
- Reflect on their individual and ensemble performance, identifying one strength and one goal for future concerts.
Standards Alignment — 6th Grade Band (custom, NAfME-style)
- BD:Pr6.6a — Perform band music with accurate notes, rhythms, tone quality, and basic expression in an ensemble setting.
- Example: Students perform a Grade 1.5–2 piece with correct notes and clear dynamics.
- BD:Pr6.6b — Demonstrate appropriate rehearsal and performance etiquette as a band member, including respectful collaboration and focus.
- Example: Students follow conductor cues, track rests, and support ensemble success.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can play my concert music with mostly correct notes, rhythms, and steady tempo.
- I can use dynamics, articulation, and phrasing to make the music sound expressive, not flat.
- I can enter, sit, and exit the stage with quiet, professional behavior and stay focused during the performance.
- I can watch the conductor and listen to the rest of the band so we stay together.
- I can explain one thing I did well in our performance and one thing I want to improve for next time.