Unit Plan 2 (Grade 6 Band): Instrument Setup & Posture

Focus: Reinforce correct posture, hand position, embouchure, and breathing so students develop consistent, healthy technique that supports a characteristic tone.

Grade Level: 6

Subject Area: Band (Performing • Rehearsing • Technique)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, students focus on the physical skills that make good band playing possible. Through guided practice, modeling, and feedback, they refine sitting/standing posture, hand position or grip, embouchure, and breathing specific to their instruments. Students learn how correct technique feels, how it affects tone quality, and how to do a self-check and adjust during warm-ups and pieces. By the end of the unit, they can describe and demonstrate key setup habits that support a steady, characteristic sound.

Essential Questions

• How do posture, hand position, embouchure, and breathing affect the way we sound on our instruments?
• What does healthy, efficient technique look and feel like for my instrument?
• How can I self-check and adjust my setup during rehearsal without being reminded?
• Why is consistent technique important for my long-term growth as a band musician?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate correct posture (chair/stand height, back alignment, feet placement) that supports relaxed, efficient playing.
2. Show instrument-specific hand position or stick/mallet grip that allows clean technique without excess tension.
3. Form and maintain an appropriate embouchure (or stick placement for percussion) that supports a characteristic tone.
4. Use breathing techniques (deep, supported air) to produce a steady, controlled sound in long tones and simple exercises.
5. Use simple checklists or mirrors/peer feedback to identify and adjust aspects of their technique during warm-ups and short repertoire.

Standards Alignment — 6th Grade Band (custom, NAfME-style)

• BD:Pr4.6a — Demonstrate consistent instrument-specific technique (posture, embouchure/breathing, hand position, stick/mallet control) that supports a characteristic tone.
  • Example: Students maintain steady airflow and correct hand position while playing a full warm-up.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can sit or stand with balanced posture so I can breathe and play comfortably.
• I can show correct hand position or grip for my instrument without being reminded.
• I can form a good embouchure and keep it steady while I play.
• I can use deep, supported breathing to keep my sound steady in long tones.
• I can use a checklist or mirror to find one thing to fix in my setup and actually change it.