Unit Plan 2 (Grade 7 Band): Instrument Technique Review
Refine 7th grade band technique—posture, embouchure, breathing, hand position, and stick control—to improve tone quality and playing accuracy.
Focus: Refine posture, embouchure, breathing, hand position, and stick/mallet control to support consistent tone quality and playing accuracy.
Grade Level: 7
Subject Area: Band (Performing • Technique Foundations • Tone & Accuracy)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students take a focused tour through the fundamental techniques that make solid band playing possible. They revisit and refine posture, embouchure, breathing, hand position, and stick/mallet control on their specific instruments. Through guided warm-ups, mirror work, partner checks, and targeted exercises, students notice how small physical adjustments can lead to better tone, tuning, and accuracy. By the end of the week, each student has a clearer understanding of their own technique strengths and next steps, and the ensemble benefits from a more unified, supported sound.
Essential Questions
- How do posture, embouchure, breathing, and hand position affect my tone and accuracy on my instrument?
- What does it mean to show consistent, instrument-specific technique in every rehearsal, not just on test days?
- How can I notice and fix technique issues in myself and support healthy habits in my section?
- In what ways does strong technique make rehearsals and performances easier, more musical, and more fun?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Demonstrate aligned posture that supports free breathing and control while seated with their instrument.
- Show instrument-appropriate embouchure and breathing (or stick/mallet grip for percussion) that helps produce a steady, characteristic tone.
- Use correct hand position, finger placement, and stick/mallet control when playing scales, long tones, and simple exercises.
- Identify one or two personal technique habits to improve (e.g., slouching, collapsed wrists, tense jaw, low sticks).
- Apply improved technique in a short ensemble excerpt, showing more consistent tone and accuracy.
Standards Alignment — 7th Grade Band (custom, NAfME-style)
- BD:Pr4.7a — Demonstrate consistent instrument-specific technique (posture, embouchure, breathing, hand position, stick/mallet control) that supports tone and accuracy.
- Example: Students maintain steady airflow and correct hand position through a full rehearsal excerpt.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can sit and hold my instrument with good posture that lets me breathe and move easily.
- I can form a steady embouchure or grip that helps me produce a clear, focused tone.
- I can keep correct hand position and finger/stick control while playing scales and exercises.
- I can name at least one technique habit I am working to fix and describe what “better” looks like.
- I can show my improved technique when we play a short band piece or chorale together.