News Archive

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PARADE INFORMATION

The following information was sent home with students today.

PARADE DRESS:

Black Shoes (entirely black, no other colors)

Black Socks

Black Pants, slacks preferred. (please, no faded or gray pants)

Blue Band T-shirt (9th graders will receive new shirts on 11/9/09)

OPTIONAL:

Black gloves (makes sure you are able to perform with your gloves on)

Black Stocking Cap (no baseball hats)

Black undershirt or sweatshirt, long sleeves okay (to be worn under your blue shirt)

PLEASE BE PREPARED - We will be rehearsing outside during and after school. Please make sure to have warm and dry clothing and proper footwear everyday. We may need to rehearse outside even if it is raining.

nb - Oct. 30, 2009 - 1:57pm

CALENDAR UPDATES

Wind Ensemble - Willamette Valley Tour, March 2-3, 2010 - more info soon.

Grant Cluster Concert - date changed, from February 17th to February 18th.

nb - Oct. 21, 2009 - 1:30pm

The Most Anticipated Event of The Year... so far.

Join us Wednesday, October 28th at 7pm for the premiere of the 09-10 Instrumental music ensembles of Grant High School. Prima Volta is italian for "first time". This years concert will be an all new experience. It will feature two concert bands, two jazz bands, two jazz combos, a percussion ensemble and will conclude with the mighty big sound of the Grand Grant Band. That's 8 bands for the price of none. (Donations gladly and gratefully accepted at the door)

Program Notes:

Air for Band
Several generations of band members have developed their ability to play a sustained line, to listen for the moving part, and to improve their intonation while playing this work since it was first published in 1956. While not difficult to play technically, Air for Band takes careful rehearsing to get the results the piece deserves. The composition begins softly and in a minor key, and by gradually adding instruments and increasing the dynamics and range, the climactic section is reached approximately halfway through. Erickson then uses the opening melody to create interesting rhythms and dialogues between sections on the way to a modulation to a major key and another crescendo leading to a maestoso ending.
- Program Notes for Band

Three English Dances
“John Playford (1623-1686) was a noted music publisher and bookseller, clerk to the Temple Church, and vicar-choral of St. Paul’s Cathedral. During the period 1651-84 he dominated the music publishing trade, then virtually confined to London.” Basically he was the iTunes of his time.
“His book, The English Dancing Master, subtitled “Plaine and easie Rules for the Dancing of Country Dances with the Tune to each Dance,” was completed in 1650 and subsequently published in 1651. It is his best-known work,” (I’m sure you have a copy at home.)
- Publisher’s Notes

Shenandoah
The Shenandoah Valley and the Shenandoah River are located in Virginia. The origin of the name for this river and valley is obscure. The origins of the folk song are equally obscure, but all date to the 19th century. Many variants on the melody and text have been handed down through the years with the most popular telling the story of an early settler’s love for a Native American woman. The composer wrote:
“In my setting of Shenandoah I was inspired by the freedom and beauty of the folk melody and by the natural images evoked by the words, especially the image of a river. I was less concerned with the sound of a rolling river than with its life-affirming energy — its timelessness. Sometimes the accompaniment flows quietly under the melody; other times it breathes alongside it. The work’s mood ranges from quiet reflection, through growing optimism, to profound exaltation.”
- Publisher’s Notes

Rikudim
Jan van der Roost was born in Duffel, Belgium, in 1956. His father was the conductor of amateur ensembles and his mother sang in the local choir. His first efforts of music expression were arrangements for small ensembles. At the Lemmens Institute, he received a triple laureate diploma for trombone, music history, and music education (1979). In 1991, he became conductor of the Lemmens Conservatory Symphonic Band. A versatile composer and arranger, van der Roost is represented by works for wind band, brass quintet, orchestra, choir, chamber ensemble, piano, and guitar. His compositions have been performed on radio and television and recorded in over 35 countries.

“Rikud” means “dance” in Hebrew. The plural ending “-im” tells us that the title means “Dances”. Thus, “Rikudim” is a suite in four movements based on Jewish dances, bearing in mind, that these are not arrangements of existing folk music, but originally composed dances “in the style of”. The clearly marked themes and the sometimes surprising, but on the other hand very natural harmonies, make these “stylized folk dances” into music with a direct and gripping appeal.
- Publisher’s Notes

nb - Oct. 21, 2009 - 1:13pm

Not Passing? One simple thing you can do.

If you received a grade of "NP" on your latest progress report, you did not turn in your "Conflict Resolution Sheet" (or, you forgot to put your name on it). Make sure that you get that in before the quarter grades that will have an impact on your GPA. New sheets are available in the band room.

nb - Oct. 16, 2009 - 1:26pm

WELCOME TO BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT!

The course syllabi are, or will be available soon, on the grant high school website. The most up to date information regarding calendar dates and virtually anything else can be found right here.

nb - Sep. 22, 2009 - 2:32pm

Pep Band Featured on OregonLive.com

Well, maybe not featured, but it's pretty cool. Remember someone is always watching.

View the highlights here.

Great game Booker (#4) and great job band.

nb - Sep. 18, 2009 - 10:00pm

PEP BAND PERFORMANCES

As you may know by now, the school is unable to provide busses to our "home" football games at Lincoln High School. As a result the pep band performances for October 2, 8 and November 6 were scheduled as tentative. This year every pps student has been given free tri-met passes for the year. It was decided, at the Band Booster meeting on Wednesday Sept. 16, to take advantage of this new availability.

We will be performing at the football games on October 8th and November 6th.

We will need parent volunteers at both ends of the MAX line and a volunteers to help transport our larger equipment. If you object to your child riding MAX you will have the option of providing your own transportation. We have used MAX for smaller groups in the past without incident, but this will be a much larger undertaking and will required some planning.

If you can volunteer we would love to have your help.

GO GENERALS!!!

nb - Sep. 18, 2009 - 9:18am

BAND BOOSTERS TOMORROW NIGHT

Come and get to know other parents who want to help keep this program going in the right direction. Have fun doing it.

7pm at Laurelwood

nb - Sep. 15, 2009 - 9:50am

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION?

The Grant Band Web Calendar has been updated through December.

nb - Sep. 15, 2009 - 9:49am

BACK TO SCHOOL

No Zero Period Jazz Lab during the first week of school.

Zero Period Jazz Lab starts on Monday, Sept. 14th at 7:10am.

nb - Sep. 3, 2009 - 7:49am

AT LONG LAST, IT'S HERE!

Schedule for The Workshop

Friday, August 28th:

1:00pm registration - say hi to all the friends you haven't seen all summer.

1:30pm workshop begins - introductions of the band council

            fundamentals - rehearsal - activities

5:30pm parent registration begins

6:15pm short performance and food

7:00pm clean up

Where is the Grant Band Room?

Find the north parking lot, walk to the back of the building and take a left.

As a musician, what do I need to bring?

Make sure you have your instrument and a pencil. Percussionists will need to provide sticks.

nb - Aug. 26, 2009 - 1:01pm

Summer Work Details

The Band Room is waiting for your help. Let's give it a summer make over.

Many activities need volunteers:

PAINTING PREP - CLEANING - PAINTING - LOCKER DELIVERY - INSTALLATION

Check the "Calendar at a Glance" for dates and times. Email Mr. Cook if you would like to help.

babbcook@comcast.net

nb - July 14, 2009 - 8:08pm

2008-2009 Wind Ensemble Members:

The Following people have not turned in performance attire, or it was hanging on the rack and not clearly marked. I hope this list is much shorter by the end of the week. Please take all cleaned attire to the main office (tuxedoes must be dry cleaned) ASAP. If you think you have already turned in your attire, please send an email to Mr. Budge.

Caitlin Arias

Taylor Bailey

Emily Chung

Emily Dean

Greta Gleason

Amelia Harris

Cleo Hehn

Annie Kersting

Thea Kindschuh

Doriana Lyles

Sarah Weidman

Henry Babbitt-Cook

Brandon Carey

Zack Cowan

Ben Doi

Daniel Helms

Eric Howard

Ari Kohn

Ulysses Lopez

A.J. Neville (shoes)

Matthew Slaughter

Andrew Sturgeon

Tim Suchecki

Kade Sykes

Will Watkins (pants)

Booker Wells

nb - June 15, 2009 - 12:08pm

Anouncing the 2009-2010 Drum Majors

Head Drum Major

Henry Babbitt-Cook

Assistant Drum Major

Megan Gleason

nb - June 11, 2009 - 9:37am

GRANTBAND WORKSHOP AUG. 28TH

TIMES AND DETAILS COMING SOON.

nb - June 9, 2009 - 11:13am

Congratulations to the 2009-2010 Band Council

Election Results:

PRESIDENT: Henry Babbitt-Cook

SECRETARY: Midori Samson

HISTORIAN: Ulysses Lopez

SNACKS: Cyrus Nabipoor

SPIRIT: Sarah Sneller (chair), Megan Gleason

DECORATIONS: Greta Gleason (chair), Sarah Weidman, Meryl Kruskopf

RECORDING: Andrew Sturgeon (chair), Tim Cathcart

The first Band Council meeting is Thursday, June 11 @ 11am in the band room.

nb - June 9, 2009 - 10:27am

________________________________________________________________________________________

Join us for our year-end celebration

The Coda is this Wednesday, 7pm in the Grant Auditorium.

nb - May 31, 2009 - 6:36pm

ALL APPLICATIONS DUE FRIDAY, MAY 22

Drum Major, Section Leader applications are due on the 22nd of May. They may be turned into Mr. Budge or his mailbox in the main office.

Mentor applications will continue to be accepted as long as positions are available.

nb - May 21, 2009 - 11:50am

Performance at Schnitzer Canceled

Sorry. Just a few too many road blocks.

nb - May 21, 2009 - 11:48am

THREE MORE

Exciting events will end the 2008-2009 school year.

D.C. al Fine "The Final Concert"

Thursday, May 28 @ 7pm

Grant Auditorium

D.C. al Fine is a musical term that instructs a musician to return to the beginning of a piece and to continue to play until the Fine, or end.

The Coda "Music, Awards and Desserts"

Wednesday, June 3 @ 7pm

The coda is found at the end of a piece of music. Sometimes it contains new themes and sometimes it contains a restatement of previously heard material. Our coda will contain both. This is a student directed activity and should be a good time for everyone.

A Wind Ensemble performance of Symphony No.1 by Robert W. Smith, based on "The Divine Comedy".

A video yearbook

Awards for all of the ensembles

Dessert

Graduation

Monday, June 8 @ TBA

call: 6pm at Grant (busses to Memorial Colesium)

Congratulations to our seniors

nb - May 21, 2009 - 11:45am

Final Band Boosters Meeting of the School Year

In the Band Room. Tuesday, May 19 @ 7:00pm

CHECK OUT THE APRIL MEETING MINUTES ON THE BOOSTERS PAGE

nb - May 14, 2009 - 3:07pm

STATE BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS

This Saturday, May 16th.

9:00am - rehearsal begins @ Grant

9:50am - load bus

1:00pm - Warm Up

1:30pm - Performance

2:00pm - Sight Reading

Don't forget money or food for lunch and/or dinner.

11:30pm - Arrive @ Grant

nb - May 14, 2009 - 3:04pm

Check the Mail

Parents/Guardians, of non-senior grant band members. You should be receiving some important information about next year and how you can be a bigger part of something special.

nb - May 14, 2009 - 3:00pm

Don't miss it.

Two more nights of "The Secret Garden".

Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9 @ 7:30pm

nb - May 8, 2009 - 3:11pm

MHCC Jazz Reminder (Saturday, May 9)

We will have NO bus for this event.

Jazz Ensemble: (meet in the Theatre Lobby)

call: 8:30am

warm up: 9:00am

performance: 9:20am

clinic: 10:00-11:00am

watch JL: 11:40am

Jazz Lab: (meet in Theatre Lobby after JE performance)

call: 9:00am

watch JE: 9:20am

clinic: 10:00-11:00am

warm up: 11:20am

performance: 11:40am

nb - May 8, 2009 - 3:00pm

Band Boosters Meeting

Don't miss the final band boosters meeting of the school year on Tuesday, May 19th. The meeting will cover many very important topics for people who want to make a difference in the coming year. Next years positions will be elected.

President serves one year assisting a very dedicated band director, guiding a phenomenal and
talented group of students and coordinating a proactive set of parents in many ways to make this fine
program successful.

President-Elect serves one year as president-elect, then becomes president the following year.
Supports the president with running of meetings, and is an automatic member of all committees.

Secretary takes Band Booster meeting minutes and submits them to the membership for approval.

Treasurer keeps track of the Band Booster account, orders cash boxes for events, and counts the
money in the cash box after an event.

Database manager builds database of students and their parents/guardians with corresponding
contact and volunteer information. Creates an email list from the database and assists with email bulletins;
and if you can make a letter look pretty, that’s helpful too.

Band Workshop chairperson and committee needed ASAP. Help plan and put on this
important event at the end of the summer.

Fund Raising Band Boosters raise over half of the money needed to run the program. We are
in need of chairpersons for on-going small fund raisers run by students and supervised by adults (Band Shares, cushion sales, etc.).

Pep Band Support with a student assistant, organizes snacks and water for every Pep Band
performance.

Concert/Lobby Support organizes ticket sales or donation jar, program distribution, opening the house on time, decorating the donation table.

Stage Manager makes set changes (moving chairs and music stands) at all band concerts.

Uniform support measure students for appropriate department provided uniforms (tuxes,
skirts, blouses, and marching uniforms) the 1st week of school. Helps students maintain the uniform
storage room. Assists students in getting alterations done as needed.

GHS Booster Auction  Basket Ogranizer plans theme for Band Basket(s) and informs band
community about the need for donations. Can be money donation or in-kind. Organizer will then build the baskets to submit to the auction committee. Must communicate with GHS Booster Auction
organizers to provide appropriate submission.

Trip Committee assist Mr. Budge in the planning of the 2010 band trip. This will be a small trip year.

nb - May 8, 2009 - 2:57pm

POSSIBLE NEW PERFORMANCE

Wind Ensemble members have been asked to check their calendars. We have an opportunity to be a part of something special at the Schnitzer. This will happen on the evening of June 5th (exact time TBA). Please check your calendars so we can start to make definite plans.

nb - May 4, 2009 - 2:37pm

Interested in a summer music camp?

Check this out:   www.icicle.org register by May 8th.

nb - May 4, 2009 - 12:02pm

STATE SOLO RECAP

All of the Grant musicians performed very well this Saturday at the OSAA State Solo Competition, in Eugene. I was able to make it to all but one of the performances. (sorry Matthew) I was very proud of all of the performances I heard, and I was excited to see more faces than ever before to support our young musicians. Thanks for making the long trip.

Midori Samson, who performed very early in the day placed second on Bassoon. Congratulations for that magnificent acheivement.

nb - May 4, 2009 - 11:58am

Band Boosters Meeting

Don't miss our next Band Boosters Meeting, Tuesday, April 21, in the Band Room.

nb - April 20, 2009 - 1:31pm

MHCC Jazz Schedule

We just received the schedule for the jazz festival on Saturday, May 9th.

We will have NO bus for this event.

Jazz Ensemble:

call: 8:30am

warm up: 9:00am

performance: 9:20am

clinic: 10:00-11:00am

watch JL: 11:40am

Jazz Lab:

call: 9:00am

watch JE: 9:20am

clinic: 10:00-11:00am

warm up: 11:20am

performance: 11:40am

nb - April 20, 2009 - 12:05pm

Laurelhurst Recap:

We had a great time at Laurelhurst on Friday. Thanks to Ryan Hunt, Tim Suchecki, Nathan Sonenfeld, Neil Leonard and Kim Edwards for stepping up. It is always fun to perform for young students. Not only did they perform, they also composed a piece ("Electric Dinosaurs") just for the occasion. Congratulations on the world premiere. We are looking forward to hosting the students from Laurelhurst in the near future.

nb - April 20, 2009 - 11:59am

Calendar Update:

Some interested students have proposed a wonderful idea for our end of the year activities. Our final concert of the year has traditionally been a little too long. This year we will help solve part of this problem by removing most of the awards and recognition out of the concert. The recital night that was scheduled for June 3rd on our original calendar will be replaced by "The Coda". An event that will include desserts, awards and a performance by the Wind Ensemble. This will give us a new venue to celebrate our successes and will give our Wind Ensemble a chance to perform "The Divine Comedy" from beginning to end.

The students are very excited about this plan. We hope to see all of you on June 3rd. (time TBA)

nb - April 17, 2009 - 10:51am

Laurelhurst Outreach:

Now that the big festivals are behind us. We have been asked to make a small peformance at an assembly at Laurelhurst. Four of our students will be performing at about 2pm, on Friday, April 17th. We should have a good time.

nb - April 16, 2009 - 9:01am

PIL Recap:

We should all be very proud of the Wind Ensemble's performance on Wednesday. When they arrived at Benson the schedule was changed on them multiple times, yet they took every change and gave a calm, polite and professional response. They sight-read first instead of last, and did a very fine job. The Wind Ensemble qualified for the OSAA State Championships (held on May 16th, in Corvallis). They also earned the PIL championship in sight-reading and performance. A special recognition to our seniors who placed first in this event all four years of high school (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009). Your efforts have made a huge difference during your time at Grant.

nb - April 16, 2009 - 8:55am

U of P Jazz Festival Recap:

The Jazz Ensemble placed 2nd at the 2009 U of P Jazz Festival on Thursday. The performance was even better than the performance they gave at Disneyland just a few short days earlier. Eric Howard, Ari Kohn, Sarah Weidman, Katie McNeil, Ryan Hunt, Greta Gleason and Ulysses Lopez received special recognition for solos. Ari Kohn was awarded Outstanding Musician of the Festival.

Thanks for all the hard work. You all performed very well.

nb - April 10 - 3:20pm

Trip Photo Album Now Online

Click the button to the right to find out where.

nb - April 7 - 1:45pm

Our Final Trip Update

Click the button to the right for a recap and more. Coming soon: a web album of our trip (keep your fingers crossed.)

nb - April 6 - 2:05pm

Look to the right ---------------------------------> for more trip updates.

Check out our new trip page.

nb - Mar. 30 - 2:12pm

Trip Update:

A reminder to the two recent additions to the Wind Ensemble. Make sure to go to the Mr. Formal outlet (not a rental store) and get your tuxedo. It may take more than a day. We need to look as good as possible for our performances next week.

Another reminder: If you checked yes on the district medical form after the question that asked if the student has any medical issues. You need to send a doctor's note to take with us on our trip.

Still missing the following paperwork:

NONE, ...HOORAY!

nb - Mar. 24, 2009 - 5:48pm

Trip Update:

All travelers received an updated itinerary today. It contains all the information the musicians need to make the trip to southern California a success. Please make sure that every word is read and understood. All musicians need to remember to bring their performance attire to the school on Monday, March 29th. We will be packing the performance attire seperately as to save the students space in their luggage.

PLEASE MAKE YOUR FINAL PAYMENTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. (DUE MAR. 12)

nb - Mar. 20, 2009 - 8:46pm

SPRING BREAK!

nb - Mar. 20, 2009 - 8:34pm

Band Boosters, Tomorrow Night

Tuesday, Mar. 17th, 7pm in the Band Room.

nb - Mar. 16, 2009 - 5:06pm

Spring is fast approaching!

The Spring concert is even closer. Please join us Wednesday, March 18th @ 7pm for an exciting evening featuring bands and choirs from Grant. Wonderful new music, plus a mass performance of "Somewhere", from West Side Story. Musicians, don't forget to put your performance attire together this weekend.

nb - Mar. 13, 2009 - 11:03am

Pit Orchestra starts today!

We will be reading through ACT I. (3:15-5:15ish)

nb - Mar. 11, 2009 - 10:39am

NORTHWEST INVITATIONAL CONCERT BAND CONTEST 2009 RESULTS:

The Wind Ensemble placed first in performance, in the open division at the Northwest Invitational Concert Band Contest. They also placed first in sightreading for the entire festival. Congratulations to all of the fine musicians who participated from Oregon and Washington. It was great to hear your fine performances.

nb - Mar. 11, 2009 - 10:37am

NWICBC Today @ Clackamas Community College

The Wind Ensemble performs at 3:30pm today. How do I get there?

Map

The performance is free, and open to the public. The sight-reading room is NOT open to the public.

nb- Mar. 10, 2009 - 9:56am

Wind and Jazz Ensemble parents/guardians:

Please ask your musicians for the final payment invoice. On Monday, March 9th all Wind and Jazz Ensemble members received a paper detailing all payments made, all monies owed, and all paperwork turned in.

One correction needs to be made. All travelers who did NOT participate in the letter writing campaign may subtract $30.00 from the total that they owe.

KEY:
If there is a blank space under paperwork (H.H. - Med. - CBRR), that paperwork has not been turned in.
If there is an O under Med. it means that a doctor's note needs to be turned in.
If there is an O under H.H. or CBRR, it means that a parent and/or student signature was missed.

nb - Monday, Mar. 9, 2009

Northwest Invitational Concert Band Contest

Here is the schedule for the Wind Ensembles performance on Tuesday, March 10th.

11:30am excused from class

               eat lunch, change into performance attire

11:55      depart Grant

12:25      arrive at Clackamas Community College

               observe three high schools

2:45        warm up

3:30        performance

4:15        sight read (no public)

5:00        load bus and depart

6:00-ish  arrive at Grant (depending on traffic)

STATE SOLO QUALIFIERS:

Matthew Slaughter, flute

Caitlin Arias, oboe

Midori Samson, bassoon

Melanie Hering, clarinet

Eric Howard, alto saxophone

Katie McNeil, trumpet

Alternates:

Larkin Loewenherz, piano

Caitlin Arias, piano

Bo Knoblauch, alto saxophone

A Great, and Busy Weekend

I would like to express my gratitude for the many extra hours the Grant Band has put in over the last few weeks and months. The PIL Solo/Ensemble Festival was a huge success. Comments from the judges and other directors were all very positive regarding the students who were working behind the scenes througout the day. Another big thanks to everyone who helped out after school on Friday. You exemplified great leadership through service.

nb - Monday, Mar. 2 - 2:42pm

Grant Cluster Concert Tonight

call times:

volunteers: 5:45pm

musicians: 6pm

Curtain: 6:30pm

See you soon.

nb - Thursday, Feb. 26 - 2:34pm

Some Sweet Sounds

The Grant Jazz Ensemble's latest on Youtube.com

Fables of Faubus, part 1

Fables of Faubus, part 2

TRIP UPDATE (more updates soon)

Following is the official roster of traveling musicians:

Arias, Caitlin

Babbitt-Cook, Henry

Bernstein, Ryan

Brant, Mary

Carey, Brandon

Chung, Emily

Cowan, Zachary

Crabtree, Charles

Dean, Emily

Deitle, Samuel

Delwiche, Jenna

Doi, Benjamin

Edwards, Kimberly

Gleason, Greta

Geason, Megan

Hall, Taylor

Hayden, Benjamin

Hehn, Cleo

Helms, Daniel

Hering, Melanie

Howard, Eric

Hunt, Ryan

Kersting, Annie

Kindschuh, Thea

Kohn, Ari

Leonard, Neil

Loewenherz, Larkin

Lopez, Kamil

Lopez, Ulysses

Ly, Edward

Lyles, Doriana

Marsha, Amy

McNeil, Katie

Neville, A.J.

Osborne, Ellen

Overton, Patrick

Pape, Sam

Saito, Naomi

Salazar, Romeo

Samson, Midori

Slaughter, Matthew

Sneller, Sarah

Sonenfeld, Nathan

Sturgeon, Andrew

Suchecki, Nathan

Sykes, Kade

Watkins, William

Weidman, Sarah

Zalman, Levi

If you see any mistakes regarding your trip status, we need to know yesterday.

An Incredible Evening:

I hope you didn't miss out on one of the most enjoyable nights of the year. The Sweet Sound of Jazz was once again a sweet success. All due to the hard working individuals who organized and volunteered, and all of the wonderful musicians on stage.

Special thanks to Chris Lopez and Lina Macias for heading up the event.

The McNeil Family and Rose City Sound for donating time and all of the audio equipment.

Another thanks to the amazing Marilyn Keller who donated her time and talent to our students and our program.

nb - Feb. 19, 2009 - 1:51pm

HELP US TELL A STORY

Grant's Wind Ensemble needs your help. Fantasy on a Japanese Folk Song is a beautiful piece by composer, Samuel Hazo. This music tells the story of a woman who has travelled from Japan to The United States to share her life with the man she loves. An important part of this story is told using a large taiko drum. Unfortunately, it is cost prohibitive for our program to purchase this instrument. I do not wish to spend $600.00 to $1,000.00 on an instrument that will only be used for approximately 14 measures. If you know anyone who may be able to help us out, please let me know.

nb - Feb. 12, 2009 - 2:17pm

JAZZ CELEBRATION WORKSHOPS

Don't forget about next Friday, Feb. 20th.

All Jazz Lab and Jazz Ensemble members need to be at Beaumont Middle School. All other Grant Band members are also welcome. (Bring your instruments.)

Intermediate Improvisation workshop: 4pm

Advanced Improvisation workshop: 5pm

nb - Feb. 12, 2009 - 12:10pm

SWEET SOUND OF JAZZ (it's here)

We are still accepting donations.

call times for musicians:

All musicians be ready to load equipment at 3:01pm

Rhythm Section: 5:15pm

   sound check: 5:25pm

Winds: 5:35pm

   sound check: 5:45pm

All musicians make sure that your warm-up is complete by 6:45pm. You will probably have about a half hour break after sound check.

nb - Feb. 12, 2009 - 12:01pm

Re: 8th GRADE INFO NIGHT

Great job last night. I told you it would be painless. Many parents and musicians were looking forward to joining the Grant Band family. This is entirely due to the selfless service, and quality performances of the current parents, friends, and musicians of the Grant Band. You should be very proud of your efforts. Keep up the good work.

nb - Feb. 12, 2009 - 11:57am

DO YOU HAVE A GREAT ACCOMPANIST?

Some of your fellow musicians are still looking. If you have an accompanist please ask them for permission and then pass their contact information on to nbudge@pps.k12.or.us . I would like to post it on our website.

nb - Feb. 11, 2009 - 11:22am

SEE YOU TONIGHT!!!

call:6:45pm

curtain: 7pm ish.

nb - Feb. 11, 2009 - 11:13am

8th GRADE INFO NIGHT

Our Jazz Ensemble has performed at this event each year, and has done a fine jobe. This year we want to make a big impact in so we are going to do something new. This year we are going to pack the stage and fill the auditorium with the power and might of the Grant Pep Band. I know that some of us will have conflicts, but I am asking all of us to be there and be a part of something bigger than ourselves.

The program begins at 6:30pm. Our call time is going to be 6:45pm. (enter through the back door) We will be performing at approximately 7pm. We will play two or three pieces and then we will be done. This is a small amount of time that can have a huge impact on the future of our program. Make sure to wear your grant band t-shirt and any Grant clothing you have. I hope to see you all here on Wednesday, February 11th.

call:6:45pm

curtain: 7pm

nb - Feb. 4, 2009 - 10:43pm

SWEET SOUND OF JAZZ

February 13th is right around the corner. Volunteers and dessert donations are still needed. We need your help. If you are able to donate a dessert or volunteer your time please contact Mr. Chris Lopez, lopez257@comcast.net

Come help us out on the sweetest night of the year.

nb - Feb. 3, 2009 - 3:31pm

REMINDER

No Jazz Lab during finals. Study hard, sleep well. Good luck.

nb - Jan. 26, 2009 - 2:30pm

CLEANING HOUSE

All items of clothing left in the band room after finals will be sent to lost and found. All books will be sent to the library. All homework will be recycled. Keep taking care of your band room. Remember, it's the only one we have.

nb - Jan. 26, 2009 - 2:28pm

DONATION LETTER UPDATE:

Wind and Jazz Ensemble members who participated in the band trip letter writing campaign will receive a list of those who have donated in their honor. This list will be handed out during finals. Parents please make sure to ask your musician for this list. You are encouraged to thank those who have given. A formal "thank you" will be sent after the trip has taken place. A short "thank you" for tax purposes has been, or will be sent shortly. Thanks to everyone who has helped so far.

nb - Jan. 26, 2009 - 2:19pm

FIRST SEMESTER FINALS ARE HERE

Each scale or scale pattern is worth 15 points. Your performance will be graded on three categories (5 points each): 1) rhyth/tempo, 2) tone/intonation, and 3) style/phrasing. A metronome will be sounding as you play.

CONCERT BAND: 1 octave up and down, quarter notes, quarter note = 60

All Major Scales

+5 points for memorization

SYMPHONIC BAND: 1 octave up and down, quarter notes, quarter note = 72

All Major Scales

+5 points for memorization

WIND ENSEMBLE: 2 octaves up and down (when possible), quarter notes, quarter note =102

All Major Scales (from memory)

All Natural Minor Scales +2 points for memorization

Scale pattern 1

JAZZ LAB: 1 octave up and down, quarter notes, quarter note = 60

All Major Scales

+5 points for memorization

Swing Rhythms or Performance Literature

JAZZ ENSEMBLE: (all scales from memory) 1 octave up and down, eighth notes, quarter note = 102

All Major Scales

All Natural Minor Scales

All Mixolydian Scales

Swing Rhythms or Performance Literature

nb - Jan. 22, 2009 - 2:15pm

Band Boosters Date Change

Due to the Holiday observance, the Band Boosters meeting scheduled for Monday, January 19 will be held on Wednesday, the 21st. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Winter Pep Band Begins, vs. Lincoln

The First Basketball Pep Band performance of the year is right around the corner. Don't forget to bring water and your pep band t-shirt. Tuesday, Jan. 13, 7pm. The game starts at 7:30pm, I expect to be done by 9:30pm. A phone will be available for students to call for a ride.

Two Things Official:

1) The 2008 Winter Concert is complete.

2) You are a group of amazing people.

Thanks to all of the musicians who shared their talent and the seemingly endless list of volunteers who shared their time and energy. Thanks to Mollie Shibley and Kyle Cook for their leadership up front and behind the scenes.

My apologies to the Concert Band Flutes. I didn't notice that I accidentally cut your names out of the program. Alexandra "Soari" Erickson, Yasmin Wigfall, Katy Murphy, and Epiphany Hicks, you did fantastic.

At Long Last...

The 2008 Winter Concert it finally here. Thursday, Jan. 8th, 2009 in the Grant Auditorium.

Call time: 6:30pm(Volunteers 6pm)

Doors open: 6:30pm

Curtain: 7pm

WINTER CONCERT POSTPONED

I am sorry to inform everyone, the the Winter Gala Concert for 2008 has been postponed until THURSDAY, JANUARY 8TH 2009. We have already heard reports of at least one student being hit by a car on the way to school this morning. We, as a staff and administration, have decided that it is better to be safe than sorry.  Please let Mr. Budge know if you have a conflict asap. Obviously, some events will be impossible to change, but we know you will make every effort to be at the show on January 8th. Thanks to everyone for all of your hard work and organizational efforts for this concert. See you soon, if not, happy new year.

NO JAZZ LAB, WED. OR FRI.

Just a reminder to all Jazz Lab members. We will not have Jazz Lab on Wed. Dec. 17, or Fri. Dec. 19.

BOOSTER MEETING 12/16 CANCELED

I have just been informed that the district has decided to shut down our building at 5pm. This includes all activities and meetings. Look for an email from Mr. Cook regarding volunteer needs and information. I we don't see each other before the break, have a great new year.

A Night at Jimmy Mak's

Mr. Schell has put together another fantastic slide show. Thank you, Mr. Schell.

Jimmy Mak's slideshow

THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL

It appears that the universe may be in alignment to set us off course. According to PPS policy, if school is canceled all events scheduled for that day are also canceled. This means...

NO SCHOOL WEDNESDAY = NO DRESS REHEARSAL

NO SCHOOL THURSDAY = NO CONCERT

NO SCHOOL FRIDAY = NO ZOO LIGHTS (zoo lights maybe canceled either way, checkout the zoo lights website.) ZOO LIGHTS

No matter the schedule, NO Jazz Lab on Friday, Dec. 19th.

If the concert is canceled we will most likely reschedule it for Thursday, January 8th.

GRANT BAND ALUMNI

Did you ever play in the Grant Band? If so, would you like to do it again? Here is your chance. Join us on stage during the 2008 Winter Concert.

Simply do the following:

1. Send an e-mail to nbudge@pps.k12.or.us stating (a) your name, (b) the year you graduated from Grant and (c) the instrument you will be playing. (please put ALUMNI PERFORMANCE in the subject line) All emails must be received by noon on Tuesday, Dec. 16th.

2. Join us for a very short "dress rehearsal" on Wednesday, Dec. 17th at 6:30pm

If we start on time, the band portion of the rehearsal should be done well before 7pm. You will receive a performance copy of "Auld Lang Syne".

3. Be ready to join us on stage. We will try to make room for everyone we can.

Please be aware that we cannot provide instruments for you to play. We will also have no storage or security available for your instruments. Instruments cannot be left in the Band Room or back stage as these high traffic areas will already be full.

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA

Just one week to make sure that all of your performance attire is ready to go. Next week will be very busy, don't put it off.

JAZZ@JIMMY'S RECAP

It was great to see so many faces at Jimmy Mak's. I'm sure you will agree it is truly one of the finest jazz venues in the world. A big congrats to all of the Grant musicians. You represented our program, school and community very well. It was also a delight to watch and listen to the Mel Brown quartet. See you next time.

MEL BROWN QUARTET

JAZZ LAB ON WEDNESDAY

A reminder to Jazz Lab members. Due to our performance on Wednesday at Jimmy Mak's, you voted to have rehearsal this Wednesday instead of Thursday. See you tomorrow morning at 7:10am.

Band Council Meeting

Tuesday: 12/9 Band Council @ Lunch

TWO BIG WEEKS AHEAD

Tuesday: 12/9 Band Council @ Lunch

              Letter Party @ 7pm

Wednesday: 12/10 Jazz @ Jimmy's

Friday: 12/12 TRIP DEPOSIT DUE (Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble only)

On Thursday the program will be signing an $11,000.00 check. The musicians are getting excited let's make sure we don't go in the red. Please send your trip deposit check for $200 (made out to Grant High School) to the student store.

Tuesday: 12/16 Band Boosters @7pm

Wednesday: 12/17 Dress Rehearsal @6:30pm

Thursday: 12/18 Winter Concert @7pm

Friday: 12/19 Winter Assembly

                    Zoo Lights @ 4:30pm (bring $8 to the student store ASAP)

HAVE A GREAT BREAK!!!

SYLLABI AVAILABLE

The course syllabi have been available on the district website all year but here is an easy link to all of the band related courses at Grant.

BAND MENTORS

CONCERT BAND

SYMPHONIC BAND

WIND ENSEMBLE

JAZZ LAB

JAZZ ENSEMBLE

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES

Thanks to the parents who took the time to visit on Monday and Tuesday. I learned a few things. I hope we were all able to get a more complete picture of what has been happening so far this year. I look forward to seeing everyone at the Winter Concert on Thursday, December 18th.

IT'S TIME FOR A PAR-TAY!!!

We have a dream, and a plan. Let's make it a reality.

Who: Jazz Ensemble and Wind Ensemble members and families.

What: It is time to kick off the biggest fundraiser of the year, the letter writing campaign.

Where:  The Grant Band Room

When: Dec. 9th at 7pm

How: We will supply letters, envelopes, return envelopes, pens and postage.

Every member of both groups is asked to write at least 10 letters to friends, family, business associates, heads of state, corporate CEOs, strangers, movie stars etc.

The money collected will be distributed in a two tier method. (approved by the band booster executive committee). 75% of the donations will be distributed to musicians who have fullfilled the request of writing 10 letters. The remaining 25% will be distributed to everyone who is traveling.

It is imperative that you are able to attend this event, however if you are unable to have a representative attend on December 9th, please contact Mr. Budge as soon as possible. nbudge@pps.12.or.us

JAZZ @ JIMMY'S

On Wednesday, Dec. 10th, the Jazz groups of Grant will be performing at Jimmy Mak's, in downtown Portland. This is the first time either group has played at this venue. We are very excited about the opportunity to perform at "one of the world's top 100 places to hear jazz." - Down Beat Magazine

Jimmy Mak's

221 NW 10th Ave. (between Davis and Everett)
503-295-6542

$5.00 cover, donations accepted.

The Grant Bands will begin at 6:30pm.

Followed by the Incomparable, Mel Brown Quartet

Come enjoy music, great food and help support your favorite high school music program.

www.jimmymaks.com

All-State and All-Northwest!

Congratulations to both of the Grant Band members who auditioned for this years honor groups.

Ari Kohn was selected as 1st tenor in the All-State Jazz Ensemble.

Flutist, Matthew Slaughter, was selected as a member of the All-State Orchestra and the All-Northwest Band.

Remember the Fall Concert

Mr. Schell has put together a great slide show of the Fall Concert. Have fun with the memories and thank Mr. Schell for the great photos. loschell@hevanet.com

http://picasaweb.google.com/loschell/GrantHSFallConcert08#

PSU Honor Band

The Portland State University Honor Band will be performing this Saturday night, November 22, at 7:30pm. The concert will be held at the Smith Memorial Ballroom, on the PSU campus. It will feature 7 members of the Grant Band, along with other talented musicians from throughout the metro area. Come support your friends and live music.

$6.00 adults, $3.00 students

"Tastes and Trumpets"

Tell your friends and neighbors.

Local trumpeter John Dover has organized the first annual "Tastes and Trumpets" wine tasting, concert and auction. Proceeds from this event will support high school bands in Portland. The Grant Jazz Ensemble has been selected as one of the benefactors of this event. The goal is to supply, at no cost, new Marcinkiewicz mouth pieces to the brass sections of a few local high schools. But, John needs our help.

Date: Friday, November 21

Where: Vino Vixens

Address: 2929 SE Powell blvd.

Time: VIP event 6pm

        Public Concert 8:30pm

email or call John for tickets:

VIP tickets: $25 single, $40 couple in advance

                  $35/$50 at the door

Age 21+ only, please!

john@johndmusic.com

503. 890.9129

Something New:    JAZZ @ JIMMY'S

On Wednesday, Dec. 10th, the Jazz groups of Grant will be performing at Jimmy Mak's, in downtown Portland. This is the first time either group has played at this venue. We are very excited about the opportunity to perform at "one of the world's top 100 places to hear jazz." - Down Beat Magazine

Jimmy Mak's

221 NW 10th Ave. (between Davis and Everett)
503-295-6542

$5.00 cover, donations accepted.

The Grant Bands will begin at 6:30pm.

Followed by the Incomparable, Mel Brown Quartet

Come enjoy music, great food and help support your favorite high school music program.

www.jimmymaks.com

Band Boosters Meeting TUESDAY!

Our next Band Boosters meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 18 at 7pm, in the Grant Band Room. Who are Grant Band Boosters? If you are asking that question, the answer is you! Attend the meeting so you don't miss out on important information about upcoming events, reports from the director, the band council and all of the committees.

Thanks to everyone for the great effort!

As we head into the Thanksgiving break, I would just like to say thank you to all of the Grant Band members and Grant Band boosters who have done so much so far this year. Every event we have takes hours of volunteer work. It would be impossible to do what we do without everyone's help.

Are We Busy Yet? November 11, 2008

Sneaking up faster than the national debt, the Veteran's Day Parade is right around the corner. Here are a few reminders:

Parade Route:

Begins at NE 40th and Tillamook, (near the Hollywood Library)

South to Sandy Blvd.

East to the Ross Hollywood Chapel

Program, including a performance by the band, selected speakers and a flag raising ceremony. (I feel I need to share this information. The program does sometimes include a public prayer. Please let me know if you or your child is at all uncomfortable with this, so other arrangements can be made. I don't ask anyone to participate in the prayer, I only ask that everyone is respectful everyone else.)

Schedule:

8:15am call time

9am Grant Band arrives at assembly area

9:45am Parade Begins

11am Taps, flag raising ceremony

11:30ish, Pizza in the Grant Band Room

Parade Dress: (All Black + pep band t-shirt)

black shoes

black socks

black pants

black undershirt or sweatshirt to be worn under pep band t-shirt (optional)

black stocking cap (optional)

black gloves that allow you to play your instrument (optional)

See you there!

The Fall Concert, it's over... but it's just beginning!

A big thank you to everyone who attended our fall concert. It was a solid first effort and we are all looking forward to a year of improvement from our musicians.

A special thanks to all those who helped in the lobby, auditorium and backstage. For more information on how you can become involved please attend the monthly band boosters meetings on Tuesday nights in the GHS band room.

The Fall Concert is here.

Thursday, October 30, the Grant Band will present the Fall Instrumental Concert. This concert will feature the music of Bela Bartok, John Williams, Sammy Nestico, Dave Metzger and many more. Enjoy music performed by every large instrumental ensemble at Grant. Call Time for musicians is 6:30pm. The doors will open at 6:45pm and the Concert will begin at 7pm. See you there!

Calendar Update: D.C. al Fine (The Final Concert)

To help accommodate an athletic event we will be moving our final concert of the year from Wednesday, May 27th to Thursday, May 28th. Please make the appropriate changes to your calendars.

Band Boosters Meeting, Tuesday, October 21

Hello students and parents - Tuesday evening (Oct. 21) we will be gathering at 7:00pm in the band room for our regular booster meeting. Among other items on the agenda there will be a discussion about the "big trip" we have scheduled for next spring. Given the current financial climate, we have concerns about committing time/resources to this endeavor. If you have an opinion or wish more information, this will be your opportunity. The meeting will finish by 8:00 and I would encourage everyone to attend. If you can not make the meeting, please send me a concise email expressing your thoughts/concerns.

Kyle Cook
Band Booster President

Concert: It's Closer than it appears.

The first concert of the year is a few short weeks away. Make sure that your musician is dressed appropriately. Click on the "Syllabus" Button to get up to date dress code information.

Band Boosters Meeting, Tuesday, October 21

If you are a musician, a parent of a musician or a friend, you are invited to attend our next Band Boosters meeting. 7pm in the band room. Watch the web site for more details coming soon.

Odd Schedules Confuse Grant

Next week our Wednesday block schedule will occur on Tuesday, Oct. 14th. As a result we will not be having Jazz Lab on Tuesday. We will also be having a special testing schedule on Wednesday, Oct. 15th. As a result we will not be having Jazz Lab on Wednesday.

Irvington Visit, a Grant Success

Hundreds of young people heard the pure power and might of the Grant Band on Thursday, Oct. 9th at Irvington School. About 25 members of the Grant Wind Ensemble were able to perform. For many of the Irvington students it was the first time they had been able to attend a "concert" performance. Impressed by both the quantity and quality of the sound (and the quality of the musicians) the administration, staff and students of Irvington would like to pass along their appreciation for your performance. Thanks to all those who sacrificed to be there.

Calendar Update: Jazz Lab and Ensemble Performance Cancelled

The Jazz Bands will not be required at this years Grant Auction. The Auction committee is attempting a new format this year. Have a great weekend.

International Recording Artist to visit Grant

Sandip Burman will be performing a special clinic for the Grant Wind Ensemble on Monday, Oct. 6th. We look forward to hearing about a different culture through its music.

"Burman seemed to perform the impossible, alternating rapid-fire tabla manipulation with konakul, a vocal percussion, as he played beautifully..." -Chicago Sun Times

"Sandip Burman, an Indian tabla player, infused the mix with mesmerizing streams of hand hewn beats."

-Boston Globe

Congratulations to our new Representatives

Concert Band Rep: Cyrus Nabipoor

Symphonic Band Rep: Tim Cathcart

Wind Ensemble Rep: Amy Marsha

Jazz Lab Rep: Keisuke Harry

Jazz Ensemble Rep: Ari Kohn

See you at our next Band Council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14th @ Lunch.

Private Instructors Added!!!

Every member of the Grant Band is greatly encouraged to take private lessons. There is no better way for a musician to improve on their instrument than to spend one on one time with a specialist. Anyone who wishes to become a member of the Wind Ensemble or Jazz Ensemble should consider investing in lessons.

College scholarships are available to musicians at almost any school you choose. In some cases, even for non music majors.

Click on the "Musicianship" button for more information.

If you know of a great teacher who isn't listed, let us know.

All-State Auditions Due Today (Will be accepted tomorrow)

All-State applicants, see Mr. Budge ASAP to register on-line.

New Pep Band Date

The PIL has changed the date of our final home football game. Our new date is one day earlier. Thursday, October 23rd.

Wind Ensemble's Sectionals Start THURSDAY, SEPT. 18TH

Our first Wind Ensemble sectionals are upon us. Sectionals for week one include the following sections:

GROUP 1
Trumpets

Trombones

Basses

Clarinets

Next week is GROUP 2's turn:
Flutes

Bassoons

Low Reeds

Alto Sax

Percussion

Reminders

Band Booster meeting Tuesday, Sept. 16th.

Jazz Ensemble and Wind Ensemble parents, please remind your musicians to turn in their Trip Confirmation form. We can not continue with our preparations until we get them all back.

Thank You

A big thanks to all of the families who answered the call to donate snacks to the pep band. The musicians are giving a lot just to be at all of the games. It makes the experience that much better when they can get a little something in their stomachs.

Calendar Update:

Please take a few moments to update your home calendars. Many important changes have been made to the Grant Band calendar.

Jazz Celebration date changed to March 6.

Wind Ensemble will be performing at an assembly at Irvington, October 9.

Pep Band on October 31st has been cancelled.

First Band Booster Meeting of 2008-2009

September's Band Booster meeting will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 7 PM in the Band Room. Everyone is welcome! Mr. Budge will have a report and the Band Boosters will begin planning this busy year. Your input is valuable! Please attend.

You are invited

All incoming and returning Grant Band members are invited to the third annual GHS band workshop and picnic.

This free event is sponsored by the band department and the Grant Band Boosters.

What: a music workshop for learning some of the most performed music in our repertoire. Students will also spend time getting to know each other. Families are invited to a brief performance following the workshop, concluding with a pizza and ice cream picnic.

When: Wednesday, August 20th
Student registration at 1:30pm
Workshop begins at 2:00pm
Families arrive at 5:30pm
Band performs at 6:05pm
Pizza/ice cream at 6:10pm

Where: Grant High School band room and the grassy area near the baseball backstop (cafeteria if rain).

How: please register by emailing Kyle Cook at: babbcook@comcast.net

Please contact Kyle Cook at: babbcook@comcast.net if you wish to help with preparations for the picnic.

Marching Band 411

Marching rehearsals everyday in class for the next two weeks. Make sure your students are prepared.

Marching rehearsals after school on:
Tuesday, Oct. 30th 3:20-4:30pm
Friday, Nov. 2nd 3:20-4:30pm
Monday, Nov. 5th 3:20-4:30pm
Wednesday, Nov. 7th,3:20-4:30pm
Friday, Nov. 9th, (NO SCHOOL) 9:00am-NOON
Sunday, Nov. 11th 8:30am - Assembly Area 9:00am - Parade Begins 9:45am - Taps 11:11am - Pizza 11:30ish.

Submitted: Oct. 30, 2007 / 10am

From Mr. Budge about Pep Band on Thursday:

Just a reminder to any parents who need to pick up their children from PGE Park. I must have a note from you letting me know of your plans. It is particularly important for a note from parents/guardians of any other children you will be picking up to be given to me by that musician. Leaving no one behind is our number one goal. It will delay our departure if we don't have a note from you, and it's not fun to sit on a crowded bus especially when it isn't moving. You have done a great job of this so far this year. Thanks for all your help and support. It is great to see so many band parents at the games.

Mr. Budge

P.s. We want to make sure we look especially good for TV this Thursday. Please make sure to help your musicians remember to wear their pep band t-shirts and all the blue and gray can find. Some musicians didn't believe me when I told them they should dress warm. The band council will have prizes for the students showing the most Grant Spirit by wearing blue and gray attire.

FYI: The game will be showing on FSN ch. 34.

Submitted: Oct. 22, 2007 / 3:30 pm

IMPORTANT MESSAGE: No Peanuts allowed at Band Events

When donating snacks to the pep band or sending snacks with your child to a band event we ask that you make sure there are NO peanuts, nuts or peanut products. This is a serious request. We have several students who are highly sensitive to nut and peanut products.

Submitted: Oct. 22, 2007 / 3pm

Planning Meeting for Sweet Sound of Jazz

Monday – November 12th at 7 p.m.
at Kathy Pape’s house
2427 NE 27th Ave./ near Brazee
503-335-8122

The Sweet Sound of Jazz – featuring Grant’s Jazz Lab & Jazz Ensemble is set for February 15th at Westminster Presbyterian Church in NE Portland.

This is one of the Band Booster’s biggest fundraising efforts benefiting EVERY band member at Grant. It takes many, many hands & brains to pull this off and there is a wide array of roles to choose from. We’ll be making a number of important decisions at this meeting including admission fees and ideas for additional revenue. We invite your participation --- Meeting will start at 7 p.m. sharp and run no longer than 1 hour! We’ll be asking for folks to head up a number of efforts: Dessert Procurement, Publicity, Decorations, Set-Up, etc. If you cannot attend this meeting but already know where you’d like to plug in, please e-mail papewrites@comcast.net.

Submitted: Oct. 22, 2007 / 3pm

Everyone's welcome at the Band Booster meetings

There's no better way to keep informed about what our band program is doing and what lies ahead than attending our monthly Band Booster meetings. Come to the band room Tuesday, Oct. 16th at 7pm.

Submitted: Oct. 15, 2007 / 7pm

Snacks needed for Oct. 19th Game

Pep band members could use more snacks to tide them over during the football  game this Friday, Oct. 19th. The healthier the snack the better, but they do seem to eat anything! If you do donate something, you or your student can bring it to the main office, or better yet, the band room, for safe storage. If you drop it off in the main office, make sure they call Mr. Budge so he can send a student down to get it. Perhaps someone can find a good source for 40 lb. boxes of apples or pears, since this is the season. We're also hoping to reduce our use of bottled water, so you might give your student a (gentle) reminder to bring one from home to the game. Thanks much!"

Submitted: Oct. 15, 2007 / 7pm

October Band Council Meeting minutes online

Click here to read the minutes from the Band Council meeting on October 2.

Submitted: Oct. 9, 2007 / 7am

Hello Grant Band members and families,

The new school year is well under way and I'm very happy to say that the band program is thriving. I want to particularly welcome all of our new band members and families, whether you are 9th graders or otherwise. Your participation means so much to the community, the school and your classmates. Thank you!

As you may have notices we have a busy year ahead (for calendar specifics, go to: www.grantband.org/calendar.html). Several events are coming up which need volunteer participation NOW.

1. The Grant High School Booster Gala Auction will be held at the Tiffany Center on Saturday, November 17. It is crucial that the Band department is well represented at this year's event as we Celebrate the Talent at Grant. What you can do: we need talent coordinators and basket builders. The kids are already working on several small ensemble ideas to auction off -- which we LOVE. You can help them by organizing their appearance at the auction and helping them plan how to present themselves. Even more crucial -- we need to put together some items for the silent auction. Ideas for the baskets would include tickets to concerts in Portland (PYP! OSO! etc), gift certificates to restaurants for before or after the show, and gift certificates to unique performance events. If you would be interested in helping build the "baskets" for the silent auction, either by contributing or making up the baskets, please email me today at skshepperd@comcast.net.

2. Jazz Celebration is a combined concert with Beaumont and the Portland Jazz Orchestra. The date is January 18 at Grant. This concert can be a fantastic money maker if we have organization and excitement behind it. We need people to coordinate the communication between the schools, plan the marketing and PR, see to it that tickets are sold starting in December and run the house on concert night. Please email me today (skshepperd@comcast.net) if you would like to work on this event. An organizing meeting will be held in October.

3. Sweet Sound of Jazz dessert and concert event is February 15 at Westminster Presbyterian Church's Great Hall. We love this event! The jazz groups perform while the guests indulge in every kind of dessert imaginable. Kathy Pape, our Booster treasurer is our event chair this year. If you would like to be on her committee please email her at: papewrites@comcast.net

Thank you for reading this and I look forward to working with YOU!

Susan Shepperd
Band Booster President

Submitted: Sept. 25 / 1pm

Wind Ensemble's Sectionals Start TOMORROW, Sept. 20

Our first Wind Ensemble sectionals are upon us. Sectionals for week one include the following sections:

GROUP 1
Flute/Oboe
Bassoon
Alto Sax
Trumpet
Clarinet

Remember, this weeks assignment involves the warmups we do in class. Section leaders will be taking attendance. Sectionals are from 8:55am - 9:30am. Thanks for all of your hard work so far this year. I'm sure I haven't seen anything yet.

Mr. Budge

P.S. Next week is GROUP 2's turn:
Bass Clarinet
Tenor Sax
Trombone
Tuba
Horn

Submitted: September 19, 2007 / 3:45 pm

Fun service opportunity Sunday, Sept. 23

The organizers for the annual Nathan Thomas soccer tournament are looking for volunteers to do face painting between 11am - 2pm. If you are interested please call Deborah Zitrin at 503-235-0820. All supplies will be provided.

Submitted: September 14, 2007 / 8:00 pm

August Booster Meeting Minutes now online

Click here to read what was discussed at the August Booster meeting..

Submitted: September 17, 2007 / 11:30 am

Band Council meeting dates now online

Click here to view the master calendar. The Band Council is the council of student leaders elected by their peers. They meet once a month during lunch (11:37 am) in the band room.

Submitted: September 14, 2007 / 8:00 pm

September Band Council meeting minutes online now

Click here to read about what was discussed at yesterday's first Band Council meeting of the year.

Submitted: September 12, 2007 / 7:00 am

Help Wanted

Our esteemed wardrobe mistress, Karen Cathcart, has informed us that her work schedule has changed and she can no longer volunteer in that role. We need someone to step up and take on this important job.

The job would include measuring Wind Ensemble students for their dress uniforms, keeping inventory of the marching uniforms (really, this isn't a difficult job because Karen has done such a good job of it over the years), getting the women's skirts hemmed (we have a list of seamstress volunteers) and other miscellaneous tasks over the year that usually require one afternoon a month at school. This job would best suit someone who has one day off a week or morning's or afternoons off. Please email Susan Shepperd if you are interested by clicking here.

Submitted: Sept. 6, 2007 / 3:00 pm

Attention... calling all musicians, calling all families, calling all band boosters...

We have a great website and email list. Let's put it to good use right now. Call your friends, see if you are the first to get the news. If they haven't heard make sure they have signed up for email updates at the new and improved www.grantband.org

WHAT?: The date for the Fall Instrumental Concert has been changed from Oct. 25th to Oct. 18th.
WHY?: We are doing this to help out the drama department schedule their one act plays.
WHERE?: The Concert will still be held in the Grant Auditorium
WHEN?: Calls are TBA. Curtain: 7:00pm

Submitted: Sept. 4, 2007 / 8:00 am

Wednesday, Sept. 5 NO ZERO PERIOD

In order to keep from being redundant on the first day of school, and in order to allow students an adjustment period, there will be no zero period on Wednesday September 5th. Jazz Lab (zero period) will start on Thursday September 6th.

Submitted: Sept. 4, 2007 / 8:00 am

Look for important papers to come home

Be sure to ask for and find the handbook and forms that will come home with your student the first week of school. Included in these papers are the band calendar, dress code, syllubus, and lots of great information. If you don't see one of these packets be sure to contact Mr. Budge.

Submitted: Aug. 27, 2007 / 7:00 am

What you need to know about the Workshop and BBQ

• 12:30pm: Band Camp begins in the Grant Band Room. For those new to the school, please enter through front doors and follow the signs to the band room. Students must sign-in at the entrance to the band room and receive their wrist band at this time.

• Bring your instrument! If you need to rent an instrument please visit the band room on either Thursday, Aug. 23, or Friday Aug. 24 between the hours of 10am and 2pm to check one out from Mr. Budge.

• Bring a pencil.

• Bring a lyre. Lyres are available for purchase at Portland Music and other music stores. Every member of the band needs to have a lyre for pep band and marching band.

• 5:00pm: Family members sign-in at the band room’s back door. There you will get your wrist bands to show the food servers that you are part of the band community and will allow you to be served.

• BRING CHAIRS AND BLANKETS. We will be gathering for the BBQ in an area that does not have picnic tables.

• 5:15pm: The band will perform in the BBQ area!

• 5:30pm: Food will be served. In case of rain we will be eating in the cafeteria.

Items on the menu include hamburgers (both beef and veggie), hotdogs, chips, fruit, veggies, and dessert. Beverages served will be soda, juice and water.

Be sure to stop by the Band Booster information table at the BBQ. There will be veteran band parents and students on hand to answer questions.

If you have not yet registered for this event please do so today, either by email: brendascearcy@hevanet.com or by phone: 503-282-3265.

Submitted: August 14, 2007 / 9:00 am

Help Wanted! — Make that NEEDED

Do you visit this website often? Do you rely on the news and information you find here? What would happen if it all went away?

After three years of maintaining this site and taking on additional duties besides, our web mistress needs to move on. If you, or someone you know has web experience (and after the 90's, who doesn't?) please send Susan Shepperd an email. She promises to twist arms for you if you'd rather not become involved.

Submitted: August 8, 2007 / 7:00 am

2007-2008 Calendar online

Want to know when the concerts and festivals will be? All that and so much more is on our calendar. Click here to read. (Some dates are tentative. Please visit the website often for updates and check your email too).

Submitted: August 8, 2007 / 7:00 am

Very sad news

It is with a very heavy heart that we learned of the death of Rosario Aglialoro on Thursday, July 12. Rosario was the father of Senior, Antonia Aglialoro. He was a great supporter of our bands and a wonderful father. He will be sorely missed.

A Rosario Aglialoro Memorial Fund for his daughter Antonia has been established at Bank of the West.

Submitted: July 20, 2007 / 12pm

August Booster meeting scheduled

A General Band Booster meeting has been scheduled for 7pm Tuesday, August 14. Location to be determined. We will nominate a President Elect and begin planning for the fall. When a location has been found it will be posted here.

Submitted: July 20, 2007 / 12 pm

NO Jazz Lab, Monday, Feb. 12

Due to the modified schedule on Monday, Feb. 12, there will be no Jazz Lab that day. Jazz Lab will resume normal time on Tuesday.

Submitted: Feb. 9, 2007 / 7:30 am

Willamette Jazz Festival Schedule

Jazz Ensemble will be performing at Willamette University at the Willamette Jazz Festival, Saturday, Feb. 10.

Submitted: Feb. 4, 2007 / 4:15 pm

Solo / Ensemble Recital, Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 7pm in the Choir Room

Come and hear our students perform like you've never heard them before. Many of these musicians are preparing for the district solo/ensemble competition at the end of the month and this recital is a chance for them to smooth out the bumps in their performances. Come support Grant excellence!

Submitted: Feb. 3, 2007 / 1 pm

Wind / Jazz Ensemble students — Photo I.D. requirements for the trip

The following information is going into a letter that will be sent home around Feb. 9th. However, because of time issues I felt you needed to know about this sooner rather than later.

Alaska Airlines and the TSA require government issued photo I.D. for all persons OVER 18 for check-in and security. Students under 18 traveling with an adult are not required to show a photo I.D. 

HOWEVER, we do not want to get stuck in the airport because some clerk or TSA worker decides there's something fishy about so many band kids getting on a plane together. 

So, Mr. Budge and I have discussed this and we want to suggest that if your child is over 16 and doesn't have a driver's license,a state photo I.D. or a passport, you might want to get one ASAP. We hope this doesn't inconvenience anyone. Put this decision in the "better safe than sorry" category.

To clarify: all students must bring their GHS student body cards, we suggest 16 and 17 year old students get a government issued photo I.D.(passport, driver's licence or state photo I.D.), students over 18 must bring government issued photo I.D. (passport, driver's licence or state photo I.D.)

Again, this information will be in a letter coming home soon, but since it takes a little effort to get those I.D.s I thought I you should know about it now. Questions? email me.

Susan Shepperd

Submitted: Jan. 30, 2007 / 8 pm

Jazz Celebration Thursday, Jan. 25 — Portland Jazz Orchestra to perform works by Clare Fischer

Who's Clare Fischer? Click here to find out.

Jazz Lab and Jazz Ensemble are to perform with groups from Beaumont and Mt. Tabor Middle Schools. It should be a fantastic night of jazz. Students are selling tickets, $7 for adults, $5 for students. Price goes up at the door. We'll also have a raffle for CDs and t-shirts.

Submitted: January 24, 2007 / 10:15am

Basketball Pep Band Rocks the House

Thank you students. You sounded great. Click here to see a photo of last night's group.

Next game - this Friday, Jan. 26. DON'T FORGET YOUR T-SHIRTS.

Remember — send in water and snacks. Email Cathi Walker if you have a question about getting water and drinks to school.

Submitted: January 24, 2007 / 10:15 am

Wind and Jazz Ensemble Students: Trip Payments Due

As stated in the letter dated November 16, (which was sent home to all Wind and Jazz Ensemble students via U.S. mail), regularly scheduled trip payments are due on the 15th of each month (you do have an option to pay twice rather than three times. To refresh your memory, click here). Obviously, we had a little glitch in that plan this week. However, that does not mean that payment isn't required.

Please send in your payment and follow these steps:

• Checks should be made out to Grant High School, or Grant High School Band Dept.
• Payments must be deposited with the bookkeeper in the Student Store. You will receive a receipt. Make sure it has your name and says "For Trip" or "Trip deposit" on it.
• Place receipt, or a copy of it in the lock box in the band room (it's fine to photocopy the receipt for your records). .

A letter will be coming home the first week of February with an update on our fund raising efforts, more trip details, two important forms and the balance that you owe. Watch for it!

As always, if you have any questions about the trip email Susan Shepperd or Mr. Budge.

Submitted: January 19, 2007 / 10:30 am

New Performance Date Added to Calendar

Jazz Ensemble will perform at the 8th Grade Orientation/Information Night at Grant on Wednesday, Feb. 7 in the Auditorium. Call: TBA.

Submitted: January 19, 2007 / 10:30 am

Pep Band Needs Food and Drink

It's that time again, folks. Pep band starts up on Tuesday, Jan. 23 and the cupboard is bare. Please send in WATER and snacks right away. The students really appreciate it.

Go Generals!

Submitted: January 19, 2007 / 10:30 am

Chocolate Bars have arrived

Mr. Budge received a new shipment of chocolate right before the LOOOONNG weekend. Be sure to get your box as soon as we get back to school.

Submitted: Jan. 17, 2007 / 1:30 pm

Coming Soon: Jazz Celebration!

Our annual Jazz Celebration will be held at Grant this year. Thursday, January 25 at 7pm in the GHS auditorium. Tickets will be on sale as soon as we can get back to school. Adults $8.00 or $10.00 at the door, students $5.00 or $7.00 at the door. We are looking forward to performances from GHS Jazz Lab & Jazz Ensemble, the Beaumont Bobcats and Ambassadors the Mt. Tabor Middle School Jazz Band and last but not least, a professional ensemble, The Portland Jazz Orchestra. 

We realize this concert comes soon after our Sweet Sound of Jazz, however the two events are quite different. Jazz Celebration is an opportunity to hear the middle school groups, a fantastic professional group and bring a wider audience to our auditorium. We encourage you to attend and bring your friends and neighbors. It should be a magical evening.

We are selling ads in the program. If you are interested in placing a business card sized ad for $25 please click here to email Susan Shepperd.

If you are interested in volunteering by posting flyers around the neighborhood or would like to sell tickets in the lobby, please click here to email Susan Shepperd.

Submitted: Jan. 17, 2007 / 1:30 pm

January Band Booster Meeting RESCHEDULED FOR: THURSDAY, Jan. 18 Band Room, 7 pm,

Due to school closure and the weather, January's Band Booster meeting has been rescheduled for 7 pm, Thursday, Jan. 18 in the Band Room. We really need to see you there as we have only a week to organize for the Jazz Celebration on Jan. 25.

If you cannot make the meeting on Thursday, but would like to help out on the 25th, please email Susan Shepperd and she can fill you in on what we need.

January's Band Booster meeting promises to be a lot of fun as we get to hear from Mr. Budge and the Student Band Council about our recent events and their plans for the future. A breakdown of each of our fund raising projects will answer the question "How much did we make at ...?" And, we will organize for the Jazz Celebration concert on January 25 with Beaumont and Mt. Tabor Middle Schools and the Portland Jazz Orchestra. Please join us!
 

Revised: January 16, 2007 / 9:15 pm
Submitted: January 15, 2007 / 11: 15 am

SWEET SOUND OF JAZZ TONIGHT

Don't miss it. It's not just a fund raiser — it's a party! See you there!