On April 11th, the Elkins High School Band travelled to Philip Barbour for their Band Assessment. At these assessments, students are evaluated on their musical skill, understanding of music theory, effort, and participation. They can be formative or summative, and they involve playing excerpts, and might involve scales, or completing written assignments. These assessments are put in place to observe students’ progress and achievements, provide feedback for further improvement, evaluate their skill, understanding, attitude, and effort, as well as serve as a formal performance for MPA, or Music Performance Assessments.
“All in all, I saw a lot of the band grow this year, and throughout the season,” Aidan L, a Junior at Elkins High School, said. “I saw a lot of growth in myself, especially playing-wise. I would definitely contribute that to the rest of the band and Mr. Blake. I think with the group dynamic we had, as a band, contributed to the grade we got.”
The Elkins High School band was given an “overall excellent” score and grade. The band spends all year and the time spent at their summer band camp forming a working bond with the help of their Band Director, Mr Blake. At Band Camp, the upcoming Elkins High School students join in with the current high school band members to learn and the field show the band will be performing the following school year.
“This band has seen tremendous growth,” Briar H, a sophomore at Elkins High School, said. “I have loved seeing everyone grow with this group of freshmen. We have seen struggles, but the best kind. I see so many kids being passionate about music, and it’s truly wonderful to see. I think we performed wonderfully, and I can’t wait for younger students to keep impressing me.”
The Elkins High School Band plays at most sporting events, pep rallies, their own assessments, and welcome ceremonies or assemblies. The bond they have formed throughout the year with each other, Mr. Blake, and the music contributes to the work they put forth on a stage, showing their skills at their fullest potential.
“The judges rated us as an overall excellent ensemble,” Mr. Blake, the Band Director at Elkins High School, said. “I think the kids played very well. Playing in the 8 pm slot on a Friday night is really tough, but the kids rose to the challenge.”
