WindStars Pre-Band Workshop

Course Location, Hours and Dates:

VanderCook College of Music – 3140 S. Federal St, Chicago, IL 60616

Hours:  8am – 4pm Saturday, August 3 and 8am-1pm Sunday, August 4, 2024

Workshop Description: The WindStars pre-band workshop will combine information presented in a group discussion format with hands-on learning through active participation. All participants will be provided with a level one and level two pre-band instrument to play throughout the workshop. The presenter will lead the participants through the Super Six Activities as outlined in the WindStars curriculum (move, echo, improvise, read, write, and compose) which combine all learning styles and emphasize student input and creativity. Time for reflection and discussion will be provided during the workshop after each activity. Participants will also be given an opportunity to create their own activities and reflect on how to adapt pre-band to fit their own unique educational goals, students, schedule, and available resources. 

Target Audience: Upper elementary music educators (general music or beginning band) 

Objectives: 

1. Participants will define the Super Six Pre-Band learning activities (move, echo, improvise, read, write, and compose). 
2. Participants will discuss the benefits and limitations of using an iconic notation system to introduce students to music notation. 
3. Participants will participate in sample pre-band activities and reflect on learning styles addressed and identify areas for expansion. 
4. Participants will compare and contrast the two different groups of instruments used in WindStars 1 and 2 and explore other instrument configurations. 
5. Participants will create their own unique Super Six Activity in each category (move, echo, improvise, read, write, and compose) to demonstrate understanding of how to support various learning styles. 
6. Participants will assess how a pre-band program can support music education methodologies they already implement within their classroom.