at Pacific Crest Community School
under the direction of THARA MEMORY

Frequently Asked Questions

1. It takes extreme dedication to play in the
   orchestra. All of the kids have private lessons and
   practice many hours a day. They also get together on
   their own for sectionals and additional practices ON
   TOP of the regular sessions.
2. Parent participation is essential, both emotionally
   and financially. There are logistics that need to be
   worked out with transportation and occasionally, there
   are conflicts with other commitments that the students
   have. Students sometimes have tough decisions to make in this regard. PC Jazz Orchestra members cannot miss more than 2 performances without being reassigned.
3. The band travels to festivals out of state
   regularly. There are additional costs for these
   opportunities that are the responsibility of each student/family.
4. There is at least one major fundraiser each year and we require parent participation.

The pay-off is a world class music education, more opportunities for high competition festivals and many more scholarship opportunities. The hard work is worth the pay off for our musicians.

Why Study American Music?

Why is it that kids can't name any American composers? If you ask kids "Who is Bessie Smith?" often they don't know or wonder if that's the woman who sewed our first flag. It's sad but true and this is what this band is about. We have this treasure of American composers of jazz and none of our kids know them. These composers are from a generation that has died or soon will. We have a responsibility to keep this music alive, to teach a new generation about this music.

What Are the Goals of the American Music Program?

Here is a brief outline of what to expect this year in the program:

You can expect to gain the following:

• A first rate music education
• The highest level of training from many sources
• Learn and live the importance of community responsibility and ethics
• Have the chance to meet and learn from masters in the music world
• Have an individually designed 10-point program plan for college.
• Vocational training in the world of performing American Art Music
• Get scholarships to music schools from around the country
• Learn humility
• Learn the importance of cultural diversity
• Have fun while working hard

Rehearsals for this magnet program will be on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3:30 to 6:00 PM with an optional Improv Class on Saturdays from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Pacific Crest Community School. You should come prepared to play. Sheet music will be provided.

Please contact LeAnn Kritz if you have any questions at (503) 781-8572.

Is The American Music Program Right For My Child?

This is a band for kids with a BURNING DESIRE to play music and to learn. Your child must be able to handle all their school responsibilities at the same time rehearsing or practicing at least 15-20 hours a week.

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