Contents
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Band Parent Meetings
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Eckstein Band
Parent Meetings
Band Parent Meetings are held the first Monday of each month, from September through May, at 7:30 PM in the Band Room. The meetings are used to discuss a variety of issues affecting the Eckstein bands including the event schedule, committee activities, upcoming event details, and Friends of Eckstein Band fundraising items. Mr. Escobedo and the Friends of the Band officers run each meeting.
You can also view a list of Parent Meetings, by month, on the Event Schedule page.
Minutes from each meeting can be viewed below by clicking on the meeting month below.
Meeting Minutes - 2007-2008
April 2008
March 2008
February 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
2007 - 2008 Meeting Minutes
Band Parent Meeting - April 7, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting at 7:30 by reviewing the most current band schedule. You’ll find the updated schedule at our new Web address: http://band.ecksteineagles.org.
A Reno chaperone and general info meeting will be held April 14 (meeting held prior to publishing date of these minutes).
Mr. E briefly spoke about the band and orchestra getting the Eckstein musical rehearsals going a little earlier this year. Each year the band and orchestra are involved with the Eckstein musical. This year the musical will be “Bye, Bye Birdie” held on May 16 and 17. Normally, students from Wind Ensemble, Senior Jazz and Senior Orchestra volunteer to play in the musical.
This month, Nathan Hale High School jazz and vocal jazz students will be visiting Eckstein senior jazz music students to answer questions about the Nathan Hale program.
Roosevelt High School’s Scott Brown and Stuart MacDonald (Roosevelt Jazz Band II) will be visiting Eckstein as well to review the jazz and band music programs at Roosevelt. Mr. E will be providing students with audition info and requirements for some of these schools.
Solo and Ensemble was a great success with 120 slots filled, representing over 200 students. Adjudicator comments and medals coming soon.
Next Friends of Eckstein Band meeting will be held May 5. Please note that the June meeting has been moved to the 2nd Monday, June 9 at 7:30.
Kim Henwood continued the meeting with a big thank you to the volunteers who have, and continue to provide the band program with exemplary service.
A Volunteer Celebration is planned for June 9, the second Monday of the month. Please change your calendar to June 9 and join us for the last meeting of the year! All Band parents/guardians and volunteers are encouraged to join us for year-end Band updates and an opportunity to thank all who contributed to make this a wonderful year for Eckstein Bands.
Kim also introduced volunteers who have stepped forward for next year and made an open call for new volunteers to provide support for trips, events, bake sales and the like.
Next year's co-chairs are Kari Monsen and Tracy Romoser, Treasurer--Laurie Lieber, Co-secretary--Sophie Hume, Communications Guru--Jen Eisner, Webmaster--Kathy Briggs, T-shirts--Sue Karboski, Solo and Ensemble--Brenda Waldrop and Linny Simkin, Raffle Baskets--Jeanine Lucas. THANK YOU!
Please think about where you might fit in next year as we have these positions available:
Co-secretary
Trip coordinators: Two for senior jazz trips, one for a Wind Ensemble trip, one for an intermediate jazz trip.
Bake sale coordinators: One coordinator for each concert
These jobs need to be filled in the fall. Thanks for considering serving Friends of the Band and the students in a new role.
Silverwood permission slips are long overdue and are needed immediately. Please contact Donna Batch at: djbatch@comcast.net
Wild Waves forms will be coming home next week and are also posted on the website – due back April 18.
T-Shirts will have gone home by the publishing date of these minutes. Please check with your child if you haven’t seen your order. We still have small sizes in nearly every style, perfect for younger sibs and smaller statures. We also have baseball hats (only $10.00!) that are still available for purchase. Get them while they last! Contact Sue Karboski at: karbos@u.washington.edu
Spring Raffle basket info will be coming home soon. Please look for more information on this fun and easy-to-participate-in fundraiser.
A huge thank you to all who have responded to our request for the $25 lab donations! We’re now at 54% participation across all bands with the recent contributions from 60 band families. Your check is always welcome and put to good use by keeping the programming strong.
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Band Parent Meeting - March 3, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting by welcoming all of the parents and guardians. He discussed the successful Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival last week. Eckstein’s jazz band band, jazz combo and vocal jazz were all category winners. The adjudicators noted that the band performed “high school charts at a level of sophistication well beyond their years.” The jazz band was awarded a bass amp and the vocal jazz group took home an electric guitar.
Mr. E also noted that Eckstein hosted a concert with the band director and students from the Jazz School in Berkeley, California, a high school magnet program, who were on their way to the Lionel Hampton festival. Thanks to everyone who welcomed the California band.
Upcoming Events and Permission Forms Mr. E discussed the upcoming events:
Seattle School District (SSD) Middle School Jazz Festival – Thursday, March 6 at 7 pm. Mr. E has invited the band director and students from other Seattle bands. This year Meany’s jazz band will be participating. Eckstein’s Junior Jazz, Intermediate Jazz and Senior Jazz bands will all be playing.
Solo & Ensemble Contest – Saturday, March 15 – all day at Eckstein Times will be posted next week for students who signed up to participate in the Solo & Ensemble Contest next week.
SSD Middle School Concert Band Festival – Thursday, March 27 at 7 pm Eckstein’s Intermediate Concert Band and Wind Ensemble will perform. Other schools have been invited.
Reno Jazz Festival – April 24 – 27 Senior Jazz Band, Jazz Combo and Vocal Jazz will be participating in this festival in April.
Silverwood Band Festival - Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, May 30 - June 1 Wind Ensemble will be performing. Fees are still being collected and there are a few scholarships available.
Music in the Parks Band Festival –Wild Waves - June 7 Paperwork will be distributed soon for this concert band competition.
Valegrams The annual sale of Valegrams was very successful with $986 raised! Eckstein will donate $500 of the proceeds to the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestras.
Instruments for Kids Campaign The Instruments for Kids Campaign was very successful. Thanks to all who participated and especially to Mary Hood for all of her hard work in “orchestrating” this event. With the monies raised to date, Mr. E has been able to purchase the following instruments for the Eckstein bands:
String Bass, Baritone Sax, Bass Trombone, 3/4 size Tuba and two Double French Horns. Mr. E is also in the market for a piano that would be available to the entire Eckstein community.
New Web Server Eric Miller, Eckstein teacher, is working with the Band to move the existing website to the new school server. Thanks to Eric for all of his support this year. The new URL will be posted soon.
Co-Chair Report by Kim Henwood
Seattle School District (SSD) Middle School Jazz Festival, March 6 at Eckstein Baked goods are needed for this event.
Solo & Ensemble Contest, March 15 at Eckstein Kim also solicited volunteers to help provide a luncheon for the judges. Baked goods are also needed for this event to keep the students fueled for their performances.
Seattle School District Middle School Concert Band Festival – March 27 Please bring baked goods to this event.
Eckstein Bands $25 Lab Donation – Our goal is full participation!
To date only 42% of families have made their $25 donation to the Eckstein Bands. These funds are important to sustain the quality of the Eckstein music program. These funds are important to sustain the quality of the Eckstein music program and will directly benefit every student in every band and vocal group. Your donation will help pay for sheet music – repair of instruments – festival fees – substitute support for band directors while at offsite events – CDs – instrument rentals – coaching – certificate frames – music books – reeds – mouthpieces – office supplies – repair supplies – stands – and much more.
Mr. E will be sending home a letter this week to the 58% of families who have not sent in their lab donation. Please ask your student or check their backpack if you haven’t received it. If you haven’t already done so, please send in your $25 fee as soon as possible and make your check payable to “Eckstein Bands.”
Submitted by
Sophie Hager Hume, Secretary
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Band Parent Meeting - February 4, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting by welcoming all of the parents and guardians. He showed the group an article in today’s Seattle Times about the Bellevue Community College Jazz Band Festival which highlighted “jazz stars of tomorrow,” including Eckstein’s own eighth-grade trombonist Bonnie Henwood. Photos and a video of the highlights are available at seattletimes.com/entertainment. He said the performances were terrific. Outstanding soloist awards were given to Anya T., Bonnie H. and Adrian N. Eckstein vocal jazz competed against several high schools and performed very well. Daniel A. received a solo award for Vocal Jazz Piano accompanist.
A total of 250 students in the intermediate bands and wind ensemble performed on Monday at UW Meany Hall. The day was a success. For some students this was their first opportunity to perform outside of Eckstein.
Upcoming Events and Permission Forms
Mr. E discussed the upcoming events and related permission forms:
Hot Java Cool Jazz Combo at Egan’s in Ballard – Tuesday, February 5 at 6:30pm – Eckstein Combo performance at 6:30pm.
Hot Java Cool Jazz at the Paramount – Friday, February 8 at 7:30pm – The Eckstein Senior Jazz Combo will play in the lobby at 6:30pm before the concert. Five outstanding high school jazz bands will be participating including RHS and Garfield. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear some incredible jazz. Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students.
Senior Jazz / Vocal Jazz / Jazz Combo Concert – Thursday, February 21 at 7:30pm at Eckstein – Mr. E has invited the band director and students from a music magnet program in California to perform with all of the Eckstein groups going to Lionel Hampton. This concert is on the Thursday evening before the groups leave for Lionel Hampton. Mr. E would like to have a social welcome for them including some treats and drinks.
Solo & Ensemble Contest – Saturday, March 15 – all day at Eckstein – All band students are encouraged to participate in the Solo & Ensemble event on March 15. Students who participate get valuable feedback from professional music teachers and are excused from their Final Scales test at the end of the year. Each soloist or ensemble should prepare one classical piece of up to seven minutes in length. Forms and payment are due by February 15.
Valegrams – The annual sale of Valegrams is underway. Each Valegram costs 25 cents. Mr. E estimates that between 7,000 and 15,000 Valegrams will be sold to support community music (Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra) and Eckstein bands. Students are encouraged to buy Valegrams and support Eckstein bands.
Election Forms for School Year 2008-2009 – Election forms for next year were sent home with students this week. One option is “Chorus” which will be co-taught by Mr. E and Mr. Smith. The class will be a combination of jazz and standard classical literature. More information will be forthcoming.
Co-Chair Report by Kim Henwood
Senior Jazz / Vocal Jazz / Jazz Combo Concert – Thursday, February 21 at Eckstein – Baked goods are needed for this event. See details above.
Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, February 22 – 24, Moscow, Idaho - Thank you Leyla Salmassi and Judy Vollrath for serving as co-chairs of this event.
Seattle School District (SSD) Middle School Jazz Festival, March 6 at Eckstein - Baked goods are needed for this event.
Solo & Ensemble Contest, March 15 at Eckstein - Baked goods are needed for this event to keep the students fueled for their performances. Also volunteers will be solicited in a week or so to help provide a luncheon for the judges. Thanks to Brenda Waldrop and Linny Simkin for all their volunteer efforts to make this event a success.
Eckstein Band Tee-shirts etc. - Last chance to order Eckstein T-shirt and sweatshirts. If you’re interested, please send in your order ASAP. The last order of the year will be submitted soon. The order form is available on the website on the Event Forms & Info page page.
Reno Jazz Festival, April 24 – 27, Reno, Nevada - This is a terrific event for senior and vocal jazz. Forms and final payment are due by February 11. Forms are available on the Event Forms & Info page and were sent as an attachment in an email to all senior jazz and vocal jazz families.
Submitted by
Sophie Hager Hume, Secretary
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Band Parent Meeting - January 14, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting by welcoming all of the parents and guardians. He showed the group a brand new bass that he had just picked up earlier in the day. The old bass had broken, past repair, several weeks ago. Using some of the generous contributions received through the Instruments for Kids Campaign and his contacts, he was able to purchase the beautiful instrument for $2,700, with a 25% discount. Mr. E showed some of the special features of the bass --- the special strings and full circle pickup. This bass was specifically set up for jazz music. A very nice padded case which will help to keep the bass in great condition was included in the purchase .
Upcoming Events and Permission Forms
Mr. E discussed the upcoming events and related permission forms:
MLK at UW HSC – Senior Jazz – January 17th Return permission forms ASAP! If your student needs another permission form, please see Mr. E. The band will leave around 9:00 and will return at 1:15. The performance will be at the UW Health Sciences Center in “Pod C” in the Warren G Magnuson Health Sciences Lobby . Juliene Collier is our contact at the UW.
MLK Celebration at Eckstein – Senior Jazz - Friday, January 18th – Senior Jazz, Orchestra and a Vocal Jazz trio. No form is required. The groups play at the two assemblies in the afternoon: 12:40-1:20 and 1:30-2:15. Parents welcome to attend.
Scott Brown Jazz Clinic – Senior Jazz – Wednesday, January 23rd – Pizza is available for the students at 6:45 PM with the clinic to follow between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM. Students should bring homework with them to work on when Mr. Brown (Director of Bands at Roosevelt High School) is working with a specific individual or smaller group of students. Parents are welcome to attend.
Bellevue Community College Jazz Festival – Senior Jazz – Thursday, January 31st – If your student needs another permission form, please see Mr. E.
BCC Jazz Festival– Vocal Jazz – Friday, February 1st – Mr. E will send home permission slips soon. Parents welcome to attend BCC festival.
PNW Band Festival – Monday, February 4th at UW Meany Hall – Intermediate Band /Jazz and Wind Ensemble. If your student needs another permission form, please see Mr. E. Mr. E needs a lot of parent volunteers to help chaperone the 235 students. Parent/guardian volunteers do not have to ride the buses with the students. The students will pre-assign themselves to a bus. Chaperones will ensure that the correct kids get on each bus using the lists. Intermediate Band plays before lunch at 10:30. Wind Ensemble plays at 12:15. The band will eat lunch at a local food court before returning to Eckstein in time for normal dismissal. Students should take a snack with them as lunch will be after Wind Ensemble finishes. Students should also bring money for lunch at the food court.
Hot Java Cool Jazz Combo at Egan’s in Ballard – Tuesday, February 5th at 6:30pm – Senior Jazz Combo was added to the schedule.
Hot Java Cool Jazz at the Paramount – Friday, February 8th 7:30pm – The Eckstein Senior Jazz Combo will play in the lobby before the concert. Five outstanding high school jazz bands will be participating including RHS and Garfield. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear some incredible jazz. Tickets are available at local Starbuck’s stores or through the RHS jazz boosters. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students. If you’re interested in purchasing tickets through the RHS jazz band, contact Kim Henwood at school@corgipup.com. This concert will sell out, so get your tickets early!
Senior Jazz / Vocal Jazz / Jazz Combo Concert – Thursday, February 21st at Eckstein – Mr. E has invited the band director and students from a music magnet program in California to perform with all of the Eckstein groups going to Lionel Hampton. This concert is on the Thursday evening before the groups leave for Lionel Hampton. Mr. E would like to have a social welcome for them including some treats and drinks. There will be no bake sale at this event.
Mr. E mentioned that he has talked to his band classes about appropriate behavior on field trips.
How are the Eckstein staff and teachers kept informed of band events? Mr. E. sends a detailed list of the students participating in the event to the teachers. The participating students understand they are expected to keep up with their schoolwork. If there is ever an issue, the teacher, Mr. E and the student discuss the issue. Schoolwork always takes priority over a field trip.
Co-Chair Report by Kim Henwood
The Winter Bands Concert was a huge success for the students and families and financially for the Friends of the Band. The Bake Sale raised $1,292, the Raffle organized by Kari Monson raised $1,533, and t-shirt sales raised $446.
T-shirt and sweatshirts can still be ordered through January 31st. Order forms will go home with students this week. The order form is also available on the website on the Event Forms & Info page.
Lab Donations — the $25.00 donation asked for at the beginning of the school year is still being accepted. If you have not made your donation, please make your check out to Eckstein Band and put it in the band mailbox.
Instruments for Kids Update – A total of $33,965 has been raised to date including $15,000 of band reserve seed money and matching gifts from employers. Thank you to all of the generous families and businesses in our community who have contributed to this important campaign. We are continuing to take contributions throughout the year. Please see the donation form on the Fundraising and Donations page. Write your check to AFE-PTSA Eckstein Band—it’s tax deductible!
The Band would like to personally thank Mary Hood for her driving force to get this effort off the ground and into reality this year. She has spent hundreds of hours of enthusiastic effort on this campaign this fall and winter.
Kim reported that Kirk Utter, a former Eckstein band student and the father of a current Eckstein 6th grader, has gifted the band with a baritone that he was no longer using. What a wonderful way to help contribute to the Instruments for Kids campaign. Thank you, Kirk! If anyone has an instrument they would like to donate or knows of someone else who has one, please contact Mr. E. Donations of instruments can be used as a tax deduction as an “in kind” donation.
Mr. E mentioned to the group that the Beginning Band has a great need for instruments owned by the band. He reminded us that Eckstein’s philosophy is to provide a learning environment to any student who shows an interest in playing in the band or orchestra.
Friend of the Band Officers (chairs, treasurers and secretaries) meet a half hour before each Band Parent Meeting upstairs in a practice room. These meetings are open to anyone who is interested in attending.
Field Trip Transportation Fees - The cost for each local field trip requiring bus transportation is $5. Please be sure to return your payment made out to Eckstein Band along with your student’s permission slip. The exception is the Martin Luther King trip this Thursday. The band receives a small stipend for participating and this covers the cost of the bus.
Lionel Hampton forms for Senior Jazz Band were due last Friday. If you haven’t turned them in yet, please do so as soon as possible. Forms are available on the Event Forms & Info page on the website.
Swing Dance – Friday June 6th – A volunteer is needed to coordinate this event. Mr. E. said the volunteer needs to find a dance instructor and to set up holiday lights. He and the students will take care of the stage, tables and programs.
Aki Kurose Sister School - Mr. E. announced that Aki Kurose will be the Eckstein band program’s sister school. Aki Kurose has two small bands, one with 9 students and another with 14 students. Mr. E. has already coached them once earlier this year. He invited them to play with the Intermediate Band at the Music in the Parks event at Wild Waves in June. He is planning on providing the music and some CDs for their use in rehearsing. He would like to provide scholarship money for their transportation. He believes this will be a win-win for the students in their bands and the Eckstein band students – a small way to give back to the community. A parent offered to contribute to the scholarship fund for this event. Kim Henwood will provide more information on how to do this in the future for parents who want to contribute.
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Band Parent Meeting - December 5, 2007
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting and discussed changes to the Eckstein Bands Event Schedule for 2007-2008 which can be viewed on the Eckstein Band website Event page.
Solo and Ensemble Contest
Solo and Ensemble will take place at Eckstein on Saturday, March 15, 2008 between 9 am and 3 pm. Solo and Ensemble is a great opportunity to play a piece of music of the student’s choosing and then receive immediate feedback from a professional adjudicator who will point out the student’s strengths and weaknesses. Students can perform solo or in a group. Students who participate not only receive feedback, but also a medal and are exempt from the final scales test in class. Applications and payment are due by Friday, February 15, 2008.
Mr. E encouraged students to participate in the various events and trips offered since they offer students a wonderful learning experience.
The jazz band and vocal jazz performances in the Edmonds Jazz Symposium and the Mill Creek Jazz Festival were very successful. The students learned a lot and came back with a different perspective on their music. They were motivated by these events to push themselves to the next level.
Upcoming Calendar Reminders
Trip forms are available on the Eckstein Band website on the Event Forms page.
All Bands Concert: Thursday, December 13
This is one of the largest band performances of the year with more than 500 students playing. Jazz bands don’t play at this concert. Mr. Rowe has composed some music for the Beginning Band to play. There will be 1,500 to 2,000 people attending this performance — standing room only so get there early. There will also be a raffle to support the Bands.
Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival: February 22 through 24
Co-chairs are Leyla Salmassi and Monty McGovern. Sign up now. The deadline for forms and payment is January 11. There will be two buses so the price has increased by $35 per person. Trip information and forms are on the band website at www.eckstein.seattleschools.org/band/Ecksteinforms.htm.
Silverwood Music in the Parks Band Festival: May 30 - June 1
Wind Ensemble families, please send in your registration and deposit. This is a Wind Ensemble trip. If you have questions, please contact the trip organizer, Donna Batch, at djbatch@comcast.net.
Wild Waves Music in the Parks Festival: June
This event is for the Intermediate Concert Band. Sign up soon.
Friends of Bands Co-Chair Report
Co-chair Kim Henwood discussed the status of current fundraising for the Band program. The launch of the “Instruments for Kids Campaign” at the November Jazz Concert was a huge success. Mr. Scott Brown, Roosevelt HS Band Directory, shared his experience of getting his first instrument and the enormous impact on his life.
Kim announced that almost $5,000 was raised at Eckstein Jazz Night. Since then, approximately $12,000 has been raised.
Mr. E thanked everyone for their fundraising efforts and showed off a baritone sax and tubular chimes that were recently purchased with monies raised by the Instruments for Kids Campaign.
To assist with the Campaign there are lots of Eckstein Band paraphernalia for sale including hats, shirts, tote bags and bumper stickers. These items will make wonderful holiday gifts. Eckstein families are encouraged to show their support for Eckstein Bands by purchasing these items. Make sure to check out the sale booths at the Winter Band Concert. Be sure to put an Instruments for Kids bumper sticker on your car to show your support!
Kim reported on the results of other fundraising activities:
November bake sales - $491
Sale of Eckstein tee shirts - $761 (before costs)
Senior Jazz gigs to date:
University Presbyterian Church - $600
St. Stephens Episcopal Church - $333
Hot Java (2 years of performances) - $950
Kim introduced Mary Hood who has spearheaded the “Instruments for Kids Campaign.” Mary encouraged families to contribute to the Campaign. She emphasized that Eckstein Bands needs to demonstrate that it is a viable group with community support (in order to compete for valuable foundation and corporate monies. Since all Campaign contributions are funneled through the Alliance for Education, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, contributions made payable to AFE-Eckstein PTSA Band are tax deductible. Mary reminded families to check to see if their employer will match their contribution. She is seeking volunteers to assist with grant writing. No experience is necessary. Mary will arrange for training.
Communications: There is now a link to the Band on the Eckstein website home page thanks to Kathy Briggs and Eric Miller.
Band Lab Donations are Lagging:
Kim reported that approximately 60% of Eckstein Band and Vocal families have paid their $25 lab donation. All families are asked to pay their lab donation. These monies help support the operating budget for the Bands, including sheet music, instrument repairs, registration fees for performances and transportation. Your support is needed. Feel free to contribute more than the recommended $25 to help keep the Eckstein Bands going. Checks should be made payable to "Eckstein Band."
Sophie Hager Hume, Secretary
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Band Parent Meeting - November 5, 2007
Welcome
Co-chair, Kim Henwood, opened the meeting and introduced Mr. Escobedo. Mr. E. was featured in Seattle Magazine as one of Seattle’s Most Influential People in the November issue.
Mr. E reminded parents of the following:
The RHS Jazz Nutcracker is a great and fun performance. The music is written by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. The RHS jazz band will be joined by two RHS student tap dancers! Dates are Saturday, December 1st at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 2nd at 2pm. Performances take place in the beautiful new Roosevelt High School Theater. Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $15.00 for students/seniors.Tickets will be sold at Eckstein Jazz Night next Thursday, November 13th and online at www.rooseveltjazz.org
The Tux Shop at Northgate has boys’ tux shirts for sale. They have some used shirts for $10 and new shirts for $18. You can buy bowties for $4. It’s always good to have an extra one on hand.
Kim mentioned that the Eddie Bauer catalog has several styles of 3/4 sleeve black v-neck shirts that can be used for girls’ concert attire.
Upcoming Calendar Reminders
St. Stephen’s – November 10th – Senior Jazz Band and vocal jazz – the event starts at 7:00. Students need to be there by 6:45 at the latest in black and white attire.
Jazz Night – November 15th – all jazz groups will play including the Monday OST combo, junior jazz, intermediate jazz and vocal jazz, and senior jazz. There will be 800 to 1200 people attending this performance.
All Bands Concert – December 13th – this is one of the largest band performances of the year. Jazz bands don’t play at this concert. More than 500 students will be playing. Mr. Rowe has composed some music for the beginning band to play. Mr. E suggested that Mr. Rowe be paid for these compositions as they are very good and written specifically for our children. There will be 1500 to 2000 people attending this performance --- standing room only so get there early.
Mr. E. thanked all of the parents and volunteers for all they have been doing for the band.
Kim Henwood reported:
The band has coordinators for all of the overnight trips.
Solo & Ensemble coordinators and volunteers are getting together after the parent meeting to begin organizing this great spring event.
Volunteers are still needed for the bake sales in May and June.
A volunteer is needed to coordinate a truck to transport instruments and equipment to Folk Life. Chaperones will be chosen closer to the event and will receive parking passes.
Kari Monsen is collecting items and donations for the winter concerts raffle baskets. If you want to give a financial donation, volunteers will gladly purchase the appropriate items.
State of the Band
Kim mentioned the band has grown from 330 students to 550. Any student who wants to play in the band is welcome, regardless of ability to buy or rent an instrument. The growth is outpacing the instruments needed to support a band this size. Many instruments cannot be repaired and need to be replaced.
Mr. E. showed the state of a large drum that fell apart in class last week. Many of the instruments are in a similar state of disrepair. Mr. E. sent eight euphoniums (spelling??) to the repair shop but only two were returned. The instrument repairman said the other six were beyond repair.
Many of the instruments including French horns, bassoons, bari sax, bass clarinets, concert tubas are in equal disrepair.
The band also needs capital funding for computers and recording equipment to bring it into the 21st Century.
Tonight the FOB launched the Instruments for Kids Campaign. This committee is chaired by Kim Henwood, Mary Hood and Nancy Beaudet. Their goal is to raise $150,000 over the next three years to support the band through donations from the band community. The $25 band donation is insufficient to cover the cost of the band program and instrument repair. An appeal to the community will be made at the fall concerts--Jazz Night, November 15th and Winter Concert Night on December 13th. Please spread the word to your families, friends and neighbors and attend either or both these concerts to support the band. The committee is also looking for volunteers who can donate time and can write grants.
Band merchandise will be for sale at the concerts. T-shirts, sweatshirts, the bake sales and baskets will continue to fund our ongoing band program; the bumper stickers and tote bags, along with the “appeal” will fund the Instruments for Kids campaign. T-shirts and sweatshirts will not be pre-ordered by students this year.
There will not be a charge for attending the concerts.
In order to the maximize donations, consider donations from friends and family who have employers who can match donations.
Look for more information on the band website, in e-group emails, and kid mail.
Mr. E. reminded the group to support both the Eckstein Annual Campaign (EAC) first and band campaign as much as they can.
Mr. E. and Mr. Smith are working on a Top Bands event early in the new year. This event will be announced when it is finalized. Senior Jazz, Wind Ensemble, Senior Orchestra and Vocal Jazz will perform.
Donna Batch reported that the Wind Ensemble trip to Silverwood will be three days – May 30th, 31st and June 1st. The first night will not be at Silverwood but at a Family Fun Park. The cost will be about the same as last year because the band volunteers will be coordinating the trip themselves instead of through a travel agent.
Contact Rebecca Yeatman at rebyea@hotmail.com or 517-8021 if you can volunteer to sell t-shirts and other items at the band concerts. We need 12 volunteers for the November 15th Jazz Night concert and 12 for the December 13th Band Concert. Shifts consist of set-up and first shift of selling (7 – 8 pm) and second shift of selling and close (8 - 9:15 pm). Please contact Rebecca ASAP. Thanks!
Meeting adjourned.
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Band Parent Meeting - October, 1 2007
Welcome
New Equipment
Mr. Escobedo showed off the new band room speakers and the new synth that can transpose and vary music speed and rhythm. Thanks to Tony Tudisco and Aline Parker for their help in acquiring an excellent purchase.
Calendar Items
October 4 - Senior Jazz: UPC Band of Brothers. Students should be at University Presbyterian Church by 6:15 for warm-up, perform and be done at 8:30. Band program will receive $600 for this event. Unlike most events, this event is private and not open to Eckstein parents.
Oct. 27 – Senior Jazz, Combo and Vocal: Edmonds Jazz Symposium Vocal Jazz. Schedule will come in the next two weeks. They usually schedule two weeks out. The bands generally perform in the morning and vocal will likely perform in the afternoon. Mr. E says your students and families may stay all day but not necessary.
Nov. 5 - Next Band meeting: Band room at 7:30pm for parents and guardians.
Nov. 10 - St. Stephen’s Swing Dance: Senior Jazz but no vocal ensemble. Parents and families are encouraged to attend this as well as most other events.
Nov. 15 –Eckstein Jazz Night: Auditorium at 7:30 pm. All Jazz groups perform at Jazz night.
Nov. 17 – Mill Creek Jazz Festival: Mill Creek TBA – Sr Jazz only
Fundraiser Updates
Mr. E gave us an overview of the current state of instrument repair in relation to music program priorities. There is a pressing need to review fundraising opportunities across all band programs. It’s become evident that as older instruments fall into disrepair, fixing them repeatedly becomes less and less possible. Also, the risers used during concerts need to be repaired. More chairs are needed as more kids are in the band program.
Mr. E estimated that the current needs approach $100,000. Many instruments cost $2,000-4,000. So it’s easy to see how this adds up. In the past we have given away older instruments to programs with more dire needs. Mr. E would love to continue this practice someday but currently the band program cannot afford to give anything away. As it stands, many of our instruments were used when we acquired them.
Currently we are asking the EAC for money to fix the platforms.
It’s been suggested by Principal Kim Whitworth that we communicate to with EAC, PTSA, other committees and ASB to make sure all fundraising groups are synched up and none of us are duplicating efforts or over-scheduling.
Currently, our annual fundraising brings the program around $20K to $25k per year. Treasurer Nancy Beaudet suggested that we could raise $100k over three years by using the formula: 500 kids X 3 years = $66 per child per year. With full participation, this should be a very achievable goal.
Thank you Mr. E
Co-chair Kim Henwood addressed the group and talked about lab donations, volunteer needs such as coordinators for solo and ensemble and other committees. (See Web site for a current list of volunteers).
Lab Donations Requested
Annual $25 lab donations per student have been coming in to the band mailbox. These donations support scholarships and instruments for students who do not own their own, as well as a wide variety of functions and supplies for the band program. Mr. E has requested that everyone please use the mailbox in the band room for all communications and checks for the music program.
Matching Funds Are Also Encouraged
Mary Hood reminded us that the Web site provides information on companies who match donations or volunteer hours. Please contact Mary Hood at mrhood@qwest.net for information on matching funds or ask your HR department for their forms and guidelines. These funds will be handled by the Alliance for Education.
Volunteers Still Needed
There are sign-up sheets for Volunteer jobs that need filling, specifically, someone to share a co-secretary position for the Friends of Eckstein Band monthly meetings, co-organizers of the solo and ensemble contest in March and co-organizers for the raffle baskets. Please contact Kim at school@corgipup.com if you have questions about these jobs or are interested in signing up for one. Kim reminded the group that when volunteering to assist with field trips, that the term “helper” is not the same as trip chaperones. Kim has contacted those who signed up to confirm they know this.
Co-Secretary
This is a shared position with our first co-secretary, Sophie Hume. You would coordinate with Sophie Hume and decide who would attend which of the Friends of Eckstein monthly meetings. This is also a board position with monthly board meetings prior to the general meetings.
Solo & Ensemble
Need co-chairs for this March 15, 2008 event. Mr. E reviewed needs and structure of the S & E. (volunteers stepped forward at the end of the meeting to fill these important positions! THANKS!!) Students sign up for one or more 15-minute slots to play a classical solo or ensemble piece in front of an adjudicator. Kids get out of the annual scales test if they do this. The event has grown to nearly two hundred musicians! There’s a simple process in place and documentation of the event planning. Many people have signed on to assist including the biggest job: scheduling. Just need an organizer to coordinate the adjudicators. Cash is handled through the co-chairs of the band committee.
Raffle Baskets
Need two co-chairs. Kari Monsen will gladly mentor anyone who steps up. (A volunteer stepped forward for this job too. THANKS!!!!)
Folklife
Need help transporting equipment and organizing.
T-Shirts
Look for order forms to go home with your student by the end of October so that they can wear cool (way cool!) t-shirts and sweatshirts with the famous Eckstein Band logo! Thanks Sue Karboski for organizing this fund-raiser again this year.
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Band Parent Meeting - September, 10 2007
Welcome
Mr. Escobedo introduced our new principal Ms. Kim Whitworth and Mr. Rowe, who teaches Beginning Band, Junior Jazz Combo and one of the Junior Band classes.
General Overview
Mr. E then discussed the Wind Ensemble, Concert Bands and opportunities for some wind musicians to play in Orchestra one day a week. He also highlighted the Seattle Youth Symphony's Endangered Instrument Program and the group lessons that this program provides students for free during music class. Among these are bassoon, oboe, French horn and tuba. The music program has some of these instruments available for use by students. Participation is encouraged. Please see Mr. E if your student wants to participate.
Private Lessons Available During Band
Mr. E then talked about private instructors that come into Eckstein and offer private lessons that the parents pay for during part of one band period per week. Parents were told to look for sign up information in kid mail that their students would bring home for lesson sign up.
2007 Band Parent Board Members
Kim Henwood, President, introduced members of the Band Parent Board: Aline Parker and Kari Monsen, Co-Presidents; Judy Vollrath and Nancy Beaudet, Treasurers; Kathy Briggs, Webmaster; Tracy Romoser, e-group; and Mary Hood, Secretary and Fundraising; Sophie Hume, Secretary.
Band Parent Meetings
Kim discussed 7:30 pm 1st Mondays of the Month as Band Parent meetings in the Band Room. Parents are invited to attend to stay updated on Band activities as the year progresses and to help build a Band Parent community that effectively supports this wonderful music program.
Website and E-Groups Information
The Eckstein Band Website is www.eckstein.seattleschools.org/band; the e-group is accessed through Yahoo.com by http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/FriendsofEcksteinBand/, which is different from the Eckstein Daily Bulletin E-group.
Lab Donations Due
Lab donations are kindly requested at a minimum of $25 donation per student. Mr. E has requested that everyone please use the mailbox in the band room for all communications and checks for the music program.
Gently Worn Concert Attire Donations Accepted
Gently worn articles of concert clothing may be donated back to other students and dropped off at the band room. Concert dress code: girls are to wear black 3/4 length sleeved, high V-neck shirts for concerts with black pants or black skirts, skirt length below the knee, black shoes and no flip flops; boys wear white pleated tuxedo shirts with black pants, socks, shoes, and belt. Shirts are available at the tuxedo shop on Roosevelt near Northgate, which offers a discount for Eckstein and Roosevelt students. Please bring outgrown band clothing/shoes to each band parent meeting.
Join the Band Parent Community
Kim mentioned the sign-up sheets for Volunteer Opportunities outside the door. The response was huge but there are still some jobs that need filling, specifically, co-organizers of the solo and ensemble contest in March and co-organizers for the raffle baskets. Please contact Kim at school@corgipup.com if you have questions about these jobs or are interested in signing up for one.
Where to Find Music Program Information
There are information sheets available in the band room and postings on the Website that describe all the music groups, schedules, and parent information. Please make sure you receive and review this information.
Jazz Band Information
Mr. E addressed the questions of several parents of clarinet and flute playing students. He said they would be welcome to play in junior jazz after school, but that if they want to continue playing jazz it would be best for them to double on another instrument, such as alto sax. Contact Mr. E for more information. Also contact him directly if your student is interested in participating in Vocal Jazz.
The meeting was very well attended and everyone enjoyed refreshments. Parents are encouraged to keep attending as many meetings as they can throughout the year. We are a band parent community!
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Parent Meetings
Band Parent Meetings are held the first Monday of each month, from September through May, at 7:30 PM in the Band Room. The meetings are used to discuss a variety of issues affecting the Eckstein bands including the event schedule, committee activities, upcoming event details, and Friends of Eckstein Band fundraising items. Mr. Escobedo and the Friends of the Band officers run each meeting.
You can also view a list of Parent Meetings, by month, on the Event Schedule page.
Minutes from each meeting can be viewed below by clicking on the meeting month below.
Meeting Minutes - 2007-2008
April 2008
March 2008
February 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
2007 - 2008 Meeting Minutes
Band Parent Meeting - April 7, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting at 7:30 by reviewing the most current band schedule. You’ll find the updated schedule at our new Web address: http://band.ecksteineagles.org.
A Reno chaperone and general info meeting will be held April 14 (meeting held prior to publishing date of these minutes).
Mr. E briefly spoke about the band and orchestra getting the Eckstein musical rehearsals going a little earlier this year. Each year the band and orchestra are involved with the Eckstein musical. This year the musical will be “Bye, Bye Birdie” held on May 16 and 17. Normally, students from Wind Ensemble, Senior Jazz and Senior Orchestra volunteer to play in the musical.
This month, Nathan Hale High School jazz and vocal jazz students will be visiting Eckstein senior jazz music students to answer questions about the Nathan Hale program.
Roosevelt High School’s Scott Brown and Stuart MacDonald (Roosevelt Jazz Band II) will be visiting Eckstein as well to review the jazz and band music programs at Roosevelt. Mr. E will be providing students with audition info and requirements for some of these schools.
Solo and Ensemble was a great success with 120 slots filled, representing over 200 students. Adjudicator comments and medals coming soon.
Next Friends of Eckstein Band meeting will be held May 5. Please note that the June meeting has been moved to the 2nd Monday, June 9 at 7:30.
Kim Henwood continued the meeting with a big thank you to the volunteers who have, and continue to provide the band program with exemplary service.
A Volunteer Celebration is planned for June 9, the second Monday of the month. Please change your calendar to June 9 and join us for the last meeting of the year! All Band parents/guardians and volunteers are encouraged to join us for year-end Band updates and an opportunity to thank all who contributed to make this a wonderful year for Eckstein Bands.
Kim also introduced volunteers who have stepped forward for next year and made an open call for new volunteers to provide support for trips, events, bake sales and the like.
Next year's co-chairs are Kari Monsen and Tracy Romoser, Treasurer--Laurie Lieber, Co-secretary--Sophie Hume, Communications Guru--Jen Eisner, Webmaster--Kathy Briggs, T-shirts--Sue Karboski, Solo and Ensemble--Brenda Waldrop and Linny Simkin, Raffle Baskets--Jeanine Lucas. THANK YOU!
Please think about where you might fit in next year as we have these positions available:
Co-secretary
Trip coordinators: Two for senior jazz trips, one for a Wind Ensemble trip, one for an intermediate jazz trip.
Bake sale coordinators: One coordinator for each concert
These jobs need to be filled in the fall. Thanks for considering serving Friends of the Band and the students in a new role.
Silverwood permission slips are long overdue and are needed immediately. Please contact Donna Batch at: djbatch@comcast.net
Wild Waves forms will be coming home next week and are also posted on the website – due back April 18.
T-Shirts will have gone home by the publishing date of these minutes. Please check with your child if you haven’t seen your order. We still have small sizes in nearly every style, perfect for younger sibs and smaller statures. We also have baseball hats (only $10.00!) that are still available for purchase. Get them while they last! Contact Sue Karboski at: karbos@u.washington.edu
Spring Raffle basket info will be coming home soon. Please look for more information on this fun and easy-to-participate-in fundraiser.
A huge thank you to all who have responded to our request for the $25 lab donations! We’re now at 54% participation across all bands with the recent contributions from 60 band families. Your check is always welcome and put to good use by keeping the programming strong.
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Band Parent Meeting - March 3, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting by welcoming all of the parents and guardians. He discussed the successful Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival last week. Eckstein’s jazz band band, jazz combo and vocal jazz were all category winners. The adjudicators noted that the band performed “high school charts at a level of sophistication well beyond their years.” The jazz band was awarded a bass amp and the vocal jazz group took home an electric guitar.
Mr. E also noted that Eckstein hosted a concert with the band director and students from the Jazz School in Berkeley, California, a high school magnet program, who were on their way to the Lionel Hampton festival. Thanks to everyone who welcomed the California band.
Upcoming Events and Permission Forms Mr. E discussed the upcoming events:
Seattle School District (SSD) Middle School Jazz Festival – Thursday, March 6 at 7 pm. Mr. E has invited the band director and students from other Seattle bands. This year Meany’s jazz band will be participating. Eckstein’s Junior Jazz, Intermediate Jazz and Senior Jazz bands will all be playing.
Solo & Ensemble Contest – Saturday, March 15 – all day at Eckstein Times will be posted next week for students who signed up to participate in the Solo & Ensemble Contest next week.
SSD Middle School Concert Band Festival – Thursday, March 27 at 7 pm Eckstein’s Intermediate Concert Band and Wind Ensemble will perform. Other schools have been invited.
Reno Jazz Festival – April 24 – 27 Senior Jazz Band, Jazz Combo and Vocal Jazz will be participating in this festival in April.
Silverwood Band Festival - Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, May 30 - June 1 Wind Ensemble will be performing. Fees are still being collected and there are a few scholarships available.
Music in the Parks Band Festival –Wild Waves - June 7 Paperwork will be distributed soon for this concert band competition.
Valegrams The annual sale of Valegrams was very successful with $986 raised! Eckstein will donate $500 of the proceeds to the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestras.
Instruments for Kids Campaign The Instruments for Kids Campaign was very successful. Thanks to all who participated and especially to Mary Hood for all of her hard work in “orchestrating” this event. With the monies raised to date, Mr. E has been able to purchase the following instruments for the Eckstein bands:
String Bass, Baritone Sax, Bass Trombone, 3/4 size Tuba and two Double French Horns. Mr. E is also in the market for a piano that would be available to the entire Eckstein community.
New Web Server Eric Miller, Eckstein teacher, is working with the Band to move the existing website to the new school server. Thanks to Eric for all of his support this year. The new URL will be posted soon.
Co-Chair Report by Kim Henwood
Seattle School District (SSD) Middle School Jazz Festival, March 6 at Eckstein Baked goods are needed for this event.
Solo & Ensemble Contest, March 15 at Eckstein Kim also solicited volunteers to help provide a luncheon for the judges. Baked goods are also needed for this event to keep the students fueled for their performances.
Seattle School District Middle School Concert Band Festival – March 27 Please bring baked goods to this event.
Eckstein Bands $25 Lab Donation – Our goal is full participation!
To date only 42% of families have made their $25 donation to the Eckstein Bands. These funds are important to sustain the quality of the Eckstein music program. These funds are important to sustain the quality of the Eckstein music program and will directly benefit every student in every band and vocal group. Your donation will help pay for sheet music – repair of instruments – festival fees – substitute support for band directors while at offsite events – CDs – instrument rentals – coaching – certificate frames – music books – reeds – mouthpieces – office supplies – repair supplies – stands – and much more.
Mr. E will be sending home a letter this week to the 58% of families who have not sent in their lab donation. Please ask your student or check their backpack if you haven’t received it. If you haven’t already done so, please send in your $25 fee as soon as possible and make your check payable to “Eckstein Bands.”
Submitted by
Sophie Hager Hume, Secretary
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Band Parent Meeting - February 4, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting by welcoming all of the parents and guardians. He showed the group an article in today’s Seattle Times about the Bellevue Community College Jazz Band Festival which highlighted “jazz stars of tomorrow,” including Eckstein’s own eighth-grade trombonist Bonnie Henwood. Photos and a video of the highlights are available at seattletimes.com/entertainment. He said the performances were terrific. Outstanding soloist awards were given to Anya T., Bonnie H. and Adrian N. Eckstein vocal jazz competed against several high schools and performed very well. Daniel A. received a solo award for Vocal Jazz Piano accompanist.
A total of 250 students in the intermediate bands and wind ensemble performed on Monday at UW Meany Hall. The day was a success. For some students this was their first opportunity to perform outside of Eckstein.
Upcoming Events and Permission Forms
Mr. E discussed the upcoming events and related permission forms:
Hot Java Cool Jazz Combo at Egan’s in Ballard – Tuesday, February 5 at 6:30pm – Eckstein Combo performance at 6:30pm.
Hot Java Cool Jazz at the Paramount – Friday, February 8 at 7:30pm – The Eckstein Senior Jazz Combo will play in the lobby at 6:30pm before the concert. Five outstanding high school jazz bands will be participating including RHS and Garfield. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear some incredible jazz. Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students.
Senior Jazz / Vocal Jazz / Jazz Combo Concert – Thursday, February 21 at 7:30pm at Eckstein – Mr. E has invited the band director and students from a music magnet program in California to perform with all of the Eckstein groups going to Lionel Hampton. This concert is on the Thursday evening before the groups leave for Lionel Hampton. Mr. E would like to have a social welcome for them including some treats and drinks.
Solo & Ensemble Contest – Saturday, March 15 – all day at Eckstein – All band students are encouraged to participate in the Solo & Ensemble event on March 15. Students who participate get valuable feedback from professional music teachers and are excused from their Final Scales test at the end of the year. Each soloist or ensemble should prepare one classical piece of up to seven minutes in length. Forms and payment are due by February 15.
Valegrams – The annual sale of Valegrams is underway. Each Valegram costs 25 cents. Mr. E estimates that between 7,000 and 15,000 Valegrams will be sold to support community music (Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra) and Eckstein bands. Students are encouraged to buy Valegrams and support Eckstein bands.
Election Forms for School Year 2008-2009 – Election forms for next year were sent home with students this week. One option is “Chorus” which will be co-taught by Mr. E and Mr. Smith. The class will be a combination of jazz and standard classical literature. More information will be forthcoming.
Co-Chair Report by Kim Henwood
Senior Jazz / Vocal Jazz / Jazz Combo Concert – Thursday, February 21 at Eckstein – Baked goods are needed for this event. See details above.
Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, February 22 – 24, Moscow, Idaho - Thank you Leyla Salmassi and Judy Vollrath for serving as co-chairs of this event.
Seattle School District (SSD) Middle School Jazz Festival, March 6 at Eckstein - Baked goods are needed for this event.
Solo & Ensemble Contest, March 15 at Eckstein - Baked goods are needed for this event to keep the students fueled for their performances. Also volunteers will be solicited in a week or so to help provide a luncheon for the judges. Thanks to Brenda Waldrop and Linny Simkin for all their volunteer efforts to make this event a success.
Eckstein Band Tee-shirts etc. - Last chance to order Eckstein T-shirt and sweatshirts. If you’re interested, please send in your order ASAP. The last order of the year will be submitted soon. The order form is available on the website on the Event Forms & Info page page.
Reno Jazz Festival, April 24 – 27, Reno, Nevada - This is a terrific event for senior and vocal jazz. Forms and final payment are due by February 11. Forms are available on the Event Forms & Info page and were sent as an attachment in an email to all senior jazz and vocal jazz families.
Submitted by
Sophie Hager Hume, Secretary
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Band Parent Meeting - January 14, 2008
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting by welcoming all of the parents and guardians. He showed the group a brand new bass that he had just picked up earlier in the day. The old bass had broken, past repair, several weeks ago. Using some of the generous contributions received through the Instruments for Kids Campaign and his contacts, he was able to purchase the beautiful instrument for $2,700, with a 25% discount. Mr. E showed some of the special features of the bass --- the special strings and full circle pickup. This bass was specifically set up for jazz music. A very nice padded case which will help to keep the bass in great condition was included in the purchase .
Upcoming Events and Permission Forms
Mr. E discussed the upcoming events and related permission forms:
MLK at UW HSC – Senior Jazz – January 17th Return permission forms ASAP! If your student needs another permission form, please see Mr. E. The band will leave around 9:00 and will return at 1:15. The performance will be at the UW Health Sciences Center in “Pod C” in the Warren G Magnuson Health Sciences Lobby . Juliene Collier is our contact at the UW.
MLK Celebration at Eckstein – Senior Jazz - Friday, January 18th – Senior Jazz, Orchestra and a Vocal Jazz trio. No form is required. The groups play at the two assemblies in the afternoon: 12:40-1:20 and 1:30-2:15. Parents welcome to attend.
Scott Brown Jazz Clinic – Senior Jazz – Wednesday, January 23rd – Pizza is available for the students at 6:45 PM with the clinic to follow between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM. Students should bring homework with them to work on when Mr. Brown (Director of Bands at Roosevelt High School) is working with a specific individual or smaller group of students. Parents are welcome to attend.
Bellevue Community College Jazz Festival – Senior Jazz – Thursday, January 31st – If your student needs another permission form, please see Mr. E.
BCC Jazz Festival– Vocal Jazz – Friday, February 1st – Mr. E will send home permission slips soon. Parents welcome to attend BCC festival.
PNW Band Festival – Monday, February 4th at UW Meany Hall – Intermediate Band /Jazz and Wind Ensemble. If your student needs another permission form, please see Mr. E. Mr. E needs a lot of parent volunteers to help chaperone the 235 students. Parent/guardian volunteers do not have to ride the buses with the students. The students will pre-assign themselves to a bus. Chaperones will ensure that the correct kids get on each bus using the lists. Intermediate Band plays before lunch at 10:30. Wind Ensemble plays at 12:15. The band will eat lunch at a local food court before returning to Eckstein in time for normal dismissal. Students should take a snack with them as lunch will be after Wind Ensemble finishes. Students should also bring money for lunch at the food court.
Hot Java Cool Jazz Combo at Egan’s in Ballard – Tuesday, February 5th at 6:30pm – Senior Jazz Combo was added to the schedule.
Hot Java Cool Jazz at the Paramount – Friday, February 8th 7:30pm – The Eckstein Senior Jazz Combo will play in the lobby before the concert. Five outstanding high school jazz bands will be participating including RHS and Garfield. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear some incredible jazz. Tickets are available at local Starbuck’s stores or through the RHS jazz boosters. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students. If you’re interested in purchasing tickets through the RHS jazz band, contact Kim Henwood at school@corgipup.com. This concert will sell out, so get your tickets early!
Senior Jazz / Vocal Jazz / Jazz Combo Concert – Thursday, February 21st at Eckstein – Mr. E has invited the band director and students from a music magnet program in California to perform with all of the Eckstein groups going to Lionel Hampton. This concert is on the Thursday evening before the groups leave for Lionel Hampton. Mr. E would like to have a social welcome for them including some treats and drinks. There will be no bake sale at this event.
Mr. E mentioned that he has talked to his band classes about appropriate behavior on field trips.
How are the Eckstein staff and teachers kept informed of band events? Mr. E. sends a detailed list of the students participating in the event to the teachers. The participating students understand they are expected to keep up with their schoolwork. If there is ever an issue, the teacher, Mr. E and the student discuss the issue. Schoolwork always takes priority over a field trip.
Co-Chair Report by Kim Henwood
The Winter Bands Concert was a huge success for the students and families and financially for the Friends of the Band. The Bake Sale raised $1,292, the Raffle organized by Kari Monson raised $1,533, and t-shirt sales raised $446.
T-shirt and sweatshirts can still be ordered through January 31st. Order forms will go home with students this week. The order form is also available on the website on the Event Forms & Info page.
Lab Donations — the $25.00 donation asked for at the beginning of the school year is still being accepted. If you have not made your donation, please make your check out to Eckstein Band and put it in the band mailbox.
Instruments for Kids Update – A total of $33,965 has been raised to date including $15,000 of band reserve seed money and matching gifts from employers. Thank you to all of the generous families and businesses in our community who have contributed to this important campaign. We are continuing to take contributions throughout the year. Please see the donation form on the Fundraising and Donations page. Write your check to AFE-PTSA Eckstein Band—it’s tax deductible!
The Band would like to personally thank Mary Hood for her driving force to get this effort off the ground and into reality this year. She has spent hundreds of hours of enthusiastic effort on this campaign this fall and winter.
Kim reported that Kirk Utter, a former Eckstein band student and the father of a current Eckstein 6th grader, has gifted the band with a baritone that he was no longer using. What a wonderful way to help contribute to the Instruments for Kids campaign. Thank you, Kirk! If anyone has an instrument they would like to donate or knows of someone else who has one, please contact Mr. E. Donations of instruments can be used as a tax deduction as an “in kind” donation.
Mr. E mentioned to the group that the Beginning Band has a great need for instruments owned by the band. He reminded us that Eckstein’s philosophy is to provide a learning environment to any student who shows an interest in playing in the band or orchestra.
Friend of the Band Officers (chairs, treasurers and secretaries) meet a half hour before each Band Parent Meeting upstairs in a practice room. These meetings are open to anyone who is interested in attending.
Field Trip Transportation Fees - The cost for each local field trip requiring bus transportation is $5. Please be sure to return your payment made out to Eckstein Band along with your student’s permission slip. The exception is the Martin Luther King trip this Thursday. The band receives a small stipend for participating and this covers the cost of the bus.
Lionel Hampton forms for Senior Jazz Band were due last Friday. If you haven’t turned them in yet, please do so as soon as possible. Forms are available on the Event Forms & Info page on the website.
Swing Dance – Friday June 6th – A volunteer is needed to coordinate this event. Mr. E. said the volunteer needs to find a dance instructor and to set up holiday lights. He and the students will take care of the stage, tables and programs.
Aki Kurose Sister School - Mr. E. announced that Aki Kurose will be the Eckstein band program’s sister school. Aki Kurose has two small bands, one with 9 students and another with 14 students. Mr. E. has already coached them once earlier this year. He invited them to play with the Intermediate Band at the Music in the Parks event at Wild Waves in June. He is planning on providing the music and some CDs for their use in rehearsing. He would like to provide scholarship money for their transportation. He believes this will be a win-win for the students in their bands and the Eckstein band students – a small way to give back to the community. A parent offered to contribute to the scholarship fund for this event. Kim Henwood will provide more information on how to do this in the future for parents who want to contribute.
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Band Parent Meeting - December 5, 2007
Band Director Report
Mr. Escobedo (Mr. E) opened the meeting and discussed changes to the Eckstein Bands Event Schedule for 2007-2008 which can be viewed on the Eckstein Band website Event page.
Solo and Ensemble Contest
Solo and Ensemble will take place at Eckstein on Saturday, March 15, 2008 between 9 am and 3 pm. Solo and Ensemble is a great opportunity to play a piece of music of the student’s choosing and then receive immediate feedback from a professional adjudicator who will point out the student’s strengths and weaknesses. Students can perform solo or in a group. Students who participate not only receive feedback, but also a medal and are exempt from the final scales test in class. Applications and payment are due by Friday, February 15, 2008.
Mr. E encouraged students to participate in the various events and trips offered since they offer students a wonderful learning experience.
The jazz band and vocal jazz performances in the Edmonds Jazz Symposium and the Mill Creek Jazz Festival were very successful. The students learned a lot and came back with a different perspective on their music. They were motivated by these events to push themselves to the next level.
Upcoming Calendar Reminders
Trip forms are available on the Eckstein Band website on the Event Forms page.
All Bands Concert: Thursday, December 13
This is one of the largest band performances of the year with more than 500 students playing. Jazz bands don’t play at this concert. Mr. Rowe has composed some music for the Beginning Band to play. There will be 1,500 to 2,000 people attending this performance — standing room only so get there early. There will also be a raffle to support the Bands.
Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival: February 22 through 24
Co-chairs are Leyla Salmassi and Monty McGovern. Sign up now. The deadline for forms and payment is January 11. There will be two buses so the price has increased by $35 per person. Trip information and forms are on the band website at www.eckstein.seattleschools.org/band/Ecksteinforms.htm.
Silverwood Music in the Parks Band Festival: May 30 - June 1
Wind Ensemble families, please send in your registration and deposit. This is a Wind Ensemble trip. If you have questions, please contact the trip organizer, Donna Batch, at djbatch@comcast.net.
Wild Waves Music in the Parks Festival: June
This event is for the Intermediate Concert Band. Sign up soon.
Friends of Bands Co-Chair Report
Co-chair Kim Henwood discussed the status of current fundraising for the Band program. The launch of the “Instruments for Kids Campaign” at the November Jazz Concert was a huge success. Mr. Scott Brown, Roosevelt HS Band Directory, shared his experience of getting his first instrument and the enormous impact on his life.
Kim announced that almost $5,000 was raised at Eckstein Jazz Night. Since then, approximately $12,000 has been raised.
Mr. E thanked everyone for their fundraising efforts and showed off a baritone sax and tubular chimes that were recently purchased with monies raised by the Instruments for Kids Campaign.
To assist with the Campaign there are lots of Eckstein Band paraphernalia for sale including hats, shirts, tote bags and bumper stickers. These items will make wonderful holiday gifts. Eckstein families are encouraged to show their support for Eckstein Bands by purchasing these items. Make sure to check out the sale booths at the Winter Band Concert. Be sure to put an Instruments for Kids bumper sticker on your car to show your support!
Kim reported on the results of other fundraising activities:
November bake sales - $491
Sale of Eckstein tee shirts - $761 (before costs)
Senior Jazz gigs to date:
University Presbyterian Church - $600
St. Stephens Episcopal Church - $333
Hot Java (2 years of performances) - $950
Kim introduced Mary Hood who has spearheaded the “Instruments for Kids Campaign.” Mary encouraged families to contribute to the Campaign. She emphasized that Eckstein Bands needs to demonstrate that it is a viable group with community support (in order to compete for valuable foundation and corporate monies. Since all Campaign contributions are funneled through the Alliance for Education, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, contributions made payable to AFE-Eckstein PTSA Band are tax deductible. Mary reminded families to check to see if their employer will match their contribution. She is seeking volunteers to assist with grant writing. No experience is necessary. Mary will arrange for training.
Communications: There is now a link to the Band on the Eckstein website home page thanks to Kathy Briggs and Eric Miller.
Band Lab Donations are Lagging:
Kim reported that approximately 60% of Eckstein Band and Vocal families have paid their $25 lab donation. All families are asked to pay their lab donation. These monies help support the operating budget for the Bands, including sheet music, instrument repairs, registration fees for performances and transportation. Your support is needed. Feel free to contribute more than the recommended $25 to help keep the Eckstein Bands going. Checks should be made payable to "Eckstein Band."
Sophie Hager Hume, Secretary
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Band Parent Meeting - November 5, 2007
Welcome
Co-chair, Kim Henwood, opened the meeting and introduced Mr. Escobedo. Mr. E. was featured in Seattle Magazine as one of Seattle’s Most Influential People in the November issue.
Mr. E reminded parents of the following:
The RHS Jazz Nutcracker is a great and fun performance. The music is written by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. The RHS jazz band will be joined by two RHS student tap dancers! Dates are Saturday, December 1st at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 2nd at 2pm. Performances take place in the beautiful new Roosevelt High School Theater. Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $15.00 for students/seniors.Tickets will be sold at Eckstein Jazz Night next Thursday, November 13th and online at www.rooseveltjazz.org
The Tux Shop at Northgate has boys’ tux shirts for sale. They have some used shirts for $10 and new shirts for $18. You can buy bowties for $4. It’s always good to have an extra one on hand.
Kim mentioned that the Eddie Bauer catalog has several styles of 3/4 sleeve black v-neck shirts that can be used for girls’ concert attire.
Upcoming Calendar Reminders
St. Stephen’s – November 10th – Senior Jazz Band and vocal jazz – the event starts at 7:00. Students need to be there by 6:45 at the latest in black and white attire.
Jazz Night – November 15th – all jazz groups will play including the Monday OST combo, junior jazz, intermediate jazz and vocal jazz, and senior jazz. There will be 800 to 1200 people attending this performance.
All Bands Concert – December 13th – this is one of the largest band performances of the year. Jazz bands don’t play at this concert. More than 500 students will be playing. Mr. Rowe has composed some music for the beginning band to play. Mr. E suggested that Mr. Rowe be paid for these compositions as they are very good and written specifically for our children. There will be 1500 to 2000 people attending this performance --- standing room only so get there early.
Mr. E. thanked all of the parents and volunteers for all they have been doing for the band.
Kim Henwood reported:
The band has coordinators for all of the overnight trips.
Solo & Ensemble coordinators and volunteers are getting together after the parent meeting to begin organizing this great spring event.
Volunteers are still needed for the bake sales in May and June.
A volunteer is needed to coordinate a truck to transport instruments and equipment to Folk Life. Chaperones will be chosen closer to the event and will receive parking passes.
Kari Monsen is collecting items and donations for the winter concerts raffle baskets. If you want to give a financial donation, volunteers will gladly purchase the appropriate items.
State of the Band
Kim mentioned the band has grown from 330 students to 550. Any student who wants to play in the band is welcome, regardless of ability to buy or rent an instrument. The growth is outpacing the instruments needed to support a band this size. Many instruments cannot be repaired and need to be replaced.
Mr. E. showed the state of a large drum that fell apart in class last week. Many of the instruments are in a similar state of disrepair. Mr. E. sent eight euphoniums (spelling??) to the repair shop but only two were returned. The instrument repairman said the other six were beyond repair.
Many of the instruments including French horns, bassoons, bari sax, bass clarinets, concert tubas are in equal disrepair.
The band also needs capital funding for computers and recording equipment to bring it into the 21st Century.
Tonight the FOB launched the Instruments for Kids Campaign. This committee is chaired by Kim Henwood, Mary Hood and Nancy Beaudet. Their goal is to raise $150,000 over the next three years to support the band through donations from the band community. The $25 band donation is insufficient to cover the cost of the band program and instrument repair. An appeal to the community will be made at the fall concerts--Jazz Night, November 15th and Winter Concert Night on December 13th. Please spread the word to your families, friends and neighbors and attend either or both these concerts to support the band. The committee is also looking for volunteers who can donate time and can write grants.
Band merchandise will be for sale at the concerts. T-shirts, sweatshirts, the bake sales and baskets will continue to fund our ongoing band program; the bumper stickers and tote bags, along with the “appeal” will fund the Instruments for Kids campaign. T-shirts and sweatshirts will not be pre-ordered by students this year.
There will not be a charge for attending the concerts.
In order to the maximize donations, consider donations from friends and family who have employers who can match donations.
Look for more information on the band website, in e-group emails, and kid mail.
Mr. E. reminded the group to support both the Eckstein Annual Campaign (EAC) first and band campaign as much as they can.
Mr. E. and Mr. Smith are working on a Top Bands event early in the new year. This event will be announced when it is finalized. Senior Jazz, Wind Ensemble, Senior Orchestra and Vocal Jazz will perform.
Donna Batch reported that the Wind Ensemble trip to Silverwood will be three days – May 30th, 31st and June 1st. The first night will not be at Silverwood but at a Family Fun Park. The cost will be about the same as last year because the band volunteers will be coordinating the trip themselves instead of through a travel agent.
Contact Rebecca Yeatman at rebyea@hotmail.com or 517-8021 if you can volunteer to sell t-shirts and other items at the band concerts. We need 12 volunteers for the November 15th Jazz Night concert and 12 for the December 13th Band Concert. Shifts consist of set-up and first shift of selling (7 – 8 pm) and second shift of selling and close (8 - 9:15 pm). Please contact Rebecca ASAP. Thanks!
Meeting adjourned.
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Band Parent Meeting - October, 1 2007
Welcome
New Equipment
Mr. Escobedo showed off the new band room speakers and the new synth that can transpose and vary music speed and rhythm. Thanks to Tony Tudisco and Aline Parker for their help in acquiring an excellent purchase.
Calendar Items
October 4 - Senior Jazz: UPC Band of Brothers. Students should be at University Presbyterian Church by 6:15 for warm-up, perform and be done at 8:30. Band program will receive $600 for this event. Unlike most events, this event is private and not open to Eckstein parents.
Oct. 27 – Senior Jazz, Combo and Vocal: Edmonds Jazz Symposium Vocal Jazz. Schedule will come in the next two weeks. They usually schedule two weeks out. The bands generally perform in the morning and vocal will likely perform in the afternoon. Mr. E says your students and families may stay all day but not necessary.
Nov. 5 - Next Band meeting: Band room at 7:30pm for parents and guardians.
Nov. 10 - St. Stephen’s Swing Dance: Senior Jazz but no vocal ensemble. Parents and families are encouraged to attend this as well as most other events.
Nov. 15 –Eckstein Jazz Night: Auditorium at 7:30 pm. All Jazz groups perform at Jazz night.
Nov. 17 – Mill Creek Jazz Festival: Mill Creek TBA – Sr Jazz only
Fundraiser Updates
Mr. E gave us an overview of the current state of instrument repair in relation to music program priorities. There is a pressing need to review fundraising opportunities across all band programs. It’s become evident that as older instruments fall into disrepair, fixing them repeatedly becomes less and less possible. Also, the risers used during concerts need to be repaired. More chairs are needed as more kids are in the band program.
Mr. E estimated that the current needs approach $100,000. Many instruments cost $2,000-4,000. So it’s easy to see how this adds up. In the past we have given away older instruments to programs with more dire needs. Mr. E would love to continue this practice someday but currently the band program cannot afford to give anything away. As it stands, many of our instruments were used when we acquired them.
Currently we are asking the EAC for money to fix the platforms.
It’s been suggested by Principal Kim Whitworth that we communicate to with EAC, PTSA, other committees and ASB to make sure all fundraising groups are synched up and none of us are duplicating efforts or over-scheduling.
Currently, our annual fundraising brings the program around $20K to $25k per year. Treasurer Nancy Beaudet suggested that we could raise $100k over three years by using the formula: 500 kids X 3 years = $66 per child per year. With full participation, this should be a very achievable goal.
Thank you Mr. E
Co-chair Kim Henwood addressed the group and talked about lab donations, volunteer needs such as coordinators for solo and ensemble and other committees. (See Web site for a current list of volunteers).
Lab Donations Requested
Annual $25 lab donations per student have been coming in to the band mailbox. These donations support scholarships and instruments for students who do not own their own, as well as a wide variety of functions and supplies for the band program. Mr. E has requested that everyone please use the mailbox in the band room for all communications and checks for the music program.
Matching Funds Are Also Encouraged
Mary Hood reminded us that the Web site provides information on companies who match donations or volunteer hours. Please contact Mary Hood at mrhood@qwest.net for information on matching funds or ask your HR department for their forms and guidelines. These funds will be handled by the Alliance for Education.
Volunteers Still Needed
There are sign-up sheets for Volunteer jobs that need filling, specifically, someone to share a co-secretary position for the Friends of Eckstein Band monthly meetings, co-organizers of the solo and ensemble contest in March and co-organizers for the raffle baskets. Please contact Kim at school@corgipup.com if you have questions about these jobs or are interested in signing up for one. Kim reminded the group that when volunteering to assist with field trips, that the term “helper” is not the same as trip chaperones. Kim has contacted those who signed up to confirm they know this.
Co-Secretary
This is a shared position with our first co-secretary, Sophie Hume. You would coordinate with Sophie Hume and decide who would attend which of the Friends of Eckstein monthly meetings. This is also a board position with monthly board meetings prior to the general meetings.
Solo & Ensemble
Need co-chairs for this March 15, 2008 event. Mr. E reviewed needs and structure of the S & E. (volunteers stepped forward at the end of the meeting to fill these important positions! THANKS!!) Students sign up for one or more 15-minute slots to play a classical solo or ensemble piece in front of an adjudicator. Kids get out of the annual scales test if they do this. The event has grown to nearly two hundred musicians! There’s a simple process in place and documentation of the event planning. Many people have signed on to assist including the biggest job: scheduling. Just need an organizer to coordinate the adjudicators. Cash is handled through the co-chairs of the band committee.
Raffle Baskets
Need two co-chairs. Kari Monsen will gladly mentor anyone who steps up. (A volunteer stepped forward for this job too. THANKS!!!!)
Folklife
Need help transporting equipment and organizing.
T-Shirts
Look for order forms to go home with your student by the end of October so that they can wear cool (way cool!) t-shirts and sweatshirts with the famous Eckstein Band logo! Thanks Sue Karboski for organizing this fund-raiser again this year.
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Band Parent Meeting - September, 10 2007
Welcome
Mr. Escobedo introduced our new principal Ms. Kim Whitworth and Mr. Rowe, who teaches Beginning Band, Junior Jazz Combo and one of the Junior Band classes.
General Overview
Mr. E then discussed the Wind Ensemble, Concert Bands and opportunities for some wind musicians to play in Orchestra one day a week. He also highlighted the Seattle Youth Symphony's Endangered Instrument Program and the group lessons that this program provides students for free during music class. Among these are bassoon, oboe, French horn and tuba. The music program has some of these instruments available for use by students. Participation is encouraged. Please see Mr. E if your student wants to participate.
Private Lessons Available During Band
Mr. E then talked about private instructors that come into Eckstein and offer private lessons that the parents pay for during part of one band period per week. Parents were told to look for sign up information in kid mail that their students would bring home for lesson sign up.
2007 Band Parent Board Members
Kim Henwood, President, introduced members of the Band Parent Board: Aline Parker and Kari Monsen, Co-Presidents; Judy Vollrath and Nancy Beaudet, Treasurers; Kathy Briggs, Webmaster; Tracy Romoser, e-group; and Mary Hood, Secretary and Fundraising; Sophie Hume, Secretary.
Band Parent Meetings
Kim discussed 7:30 pm 1st Mondays of the Month as Band Parent meetings in the Band Room. Parents are invited to attend to stay updated on Band activities as the year progresses and to help build a Band Parent community that effectively supports this wonderful music program.
Website and E-Groups Information
The Eckstein Band Website is www.eckstein.seattleschools.org/band; the e-group is accessed through Yahoo.com by http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/FriendsofEcksteinBand/, which is different from the Eckstein Daily Bulletin E-group.
Lab Donations Due
Lab donations are kindly requested at a minimum of $25 donation per student. Mr. E has requested that everyone please use the mailbox in the band room for all communications and checks for the music program.
Gently Worn Concert Attire Donations Accepted
Gently worn articles of concert clothing may be donated back to other students and dropped off at the band room. Concert dress code: girls are to wear black 3/4 length sleeved, high V-neck shirts for concerts with black pants or black skirts, skirt length below the knee, black shoes and no flip flops; boys wear white pleated tuxedo shirts with black pants, socks, shoes, and belt. Shirts are available at the tuxedo shop on Roosevelt near Northgate, which offers a discount for Eckstein and Roosevelt students. Please bring outgrown band clothing/shoes to each band parent meeting.
Join the Band Parent Community
Kim mentioned the sign-up sheets for Volunteer Opportunities outside the door. The response was huge but there are still some jobs that need filling, specifically, co-organizers of the solo and ensemble contest in March and co-organizers for the raffle baskets. Please contact Kim at school@corgipup.com if you have questions about these jobs or are interested in signing up for one.
Where to Find Music Program Information
There are information sheets available in the band room and postings on the Website that describe all the music groups, schedules, and parent information. Please make sure you receive and review this information.
Jazz Band Information
Mr. E addressed the questions of several parents of clarinet and flute playing students. He said they would be welcome to play in junior jazz after school, but that if they want to continue playing jazz it would be best for them to double on another instrument, such as alto sax. Contact Mr. E for more information. Also contact him directly if your student is interested in participating in Vocal Jazz.
The meeting was very well attended and everyone enjoyed refreshments. Parents are encouraged to keep attending as many meetings as they can throughout the year. We are a band parent community!
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