Encore Homeschool Fine Arts

Rehearsals begin this Friday - January 6th

2012-01-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

We resume rehearsals this Friday, January 6th, and second semester payments are due this month.

Hope everyone had a great Christmas and holiday break.

See you Friday!

December Recital

2011-12-02T19:59:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that our Christmas recital will be this coming Friday, December 9th.

Everyone is to meet at Community Bible Church - NOT our regularly rehearsal location.

Click here for a map:

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?address=906+N+1464+Rd&city=Lawrence&state=KS&zipcode=66049

We need everyone at the church at 9:15 for tuning and warming up. The recital will begin at 10:00.

Please bring your music and music stands.

If you have any questions, please call or email me.

Thanks,

Martha
hsmom@sbcglobal.net
785-841-6308

Happy Thanksgiving - no rehearsals this week

2011-11-22T18:08:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that we will not rehearse on Friday, Nov. 25th.
We will rehearse December 2nd and then have our recital on the following Friday, December 9th.

School Pictures

2011-10-27T12:32:00.001-07:00

Encore members are welcome to have their school pictures taken on Friday, November 11th - same location as band and choir. Here is information regarding this opportunity:

Steven Hertzog Of Creative Road Studio (formerly Linwood Road Studio) has again agreed to take school pictures for TEACH. Picture Day is scheduled for Friday, November 11, 2011 from 12:30-2 pm at the parsonage , next door to the Morris Baptist Center (146 Indian Avenue, Lawrence).

There are a few changes this year. The time of pictures is shortened to 90 minutes and since we have a small group, they need a pre-order of $18.50 for each individual they photograph payable at the time of the session. A sibling shot will be an additional $18.50.

The $18.50 is package 'D' which includes:
1 5x7
4 3.5x5
8 mini wallets

They will deliver to TEACH to hand out proof sheets consisting of 4 poses to choose from. If at that time, someone wants to order more than a package 'D', and/or additional add ons you can do so. If you decide to purchase a more expensive package than 'D', you can do so and deduct the $18.50 from what the more expensive package costs.

For example:
If a customer chooses to purchase package 'A' valued at $50 instead of package 'D' valued at $18.50, they can deduct the $18.50 already paid from the $50 and when they return their order simply write a check for the balance which would be in this case $31.50.
---
Steven Hertzog
CREATIVE ROAD STUDIO
4160 Blackjack Oak Drive
Lawrence, Kansas 66047
phone/fax 785 856-1216
steven@creativeroadstudio.com
http://www.CreativeRoadStudio.com

Rehearsals canceled for Sept. 30th

2011-09-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hello Encore Families,

It is early in the year to be canceling a rehearsal, but as some of you may already know, there will be a funeral luncheon held at the Morris Center that day. It just seemed easier to cancel than to get everyone to a new location.

Please pass this on to other families you know in our group, just in case they don't get the email or check this site. Also, use the website/blog and facebook for updates and announcements as well.

Everyone should use the time off to practice :o)

Enjoy your week and we will see everyone for rehearsals on October 7th.

Thanks!

One week and counting

2011-09-03T16:02:00.000-07:00

A week from yesterday we begin rehearsing. Summer certainly went fast for me.

Please read the post below this for all the important information regarding the groups, times, etc.

For those that don't already know, I am teaching a sewing class during rehearsals, but will still be available for the musicians and parents if need be. Don't be shy to knock on the door of the room in the back - across from the ladies restroom.

I do have a few openings left for the 10am and 1pm class, if you have a student that would like to take a beginning sewing class. The sewing class website can be found by clicking here.

There are also a few openings left in the percussion ensemble - no experience necessary, or you can already know how to play - all levels are welcome. Scroll down through a few posts below for information about this group and when they meet.

It isn't too late to sign up for any of our groups, if you haven't already. There is time to get an instrument as well. We have an incentive program for families that bring another family into our group - that info is in the post below.

I know of a few instrument that are for sale: a trumpet, a full-size viola, a 3/4 cello, a full AND half-sized violin. Email me for contact information if you are looking for one of these instruments.

I also have some metal folding music stands for sale. I will have them at the first rehearsal and they sell for $3.00 each. They do not have cases. There will be a limited amount of used, some very used, band method books for sale - those are $1.00 each. Since they are written to a specific instrument, some instruments may not be represented in the collection I have.

Beautiful Music has new orchestra books and The Band-Aide may have some new band books and they also can order reeds and other needed supplies that your musician may need over the year. We have order forms available on Fridays. The newer books have a CD in the back and that is very helpful for practicing between rehearsals.

See you all on the 9th!

Encore news, updates, schedule changes

2011-08-14T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Encore Families,

The instrumental "try-out" day went very well. If you missed it, there are options to finding the perfect instrument for your student, let me know that you are needing help.

Staff from Beautiful Music and The Band Aide came to help the kids try string and band instruments. Mr. Gaskin was there to talk to potential choir members.

For band instruments, I will have order sheets from The Band Aide for any supplies you may need. They are a local company and can get swabs, reeds, valve oil, and other items.

String players can visit J.J. at Beautiful Music (across from the bowling alley) for rental instruments and supplies.

We have made a few tweaks in the schedule this year. It won't affect all the groups, but please take note of the changes in case you know of others that are thinking of joining us this year and don't know of the new times. Please read beyond the time changes for added information.

JrHigh/Sr High - Choir - 9am - no change

Elementary Choir - 10am - no change

Beginning Band - 9am - no change

Intermediate Band - 10am - no change

Beginning Orchestra - 11am

Intermediate Orchestra - noon

Percussion Ensemble - a new group, will meet at 11:15 - there are still a few openings so let me know if this group is of interest. The kids in this group need to be in another Encore group (choir, band, or orchestra) to enroll in this group. The tuition is $45.00 for the percussion ensemble. The director is Emily Bachert - a KU music major.

Advanced Band - 1pm

Jazz Band - 2pm

Many of the kids in Beginning Band will move up to Intermediate Band after an audition. It is okay to do another year of beginning - just know that it is possible to move up IF an audition is passed. The audition would be to play Regal March or a piece of your choosing that shows the level you are at.

Beginning Orchestra students can also audition to move up to Intermediate Orchestra. Please choose a piece from your book that shows the level you are currently at.

Intermediate Band members need to audition to be in Advanced, if they wish to move up. The students should play a piece of their choosing that shows the level they are at - music from last year would be fine - but not Regal March :o)

Advanced members have the option of being in Jazz Band. Intermediate and Advanced members have the option to audition for Jazz Band. Members must be in a "concert" band or orchestra in order to be in Jazz Band.

Another change this year is a way we have found to thank you for you bringing in new students. If you have referred anyone this school year and they sign up with the same director your child has, please let me know so I can explain how bringing in new students will benefit you.

We start rehearsing on September 9th - that is when fall semester fees are due. We are looking forward to seeing you all!

Date set to try out instruments and audition

2011-07-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

We will be offering an opportunity to try out various band and orchestra instruments for those wishing to join our group. We offered this last year and it was a success - many students had a chance to try any instrument that was available that day. The goal was to find a good match between the student and instrument, and that was accomplished.

Mark your calendar for Friday, August 12th - from 10:00am to noon. We will meet at the Morris Baptist Center - 146 Indian Ave. - in Lawrence. Students and their families can come and meet the directors, try instruments, learn about our groups, and ask questions.

An instrument repair person will be available that day for those who already have an instrument and want it evaluated or repaired. Information regarding places to rent or purchase new or used instruments will be available as well.

The levels of band and orchestra for this year are based on enrollment but we are planning on the following:

Beginning Band - no musical experience required

Beginning Orchestra - no musical experience required

Intermediate Band - audition required

Intermediate Orchestra - audition required

Jazz Band - audition AND enrollment in an intermediate/advanced group is required.

Advanced Band - audition required

And new this year - Percussion Ensemble - no previous musical experience is required - space is limited. For more information - click here.

Audition info: For those students that wish to be in intermediate/advanced groups or jazz, an audition with the director will be required.(no audition is required for beginning groups) The student prepares a piece of music that demonstrates their ability and plays it for the director. Auditions will be held the same day as the instrument "try-out" day - starting at 12:30 pm - first come, first heard basis.

Basic information about our groups can be found on this site - on the right side bar.

Email contact:

Martha Bachert -
Founder and Executive Director
Lawrence, Kansas

encorehomeschool@sbcglobal.net - or
hsmom@sbcglobal.net

Tony Swisher - Band/Orchestra/Jazz director
John Gaskin - Choir Director
Emily Bachert - KU music major/student director of Advanced Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble

New this fall - Percussion Ensemble

2011-07-04T20:58:00.000-07:00

In our world we are surrounded by musical sounds. Our homes contain many objects that make great musical instruments. A plastic bin might be a bass drum or a metal pot could be a bongo. The new Encore percussion ensemble will make music in unlikely ways, by using household items as well as real percussion instruments.

Previous music experience is not required. Each student will start with the basics and learn skills beneficial to other instruments and to further their current or future musical abilities. Come and join the fun for an interesting group experience.

The group will be led by Emily Bachert, a KU music major and student director of the Encore Advanced Ensemble. The tuition will be $45.00 per semester and space is limited. The group will meet on Friday - time to be announced soon.

Students must be enrolled in another group in order to be eligible for the percussion ensemble. (choir, orchestra, or band) Email or call 785-841-6308 for more information or to be added to the class roster.

Announcements for Fall Semester - 2011

2011-06-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

We had a great performance at TEACH Night. Beside the snafu with the keyboard being changed to a different key, and the pianist not knowing it, everything went well. He certainly handled the situation well!

Thanks to all that donated toward the director's gift cards. With your donations, I was able to buy a variety of cards.

It is time to think about next semester so keep an eye on this site for updates and new information as it becomes available.

We will have a date where students can come and try different types of instruments, like we had last year. That date hasn't been determined yet - I am hoping for a Friday in early August.

All the Encore groups will begin meeting on September 9th. Auditions, to move up to another level of orchestra or band, will be held in mid to late August. The audition piece is one that the student chooses and should demonstrate the level they are able to play at.

This coming year, we will be adding a percussion ensemble - led by Emily Bachert, a KU music major. This will be a fun group, and a way to learn rhythms and read percussion music. No prior percussion experience is required and those who already play percussion are encouraged to enroll. The age/grade level for participants is still being considered. Contact me or watch this site for more information.

Hope you are all enjoying your summer.

Blessings,

Martha

785-841-6308

End of semester announcments and reminders

2011-05-03T15:35:00.000-07:00

We are just about at the end of another year of band, orchestra, and choir - a very successful year!!

This coming Friday - May 6th - will be our final rehearsal, leading up to our spring recital on May 9th. The program will be held at Community Bible Church, off the 10 Highway by-pass.

Band and orchestra members should wear concert black and white. Mr. Gaskin will let the choir know what they should wear for the performance.

Please be at the church by 6:30 with your music and music stand. The program starts at 7pm.

There is still time to contribute to the gift cards - they are given to the directors at the end of the semester. I will be at the rehearsals on Friday. the final day I can collect for the cards.

If you have any question, be sure to ask :o)

Time to compete!

2011-04-14T13:02:00.000-07:00

We want to send our very best to all the kids competing at the Blue Ridge Festival on April 15th. Remember, no band or orchestra on the 15th or the 22nd. Please be sure to be at the two remaining rehearsals - April 29th and May 6th - recital/TEACH Night is May 9th at 7:00pm.

I will post the results of the competition, once I know the ratings.

Hope everyone travels safely - and I will see many of you there.

Blessings,

Mrs. Bachert

We will be rehearsing on Friday - March 25th

2011-03-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

We DO meet this Friday, March 25th. There may have been some confusion about taking that day off due to Spring Break, but we WILL meet as usual.

However, thinking ahead: we will NOT meet on April 15th or April 22nd.

The 15th is the Blue Ridge Festival and several of the kids will be competing as well as the older choir.

April 22nd is Good Friday, we always take Good Friday off.

With missing two Fridays in April, please try to be at all the remaining rehearsals so all the music can be polished and ready for the spring recital/TEACH Night - May 9th.

Have a great week and see you Friday!

Spring recital/TEACH Night - May 9th

2011-03-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Encore Families,

Our spring recital will be on May 9th, at CBC, starting at 7pm. Directions : http://www.mapquest.com/maps?address=906+N.+1464+Rd.&city=Lawrence&state=KS&zipcode=66049

We will join in with the TEACH Talent Night for our spring recital, so our groups aren't the only ones performing. The program will start at 7pm.

We ask that all the groups - EXCEPT the elementary choir, to wear concert black and white to the program. That means all black, all white, or a combination of black and white. If you have any questions, let me know. Mr.Gaskin will let the elementary choir know what to wear.

The groups are sounding VERY good. We are pleased with the progress the kids have made this semester.

The jazz band has been asked to play at The Lawrence Arts Center on April 7th. If you would like to come out and support the members, they will play at 7pm in the lobby of the Arts Center, before the performance of The Music Man. The band will play for approximately 20 minutes.

The jr. high/sr. high choir will be competing at the Blue Ridge Festival on April 15th.

Thanks to everyone for your support.

Martha

No Encore rehearsals tomorrow, February 25th

2011-02-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

Due to the weather, we will cancel rehearsals tomorrow, February 25th.

We will see everyone next week as we prepare for the spring recital.

Thanks,

Martha

Post recital information/reminders

2010-12-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

Mr. Swisher, Mr. Gaskin, and I would like to thank all of you for your support this semester. Thank you for sharing your children with us. All the groups did well and we hope that everyone enjoyed seeing and hearing the groups perform. We continue to be incredibly blessed with great families and kids!

A few reminders: Second semester starts on January 7th. I have had several inquiries about joining our group at the semester. If you know of others interested in our program, we can take new students in all the groups but beginning band and orchestra. (exception to that are students that already play an instrument and want to be in a beginning instrumental group)

Always refer to this website/blog for information, updates, cancellations due to weather, etc. That will be my main way of communicating with the group.

If anyone took photos that we could post on the site, and would like to share them, please email them to me. I forgot my camera on Friday and was hoping to get pictures of all the groups that day.

I noticed that both directors were sampling the "treats" that were given to them before ever leaving the building on Friday. I let both of them know that it is okay to not eat everything in one day :o)
Thanks to all of you that contributed, I know they enjoyed them.

A beginning band percussion player left their xylo after the recital on Friday. It is in the church office.

We wish you a blessed Christmas and healthy New Year!

See you all in January!

Martha

Recital and end of semester reminders

2010-12-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

* This coming Friday, December 17th, will be our end of semester recital. The recital will begin at 10:30 but the kids are to be there earlier for tuning and warming up.

* PLEASE NOTE: The recital is at the same location we meet each week - The Morris Center.

* Beginning band and beginning orchestra are to arrive by 9:00.

* Intermediate band, jazz band, and intermediate orchestra are to arrive and be ready to tune and warm up at 9:30.

* Choirs are to arrive and work with Mr. Gaskin at 10:00.

* No need to dress up for the recital.

* Second semester starts on January 7th.

* This is the week to bring cookies/brownies/etc to your child's director, if that is something you would like to do.

* There is still time to sign up for the National Federation of Music Clubs Festival. The Festival is in March but membership dues must be paid by the end of this month. There are many areas to compete in - call me if you are interested in this. It is an affordable and homeschool friendly competition.

The kids had a great rehearsal on Friday!

Email or call with questions - 785-841-6308 (home) - 785-865-3422 (cell) - hsmom@sbcglobal.net

See you all on Friday!

Announcements and updates - please read

2010-11-22T08:32:00.000-08:00

Please read the following information for the latest announcements and updates concerning our fine arts groups:

** We do not rehearse this Friday - a traditional week off for Thanksgiving. We will resume rehearsals on December 3rd and need everyone to attend the final rehearsals.

** There will be a recital on Friday, December 17th, beginning at 10:30am. This will be our last day to meet for the semester. There were so many conflicts that led to the decision to have the groups perform on a rehearsal day, rather than our traditional evening recital. The kids will need to be there earlier for tuning and warming up - each director will let the groups know what time to arrive on the 17th.

** For those in choir, Mr. Gaskin is returning to direct your group. As many of you are aware, he had surgery and needed more time to recover than originally thought. Thanks to Mrs. Laytimi for filling in for Mr. Gaskin in his absence.

** For those interested, we traditionally bring cookies/candy/baked item/etc. to the directors on the final day we meet, which is December 17th. I will send out a reminder on that when we get closer to that date.

** Second semester will being on January 7th.

** For those interested in competitions this year: the deadline to join the National Federation of Music Clubs is quickly approaching. They offer a nice competition for kids in many areas, in music, dance, poetry, essay writing, etc. If you have interest in this, let me know ASAP so I can get you the necessary forms. It is a friendly and affordable competition, many of our students have participated and enjoyed the experience. The competition takes place on March 5th, in Lawrence. There are many levels of competition - this isn't just for the student that has been playing for years.

** Those that want to compete at the Blue Ridge Festival, information will be sent out as soon as I receive it.

I look forward to seeing you at the recital on the 17th. The kids have worked hard and are sounding great.

If you have any questions, please email or call me - hsmom@sbcglobal.net - 785-841-6308. Check the Encore site for updates and announcements. That will be the place to check for weather related cancellations - www.encorehomeschoolfinearts.blogspot.com

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Martha

December Recital

2010-11-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

I know many of you have been waiting for a date to be put on the calender for our December recital. We usually have a date planned long before now but there were circumstances that we were working around, causing a long delay in a final decision.

Due to all that is going on within our group, we will have a small recital in the morning on December 17th - a regular rehearsal day - time to be announced as soon as the logistics are figured out - but it will be in the morning of that day.

Contact me with any questions :o)

Opportunity to have school pictures taken this Friday

2010-10-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

Below is information about an opportunity to have school pictures taken this coming Friday - at the same location where the Encore groups meet.

You can contact me with questions, I may be able to answer them. My family has been participating in the opportunity for many years.

Attention for those who wish to have school pictures:

Creative Road Studio (same company as last year) has agreed to take pictures at the parsonage next to Morris Baptist Center. The date and time for pictures is set: Friday, October 8th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

There is no obligation to buy the pictures, but the packages are reasonably priced. He is also willing to do sibling shots if you want to send out a group shot during the upcoming holidays.

Cheryl DeVillier has agreed to help organize the day to make this happen. When Steve Herzog emails further information regarding proofs, ordering and etc we will send it on to you. The most important, is to get the date on your calendar!

Off to a wonderful start

2010-09-18T05:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Encore Families,

We are off to a great start this semester. Honestly, I can't ever remember hearing such great sounds coming out of the rehearsals this early in the year. Yesterday was our second rehearsal, for some it was their first rehearsal - it sounded like a groups that have been meeting longer than just two times.

We still have a couple of kids on vacation, and we will still take new members so if you know of students that would like a fine arts experience, pass on our website and contact information.

For band and orchestra - always bring your music stand, your book, and accessories that might be needed like reeds, rosin, valve oil, etc.... Practice every day - it makes a huge difference!

For those in ninth - twelfth grade, we have a fine arts "lettering" opportunity. It is about accumulating points throughout the year. There is an option of ordering a chenille music note and various pins. Let me know if you are interested.

Everyone needs to practice assigned music so they are prepared for rehearsals every week. Private lessons, although not required, do add to the overall musical experience for students. I can help you locate a teacher if you are interested.

For those interested in competing musically, there are at least two options open to homeschooler's. They take place in the spring, but it is time to think about them long before the end of this year. These "festivals" are for vocal, strings, brass, woodwind, percussion, piano, and drama, public speaking, art, photography, jewelry making, etc. If this interests you or your student, be sure to ask me about the different opportunities.

If you haven't signed the group roster with your name, email, and phone number - please see me on Friday. I want to get an updated email list and don't want to leave anyone out. Most of my correspondence will be through this site, but there will also be times when I need to send out group emails.

The music directors and I are very excited about this year. Thank you for taking part in our program. We have a lot of fun but a lot is accomplished.

Once a date has been planned for the Christmas recital, I will pass it on.

Thanks!

Time to start rehearsing!

2010-09-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

Hello all new and returning Encore members!

We have enjoyed meeting all the new families that will be joining us this year and eager for everyone, returning members and new, to meet for our first rehearsal of this school year.

All groups meet this Friday, September 10th. Everyone should know their rehearsal time - if not, let me know.

Please use this blog as a way to keep up-to-date on all group information. I will post weather related cancellations here, so be sure to always check here for the latest on those situations. Our general policy regarding weather is: If the directors can get to rehearsals, we will meet to rehearse. However, the decision to venture out in bad weather is always up to you, we want everyone to be safe and feel comfortable about getting out when the weather is less than desirable. More on that later - I am not ready to even think about snow and ice :o)

Payment for fees to the directors should be made out to the individual director but given to me.
I can be found in the main building throughout the day. Starting on September 24th, I will be teaching sewing classes, but that is held in the main building in the little room across from the ladies bathroom. I will be accessible during that time, just knock on the door.

If you know of families that wish to join any of our groups, it isn't too late to sign up.

Hope you all had a great summer and are ready to have some fun with music.

See you Friday!

Carpooling from the KC area?

2010-08-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in carpooling in to Lawrence for Friday rehearsals, email me to be put in contact with other families that wish to do the same.

We have families coming in from all directions and some may wish to make connections with other families in their area to share driving into Lawrence.

Right now I am particularly looking at possible rides coming in from the Merriam, Shawnee, and Overland Park area. Of course, the amount of time you would be in Lawrence and the groups enrolled in will have to be taken into consideration.

If you email me with interest in getting connected with an other family, please include the group(s) you would be staying for so a match can be easily figured out.

Reminder for instrumentalists:

If you need help finding method books - let me know. Be sure to bring a folding music stand to rehearsals as well as your method book, cork grease and reeds for reed players, valve oil for brass players, rosin for string players, and mallets/drumsticks for percussionists - if you have a drum key - bring that for tuning when necessary. (did I miss any anyone?)

It isn't too late to sign up for any of the groups!

See you all on the 10th!

P.S. YIKES!!! I just noticed that I didn't have the Intermediate Orchestra's meeting time listed on the right-hand side - AND then I had some 'pm's" where an "am" should go. Everything should be fixed now.

Reminder - auditions this Friday - 8/27

2010-08-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

We will gather at the Morris Center on Friday, August 27th, from 10:00 - noon for auditions.

Only students wanting to be in intermediate band, orchestra, or jazz band, need to audition.

It is done on a first come, first served basis.

If you want to meet the directors but don't need to audition, please plan to attend - we are eager to meet you in person if you are new.

If you have questions, look at older posts below for possible answers. You can email me as well.

Looking forward to a new season!

* * Reminder - instrumental "try-out" this Friday * *

2010-08-11T06:57:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder about this Friday's opportunity to try out various instruments for orchestra and band. We will meet at the Morris Center - 146 Indian Ave - Lawrence - from 10:00 - noon. We are excited to host this sort of opportunity for our incoming families.

See post below for more information.

See you Friday!

Fine arts news for fall

2010-06-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

I interrupt your summer with a fine arts "update" - dates to make note of, information about upcoming auditions and announcing an opportunity for new musicians to try instruments.

We used to send students to Hume Music Store to try various instruments, but they have closed. So to give students a chance to see what instrument they like the best, we will offer a morning session in August to meet for that purpose. Information regarding the day and time is posted below as information for new students.

It doesn't seem possible, but we are about to begin our eighth year. There are not a lot of changes for this year, just a few. Tuition, rehearsal day, and location will remain the same.

Mr. Swisher, our band director, will direct the orchestra this year. For those who didn't already know, he played the violin before trumpet or flute. If you haven't had a chance to meet Mr. Swisher, you will find him to be very knowledgeable and fun. (be prepared for "Uncle Kenny" stories though :o)

Hope everyone is having a great summer. We look forward to seeing you all in August for auditions. If you have any questions, be sure to email or call.

Here is the basic information that is being sent out for new students - feel free to pass it on. (current students should take note of day and times for auditions and the beginning of rehearsals)

The Encore Homeschool Fine Arts groups are gearing up for our eighth year. We offer beginning band, intermediate band, jazz band, orchestra, elementary and junior high/high school choir. We have several students that are involved in two or more groups.

All groups meet on Friday mornings at The Morris Baptist Center - 146 Indian Ave., Lawrence, KS. - off of Highway 10 in east Lawrence. The tuition is $95.00 per semester. There is a discounted rate for families that have more than one student in a group with the same director. ($95.00 for the first student, $70.00 for second, third, etc...)

If your student has not played an instrument before, we will be offering an opportunity to try various instruments to determine what fits the student best. The band/orchestra director, along with some of our high school members will be available on August 13th, from 10:00 - noon to assist students in exploring the possible choices. Please email or call the contact below with questions or to sign up for this opportunity.

For students that already play an instrument and want to join one of the groups, an audition can be set up on August 13th or 27th. Beginning band/orchestra members do not have to audition. Those wishing a spot in the intermediate level or jazz band should plan to play for the director. (audition music is a piece of your choosing that you are comfortable with and that shows the level you are at)

Once an instrument has been chosen, it can be purchased used, through the newspaper or at garage sales. If you are interested in renting an instrument, Meyer Music is a good place to start. In addition to an instrument, each member will need a folding music stand and a required music book.

Choir members do not audition but the director will be available on August 27th to meet and answer questions.

Dates and times to remember:

Friday, August 13th - a chance to try instruments and meet the director(s) OR audition for those who wish to be any instrumental group other than beginning band. (10:00 - noon) Morris Baptist Center - 146 Indian Ave - Lawrence.

Friday, August 27th - instrumental auditions for intermediate level groups and jazz band. Morris Baptist Center - 146 Indian Ave - Lawrence.

Friday, September 10th - all the groups begin rehearsing - semester fees are due.

Questions about any of the groups or to sign up, contact:

Martha Bachert - Founder and Executive Director

785-841-6308

encorehomeschool@sbcglobal.net - or

hsmom@sbcglobal.net

Summer and private lessons

2010-05-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

We always hope that the kids will practice over the summer but it would also benefit them to take private music lessons. Taking lessons will help them retain what was learned during the year but to also advance to the next level.

The following individuals offer private music instruction:

Emily Bachert - clarinet, snare, xylo, marimba - 1 girlygirl@gmail.com or 785-840-7409

Patty Hamel - piano - pattytyme@hotmail.com or 785-979-2533

Beginning band members that wish to move up to intermediate band must pass an audition in August. The audition piece for that audition is Regal March, in the red band book.

I want to get the orchestra back up and running again. They took second semester off because the director decided to not return after the holidays. If you know of students that would like to be involved in orchestra, have them contact me for information.

Time to get busy!

2010-04-18T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hello All Encore Members,

The Blue Ridge Competition is over and it is time to concentrate on the upcoming TEACH Night performance. Please do you best to attend the last three rehearsals, as Mr. Swisher says there is still a lot of work to be done to present a good performance that evening.

Thanks to all the families that helped and/or supported me through the Blue Ridge Festival. It was a success, but without the help of Lana Groundwater, delivering and setting up displays, it would have been much harder for me. So if Lana took one of your entries, please be sure to thank her for her help :o)

Once I have all the results of possible division winners for the festival, I will post the results. I didn't get a chance to write down all the awards that were given that day. If you would like your entry listed with the award you were given, please email me so I can post those.

The Encore Trio (aka "Advanced Ensemble) played a piece at Blue Ridge and played it very well, despite not being allowed to warm-up before performing in front of the judges. They received an "Excellent" award for their performance. More on the other entries in a future post.

See you all on Friday - time to get busy!

No Band this Friday - April 16th

2010-04-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

Due to the Blue Ridge Fine Arts Festival, none of the bands will meet this week.

We wish all the members "our best" for their auditions and performances. I will post the results after they are released.

Please plan on attending the last three rehearsals to prepare for TEACH Night.

No Rehearsals this Friday - Good Friday

2010-03-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

We will not have rehearsals this Friday - April 2nd - Good Friday.

All groups will meet the following Friday, April 9th.

Happy Easter!

Yes, we do rehearse during spring break

2010-03-10T15:36:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that there are rehearsals during "spring break".

I am still working on a date for our spring recital, which will coincide with TEACH Night.

Stay tuned!

No choir this Friday - February 19th

2010-02-14T20:29:00.000-08:00

Choir will not meet this coming Friday. Choir will resume rehearsals the following Friday.

Band will meet as usual this Friday.

Second semester - starts this Friday - the 15th

2010-01-13T20:19:00.000-08:00

Band and choir will meet at their regular times.

Orchestra - please check with Mrs. Schellman on whether you meet this Friday or not.

We are excited to have some new members join us this semester. Welcome to Kirsten and Isaac to beginning band, Matthew to intermediate band, and Sarah to jazz band.

For choir we are welcoming Kesandra.

See you all on Friday!

Reheasals Canceled for January 8th

2010-01-06T12:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Due to the never ending snow and future forecast of very cold temperatures, we have decided to cancel the first rehearsal of the semester - January 8th.

We will meet on January 15th.

Stay warm!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-29T07:52:00.001-08:00

Even with a few glitches, the Christmas recital went well. Thanks to you all for arriving early to warm up and for helping with set-up and take down of chairs.

A special thank you to David Barfield for being the "sound guy" - we couldn't have managed without him.

All the groups will resume rehearsals on January 8th. That will be the beginning of second semester - I will collect fees during the month of January. Second semester fees are $90.00 per student, $70.00 for the second student in the same family/with the same director.

Thanks for all of your support. It would be impossible to run this group without your encouragement.

Have a safe, healthy, and blessed 2010!

Reminders

2009-11-22T19:05:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,

There will be no band, choir, or orchestra this Friday, November 27. Rehearsals will resume the following Friday, December 4th.

There are two rehearsals left before the end of the semester and the recital on December 13th.

For those interested in bringing cookies, brownies, etc., to your child's director, we will be doing that on our last rehearsal - December 11th. (I know that Mr. Gaskin and Mr. Swischer have quite a sweet tooth and chocolate is a favorite :o)

We will be losing one of our faithful and a long-time member of our group. Ben Munson, who plays tuba in intermediate band and flute in jazz band, will be moving to Kentucky in December. In fact he will move before our recital. Ben has been with the Encore group for six years and will be missed. Best wishes to Ben and his family!

Finally, birthday greetings to Mr. Swischer!!! His birthday is November 28th. Happy Birthday!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Christmas recital

2009-10-17T13:43:00.001-07:00

We have a date and location for our annual Christmas recital.

This year we will hold our recital at the Community Bible Church - the location where we participate in TEACH Night, each spring. See church website for directions: http://community-bible.org/home/visit-us/

The program is scheduled for Sunday, December 13th, beginning at 3:00 pm. We will need the kids there 30 minutes earlier for tuning and warm-up.

Choir members should dress in their "Sunday best". Band and orchestra members should wear concert "black and white".

Band, orchestra, and choir will meet up through December 11th and then will take a break until January 8th - which will be the beginning of second semester.

Contact me with any questions.

Thanks,

Martha

Time to get started!

2009-09-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

All the Encore groups will begin rehearsing this coming Friday, September 11th at the following times:

Beginning Band and Jr./Sr Choir - 9:00 am

Intermediate Band and Elementary Choir - 10:00 am

Advanced Ensemble and Orchestra - 11:00 am

Jazz Band - Noon

Each group meets for 50 minutes.

Please bring your instruments, band book, and music stand every week.

Fees should be made out to your child's director and given to Mrs. Bachert.

Semester fees are: $95.00

If you have more than one child in a group with the same director, the fee for the second child is $70.00.

Band and choir meet at the Morris Center - 146 Indian Ave. Orchestra meets at the home of the director.

PLEASE NOTE:

Due to some behavioral issues last year, it has become necessary to implement a "code of conduct" for our members. We ask that each member and a parent sign the form that can be viewed, downloaded, and printed from a link, located on the right side of this site or click here to get directly to the document. If you have already signed and turned in the TEACH Conduct Form, it is not necessary to sign the Encore form.

We are all looking forward to another great year!

Time for band auditions

2009-07-15T18:40:00.001-07:00

If you are a new or a returning Encore Band member, please put August 28th on your calendar to audition for Intermediate and/or Jazz Band. Auditions will be held at the Morris Center - 146 Indian Ave. - Lawrence, KS. We will begin at 10:00 am and students will audition on a "first come" basis.

In order to know the level and ability of all the students, it is important that all members audition with Mr. Swischer. (new and returning beginning band members do not have to audition)

There are four levels of band: Beginning, Intermediate, Jazz, and Advanced Ensemble.

Beginning band is for those students that are just learning a new instrument, but it isn't just for the "very" beginner. Some students stay in the beginning level for two or more years. There are no auditions necessary for this level. Students range in age from nine years old - high school. Some students are in higher bands but want to start a new instrument and join the beginning band to play that instrument. Beginning band should be thought of as an "apprentice" band and being held back to play at this level is common.

Intermediate band (Concert Band) is our largest group and an audition is required to play at this level. All ages and grade levels are in this group.

Audition piece(s) for this band:

#1 - Regal March - found in Standard of Excellence - Book 1
#2 - A piece of your choosing that shows the level you are at

Jazz band - members are chosen by audition by Mr. Swischer. Email Mrs. Bacher t if you are interested in auditioning for jazz band.

Advanced Ensemble is a select "chamber" group. This group is small and members are selected by the need of particular instruments to play chamber music. The student needs to have a superior audition and be studying with a private teacher. If you are interested in auditioning for this group, contact Mrs. Bachert for audition details.

If you are in any of these groups and WILL NOT be returning, please email Mrs. Bachert.

All groups are planning on beginning the rehearsal year on September 11th.

Why Participate in Fine Arts?

2009-07-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

The following article was written by a homeschool
band director but is applicable to orchestra and choir as well.
So consider the title - "Why Participate in Fine Arts".

WHY TAKE BAND?

Written by Paul Somer

Instruments of Praise Band Homeschool Band Director – Houston, Texas

Music is a science

It is exact, specified; and it demands exact acoustics. A conductor’s full score is a chart, a graph which indicates frequencies, intensities, volume changes, melody and harmony all at once and with the most exact control of time.

Music is mathematical

It is rhythmically based on the subdivisions of time into fractions which must be done instantaneously, not worked out on paper.

Music is a foreign language

Most of the terms are in Italian, German or French; and the notation is certainly not English - but a highly developed kind of shorthand that uses symbols to represent ideas. The semantics of music is the most complete and universal language.

Music is history

Music usually reflects the environment and times of its creation, often even the country and/or racial feeling.

Music is physical education

It requires fantastic coordination of fingers, hands, arms, lips, cheeks and facial muscles; in addition to extraordinary control of the diaphragmatic, back, stomach and chest muscles, which respond instantly to the sound the ear hears and the mind interprets.

Music is all these things, but most of all, Music is art

It allows a human being to take all these dry, technically boring (but difficult) techniques and use them to create emotion and worship God Almighty. That is one thing science and mathematics cannot duplicate.

Your Child Should Study Music
To Gain These Benefits:

· Self Confidence

· Responsibility

· Mental and Physical Discipline

· Coordination - Dexterity

· Group Activity - Cooperation and Unity

· Creative and Recreative Activities - Self-expression

· Playing an instrument will put your child into worthwhile activities that will utilize constructive use of leisure time

· Research has shown that students who play in the band usually get better grades

· Increased joy of living through appreciation of the arts

· Development of a career or avocation

· Being part of a team with a common goal

· Training to become a happy, cooperative and useful citizen

· Playing a musical instrument should provide pleasure for the child and the whole family

Please give your children the opportunity to learn to play musical instruments so that you and they may experience these advantages !

End of year and looking toward next year

2009-05-30T19:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone for making the past year a success. TEACH Night went well, the directors were pleased and I hope you all enjoyed the evening.

Thanks to everyone who contributed towards the director's gift cards. We were able to give Mr. Swischer a $75.00 card, Mr. Gaskin - $80.00, and Mrs. Schellman - $50.00.

It isn't too late to fill out the form.If you are in ninth grade and up, and feel that you are eligible to "letter" in fine arts, contact me. The information and form can be downloaded from this site - see "Lettering Requirements".

We have some photos from TEACH Night but not of all the groups. If you have pictures of any of the groups on TEACH Night or during the choir recital, email them to me to possibly be posted on the blog.

We hope that everyone will return to participate in the Encore groups next year. If you know for certain that you will not be returning, please let me know.

Orchestra and band students - please practice your instrument over the summer. If you are interested in private lessons, check with Hume Music Store, or contact the following high school students that teach privately:

Luke Rhodes - piano lessons - saintoliver@gmail.com

Emily Bachert - clarinet/percussion - 1girlygirl@gmail.com

Many of our students have participated in music competitions over the past year. If you are interested in knowing more about these opportunities, please email me.

Have a wonderful summer!

2009-05-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

UMKC Spring Festival

Three Encore students attended the Spring Music Festival at the UMKC Conservatory of Music in Kansas City. This is the first year that this competition has been open to students outside of the Community Music Academy. We hope that they will continue to keep this an "open" event.

Luke Rhodes competed on piano and entered a music composition. He received a "superior" rating on both his solo and composition.

Emily Bachert competed on clarinet and received a "superior" rating.

Thomas Bachert competed on trumpet and received an "excellent" rating.

Luke and Emily were chosen to perform their solos at a recital following the competition.

Choir recital/musical

2009-05-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

The Encore Children's and Junior/Senior High choirs will be presenting their spring music selections at 6:30 Thursday, May 14, at the Morris Baptist Center, 146 Indian Avenue. The older choir will be presenting a musical, "The Light Brigade." The children's choir will be presenting selections assembled around the theme of responding to God's greatness with a life of holiness and service. The evening of music is open to the T.E.A.C.H. community.

2009-04-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Blue Ridge Festival

Thirteen Encore members participated in the Blue Ridge Academic and Fine Arts Meet, held on April 17th. This festival has been a yearly event, sponsored by Blue Ridge Christian School for thirty years.

This year, 814 students from various Christian schools in Missouri and Kansas came together to compete in various music, art, drama, speech, and academic events. TEACH signed up as a school and sent 41 entries.

Three of the students received a total of five medals for having the highest rating in their division. Congratulations to Luke Rhodes (2 medals), Emily Bachert (2 medals), and Allyssa Mailen (1 medal).

Participants - Division - Results:

Trevor Groundwater and Elizabeth Masson - Duet Acting - Excellent Rating

Trevor Groundwater - Photography - (2 entries) Superior Rating (on both)

Michael Schreck - Math Competition - Algebra I - Superior Rating

Elizabeth Blumhagen - Photography - Excellent Rating

Luke Rhodes - Music Composition - Superior Rating/Medal winner

Piano Solo - Superior Rating/Medal winner

English Composition - Excellent

Blaire Landon - Photography - (2 entries) Superior Rating (on both)

Humorous Interp - Superior Rating

Original Oration - Superior Rating

Piano Solo - Superior Rating

Andrew Currier - Piano Solo - Superior Rating

Music Composition - Superior Rating

Emily Bachert - Clarinet Solo - Superior Rating/Medal winner

Marimba Solo - Superior Rating/Medal winner

Photography - (2 entries) Excellent Rating (on both)

Thomas Bachert - Trumpet Solo - Superior Rating

Photography - Excellent Rating

Matthew Gaskin - Vocal Solo - Superior Rating

Humorous Interp - Excellent Rating

Sarah Gaskin - Vocal Solo - Superior Rating

Original Oration - Superior Rating

Sarah and Matthew Gaskin - Duet Acting - Excellent Rating

Allyssa Mailen - Photography (2 entries) Superior Rating/Best of Show

2nd photo - Good Rating

Graphic Arts - Superior Rating

Rachel Knight - Piano Solo - Superior Rating

Photography - Excellent Rating

Waiting for scores to be posted.

Seth, Emily, Sarah, Luke, and Jared

Allyssa Mailen - Photography Entry

Best of Show

Jared, Seth, Emily, Rachel, and Luke

Jazzing it up

2009-04-12T11:17:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent photos taken during jazz band.

Photos taken by Pat Rhodes - thanks Pat!!

Congratulations are in order

2009-03-10T18:06:00.000-07:00

Recently, a group of our TEACH/Encore members competed in the National Federation of Music Clubs Festival. We congratulate them for their hard work and accomplishments.

Luke Rhodes - Sophomore
Piano Solo - Superior + and Concerto Competition - Superior+
Music Composition - First place in Class IV Division
with the score of 100 on his composition Valse in F - minor, Dramatique, Op 1 for pianoforte.
Update - Luke's composition received first place in Regionals and is now moving on to Nationals.

Rachel Knight - Senior
Piano Solo - Excellent

Emily Bachert - Junior
Marimba Solo - Superior
Clarinet Solo - Superior

Thomas Bachert - 8th grade
Trumpet Solo - Satisfactory

Andrew Currier - 8th grade
Music Composition - score of 97 on his composition

Blaire Landon - 9th grade
Music Theory - Superior
Piano Solo - Excellent

Ethan Rhodes - 6th grade
Fiddling Solo - Excellent

Blythe Landon - 3rd grade
Violin Solo - Superior

UMKC Spring Festival - Competition Opportunity

2009-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

The School of Music and Dance, at UMKC, is sponsoring a spring festival/audition opportunity for elementary - high school students.

This will be held on the UMKC campus in Kansas City - Saturday - April 25th.

Check out the site for more information:

http://conservatory.umkc.edu/community_academy/spring_festival.aspx

Several Encore members are planning to compete. If you have questions regarding this competition, email me.

Academic and Fine Arts Competition

2009-02-04T14:38:00.001-08:00

Hello Encore Families,

I just received information about a great opportunity for our kids to compete in fine arts and academics. This competition is being held by Blue Ridge Christian School in Kansas City, MO.

The competition is April 17th and the deadline to register is March 13th. However, I have to send all the information and fees in at once, so in order to meet that deadline, I will need forms and fees by March 6th.

If your student is interested in competing in music, math, drama, writing, art, science, speech, or photography and is grades 7 - 12th, contact me for more information. The large group fee has been paid by TEACH, so that makes the individual fees only $7.00 per entry. Participating families must be members of TEACH to register. If you need that form, let me know.

There are specific rules for each division. I would be happy to visit with you individually about the areas that are open to our students.

UPDATE - March 14, 2009 -

The deadline has passed to sign up for this competition. There was a lot of interest and many signed up. Check back for more details after the festival.

Fine Arts Lettering Opportunity

2009-01-20T21:01:00.000-08:00

Attention all band, orchestra, and choir members
who are in 9th - 12th grade:

We offer an opportunity to letter in fine arts
by meeting certain requirements.

Encore Fine Arts Letter Requirements

9^th – 12^th grade students accumulating a total of 100 points or more,

over the course of two semesters,

will be eligible for a varsity fine arts letter.

Earn a varsity letter by meeting the following criteria:

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Student must be a member of one or more of the Encore groups for the entire year.

Attendance – no more than one absence per semester – 10 pts/sem

Weekly private lessons on your major band, orchestra instrument, or voice – 25 pts/sem

Weekly private lessons on a secondary instrument or voice – 15 pts/sem

Participation in more than one Encore group – 10 pts/sem

Participation in solo festivals or competitions – 20 pts per event/sem

Rating of I or II in competitions – 10 points per rating/sem

Recital participation – 20 pts/sem

Ongoing participation in other groups outside of Encore (church, youth symphony) – 20 pts/sem

Solo performances outside of Encore (recital, church) – 5 pts per performance/sem
Points limited to 15 per semester

Aiding other Encore groups with ongoing participation – 20 pts/sem

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Please email me for the form needed to keep track of the points at:

encorehomeschool@sbcglobal.net

It is the responsibility of the student to record points by date and event and have a parent sign off on final point calculation. The point sheet should be turned in to Mrs. Bachert by May 1. The cost of the letter and any postage, handling, admin fees will be due at that time as well.

The award is a chenille music note. Each individual student can choose pins to go on the chenille to represent areas of music that each student has participated in.

The final costs will be determined by the number ordered so that amount may not be available until early spring.

Eight Encore members were eligible to letter last year. The points accumulated by those students ranged from 120 to over 400.

Christmas Recital 2008

2009-01-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures taken the night of the recital.

They weren't taken with the idea that they would be posted on a site, so they aren't the best. Now that we have a real place to post our photos, quality and quanity will be more important.
Unfortunately, the elementary choir is not pictured here due to technical issues.

Intermediate Band

Junior High/Senior High Choir

Jazz Band

Intermediate Band (pianist - not pictured)

Mr. Swischer and Mrs. Schellman

Orchestra

Advanced Ensemble (pianist, not pictured)

Beginning Band

Junior High/Senior High Choir

Second Semester Information

2009-01-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Band, Orchestra, and Choir will resume rehearsals on January 9th.

Second semester fees are due in January. The fee is $90.00 per student.

If there is a reduced fee for families with more than one student,
in a group with the same director. ($70.00 for second, third, etc.)

Checks are made out to the individual directors:

Band - Tony Swischer
Orchestra - Gaia Schellman
Choir - John Gaskin

Contact Martha Bachert with questions:
encorehomeschool@sbcglobal.net