Mr. Nelson's Music Notes

2012-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

This is the last week of the second quarter/first semester.

The school year will be half over after this Friday!

The Hymn Of The Month test is this week
The last Practice Card of the quarter is due this week
Some instrumental classes have a test this week

Lots of things happening

2012-01-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

Just a Reminder

the Hymn Of The Month Test is next week

2012-01-09T08:11:00.000-08:00

January Hymn Of The Month

I Sing The Mighty Power Of God

verse 1
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies
I sing the wisdom that ordained
The sun to rule the day
The moon shines full at His command
And all the stars obey

verse 3
There’s not a plant or flower below
But makes Thy glories known
And clouds arise and tempests blow
By order from Thy throne
While all that borrows life from Thee
Is ever in Thy care
And everywhere that man can be
Thou, God, are present there

First grade is required to know verse 1.
Second and Third Grades are required to know verses 1 and 3

The test will be January 25th (1stgrade) and 26th (2nd & 3rd grades)

2011-12-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

Worship The Newborn King

Have a blessed Christmas

There are no Practice Cards

due for the Christmas break!

2011-11-28T14:22:00.001-08:00

December Hymn Of The Month

Because of our Elementary Christmas Program

Thursday evening, December 8

at 7:00pm

in the Worship Center

there will be no Hymn test this month

for 1st-3rd grade

The student are all busy preparing to share

in music and scripture on that evening!

2011-11-14T08:16:00.001-08:00

AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY

THIS FRIDAY

10:30am in the Worship Center

This program is mandatory for all performance groups and 3rd grade

Students must be in performance attire to participate

Concert Attire:

Concert & Elementary Band -

As a member of the Band, you must supply your own black pants; white, collared, long-sleeve shirt (which must be tucked in to the pants); and black shoes (solid, no designs or white soles allowed).

Junior High, Elementary Guitar & Worship Team -

No shorts or t-shirts. Girls may not wear skirts or dresses. ALL shirts must be tucked in. School dress code or better

Junior High & Elementary Choir -

As a member of the Choir, you must supply your own blue pants or dark blue skirt; white shirt with long or short sleeves (which must be tucked in); and dark-colored shoes (solid, no designs or white soles allowed).

3rd Grade -

School dress code or better with NO t-shirts or shorts.

2011-11-07T08:46:00.000-08:00

American Heritage Day

is NEXT WEEK!!!!!

The recorder students in 3rd Grade, the instrumentalists in both Elementary and Concert Band, all the guitarists from 5th through 9th grades, Worship Team and both Elementary and Junior High Choirs along with orators in the Junior High Speech classes are getting ready to share in this annual program honoring our country and praising God for His work and goodness towards us here in the United States of America.

The program begins at 10:30am in the Worship Center on Friday, November 18.

2011-10-31T08:55:00.000-07:00

November Hymn Of The Month

Morning Has Broken

verse 1

Morning has broken
Like the first morning

Blackbird has spoken

Like the first bird

Praise for the singing

Praise for the morning

Praise for them springing

Fresh from His Word

First, Second and Third Grades are required to know just verse 1

The test will be November 16th (1st grade) and 17th (2nd & 3rd grades)

2011-10-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hymn Of The Month

practice and actual Tests are this week

The 1st Quarter ends one week from this Friday. That means one-fourth of the school year has already flown by.

I do keep up-to-date on students grades in the PASS system so that you can always see your student's current grades. The one grade that is not entered until the end of the quarter is the Participation grade (which in most cases really helps raise the overall Quarter grade). The participation grade is based on class conduct, having instruments and music brought to each class and participation in ministry in Chapels and Programs.

2011-10-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hymn Of The Month Test

next week

American Heritage Day

is just around the corner

(okay, it's 4 weeks from this Friday, but the students are all preparing to share their best with you)

2011-10-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

2 Quick Thoughts:

This is the time when learning an instrument requires daily discipline. The "novelty of something new" has now worn off and the real work begins. Remember to encourage your student to keep at it, be dilligent and work through the tough moments.
Beginning with this month, 2nd and 3rd grade students are required to know two verses of the Hymn Of The Month. Please work with your student to help them succeed in memorizing the words. I have posted the words on this blog and supplied a take-home lyric sheet that your classroom teacher has handed out.

2011-10-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

Here's the October Hymn Of The Month

Holy, Holy, Holy

verse 1

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty

Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee

Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty

God in three Persons, blessed Trinity

verse 2

Holy, holy, holy, all the saints adore Thee

Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea

Cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee

Which wert and art and evermore shall be

First Grade is required to know verse 1

Second and Third Grades are required to know verses 1 & 2

The test will be October 26th (1st grade) and 27th (2nd & 3rd grades)

2011-09-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

The Blog Is Back ! ! ! !

Starting next week:

Hymn Of The Month lyrics
dates of the Hymn tests for 1st-3rd grades
Upcoming Major Performances (think American Heritage Day)
When groups are sharing in Chapels
Practice Card tips and reminders
Special Announcements

2011-05-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Instrument Check-In

Part 2

All Junior High Band music and school-loaned instruments

are due for check-in this Wednesday, May 25th

All Elementary Band music and instruments are now overdue.

SPECIAL NOTE:

ALL BAND MUSIC BOOKS AND INSTRUMENTS

MUST BE TURNED IN ONLY TO MR. NELSON, IN PERSON,

THE SCHOOL OFFICE WILL NOT ACCEPT THESE ITEMS

2011-05-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT

INSTRUMENT & MUSIC CHECK-IN

begins this Wednesday and Friday

All Elementary Band music is due on Wednesday, May 18

All School-owned Elementary Band instruments are also due to be turned on this Wednesday, May 18

This is the LAST WEEK of Elementary Band, Choir & Guitar classes for the year

2011-05-09T10:12:00.000-07:00

Just a Word of Encouragement

As we enter the last few weeks of this school year, resist the temptation to slide by on what you've already accomplished or, even worse, check out entirely before the last day passes.

Practice Cards can still help or hinder your grade

remember to bring your instrument and music to class

learn, really learn, our Hymn Of The Month for May

finish the race we started back in August!

2011-05-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

May Hymn of the Month

Come, Christians, Join to Sing

verse 1
Come, Christians, join to sing Alleluia, amen
Loud praise to Christ our King; Alleluia, amen
Let all with heart and voice before His throne rejoice
Praise is His gracious choice: Alleluia, amen

verse 2
Come lift your hearts on high, Alleluia, amen
Let praises fill the sky; Alleluia, amen
He is our Guide and Friend; to us He’ll condescend
His love shall never end: Alleluia, amen

First grade is required to know only verse 1
Second and Third Grades are required to know verses 1 and 2

The test will be May 23rd (1st & 3rd grades) and 24th (2nd grade)

2011-04-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

Hymn Of The Month Tests are this week

Elizabethan Evening is this coming Monday!!!!!

Both Elementary and Junior High Choirs and Guitar Classes are performing

in this 1st annual event that combines all of the fine arts in one gathering.

That means attendance is mandatory and required

2011-04-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Special Reminder

Double Practice Cards are due when we get back from Easter Break

AND

"An Elizabethan Evening"

(our Fine Arts Festival with music)

is coming on Monday, May 2, 7:00pm

2011-04-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

April Hymn of the Month
Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed

verse 1
Alas! And did my Savior bleed
And did my Sovereign die
Would He devote that sacred head
For sinners such as I

Verse 2
Was it for sins that I have done
He suffered on the tree
Amazing pity, grace unknown
And love beyond degree

First grade is required to know only verse 1
Second and Third Grades are required to know verses 1 and 2

The test will be April 27th (1st & 3rd grades) and 28th (2nd grade)

2011-03-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

NIGHT OF PRAISE

All the Guitar students of Grace Community School gather

to lift our Lord’s Name in songs of praise

You are invited to come and join us!

This Friday Evening – April 1, 2011 7:00-8:00pm

G130 Room

A reminder:

Attendance is mandatory for all guitar students in Elementary & Junior High Guitars Classes And Worship Team

2011-03-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Hymn Of The Month Test

next week

- - - - -

-Also-

NIGHT OF PRAISE

is Friday night, April 1

7:00-8:00 pm

in the 130 room

Join with all the guitar classes as we sing (and play) praises to our Lord and King

ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY FOR

ALL GUITAR STUDENTS

2011-03-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

WE'RE BACK

AND THERE ARE

JUST 2 WEEKS LEFT IN THE

3rd QUARTER

2 Important tests are coming up:

Music Listening Test - next week
Hymn Of The Month Test - week after next

The Listening Test requires identifying a few sections of the instrumental work the class has been studying this quarter.

Kindergarten - Grand Canyon Suite
1st Grade - Carnival of the Animals
2nd Grade - Pictures at an Exhibition
3rd Grade - 1812 Overture

Remember the Hymn Of The Month lyrics are posted below on an earlier blog

2011-03-04T08:59:00.000-08:00

Special Reminder:

_________

"Double" Practice Cards are due when we return after Shepherds' Conference

2011-03-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

MARCH HYMN OF THE MONTH

- - - - -

It Is Good To Sing Thy Praises

verse 1
It is good to sing Thy praises
And to thank Thee, O Most High
Showing forth Thy lovingkindness
When the morning lights the sky
It is good when night is falling
Of Thy faithfulness to tell
While with sweet, melodious praises
Song of adoration swell

Verse 2
Thou has filled my heart with gladness
Through the works Thy hands have wrought
Thou hast made my life victorious
Great Thy works and deep Thy thought
Thou, O Lord, on high exalted
Reignest evermore in might
All Thy enemies shall perish
Sin be banished from Thy sight

First grade is required to know only verse 1
Second and Third Grades are required to know verses 1 and 2

The test will be March 30th (1st & 3rd grades) and 31st (2nd grade)

2011-02-25T08:55:00.000-08:00

REMEMBER:

There is no Hymn Of The Month Test

for February.

The students have still been learning the song in class

so that we can sing it joyfully to the Lord

in Chapel.

*****

Next month's hymn will be posted in two weeks,

just before the Shepherds' Conference break.

2011-02-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

Grandparents' Day

is this Friday, February 18

all morning long

****

Starting with Chapel (8:30am for K-3; 9:40am for 4-6)

and continuing with special times

in each individual classroom

****

Come enjoy sitting next to your (grand)children

through a full, Friday morning at Grace School

____________

This week marks the half-way point in the 3rd quarter;

remember Practice Cards, Hymn Of The Month

and being prepared and bringing music and instruments

are all part of the music grade!

2011-02-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

Friday of Next Week is

GRANDPARENTS' DAY

There is so much being planned:

special presentations
special classroom lessons
special Chapel times
special times to share with our students

With all the colds and illness sweeping through the school, please take every precaution to keep your student healthy and ready to participate on this coming day of celebration.

And don't forget Practice Cards are due every week (at the beginning of the first class of the week)

2011-02-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

This month,

because of Grandparents' Day,

there will not be a test on the Hymn of the Month.

We will still be learning it in class

so that we can sing it to God's glory in Chapel

_ _ _ _

Grandparents' Day

is Friday, February 18

This year, instead of a formal program,

you are invited to sit with your child/grandchild

in a regular Chapel time followed

by special presentations

in individual classrooms.

2011-01-24T09:20:00.000-08:00

The Hymn Of The Month Test
is this week for 1st-3rd grades
they will be taking a practice test on Monday and Tuesday
and the actual test on Wednesday and Thursday

Next month will be a little different in regard to
the February Hymn of the Month.
Because of Grandparents' Day, which will be completely different before,
all the elementary classes
will be working on other presentations
and won't be tested on the Hymn.
Instead there will a test on each class's unique song.

Instrumentalists - remember your practice cards!!!

2011-01-18T10:18:00.000-08:00

A New Semester . . .
A New Beginning . . .
A New Opportunity . . .

As the 3rd quarter starts up, there are 2 common mistakes that many band and guitar students make:

They forget their instrument (which lowers the Participation grade).
They forget their weekly practice card (which gives them a zero for that week's card grade) REMEMBER- Practice cards are no longer accepted after the beginning of the first class meeting of the week.

Please help your child be responsible for the above as we make music for our God

2011-01-10T08:11:00.000-08:00

2nd Semester begins next week

- - -

Any requests for student changes in Elementary Band, Choir or Guitar

must be in writing from a parent.

- - -

Transfers will only be made during the first two weeks of the new term.

2011-01-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

January Hymn Of The Month

Take Time To Be Holy

verse 1
Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord
Abide in Him always and feed on His word
Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak
Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek

verse 2
Take time to be holy, the world rushes on
Much time spend in secret with Jesus alone
By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be
Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see

First grade is required to know only verse 1
Second and Third Grades are required to know verses 1 and 2

The test will be January 26th (1st & 3rd grades) and 27th (2nd grade)

2010-12-13T08:11:00.000-08:00

Have a blessed Christmas

and a refreshing break!

A few items:

Hymn of the Month tests for 1st through 3rd grades this week
Junior High Band and Guitars are playing Friday morning as elementary students enter chapel
A special thanks to the classroom teachers for all their hard work and extra effort to make the Christmas Concert so God glorifying
Music students are reqwuired to practice over the Christmas break

EMERGENCY NOTE:

I now have 1 french horn and 8 (yes, eight!) guitars that have been left on campus. These instruments must be taken home over the break and not left here at school. Students' grades will suffer dramatically and instruments might be lost if they are not taken home by Friday.

2010-12-09T08:21:00.000-08:00

IMPORTANT!!!!!!!!!

-----

GUITARS AND BAND INSTRUMENTS

MUST BE TAKEN HOME

OVER CHRISTMAS VACATION

-----

ONCE AGAIN INSTRUMENTS HAVE BEGUN

TO BE LEFT AT GRACE SCHOOL OVERNIGHT

-----

I HAVE RUN OUT OF ROOM TO COLLECT THEM

STORE THEM SAFELY AND SECURELY

-----

PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR STUDENT TAKES HIS/HER

INSTRUMENT HOME OVER THE BREAK

-----

I already have a number of guitars and band instruments

that have not been claimed in the past couple of weeks.

Every day a student comes to class without his/her instrument,

he/she receives an 'F' for the day as well as misses that day on the Practice Card.

To get their instrument back the student must write and turn in, to me,

a one-page paper on stewardship and the care of their instrument.

----

Please reminder your son/daughter to take good care of these musical tools that are used for God's glory.

2010-11-29T07:52:00.000-08:00

December Hymn of the Month

I Need Thee Every Hour

I need Thee every hour

Most gracious Lord

No tender voice like Thine

Can peace afford

I need Thee, O I need Thee

Every hour I need Thee

O bless me now, my Savior

I come to Thee

1st, 2nd and 3rd grades will be tested on the above during the week of December 13.

2010-11-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

American Heritage Day is next week

All guitar students must have their capos this week!

ALL GUITAR STUDENTS

5th-6th Elementary Guitar Class, Junior High Guitar Class & Worship Team

This is a reminder that all guitar students will need to have a capo for their guitar by this week’s class time. We will be using the capos for the American Heritage Day program, November 19.

• Capos can be purchased at any music store that sells guitar, guitar strings, picks and other guitar accessories

• They range in price anywhere from a few dollars on up to well over one hundred dollars. The inexpensive ones will work just fine.

• There are different styles of capos, from simple elastic bands through elaborate mechanisms.

• Capos for nylon-string, classical style guitars are different that those for steel-string guitars. Make sure you let the store know for which kind of guitar you are getting the capo

I would suggest you compare and buy the one that fits your price range.

____________

Hymn Of The Month Test

is also next week

for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Grade classes

2010-11-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

The Blog Is Back!!!!!

Here are the words for the November Hymn Of The Month

‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus

verse 1
‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus
Just to take Him at His word
Just to rest upon His promise
Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”

refrain
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus
O for grace to trust Him more

First, Second and Third Grades are required to know verse 1 and the refrain

The test will be on Wednesday, Nov. 17(1st and 3rd grades)
and Thursday, Nov. 18 (2nd grade)

2010-06-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

It's the Final Blog

for the year

Let me encourage you to make music a part of your summer.

Spend time

listening to quality music in all styles
singing to the Lord at every opportunity
playing your guitar or band instrument or recorder to His glory

Don't put it on the back shelf or take a vacation from this wonderful thing God created!

The next post will be in a couple of months - be ready. . . . .

2010-05-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

School Instrument & Music Check-in

for Elementary Band

is this Wednesday, May 19 at 1:45pm

please bring your music book and school-loaned instrument on that day

The Office cannot accept either music or instruments- they must be turned in to Mr. Nelson personally.

fines and charges will be assessed due to damage or misuse and must be cleared prior to the final day of classes.

-----

This Wednesday is also the last Elementary Guitar Class meeting of the year.

-----

The Hymn Of The Month test is next week for grades 1, 2 and 3.

2010-05-10T07:44:00.000-07:00

May Hymn Of The Month

Ye Servants Of God

verse 1
Ye servants of God, your Master proclaim,
And publish abroad His wonderful Name;
The Name all victorious of Jesus extol,
His kingdom is glorious and rules over all.

verse 2
God ruleth on high, almighty to save,
And still He is nigh, His presence we have;
The great congregation His triumph shall sing,
Ascribing salvation to Jesus, our King.

First Grade is required to know verse 1
Second and Third Grade are required to know verses 1 & 2

The test will be at the end of the month

2010-05-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

SPRING CONCERT

is NEXT Week

Tuesday, May 11 at 7:00-8:00pm

in the Worship Center

Remember that attendance is mandatory for:

Elementary Band
Elementary Choir
Junior High Choir
Junior High Concert Band
Worship Team
select Piano students
select Poetry students

The Junior High Band will have a special pre-concert rehearsal at 5:20pm
The Worship Team will have a special pre-concert rehearsal at 5:45pm
Both groups will then enjoy pizza before the Concert

2010-04-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

HYMN OF THE MONTH TEST

IS NEXT WEEK!!!

Because of SAT testing this week, the Hymn test is postponed until next week. The 1st through 3rd grade classes will take a practice test on this Wednesday or Thursday and the actual test next week.

Remember the words are listed on this blog so that you may study them prior to the test.

2010-04-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

WHAT'S NEXT?

There's hardly time to catch your breath as we enter the last 7 weeks of school

FIRST up is the Hymn of the Month test for 1st through 3rd grades; that will take place during the last week of April.

THEN the Spring Concert follows quickly on Tuesday evening, May 11, at 7:00pm in the Worship Center

2010-04-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

NIGHT OF PRAISE
IS THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 16!

7:00-8:00pm

All student guitarists

Worship Team
5th-6th Guitar Class
Junior High Guitar Class

are required to attend and participate in this evening of praise and song

APRIL HYMN OF THE MONTH

We Are God’s People

verse 1
We are God’s people, the chosen of the Lord
Born of His Spirit, established by His Word
Our Cornerstone is Christ alone
And strong in Him we stand
O let us live transparently
And walk heart to heart and hand to hand

verse 3
We are the body of which the Lord is Head
Called to obey Him, now risen from the dead
He wills us be a family
Diverse, yet truly one
O let us give our gifts to God
And so shall His work on earth be done

First Grade is required to know verse 1
Second and Third Grade are required to know verses 1 & 3

The test will be during the last week of the month

2010-03-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

HYMN OF THE MONTH TEST

IS THIS WEEK

The 1st-3rd grade students will take practice tests on Monday and Tuesday

The actual tests will be on Wednesday and Thursday.

Remember the necessary lyrics are listed on an earlier blog.

Band and Guitar students will be required to practice their instruments over Easter Break!

2010-03-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

This week brings the end of the 3rd Quarter!

As we can almost see the finish line for the end of the school year, remember:

Don't neglect learning the Hymn of the Month (March's test is next week)
Weekly Practice Cards are the best way to improve your grade
Forgetting your instrument carries the same penalty as forgetting your homework

Night of Praise is next month, Friday night, April 16, 7:00pm

Spring Concert is just around the corner, Tuesday night, May 11, 7:00pm

2010-03-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

Music Listening Tests

are next week - at the end of the 3rd quarter
study/preparation is "in class" only

Hymn Of The Month Tests

are in 2 weeks - at the end of the month
study using the take home/blog lyric sheets

2010-03-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

March Hymn of the Month

verse 1
Lo, He comes with clouds descending
Once for favored sinners slain
Thousand thousand saints attending
Swell the triumph of His train
Alleluia, alleluia
God appears on earth to reign

verse 3
Now redemption, long expected
See in solemn pomp appear
All His saints, by men rejected
Now shall meet Him in the air
Alleluia, alleluia
See the day of God appear

The test will be at the end of the month
1st grade must know verse 1
2nd & 3rd grades must know verses 1 & 3

2010-02-25T07:57:00.000-08:00

IMPORTANT CHANGES - PLEASE READ

Dear Parents,

We are pleased to offer our students – your children – a complete instrumental music program. This is a very important part of the complete education service that we offer your family. Unfortunately, we consistently struggle with one important part of this program - safe, secure, and efficient instrument storage. Our plan, pending available funding, is to build cabinets for instrument storage in our music room or other suitable location this Summer.

Until then, we are pleased to announce the following change in student instrument storage for the rest of this school year. Please read these instructions carefully; please read them to your children - with your children.
Effective, Monday, March 8th, GCS students are to store their instruments in J175. J175 is on the first floor of the J Building, closest to the Gym. (This room is currently used for Extended Supervision.)
Students are to store their instruments on the floor or on the counter in the narrow part of the room between the counter and the wall.
Students MAY NOT store their instruments in any other part of the room.
This room is scheduled to be open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Students may store their instruments in this room only between these hours.
GCS faculty and office personnel will not collect instruments left in J175 outside of these hours. (GCS will not assume any responsibility for student instruments left in J175 after hours.)
Although GCS will extend every possible means to protect student instruments, please understand: students leave their instruments in J175 at their own risk. Just as with the junior high lockers, GCS cannot assume responsibility for any lost, stolen or damaged instruments left in J175.
Once again, it is our goal to consistently pursue excellence in our service to you, our GCS families. With that in mind, we hope to construct cabinets for instrument storage in our own music room, or other suitable location. (Your support of GCS fund-raising efforts contributes greatly towards that end.)

Thank you for your cooperation and support of this program.

Tom Chaffin
Grace Community School

2010-02-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

A FEW REMINDERS:

Hymn of The Month Test for grades 1-3 is this week
Don't forget to fill out and turn in Practice Cards each week
Elementary Band, JH Band and JH Guitar have playing tests this week
Shepherds' Conference is next week (Practice Cards are still due the week after)

2010-02-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

HYMN OF THE MONTH TEST

is next week

Wednesday for 1st & 3rd grades
Thursday for 2nd grade
1st grade needs to memorize the first verse and the refrain
2nd & 3rd grades memorize the first and third verses as well as the refrain

2010-02-08T08:28:00.000-08:00

Grandparents Day Program
is this Friday, February 12 at 10:30am
in the Worship Center

Hymn Of The Month

It Is Well With My Soul
(verse 1)
When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul

(refrain)
It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul

(verse 3)
My sin, O the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part, but the whole
Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul

It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul

Students will be tested during the last week of the month
1st grade needs to know only the 1st verse and the refrain
2nd & 3rd grades need to know both verses 1 and 3 and the refrain

2010-01-25T08:23:00.000-08:00

HYMN OF THE MONTH TESTS

are this week

1st & 3rd Grades on Wednesday

2nd Grade on Thursday

COMMITTMENT SHEETS

are also due back this week

signed by both

student and parent

2010-01-20T10:28:00.000-08:00

A New Beginning - The 2nd Semester

a couple of reminders:

Hymn of the Month lyrics are sent home at the beginning of each month and are also available on this blog
Practice Cards are due every week, at the beginning of the first class meeting of the week
Commitment Sheets for performance groups need to be read, signed and turned back in to me during this first week of the new term.
Students are responsible for their instruments at all times and may not leave them in room F113 after 3:30pm for any reason (that includes sports practices or games)

2010-01-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

Practice Card reminder

Parents,
Remember that you must initial EACH daily box for your student to get credit for practicing on that day.

Your initials, only
no check marks, X's or minute amounts will be accepted.
NO LATE CARDS

A New Year and a New Hymn

2010-01-04T08:14:00.000-08:00

January Hymn of the Month

Be Thou My Vision

verse 1

Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art
Thou my best thought by day or by night
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my Light

verse 4
High King of heaven, my victory won
May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heav’n’s Sun
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all

First Grade is required to know verse1
Second and Third Grade are required to know verses 1 & 4

The test will be during the last week of January

2009-12-14T08:17:00.000-08:00

December Hymn Of The Month Test

this Wednesday for 1st and 3rd grades
this Thursday for 2nd grade

Combined Elementary Christmas Chapel

this Friday at 8:30am in the Chapel
special music by the Concert Band, Elementary Guitar Class and a piano solo

Remember that Friday is a half-day !!!

2009-12-07T15:34:00.000-08:00

ELEMENTARY

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

This Thursday, December 10

at 7:00pm

in the Worship Center

featuring presentations from all

the elementary classes, K-6

telling the Christmas story through

scripture readings and songs

2009-11-30T14:14:00.000-08:00

December Hymn of the Month

Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light

Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light
And usher in the morning
Ye shepherds shrink not with afright
But hear the angel’s warning
This Child, now weak in infancy
Our confidence and joy shall be
The power of Satan breaking
Our peace eternal making

_________

The test will be the last week before Christmas vacation:

1st & 3rd grades - Wednesday, Dec. 16

2nd grade - Thursday, Dec. 17

2009-11-16T08:18:00.000-08:00

AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY IS THIS FRIDAY AT 10:30am

Students need to bring their instruments on special days this week for special rehearsals. They must attend these special rehearsals to participate in the program.

Rehearsal Week Schedule In Worship Center
American Heritage Day Program
November 20, 2009 – Worship Center

Tuesday

9:50-10:35 Junior High Choir
11:00-11:30 Elementary Band
12:30-1:15 Elementary Choir

Wednesday

9:50-10:35 Worship Team
11:00-11:30 All guitars
12:50-1:35 Junior High Band & Recorders

Thursday

8:30-9:00 Elementary Band
9:50-10:35 Junior High Choir & Elementary Choir w/JH drummers
12:50-1:35 Junior High Choir

Friday

8:00 Junior High Speech [and tuning guitars]
8:30 All guitars
9:00 Elementary Band
9:15 Elementary Choir
9:30 Junior High Choir
9:45 Combined: JH Band, recorders, Elem. Choir, JH Choir
10:30 Program begins

Remember students must wear their concert attire for Friday's program

All Choirs: solid blue pants or skirts, solid white shirts (no t-shirts) tucked in, dark shoes

Bands: solid black pants, solid white shirts (tucked in), dark shoes

Guitar Classes: School uniform or better, NO SKIRTS or DRESSES - PANTS ONLY for both boys and girls.

Failure to participate in the concert, except for an excused absence, results in a lowered music grade on the report card (which could extend to failure of the class).

2009-11-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

Hymn of the Month Test

is next week

1st & 3rd grades on Wednesday, November 18

2nd grade on Thursday, November 19

AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY

is Friday, November 20th - one week from this Friday!

performance groups need to wear their concert attire on that day
attendance and participation is mandatory for all students in performance groups

2009-11-02T10:03:00.000-08:00

NOVEMBER HYMN OF THE MONTH

Jesus Lives and So Shall I

Jesus lives and so shall I
Death, thy sting is gone forever
He, for me, hath deigned to die
Lives the bands of death to sever
He shall raise me from the dust
Jesus is my hope and trust

Because the month is a short one (with Thanksgiving week off) all the classes will need to know only the first verse above.

The test will be the week before the break

2009-10-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

October Hymn Of The Month Test

Next Week - October 28 & 29

First and Third grades will have their test on Wednesday
Second grade will have their test on Thursday

The words are posted on a previous blog

Remember

First grade only needs to know the first verse
Second and Third grade need to know the first and fourth verses.

2009-10-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

October Hymn Of The Month Words

Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne

verse 1
Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown
When Thou camest to earth for me
But in Bethlehem's home there was found no room
For Thy holy nativity

O come to my heart, Lord Jesus
There is room in my heart for Thee

verse 4
Thou camest, O Lord with the living word
That should set Thy people free
But with mocking scorn and with crown of thorn
They bore Thee to Calvary

O come to my heart, Lord Jesus
There is room in my heart for Thee

Note:

1st grade needs to know only verse 1
2nd & 3rd grade need to know both verse 1 and verse 4

I will start posting the words for each month's hymn here at the beginning of each month, so if you'd like the words to study at home - check the blog often.

2009-10-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

This Week:

5th-6th Guitar Class will be sharing a song in both elementary Chapels

Next Week:

End-of-the-Quarter theory tests for Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Grades
Recorder test for 3rd Grade

AND REMEMBER - PRACTICE CARDS!

2009-10-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

Now is the time of the quarter when the realization that it takes hard work, consistent practice and diligent effort to play an instrument really hits home!

Remind your instrumentalist to make sure practice cards are filled out and turned in each week.

Elementary Guitar is sharing in both elementary Chapels next week (a switch from earlier)
Rehearsals are in full swing for American Heritage on November 11
remember there are specific uniform requirements for the performing groups

2009-09-16T12:14:00.000-07:00

This Friday, Junior High Guitar Class shares in all three Chapels. They will be accompanying the opening song.
All Commitment To Music Ministry sheets should now be turned in to Mr. Nelson
Students in Elementary Band, Concert Band, 5th&6th Guitar, and Junior High Guitar should all have their instruments by the end of this week.
Remember to initial your child's Practice Card each day he/she practices a minimum of twenty minutes. AND make sure they turn it in at the beginning of each week!

"And I will sing praises to Thy name." 2 Samuel 2:50

2009-08-21T09:11:00.000-07:00

An Overture is a musical selection usually found at the beginning of a larger musical work, like an opera, or a full concert program. It prepares the audience for what is about to take place. It quiets the talking and helps focus thoughts on the coming music. It introduces little snippets of melodies that will be expanded later into more complex, interweaving lines. It whets the appetite for the experience that is about to unfold.

My first post on this new blog is, in many ways, an overture to our school year.

I want to give you beginning glimpses and helps into what will be going on in music, K-3 classes and performance groups. For example, you will notice the column to the right which will show upcoming performance group ministries; it lists the date, time, place and group involved.

It will, as the time approaches, list when the Hymn Of The Month tests will be given in music classes.

In future posts I will cover certain topics like practicing and practice cards.

There will also be links to the Grace School website where specific forms can be read and down-loaded.

If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to call me at the School: (818) 909-5611. And remember to check back often for the latest information on music at Grace School!

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!

The Parents of Grace Associated
would be honored by your presence
at the First Annual Hawk Night Development Evening
to benefit the students of Grace Community School
through your financial involvement.

18 September 2009
7 o'clock pm to 9 o'clock pm
Grace Community School
Hors D’oeuvres and Light Dessert
Childcare provided
RSVP 818.909.5611
Relatives and friends of GCS families are welcome and encouraged to attend this event. Please contact the GCS school office if you would like us to mail additional invitations, or feel free to stop by the office to pick up extra invitations.

Childcare will be available for all students K-9. Additional nursery care will be available for children under 5. Please RSVP by Wednesday, September 16th with nursery needs.