Merry Christmas and a happy snow day to you!

Remember to check last week's blog for concert information.

1. Brass/ww/perc of symphonic orchestra will rehearse on Thursday at 7:30 a.m.

2. Friday morning early symphonic orchestra is for the normal brass/ww/perc and all string players at 7:00 a.m.

3. No jazz orchestra this Thursday or next week Monday.

4. During exam week there will be no early rehearsals and no exams for band and orchestra classes.

5. Here is a sign up to get solo and ensemble help during exam week. It would be great to see all ensembles and everyone who is not taking private lessons once before Christmas break.

Thanks!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Christmas Concert and sweatshirts!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. In case you missed the HCHS Chamber Orchestra this last Sunday, they are playing again at 14th St. Christian Reformed Church (14 W 14th St, Holland, MI 49423) on Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. You are invited to join us in worshiping with the 14th St. CRC family.

2. Get your friends and family a cozy Band and Orchestra sweatshirt as a Christmas gift, and perhaps one for yourself as well. Here is the order form. Orders are due by Friday, Dec. 8 and payment is due with the order form. The art work is original by a local artist Carrie Rodgers-O'Neal. Delivery is on Monday, Dec. 18.

3. Florida bound people: Just a reminder that our second payment is due on Monday, Dec. 18. 

-Since our Dec. ham delivery is on Wednesday, Dec. 20 those who are waiting to find what they earned from that fundraiser may make their payments by Thursday, Dec. 21.

4. Remember that Friday, Dec. 15 we have an after school rehearsal from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at DeWitt Auditorium, Zeeland Public School; (3333 96th Ave., Zeeland, Michigan 49464). Your child can be picked up from there at the end of rehearsal or there will also be a bus back to HCHS after rehearsal.

5. Our call time (arrive by time) for the Dec. 16 concert will be 1:30 p.m. Students should bring a snack/sack lunch and water for between the two concerts.

6. I will be available for solo and ensemble assistance during the week of exams and also during Winterim. Make sure to get a start on the music for this wonderful event. Sign up for a time on the band/orchestra room door. We have over 50 students signed up for solo and ensemble festival!

Thank you,

Mr. VB

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Ham, Christmas concert sign up, solo and ensemble

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

Happy Thanksgiving!

1. Any people interested in solo and ensemble festival we are running out of time, please fill out this form if you have not already. You won't want to miss out.

2. Interested in purchasing a ham for the Christmas season and supporting the Florida bound students? Check out this link. The soup order form is at this link.

3. Ever since the angels sang in Bethlehem music has been an integral part of Christmas, so we are thrilled to continue the ancient tradition and invite you to our Christmas concerts! Holland Christian High School’s annual band, orchestra and choir Christmas concert is on Saturday, December 16, in the DeWitt Auditorium, located on the campus of Zeeland East High School. Like last year, they will be offering two performance times for those who would like to attend: one at 2:00 pm and one at 4:00 pm. Since there is limited seating at the auditorium, and we would like to offer a seat to everyone who wants to attend, we need to take reservations for which concert attendees desire to attend. Reservations are free, and can be made online here, or at the high school front office.

We look forward to sharing in the celebration of our Savior’s birth through our music!

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Reminders, STNA!, lots of Florida info.

Dear band and orchestra students and parents!

1. Remember to sign up for solo and ensemble. The sign up link is on the Oct. 23 blog!

2. Swingin’ the Night Away is Friday, November 10, 6:45 - 9:00 pm in the HS Cafeteria.  Free dance instruction from 6:45 - 7:30 pm. Tickets are $5 at the door.  Young, old, middle aged.....you are all invited, to enjoy each other's company, enjoy delicious deserts, enjoy lively music and maybe even venture out onto the dance floor. In addition to wonderful student jazz groups, the group that closes the night, The Old Timer's,  is made up of semi-professional musicians from the area and are lots of fun to hear.

3. Don't forget to check out last weeks blog (Oct.23) if you are able to donate candy to help raise money for the Florida trip. Thanksgiving ham and soup orders are due tomorrow (Fri. Nov. 2).

4. All Florida bound students must sign up for a volunteer opportunity on the band/orchestra room door a.s.a.p.

5. The first payment for the Florida trip is due on Monday, November 6. I have fundraising totals for each student hanging on a sheet of paper on the white board. The total will be $250 minus however much you have raised. Please make checks out to Holland Christian and put Florida trip in the memo line.

6.  We are excited about the our Florida trip and thought it might be helpful for you to see our preliminary itinerary. 

7. Are you joining our students down in Florida this Spring Break?  Disney is offering reduced price tickets to any guest associated with our Band and Orchestra trip - this includes all family and friends.  The tickets are approximately 40% off the retail price, and are valid March 27 through April 12, 2016.  You do not need to be attending the concert to purchase tickets, and you may purchase as many as you like.  You may even extend and upgrade your student''s trip ticket.  Orders must be placed by January 15 with a check made payable to Holland Christian.  Please contact Danielle Hilbelink for more information: danielle@hilbelink.net or 616-403-3062.

8. We want to accommodate your family's plans and we will be happy to have your band/orchestra student meet us in Florida. If your child is not planning to ride the bus for our Spring Break Trip please fill out this form. See itinerary for details.

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Concert week, candy donations, solo and ensemble sign up and photos!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

I hope you enjoyed the long weekend!

1. The concert band, symphonic band, and orchestra have a concert on Wednesday, at 7:30 p.m. in the HCHS auditorium. Students should be in the band/orchestra room by 7:00 p.m.

2. Concert band and symphonic band have a combined practice on Wednesday at 7:45 a.m. in the auditorium.

3. Symphonic Orchestra will rehearse their full orchestra piece during unplugged on Wednesday.

4. Florida bound students will be doing service projects in the Holland area to give back to the community that is supporting us. Students can sign up on the band/orchestra room door sometime before the week is done. Oct. 28, Nov. 11, or Dec. 6 are the dates for volunteering, specific times and more details are on the sign up sheet. Talk to me before or after class if you are having difficulty with the dates.

5. The HCHS Symphonic Band and Orchestra are raising money for the Florida trip by selling refreshments and goodies at the musical. We would appreciate your donations of candy. Please sign up here by Monday, Oct. 30. Thank you!

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a49aca62ba2fd0-rags

6. All students are encouraged to sign up for solo and ensemble festival which will be held on Saturday, February 10. Please sign up here by Friday, Nov. 3.

https://goo.gl/forms/g8KGv8xGqnpjDZc73

7. Check out the photos of band and orchestra students.

https://hollandchristian.smugmug.com/High-School/Band-Orchestra

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Pictures, Florida info, Upcoming events!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

I hope you enjoy the fall weather this weekend!

1. Band and Orchestra Pictures are Thursday, October 5 (see last blog post for details).

-7 a.m. for orchestra

-dressy black shoes and socks for guys

2. Florida bound people be sure to turn in the commitment form from the Sept. 25 blog by Monday.

3. Florida bound students will be sending out 4 letters on Oct. 3 or 4 during class requesting donations for our trip. Please carefully consider who you might send your letters to. Here is a copy of the letter that we will be sending: 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/10CvgrSB-IosOLg8k1SijYkDDDZyZ7_xxyXVglN2LT6Y/edit?usp=sharing

It is a priority for the Florida Trip Committee that this trip be affordable for every student regardless of their financial situation. In this effort we will be sending out letters as part of a group fundraiser. Money donated as a result of this group fundraiser will offset costs for the whole group and these donations are tax deductible. It is not possible to have donations as a result of this letter writing endeavor go directly to an individual student. 

Please fill out this form with the 4 names and addresses that you will be sending letters to. The form should automatically send you a copy of your responses which you can use when you fill out the addresses.

https://goo.gl/forms/9Qjyg1GQIP46BeSB2

4. Upcoming events you can help us advertise! Invite friends and family.

FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS  

Come and celebrate Holland Christian High School's Festival of Fine Arts!  From student sculptures to fiddle tunes, from choral anthems to the deep sounds of the tuba, prepare to enjoy a rich diversity of the arts.  The Band and Orchestra Fall Pops Concert is on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m. The Choir Concert is on Thursday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. The Fall Art Exhibition will be on display in Main Street from Oct. 25- November 2. Come eat cookies, listen to music, and soak in art!

Swingin’ the Night Away is Friday, November 10, 6:45 pm.- 9:30 pm. in the HS Cafeteria. Free dance instruction from 6:45 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. From 7:30 pm. - 9:30 p.m. Dancing, vocal soloists, and HC Jazz Bands. Enjoy desserts and beverages. Tickets are $5 at the door. All ages are invited! Due to popular demand, Swinging’ the Night Away will also be held on Friday, March 16, 2018!

Thank you!

-- 

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Florida letter, Pit Orchestra, and Pictures!

Dear Band and Orchestra Students and Parents,

1. We are so looking forward to the Florida trip this year from April 2 to April 7! This trip is for all juniors and seniors in band and orchestra, as well as freshmen and sophomores who are in symphonic band or chamber orchestra. Please follow the link below to find more trip information. You can then print off the form, fill it out and turn it in by Monday, October 2.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/14yXRZXkdAm0HqloVD2EoB5kU3mYesGDvW_6fLOUAmwQ/edit?usp=sharing

2. Next week Monday from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. will be our first Pit Orchestra meeting after school. Be sure to let Mr. Vanden Berg know if you are interested in joining. 

3. Band and Orchestra Pictures are Thursday, October 5.

We take pictures in our full concert uniform. Digital versions of these pictures will be available and posted online after our group and individual pictures are taken.

-Symphonic (also known as full) Orchestra at 7:00 am. (Be in the building picking up your uniform by this time.)

-Concert Band during 1st hour band.

-Symphonic Band during 2nd hour band.

-All band/orchestra uniforms will be at school on the day of group photos, so you will need to get dressed here. You can use bathrooms and locker rooms.

-Guys: dressy black shoes and socks are required. 

-Girls: appropriate footwear for your dress.

-Parents of guys may want to take a few moments to teach them how to tie a tie.

-Students will all be bringing uniforms home at the end of the day (Oct. 5) or on Friday (Oct. 6) please make arrangements so that this can happen. All uniforms that are not taken home will be put back in the storage room. 

4. We will switch the early morning rehearsals for symphonic orchestra and jazz orchestra on Oct. 5 and 6. Symphonic orchestra (including all string players) will meet on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 7:00 am and Jazz Orchestra will meet on Friday, Oct. 6 morning at 7:15 am.

5. BOC (Band/Orchestra/Choir Parent Board) offers scholarships to students who would like to take lessons on their instrument. Fill out this form if you are interested in applying. Please submit this form by Friday, Sept. 29.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZEDHyEU8CTIPPisz0G2vozSQQWR5y7r8HJHgPYg7-wk/edit?usp=sharing

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Uniform Info, School Owned Instruments, and Retreat Info

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

Below are a list of fees for uniforms, for those who rent instruments, and for the fall retreat. Please note what the check is for on the memo line. Cash is not preferred, but if you do bring cash it should be in a clearly labeled and sealed envelope.

1. Each fall band and orchestra students are assessed a uniform fee which covers uniform alterations, repairs, marching shoes and gloves, and dry cleaning. The shoes and gloves are for band marching uniforms only. This fee will be due by Thursday, September 28. It is $15 for orchestra and $25 for band. Please communicate with me if you are in need of financial assistance. Please designate uniform fee in the memo line of the check. This fee can be mailed to HCHS or dropped in the designated envelope in the band/orchestra room. 

-Band and Orchestra guys will need black dress shoes and black socks for their tuxedo and girls will need appropriate footwear for their black dresses. These items are not provided. 

-Brass, woodwind, and percussion members of the symphonic orchestra only need to pay the band uniform fee, not both.

2. Each fall students who are using a school instrument are assessed a rental fee of $60. This fee covers a portion of the cost of repairs and maintenance. Students who switch instruments to help with the balance of the band or orchestra are given a waiver on this fee for the first year. Those checks are due on Thursday, September 28. Please communicate with me if you are in need of financial assistance. Please designate instrument rental in the memo line of the check. This fee can be mailed to HCHS or dropped in the designated envelope in the band/orchestra room.

3. Here is an important note about the fall retreat and a consent form to print off and fill out and return to school with a check for $65 by Monday, September 12. The fee will cover the cost of food and facilities at Camp Roger and can be mailed to HCHS or dropped in the designated envelope in the band/orchestra room. We are looking forward to this time together. 

Thank you!

Mr. VB

-- 

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

The End of Week One!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

It has been wonderful to make music together and to meet you all this week. What a great beginning to the year!
To help the year go smoother, please take a minute to check out this information to help us plan for a great year.

1. Here is the pep band, extra rehearsal, and special groups schedules:

Pep Band

Extra Rehearsal Schedule

Chamber and Honor Groups Schedule

Check out the blog from Aug. 16 to find out more about who is in pep band and how many games to go to.

2. Parents and students, please be sure to add these dates and the dates from the Aug. 16 post to your family calendars. Please fill out this form to verify that you have signed off on the dates and also use this form to communicate any calendar conflicts for this year. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

This form is due by Friday, September 8: https://goo.gl/forms/sS2jpYKUoFInyzFO2

3. Band members, please be sure to have the appropriate lyre for your instrument before the first pep band which is next week Thursday. 

4. I will send out more retreat information soon.

Thank you!

Mr. VB

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Calendars and Events

Dear Band and Orchestra students and parents,

I am looking forward to making great music with students soon! This email contains quite a bit of information regarding events for this year. Feel free to email any questions to me. We will also be going over the dates and events in class in the first week.

1. We are still in need of some student volunteers tomorrow anytime between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. So far we have 4 volunteers, two more would be great!

2. We are looking for parent volunteers to chaperon for our Camp Roger retreat on Sept. 15, 16, and 17. Please send me an email if you are interested in finding out more.

3. Here are some important links/dates for this year. Please take a minute to put these dates in your family calendar.

The links below have a listing of events and concerts. I did list Swingin' the Night Away on each group's calendar even though this is an event in which only jazz ensembles perform. This an important fundraiser for the music program at HCS and you are encouraged to enjoy desserts, jazz music, a relaxed atmosphere and support music in our school. There are quite a few students who decide to do solo and ensemble festival so that is also included. See the opportunities doc below for answers to the question you might have.

Concert Band major events and concerts

Symphonic Band major events and concerts

Orchestra major events and concerts

I know some of you are involved in many of these groups and this listing might helpful. 

Combination of all instrumental events and concerts

Finally, it would be good for everyone please save a link to this calendar. It is the instrumental music calendar from the HCS website and it is the place that you can get the most up to date information through out the year on concert start times, student call times, and concert locations. (You do have to scroll down a little.)

This document is an attempt to answer questions about the many opportunities for instrumental musicians at HCHS including pep band, marching band, solo and ensemble festival, jazz band, pit orchestra and more.

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Welcome to a New Year

Welcome, HCHS band and orchestra students and parents!

I hope you are enjoying your summer. I am looking forward to seeing familiar faces, getting to know new students, and making great music together this year.

Here are a few dates for you to put on your calendar:

1. The HCHS bands and orchestra are looking forward to a retreat at Camp Roger this year! We'll have a weekend of eating good food, playing games, getting to know each other, making music together, and, for brave souls, taking the early morning polar plunge in Little Bostwick Lake. Please mark your calendars now for this special weekend event, from Friday evening, September 15, through noon on Sunday, September 17. Families are invited to join us for a worship service on Sunday the 17th at Camp Roger. Logistical and other details to come soon. Thank you! 

Due to the retreat early in the year, we will not be having our summer kick off party this year. The retreat will be our kick off party.

2. All concert band and symphonic band members please plan to attend a combined pep band practice on Monday, August 21 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. in the band/orchestra room. We will have a few new pep band tunes and ice cream. We play for the Thursday, Aug. 31, home football game.

3. Thursday, August 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (or any portion of this time) we are in need of some student volunteers to help fill folders with music and prepare the band room for the new year. Let me know if you are interested and available. Lunch and ice cream are on Mr. Vanden Berg.

4. We are so looking forward to the Florida trip this year from April 2 to April 7! This trip is for all juniors and seniors in band and orchestra, as well as freshmen and sophomores who are in symphonic band or chamber orchestra. 

I will have a new blog entry soon with this year's concert dates.

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
616-820-2905 (2982)

Uniform turn in, summer opportunities, Memorial Day parade.

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. Please turn in your band/orchestra uniform during these times:

Wednesday, May 24 from 11 am to 12 pm

Tuesday, May 30 from 8 am to 12 pm

Wednesday, May 31 from 8 am to 12 pm

Mrs. Carol Redder will be at school during these times and she handles uniform turn in. All uniforms and all uniform parts must be turned in during these times. Please extend your gratitude to her for all the time that she invests supporting music education at Holland Christian.

Hat Box needs to contain:

-Suspenders, plume, cardboard plume tube, gloves, rain coat

Marching Uniform info:

-Shoes – Seniors please turn in shoes (please tie together and put a slip of paper with your name on) 

Concert Uniforms

-Tuxes need to have the pants, jacket, vest, shirt, tie

-Dresses

2. Band members can play with the Holland American Legion Band this summer. More information linked below:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0ar4_7dPCojLXUwRWFfdlpzSEZfVlBQaUdzZVM3cTN2Q2RJ/view?usp=sharing

3. Please do a quick check for an HCS music or instruments that you have at home that you need to turn in and bring it in a.s.a.p.

4. Student interested in jazz orchestra, jazz combo, symphonic orchestra (ww/brass/perc), chamber orchestra, or 9th/10th graders interested in symphonic band should be sure to talk to Mr. VB this week.

5. Here is your important Memorial Day Parade information.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MFV4tC_A9hrgbZ3fe1jEn0P9JKGvtFLI0SfZvyRasR8/edit?usp=sharing

6. Don't forget to sign up for summer lessons. A great way to start on a solo, get caught up, and to prepare for auditions for scholarships!

http://goo.gl/forms/ESrAZ4QUXgSJpvPj2

7. The calendar for band and orchestra events and concerts is on the instrumental music calendar. Check it out at this link.

https://www.hollandchristian.org/arts/band-orchestra

In addition to concerts, check out the band and orchestra retreat on Sept. 15 (p.m.), 16 (all day), 17 (a.m.) and the Florida trip from April 2 to 7.

Thank you!

-- 

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Tulip Time and final concerts are just around the corner.

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

Our prayers are with the Delf family and so many who are again dealing with pain and loss. We pray for peace and comfort.

1. In light of the schedule change for this week we will begin marching/Luminaria practice at 7:30 a.m. this Thursday morning.

2. Tulip Time is just around the corner. Here is your important information about marching in the parades. Uniforms will be handed out the beginning of next week.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1izCztizxZHpmUcPdfAqdGq850VbN66Ue2cgmJsIxOiM/edit?usp=sharing

3. The jazz orchestra and chamber orchestra will perform at Dazzle at Central Wesleyan Church on Tuesday, May 9 at 8:00 p.m. Jazz orchestra call time is 7:30 p.m. and chamber orchestra call time is 8:00 p.m.

Want more info on Dazzle?

https://tuliptime.tix.com/Event.aspx?EventCode=912492

4. The rehearsal for Dazzle is on the morning of May 9th at 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for chamber orchestra and 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. for jazz orchestra.

5. On Tuesday, May 16 the combined concert band and symphonic band will have a rehearsal/recording session at The Jack Miller Center for the Musical Arts at 7:30 a.m. to prepare for the premiere of a new composition in honor of former HCS band director Henry Vander Linde. Please plan to arrive at The Jack Miller Concert Hall before 7:30 a.m. There will be a bus to bring students back to school by 8:15 a.m. This is a Tuesday, but a Wednesday block schedule. 

6. The HCHS orchestra will rehearse at the Jack Miller Concert Hall on Tuesday, May 16 as well, but this will take place during the school day.

7. You are invited to join the Holland Christian School Orchestras in the Jack H. Miller Center for the Musical Arts (221 Columbia Ave, Holland, MI 49423) on Tuesday, May 16 at 7:30 pm. This concert will feature a musical variety including Tchaikovsky, Music from Disney's Jungle Book, origami music and 2 premiers of new compositions. See the wonderful progression from 4th to high school orchestras, a beautiful picture of education at Holland Christian.

8. Join the Holland Christian High School Bands as they present their Spring Concert on Thursday, May 18 at 7:30 pm at the Kollen Park Band Shell. Enjoy jazz music, the Holland Christian drumline, music from the Pirates of the Caribbean, Lord of the Rings, and a tribute to our seniors all while taking in the gentle breezes from Lake Macatawa. The HCHS bands would also like to invite Holland Christian Band alumni to attend this concert and witness the premiere of a new composition in honor of former HCS band director Henry Vander Linde. The rain location for this concert is in the HCHS auditorium.

9. I will be offering summer lessons. Be the first to sign up for summer lessons on your instrument and get your pick of the day and time! For more info follow this link.

http://goo.gl/forms/jIYbPIOhGI

-- 

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Updates for this Thursday, Friday, Sunday

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. Due to an urgent construction/repair project taking place in the sanctuary at Christ Memorial our rehearsal tomorrow morning will be at HCHS in the gym. Students should arrive at school by 7:00 and be seated in the gym in their seat tuned by 7:15 a.m. The seating will be different than normal.

2. Our call time for Sunday for orchestra is moved up to 1:00 p.m. Please be in your seat by 1:00 p.m. for a tuning note. If you forgot your instrument or music you can meet me at school on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

3. Due to the forecast for rain and because the gym will be used for the Oratorio practice, there will not be early marching practice tomorrow.

4. The brass, woodwind and percussion members of symphonic orchestra will meet Friday morning at 7:15 a.m. to practice Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 2.

Thank you!

Mr. VB

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Early marching and Oratorio!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

Spring is here and it is great to greet the early morning sun rise with music! :)

1. All band students be in the band room by 7:15 a.m. for early morning marching practice. 

2. We will also be marching on Thursday at 7:15 a.m., though some students will be at the orchestra/choir rehearsal that morning.

3. Due to grandparents day the orchestra's Oratorio rehearsal will be on Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. at Christ Memorial Church. Please be in the church by 7:00 a.m. There will be a bus to bring students back to HCHS at the conclusion of practice.

4. The orchestra concert on Sunday will be at 2:00 p.m. Students should be at Christ Memorial Church by 1:30 p.m.

 -if anyone forgets their instrument or music at school they can meet me at church on Sunday at 12:45 p.m. 

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Post spring break info and Spring Break 2018 info

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

Have a blessed spring break!

1. We have submitted applications for our trip to Florida in 2018. Thank you for your input in the survey that I sent out. Because of your input and since spring break in 2018 coincides with Easter we decided to go with this schedule so families can spend Easter together. In future years spring breaks will line up with the more traditional trip timing.

The symphonic band and orchestra are planning to be in Florida from April 3 to April 6, 2018. This means the bus will depart from HCHS on Monday, April 2 and return to HCHS on Saturday, April 7. There will be more information soon! Students will be able to meet us in Florida and/or stay longer with their family in Florida.

2. Our chamber orchestra plus a few band members will be leading chapel on Monday, April 10 and is planning on an early practice at 7:15 a.m. on Monday. There will be no jazz orchestra on Monday, April 10.

3. We meet for our first early morning marching practice on Tuesday, April 11 at 7:15 a.m. with freshman, seniors, and those who are new to HCHS. Please look ahead and plan for the marching practice schedule after spring break.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uUkXuzopjNIy-8qClTlLEQ0ipJyCyJYiItGX-uQ6F3Y/edit?usp=sharing

This information is also located on the Instrumental Music Calendar.

https://www.hollandchristian.org/arts/band-orchestra/

4. Check out videos of symphonic band and symphonic orchestra from festival. (yes, these are a little late.)
https://vimeo.com/208676064/d7cdc72b40

https://vimeo.com/208660623/25f3a31d52

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Band Extravaganza and early Orchestra tomorrow

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. Due to school being cancelled on Friday we will hold our symphonic orchestra rehearsal at 7:00 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday) instead. There will be no jazz orchestra tomorrow. Contact Mr. VB via email if the change in schedule has created a conflict for you.

2. The Band Extravaganza Concert for both concert band and symphonic band is on Tuesday, March 28 at 7:00 p.m. Students should arrive at the Jack Miller Center for the Musical Arts (221 Columbia Ave, Holland, MI 49423) by 6:30 p.m.

3. Rehearsal for The Band Extravaganza will be at the Jack Miller Center for the Musical Arts at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning. Please plan to arrive directly at the Jack Miller. We will gather in the performance hall. There will be bussing back to school for students.

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Swingin' The Night Away, Band Extravaganza, congratulations!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. The biannual Swingin’ the Night Away is Friday, March 17, 6:45 pm- 9:30 pm in the HS Cafeteria. Free dance instructions from 6:45 pm - 7:30 pm.  Enjoy intergenerational fun, dancing, desserts and beverages from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm.  Tickets are $5 at the door.  

Enjoy swing music of Glenn Miller, Funk tunes, Afro-Cuban influenced music, and a vocal soloist!

2. We need your help with the upcoming Swingin' the Night Away!

Sign up to donate a dessert with this form.

https://goo.gl/forms/uVXmvvOmIEeIskoN2

Sign up to help with take down, set up, or serving desserts

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090e4aa9af2fa20-swinging

3. Come one, come all to the Holland Christian Schools Band Extravaganza for a wonderful night of music on Tuesday, March 28.  HC's 5th, 6th, Middle School, and High School Bands will perform at Hope College's Jack Miller Center for the Musical Arts at 7:30 p.m.  This is a great chance to hear the progression of music from 5th to 12th grades and to hear a wide variety of musical styles. You won't want to miss the closer, featuring 250 musicians combined!

4. Congratulations to the Holland Christian High School Symphonic Orchestra and Symphonic Band for their great work at the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association Festival last week! The band and the orchestra received the highest rating for their superior performances!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Info for tonight, festival week, last pep band!

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

Here are a few reminders. 

1. Tonight, symphonic band members (including Maria, Ryan, Tucker, Rachel),

Please be at the Jack Miller Center for the Musical Arts (221 Columbia Avenue) on time, before 7:15 p.m. for tuba and percussion and before 7:20 p.m. for others. We want to be seated, already warmed up so we can tune right at 7:30 p.m.

This will be the run down for the tonight:

7:30 play through our program on stage (Folk Song Suite; Come, Sweet; Foundry)

  -Dr. Southard listens

7:45 to 8:15 sectionals (wwind w/ Dr. Southard, brass w/ me, percussion with Mr. Sooy)

8:15 to 9:00 clinic with Dr. Southard working with our whole band on stage

Casual attire is just fine. Parents are invited to observe any or portion of this evening.

2. Orchestra members remember to bring your orchestra uniform to school on Thursday for festival. Check Feb. 8 blog for details of timing and location of festival.

3. Symphonic Band members remember your uniform for Wednesday and check out the Feb. 8 blog for details on timing and location of festival.

4. Last pep band tomorrow night, 6:30 p.m.!

5. Friday morning no early symphonic orchestra.

6. Don't forget to fill out the spring break survey from the Feb. 21 blog.

Thanks,

Scott

-- 

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Pep band, reminders, and Florida 2018

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. Pep Band tonight, be at the Civic by 6:30 pm. In addition to tonight, this Friday and next Tuesday are our last pep band performances at the Civic Center.

2. Remember to check out last week's blog for clinic and festival times. 

-Thursday symphonic orchestra clinic at HCHS band/orchestra room

-Monday symphonic band clinic at Jack Miller Center for Musical Arts

-Wednesday symphonic band at festival

-Thursday symphonic orchestra at festival

3. It has become a biennial tradition (every other year) for the symphonic band, juniors and seniors from orchestra, and the members of chamber strings to head to Florida around the time of spring break to learn, to perform and to enjoy each other's company. We are looking at dates for 2018 and would love to get your feedback. Please fill out this form by next week Friday, March 3. 

https://goo.gl/forms/CZp9e1BgxruULzty2

I have seen the tremendous benefits that trips like this have had on our musicians at Holland Christian. This is no surprise, since music as an art form flourishes in community. A combination of strong personal friendships and common musical goals are a recipe for musical success. This trip will encourage our student musicians as they continue the challenging and rewarding work of learning to express themselves through music.

I will take some time for questions about the trip in class tomorrow and Thursday.

4. Just a reminder and look ahead that our concert band and symphonic band will be taking part in the HCS Band Extravaganza Concert on Tuesday, March 28.

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Clinics, festivals, pictures

Hello band and orchestra students and parents,

1. Our symphonic band and symphonic orchestra will be doing a clinic in the month of February with local experts in the field of music. They will provide feedback to our musicians on the art of music making. Would you be willing to volunteer to provide snack or help serve a snack at one of these clinics? These will all happen in the band/orchestra room. Parents are welcome to observe.

-We have an orchestra clinic on Thursday, February 23 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 

-We have a symphonic band clinic scheduled on Monday, February 27 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 

The concert band clinic will happen during the school day.

2. Symphonic Orchestra families can purchase pictures of our performance at the Michigan Music Conference.

http://store.streelmanphotography.com/photo-galleries/12th-annual-mmc/107-holland-christian-high-school-symphonic-orchestra#fwgallerytop

3. The symphonic band and symphonic orchestra festival times have been assigned. These dates are assigned to us and not times that we choose so I appreciate your flexibility in making these work. The students will perform in concert tux/dress for these performances. Parents are welcome to attend for both the performance and for sightreading.

-Symphonic Band 

Wednesday, March 1

5:20 p.m. meet at West Ottawa PAC (1024 136th Ave, Holland, MI 49424) 

6:10 performance, 6:40 p.m. sight reading

7:00 festival completed, no bussing provided, please pick up from West Ottawa

-Symphonic Orchestra

Thursday, March 2 

2:00 p.m. bus leaves from HCHS to West Ottawa PAC (1024 136th Ave, Holland, MI 49424)

3:15 p.m. performance, 3:45 p.m. sight reading

4:15 p.m. bus will return from West Ottawa PAC to HCHS

4. Congratulations to more than 50 HCHS band and orchestra students participated in the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) District Solo and Ensemble Festival on January 28!

These 31 individuals received the top rating and qualified to perform at the MSBOA State Solo and Ensemble Festival in March. Aidan Baggech, Onika Bouwkamp, Bethany Bulthuis, Katelyn DeWitt, Matthew Dykstra, Andrew Gretzinger, Ashley Greydanus, Jacob Heeres, Katherine Heeres, Daniel Hoekwater, Andrea Jenosky, Megan Katerberg, Maddie Kurbuski, Elise Laarman, Lyndsey Leegwater, Sam Li, Savannah Page, Nathan Rogalske, Keara Scholten, Emilyn Staat, Zach Urbytes, Levi VanAst, Elyssa VandenTop, Crystal VanOeffelen, Joel VanZanten, Marie Veenstra, Natalie Vredevoogd, Karis Walters, Benjamin Walters, Elizabeth Winn and Hailey Zuverink. Congratulations to these fine musicians!

Thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867

Last week before MMC and Pep Band

Dear band and orchestra students and parents,

1. Solo and Ensemble participants did an excellent job last night at recital night! 11 days to your performance.

2. Tickets were passed out today for Friday's orchestra performance to those who requested them.

3. Orchestra students have rehearsal tomorrow (Wed.). Please be seated and ready to go by 7:15 am.  

          -I will send an order to wind/perc. via email. Be seated 5 minutes before the songs in which you play.

4. Friday orchestra rehearsal is at 7:00 am. Please come to school dressed for the concert. We will load the bus after 1st hour.

5. Pep Band is on Friday. Those playing for pep band should be there by 6:30 pm.

6. Would you like to help celebrate your fellow classmates' outstanding achievements?

-Sam Li will be playing a concert with the Michigan All State Orchestra on Saturday, January 21, 2017 10:15am – 11:00am in DeVos Hall.

-Andrew Gretzinger's award winning composition will performed (by Andrew) at MMEA Honors Composition Concert
Saturday, January 21, 2017 sometime between 11:00am- 1:00pm

thank you!

--

Scott Vanden Berg
svandenberg@hollandchristian.org
Director of Instrumental Music
Holland Christian High School
Director of the Holland American Legion Band

616-212-8867