Reply To: Too Many Skill Levels In One Band. Can I Make It Work?

[nafmeadmin]

I agree with halsellm029 that dividing the groups into like-abilities might help. You could either have them break into small ensembles for duets, trios, and quartets or into one larger group (but that is always harder, instrumentation-wise). This way, all students are playing music at an appropriate level.

It would also be fun to play a selection or two together as a large group. You could rewrite and simplify parts for the less-experienced students and move more difficult passages to the more experienced ones. This way, the students get the “full ensemble” experience and have music closer to their level.

As far as objectives go, you might have to generalize a little bit. Think of your students in broader groups, like “advanced,” “intermediate,” and “beginner.” Obviously they can’t have the same exact objectives, but if you simplify, you can reach and challenge all of your students. Do you post your objectives for students to see, or do you just use them for yourself?