Mr.

Aaron Dugger
Gateway High School Bands Spring 2016 Unit Plan
Topic: Breathing and Tone Production
Goals
The focus of this unit is to develop a unified, consistent, and relaxed
approach to the breathing mechanism for all wind players in the Gateway High
School Bands. Upon observation of the ensembles during the initial weeks of my
student teaching experience, it was clear that many students had a musical and
informed approach to their instruments. However, there was a disconnect when it
came to the aspect of breathing. In my teaching and studies I have found that
developing the correct approach to breathing will lead to success in achieving the
desired quality of sound on each instrument as well as enhancing the students
ability to performing musically and successfully in an ensemble setting.
Objectives / Behaviors
Students will be able to maintain a constant and focused sound on both air and
long tone exercises through the control and sustainability of the air.
Students will be able to maintain relaxation while circulating maximum amounts
of air.
Students will be able to produce characteristics sounds on their specific
instrument through the use of relaxed, fluid, and controlled air.
National Standards addressed
MU:Pr5.3.IIIa
Develop, apply, and refine appropriate rehearsal strategies to address
individual and ensemble challenges in a varied repertoire of music
MU:Cn11.0.T.IIIa
Demonstrate understanding of relationships between music and the other
arts, other disciplines, varied contexts, and daily life.
Pennsylvania Standards addressed
Content Standard: Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied
repertoire of music.