Average Goal   by class                                                                                       Beg St  Adv St   Beg/Int  Con  Sym
Box tops/Cambell Soup lables:                               65     16.8      14.7      8.48     7.2    17
Cell Phone/Ink Cartridges/DVD/Gps/Cameras:          5       2         1.43        .61     2.28  1.32
Lap top                                                                 .3       0           0           0        0      .05
Grocery Order Form:                                              2     .42         .62       .177     .24     .3

Welcome to the Hillsdale Middle School Music Department!

I look forward to the year secure in the belief that it will be another banner year for Hillsdale. Hillsdale music students will not only learn to play a musical instrument but will also learn the essential qualities of self-discipline, rehearsal conduct, performance deportment, instrument and vocal care, music theory, and an appreciation of the musical fine arts. There are four main components used here a Hillsdale- Recording, Performance, Expert Evaluation, and Character Development. We will be producing several concerts and recording DVDs of them in the winter and spring. We will perform for adjudicators and family, and be recognized for our outstanding behavior on and off any stage. Students will be given opportunities to join honor groups that will give them direct links to colleges and recruiters. We have seen students use music to get ahead in life. Colleges more than ever have seen the music student as an important part of any college and we have many examples of colleges taking our Alumni into their school over non-musicians. Just recently one of our students received a full-ride to Pepperdine. Valued at $180,000. He is using music to help pay his way and plans to be a lawyer.

Studies have shown taking a music class enhances higher brain function, Improves reading and math performance, raises IQ scores, provides important experiences, Increases SAT Scores, teaches a habit of excellence, develops quick and decisive thinking, builds teamwork, enhances cooperation, which ultimately will prepare children for their future. This program does however require a financial commitment to fund it. Through a great incentive program, hard working parent booster group and community support we can still maintain this program in a difficult economic time. Just understand the district and site do not fund this program YOU do. It is a community effort and much pride will come from that and a certain ownership by the community. We are asking each family to contribute or fundraise $90, along with escrip, vons card, boxtops, Ralphs and even DVD's to help fund this program. As well we will have a benefit concert at House of Blues! “Keeping Music in Schools”. The $90 contribution goal that I am asking from each family has not gone up since 1997! Since 1997 the Boosters of Hillsdale Music (HMDPA) have added over 100 instruments for students use. Provided equipment and supplies to students who could not afford this activity. Paid for students to attend Honor Bands, entrance fees, and provided all local festival transportation. From the first day parents have stepped up to help out and have continued to do so. So I thank you in advance.

In order for us to continue to have music in our community we will have to participate.
From this support Hillsdale's accomplishments over the years include. 2 time "Top 5 out of the Nation" Recording contest through Sony Music- Featured on Local News 3 times with Larry Himmel, Dave Scott, and Rod Luck. - Featured on a 6 month long 30 min. segment featuring "Jazz in San Diego". - 3 time ITV selected Performance from KSDS 88.3 Jazz City College Jazz Festival - Over 100 students selected for All-County Honor Band since its inception. – 19 All- State Honor Band Participants since its inception - Achieved high ratings in local and regional Festivals - Community Performer for many events (Taste of East County, Policeman's Foundation Dinner at the Prado, Movie Openings, Viejas Outlet Center, La Mesa Old Fashioned Xmas, Women's Abuse shelter opening, etc.) - 12 time Sweepstakes winner Two time "Esprit De Corps" Winner at “Music in the Parks” - Earned nearly $80,000 in tickets in exchange for our performance at Disneyland main stage- Two time selected performer for the California Music Educators Association "Administrators Dessert" show- Jazz Ensemble, Choir, current and former Hillsdale Students performed at House Of Blues for last three years.

Membership in these close-knit and active groups is a source of considerable pride. While music probably requires more time, year round, it is also true that these activities are more richly rewarding. The requirements of the class are demanding, yet entirely within reach of any student willing to work. These requirements are set forth in the next few pages. The Last page will need to be signed and turned in for credit.

This web page is designed to answer any questions which you may have about the Hillsdale Middle Music Program. However, if you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at hmsmusicdept@yahoo.com.



Thank you for your participation, and I look forward to working with all of you.

Mr. Spencer Caldwell

Email: hmsmusicdept@yahoo.com
HMDPA website: http://www.huskymusic.org