PELLISSIPPI STATE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MASTER SYLLABUS
SMALL ENSEMBLES--GUITAR, BRASS, CELTIC
MUS 1550

 
Class Hours: 0.0   Credit Hours: 1.0  
Laboratory Hours: 3.0   Date Revised: Spring 00  
       
Catalog Course Description:    
  This course includes ensembles consisting of two to eight brass, woodwind or stringed instruments; music played will be appropriate to size of the group (trio, quartet, quintet). The course may be repeated for credit. When registering, note section number(s) assigned to course number and title to ensure correct ensemble registration. 
Entry Level Standards:    
  Student should possess early intermediate skill level on an instrument, and have a strong desire to perform. Student must furnish his/her own instrument.
Prerequisites:    
   None
Textbook(s) and Other Reference Materials Basic to the Course:  
   Music will be supplied by the institution.
I. Week/Unit/Topic Basis:    
  Week  Topic
  1-14 Topics will include reading and study of music chosen to suit the composition of the group.  Students will rehearse the music with attention to rhythmic and dynamic aspects as well as intonation and proper performance on the instrument.  Performances will be presented toward the end of the semester.
  15 Turn in music;  view video tapes of performance to critique and learn from the experience.
  16 Final Exam Period
II. Course Objectives*:    
  A. Demonstrate proper techniques of tone  production on the instrument, i.e. posture, intonation,  phrasing.  II, III, IV
  B. Acquire and utilize knowledge of group dynamics, i.e. working as a team toward a common goal.  II, III, IV
  C. Develop and demonstrate an understanding of historical considerations for performance practices. I, II, III, IV
  D. Develop and demonstrate appropriate performance decorum in front of an audience.  I, II, III, IV
  E. Evidence an understanding of the basic elements of music and associated terminology important to the preparation of a performance.  I, II, III
*Roman numerals after course objectives reference goals of the Liberal Arts department.
III. Instructional Processes*:     
Students will:      
  1. Participate in group instrumental activities in order to develop the requisiteskills needed for the performance of ensemble music.  Communication Outcome, Cultural Diversity and Social Adaptation Outcome, Active Learning Strategy, Transitional Strategy
  2. Participate in structured class discussions dealing with the cultural implications of selected music. Communication Outcome, Cultural Diversity and Social Adaptation Outcome, Information Literacy Outcome, Active Learning Strategy
  3. Interact with the conductor and other members of the ensemble in understanding selected repertoire and in performing it musically and effectively.  Communication Outcome, Cultural Diversity and Social Adaptation Outcome, Active Learning Strategy
*Strategies and outcomes listed after instructional processes reference Pellissippi State’s goals for strengthening general education knowledge and skills, connecting coursework to experiences beyond the classroom, and encouraging students to take active and responsible roles in the educational process.
IV. Expectations for Student Performance*: 
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1. Perform appropriate instrumental exercises to warm up the instrument prior to performance.  A
2. Recognize and follow basic directions in instrumental parts, i.e. dynamic markings, repeat signs, tempo indications, etc.  E
3. Apply proper performance practices for the literature being performed.  C
4. Work as a member of a team toward presentation of a successful performance.  A, B, C,  D, E
5. Relate repertoire pieces to the appropriate culture and historical context.  C, E
6. Perform in public with the group demonstrating poise and self-confidence.  A, B, D, E
7. Apply techniques of  tone production,  posture, and instrumental expertise to achieve an appropriate sound for music.  A
*Letters after performance expectations reference the course objectives listed above.
V. Evaluation:
Evaluation Procedures:
One hundred percent of the grade for this course is determined by attendance and participation in the classroom and in scheduled performances.  Attendance will be graded as follows:

Class Absences:
A:    3 or less
B:    4-5 absences
C:    6-7 absences
D:    8-9 absences
F:    10 or more

Class Tardies:
No penalty first three times; 1 point subtracted from final grade for each subsequent tardy.

Concert Absences:
Pre-arranged  excused absence: no penalty
Excused absence:  1 letter grade
Unexcused absence:  2 letter grades
“No Show”:  AUTOMATIC FAILURE
Excused absences consist of serious illness, accident or death in the immediate family.
Unexcused absences consist of having to work, forgetting, trips,  vacations and lack of transportation. A “No Show” is when the student is aware of the concert but shows total disregard for instructor and ensemble by not showing up for the event.

VI. Policies:
Attendance Policy:
REQUIRED!  Roll will be taken.  Excused absences will be at the discretion of the instructor.  Students are responsible for work missed due to absence.  Pellissippi State Technical Community College expects students to attend all scheduled instructional activities.  As a minimum, students in all courses must be present for at least 75 percent of their scheduled class and laboratory meetings in order to receive credit for the course.