PELLISSIPPI STATE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MASTER SYLLABUS

SMALL ENSEMBLE--INSTRUMENTAL
MUS 1575

Class Hours: 0.0

 

Credit Hours: 1.0

 

Laboratory Hours: 3.0

 

Revised: Fall 08

 

 

 

 

 

Catalog Course Description:

 

 

 

This ensemble is open to players of from all families of instruments particularly woodwinds and strings. The group performs music from the standard classical and popular literature as well as pieces from the Celtic tradition. The course may be repeated for credit.

Entry Level Standards:

 

 

 

Student should possess early intermediate skill level on one of the instruments listed above  and have a strong desire to perform. Student must furnish his/her own instrument.

Prerequisites:

 

 

 

 None

Textbook(s) and Other Course Materials:

 

 

 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

Final Exam Period

II. Course Objectives*:

 

 

 

A.

Demonstrate proper techniques of tone  production on the instrument, i.e. posture, intonation,  phrasing.  I.6, II.6

 

B.

Acquire and utilize knowledge of group dynamics, i.e. working as a team toward a common goal.  I.6, II.6

 

C.

Develop and demonstrate an understanding of historical considerations for performance practices.  II.1, II.6

 

D.

Develop and demonstrate appropriate performance decorum in front of an audience.  I.1, II.6

 

E.

Demonstrate an understanding of the basic elements of music and associated terminology important to the preparation of a performance.  I.6, II.6

*Roman numerals after course objectives reference TBR's general education goals.

III. Instructional Processes*: 

 

 

Students will:

 

 

 

 

1.

Participate in group instrumental activities in order to develop the requisite skills needed for the performance of ensemble music.  Humanities and/or Fine Arts Outcome, Active Learning Strategy, Transitional Strategy

 

2.

Participate in structured class discussions dealing with the cultural implications of selected music. Humanities and/or Fine Arts Outcome, Communication 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.  Humanities and/or Fine Arts Outcome, Communication Outcome, Active Learning Strategy

*Strategies and outcomes listed after instructional processes reference TBR'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. 

VI. Policies:

 

 

 

A. Attendance Policy:

 

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.  Individual departments/ programs/disciplines, with the approval of the vice president of Academic and Student Affairs, may have requirements that are more stringent. 

 

B. Academic Dishonesty Policy:

 

The instructor has the primary responsibility for control over classroom behavior and maintenance of academic integrity.  Plagiarism, cheating and other forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited.  A student guilty of academic misconduct, either directly or indirectly through participation or assistance, is immediately responsible to the instructor of the class.  In addition to other possible disciplinary sanctions that may be imposed through the regular Pellissippi State procedures as a result of academic misconduct, the instructor has the authority to assign an F or a zero for the exercise or examination or to assign an F in the course.  (Pellissippi State Catalog)

 

C. Accommodations for disabilities:

 

If you need accommodation because of a disability, if you have emergency medical information to share, or if you need special arrangements in case the building must be evacuated, please inform the instructor immediately.  Privately after class or in the instructor's office. 
To request accommodations students must register with Services for Students with Disabilities: Goins 127 or 131, Phone: (865) 539-7153 or (865) 694-6751 Voice/TDD.