Course Syllabus

MUSC 4736 Private Strings IV

Course Description

This course provides individual musical instruction at an advanced level. Private instruction is required of all music majors each semester. Music performance majors are required to take 60-minute lessons each week, while music education and music therapy students are required to take 30-minute lessons each week. All students are also required to participate in regular master classes, recitals and juries which fulfill the lab portion of the course. The course is also available to non-music majors who wish to develop their musicianship and performance skills. An additional fee is required. This course may be repeated for credit.

Justification

As an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), Snow College is required to provide competent private instruction for music majors in all vocal and instrumental specialties. Private instruction is required of music majors in four-year music degree programs and must appear on student transcripts. This course offers an excellent opportunity for all Snow College students to develop musicianship and performance skills. Courses of this type are taught at all NASM accredited institutions in Utah.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Students will continue to develop good practice habits, and keep track of practice hours using a practice journal or log sheet.
2. Students will learn repertoire appropriate to an advanced grade level.
3. Students will learn advanced technique skills necessary to perform more challenging repertoire.
4. Students will memorize music for performance (where appropriate).
5. Students will perform in master classes, recitals and other public events. As required, and under the direction of the teacher, students will be asked to perform in recitals and similar venues as part of the class grade.

Course Content

• Practice journal development;
• Continuing work on body posture including embouchure, hand and feet positions, and breathing techniques;
• Advanced technique study, including use of vibrato and performance in extreme ranges;
• Greater focus on instruction in performance practice appropriate to stylistic periods;
• Continuing development of tone strength and quality within all ranges of the instrument;
• Development of dynamic ranges appropriate to all types of literature;
• In depth study of languages necessary to perform music appropriately;
• Study of major and minor scales and arpeggios;
• Study of method books and etudes appropriate to student playing level;
• Study of solo repertoire appropriate for fourth-year college students and/or the individual level of the student;
• Development of performance technique, including memorization techniques, stage deportment and anxiety management;
• Study and practice will be assessed through instructor feedback and public performance