Course Syllabus

MUSC 4096 Symphony Orchestra IV

Course Description

The course provides training and practical playing experience in a wide range of works for orchestra. Concerts and special programs are given throughout the year in which the students will be expected to participate. This ensemble will provide students with an opportunity to develop technical skill, sight-reading ability, and knowledge of the repertory related to the ensemble. It further allows students to synthesize musical, historical and cultural knowledge into meaningful artistic expression. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.

Justification

This ensemble serves both music majors and non-music majors by providing an opportunity for students to perform standard orchestral works. The National Association of Schools of Music requires that member institutions serve both of these student populations. Through quality performance of significant literature, students will share this art with fellow student musicians and the composers whose music they create and preserve. Orchestra is required for all string music majors in each semester of their programs both at this institution and at transfer institutions. Non-majors are granted elective credit upon transfer.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of a correct tone and articulation by playing with a proper amount of bow, weight, and attack.
2. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of correct dynamics and balances by playing passages with a variety of loud and soft timbres as indicated in the music, and by adjusting to the style of other players, as needed.
3. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of correct rhythms and following the conductor, by playing in unison with other players and by periodically looking at the conductor for cues.
4. Students will demonstrate how to perform in a proper historical style. This will be taught using class demonstrations by the teacher, audio and video recordings, an concert attendance at local and statewide performances.
5. Students will be able to demonstrate basic improvement learning notes through individual practice time outside of class.

Course Content

Concert repertoire will be chosen, rehearsed, and performed from each of the four major time periods: Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary/Twentieth Century. Other topics will include using proper tone, variable dynamics and articulations, accurate intonation and rhythms, overall balance and blend, as well as following the conductor. Students who engage well with attendance and preparation will receive the guidance, tools and strategies needed to excell in performance.