MUSC 380
The History and Pedagogy of Percussion
1. Catalog Entry
MUSC 380
The History and Pedagogy of Percussion
Credit hours (2)
Prerequisites: The student must have at least two semesters of applied percussion
study
Many of the percussion students at RU are looking towards graduate work in percussion performance and pedagogy. As a result of this, it is important to offer an opportunity to enhance a student’s knowledge with regard to the history and pedagogy of percussion, considering there is limited time to do so during weekly lessons. The course would be a mixture of traditional lecture sessions, presentations, research, and a short performance followed by a critical discussion of the work performed.
2. Detailed Description of Course
Topics Covered:
Literature
1) Orchestral
2) Percussion Ensemble
3) Solo (marimba, timpani, multiple percussion)
4) Jazz/Rock/Afro Cuban
5) Contemporary
Pedagogy
1) Method Books
2) Exercises
3) Curriculum Development
a. College
b. Public School
History
1) Instrument History
2) Percussion Ensemble
3) Orchestral
4) Important Percussionists
a. Orchestral
b. Solo
c. College Instructors
d. Composers
e. Drum Set
5) PAS
3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The student will obtain a solid foundation in the history of percussion, focusing on instrument development, literature (chamber, orchestral, percussion ensemble, jazz, rock/pop, etc.), as well as important individuals that have contributed to percussion in a significant way. This would include performers, industry leaders, composers, and educators. Pedagogically, the student will develop a curriculum for percussion, choosing to do so either at the collegiate level, or secondary level. Contained in this document will be a detailed list of topics covered, as well as the materials needed to properly educate those enrolled. Students will also create a working literature list to draw from in their own teaching and performing careers (marimba, multiple percussion, concertos, percussion ensemble, and timpani).
4. Goals and Objectives of the Course
Pending completion of the course, students will have developed a knowledge base of percussion history, literature, and pedagogy commensurate with the undergraduate experience. Students will also have the knowledge and skills to enhance their learning through further research related to topics found to be most interesting.
5. Assessment Measures
The students will be assessed by using a combination of quizzes, tests, paper presentations, and a short performance followed by a critical discussion of the work.
6. Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
April 23, 2014