MUSC 436
GUITAR ENSEMBLE
Catalog Entry
MUSC436. Guitar Ensemble
Three hours rehearsal (1).
Prerequisite: Audition
The Guitar Ensemble offers training in sight reading and chamber music performance
skills for guitarists. Performs both on and off campus, and is open to all students
by audition, each semester.
Note(s): Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course. May be taken again for credit.
A maximum of four credits may be used to meet the large ensemble requirement for majors.
Detailed description of Content of Course
The purposes of this course, in priority order of emphasis is to:
1) develop literacy and competency of sight-reading skills for the guitarist
2) establish chamber music skills that are universally applied, enabling the guitarist
to function in any chamber music setting that he/she may encounter.
3) apply the learned skills to performance in both the on and off-campus environment.
4) Graduate students are expected to perform at considerably higher levels of accomplishment
in all of the areas.
a. Ensemble sight-reading
b. First through fourth position reading
c. Fifth through eighth position reading
d. Ninth through twelfth position reading
e. Reading beyond the twelfth position
f. Reading and interpreting symbols of expression
g. Visual cuing and leadership skills
h. Skills of following or accompanying
i. Timbral production and tonal contrast in the ensemble setting
j. Conducting the guitar ensemble
k. Developing better listening skills through ensemble exercises
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The course will include techniques of traditional instruction, demonstration. Further students will apply leadership skills in directing the ensemble themselves, from within the ensemble and from the front of the group. Students will also learn to become a partner in performance through the act of support or accompanying, in order to contribute to the whole of the group, towards a cohesive and unified group performance. Sight-reading skills will be developed, so that accuracy and competency with other musicians is assured in any professional musical situation. Graduate students will be expected to execute considerably higher skill levels.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
The student will be able to function with competence in ensemble settings that range from accompanying singers to functioning within the parameters of a symphony orchestra. Graduate students will be expected to perform competency equivalent to the level requirements for graduate students.
Assessment Measures
Students will perform for the instructor selected materials which were covered in class. Sight-reading and material prepared for performance will be graded. Attendance will also be a portion of the grade, since ensemble performance skills necessitate regular participation from it’s members.
Other Course Information
Approval and Subsequent Reviews
DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
May 2006 Reviewed E. Fellin, Chairman
March 01, 2021