MUSC 461

I. Course Title: Piano Ensemble

II. Course Number: MUSC 461

III. Credit Hours: 1 credit

IV. Prerequisites: Audition and instructor permission

V. Course Description: 

This course is a performance ensemble for advanced pianists.  Students will explore the piano duet and piano duo repertoire from all classical periods and beyond and will develop confidence and skill in collaborating with their fellow musicians at the keyboard.

This course may be repeated for credit and continued ensemble requirement satisfaction.

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

This course will give students an opportunity to acquire collaborative performance experience with their fellow pianists and to cultivate the enjoyment of participation in chamber music on the keyboard. 

Graduate credit: Graduate students will be assigned significantly more demanding literature, will be held to a higher standard of performance, and will engage in teaching activities within their ensemble and with others.

All participating students will perform in a Piano Ensemble recital at the end of each semester of enrollment.  

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:

At the beginning of each semester, the instructor will assign students to various ensemble combinations (duets, duos, trios, etc.) based on ability. Students will attend weekly lessons/coaching with instructor and will rehearse separately on their own.  

Material will be selected by instructor to:

1. Introduce students to the intricacies of piano ensemble performance
2. Familiarize students with the rich breadth of repertoire written for piano ensemble, from all representative classical periods and beyond
3. Ensure successful performance that showcases individual student strengths and interests

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

Students will explore the language, skills, and materials of music through developing listening skills, rhythmic understanding, piano technique, and sight-reading skills. Students will become acquainted with keyboard literature representing a variety of styles and improve their ability to read different styles of music as well as perform in ensemble with others.

VIII. Assessment Measures:

Students will be assessed based on:

1. Final performance quality and preparation 
2. Consistency of outside work and practice done with fellow ensemble members
3. Individual growth and skill development of individual student as well as ensemble

Review and Approval

August 2020