Instrumental Techniques I

Recommended Prerequisite: prior instrumental music experience

Grades Offered: 9 – 12

Credits: ½ - 1

SDE Course Code: 3530

MNPS Course Code: MUS2158

Course Description

This course provides small groups of students with development in technique on a particular instrument. Instruction is provided for all band and orchestra instruments, including guitar and piano. Repertory and technical studies will be adapted to the capabilities of the student. Students will be administered end of course exams, which will count as a percentage of the student’s grade. These exams will be administered in both written and performance format.

Course of Study

Tonal Development

Proper Tone Production
Characteristic Qualities of Sound
Maturity and Control of Qualities of Sound

Reading Development

Note/Rest Values and Notation
Pitch Notation
Sightreading Skills

Technical Development

Correct Posture
Correct Hand Position
Correct Fingerings
Scales/Rudiments
Articulations/Sticking/Bowing

Nuances

Dynamic Notation and Control
Tempo Variations
Phrase Shapings

Ear Training

Difference between Correct and Incorrect Pitch
Listening Responsibilities as an Individual Performer

Standards

MNPS Music Department Standards

http://www.mnps.org

TN State Department of Education Standards

http://www.state.tn.us/education/ci/standards

Textbooks

Richard Williams and Jeff King, Foundations For Superior Performance

San Diego, California: Neil A. Kjos Music Company, 1997.

Recommended and/or required resources

Various Chorale Studies

Various Technical Exercises

Metronome

Interactive recording equipment and accompanying software

CD recordings of soloists, chamber music and large ensembles

TV with DVD or VCR

Educational Videos

Chromatic Tuner

Whenever possible, classrooms should have computers that are web accessible