Instrumental Techniques II
Recommended Prerequisite: Instrumental Techniques I
Grades Offered: 10 – 12
Credits: ½ - 1
SDE Course Code: 3530
MNPS Course Code: MUS2258
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
o Note/Rest Values and Notation
o Pitch Notation
o Sightreading Skills
- Technical Development
- Correct Posture
- Correct Hand Position
- Correct Fingerings
- Scales/Rudiments
- Articulations/Sticking/Bowing
o Dynamic Notation and Control
o Tempo Variations
o Phrase Shapings
o 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