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Course Descriptions

ID # Course Title Instructor(s)
MR-01

Conducting 101: The power of the hand
We will learn and practice conducting patterns and basic interpretive gestures needed for effective ensemble conducting. Bring your instrument and your voice for practical applications of these techniques.

Katy Strand

MR-02

Puzzles: Discovering hidden structures in music
How are musical compositions developed? Forms to be studied are sonata allegro, rondo, minuet and trio, and others. Listening will be a significant component of this class.

Dwayne Wasson

MR-03

Pedagogy: Discovering the Creative Teacher Within
Who prepares you to think creatively and independently? This course will discuss the difference between a good studio teacher and a great studio teacher, focusing on creative teaching techniques, relationship building, and the importance of clear communication.

Katie Goins

MR-04

An (Extremely Brief but Exhilarating) History of Musical Styles
Ever wonder about the definition of a sackbut? Who were the Schubertiads? Which composer was so handsome that women fainted at his feet? Discover the people behind the compositions and the stylistic characteristics that define the music of the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern periods through listening examples and activities.

Sarah Tomasewski

MR-05

Murder, Mayhem, and Madness: Opera
The thrilling art form that encompasses all deprivation. Find the passion in the exciting musical form, through listening, studying libretti, and acting out. What could be more fun than lust, deception, and death?

Michelle Gulick

MR-06

Composition: The Journey Beyond Theory
We will explore the journey involved in the creation of a new musical work, investigating how culture, history, and science influenced past composers. Students should be familiar with harmony, scales, and intervals, and must be able to read both treble and bass clefs.

Alan Paterson

MT-01

Theory I
An Introduction to theory, this course will focus on rhythmic/melodic dictation, sight-singing, terminology, and notation. Students who have not taken a course in theory should sign up for this option.

Michelle Gulick, Katy Strand
MT-02

Theory II
This class will build on previous knowledge of the circle of fifths, key signatures, and intervals in relationship to larger musical forms. We will discuss tonality, chord quality, cadences, solfege, and other topics.

Katie Goins, Sarah Tomasewski
MT-03

Theory III
We will explore the journey involved in the creation of a new musical work, investigating how culture, history, and science influenced past composers. Students should be familiar with harmony, scales, and intervals, and must be able to read both treble and bass clefs. (Students who wish to continue in this class should sign up for the topics course, Composition.)

Alan Paterson, Dwayne Wasson