Countdown
Course Descriptions
| ID # | Course Title | Instructor(s) |
| MT-01 | One Giant Step Forward: Introduction to Theory This course will focus on rhythmic/melodic dictation, sight-reading, terminology, and notation. Students who have not taken a course in theory should sign up for this option. |
Michelle Gulick, Katy Strand |
| MT-02 | Two Giant Steps Forward: 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. |
Dwayne Wasson, Sarah Tomasewski |
| MT-03 | Creating New Giants: Theory III We will explore the work of past and present giants, investigating how culture, history, and science influenced composers. We will explore our potential to shape the future of music as 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 |
| MR-01 | Listen How does the ear perceive sound? How does the music to which we listen affect us? Why do people choose the music to which they listen? In this course, we will explore this topics and more. Listening and class discussion will be major components of this class. Bring along your favorite musical selections to share with the class as we delve into the topic of music preference. |
Dwayne Wasson |
| MR-02 | 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? This course will examine music in the context in which it was written through listening examples, graphic representation, and group activities. Discover the people behind the compositions and the stylistic characteristics that define the music of the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern periods. |
Sarah Tomasewski |
| MR-03 | Murder, Mayhem, and Madness: Opera The thrilling art form that encompasses all deprivation. Find the passion in this exciting musical form by examining the giants of performance and composition, the history, period movement, and costuming; exploring the highs and lows of instrumental and vocal technique; and listening/viewing selected scenes. What could be more fun than lust, deception, and death? |
Michelle Gulick |
| MR-04 | 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-05 | Composition: The Journey Beyond Theory We will explore the work of past and present giants, investigating how culture, history, and science influenced composers. We will explore our potential to shape the future of music as composers. Students should be familiar with harmony, scales, and intervals, and must be able to read both treble and bass clefs. (The creative application of Theory III continues.) |
Alan Paterson |