Percussion Ensembles Syllabus
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Ensembles Syllabus
Percussion Ensembles Course Syllabus
MUS 2307/4
 
Instructor: Dan Adams, B.M.Ed. M.M.
Adjunct Professor of Percussion
Office: Beegle Hall 101
Phone: 281-2143

 

The Percussion Ensemble is a select group of instrumentalists who study and perform music from the ever-expanding repertoire of the world of percussion. Class work includes individual “outside” practice and full ensemble rehearsals with a focus on rhythmic accuracy, technique, phrasing, intonation, dynamic control, tone production, improvisation, stylistic considerations and ensemble playing.

Rehearsals
The ensemble is divided into three groups:

  • Mallet Ensemble – Tue. 4:30-5:30

  • Ethnic Drum Ensemble – Tue. 5:30-6:30

  • Percussion Ensemble – Thu. 4:30-6:30

 

Expectations

  1. Enrollment in any of the SPU Percussion Ensembles is a full year commitment. Students are required to enroll for the entire school year. Failure to do so can jeopardize future enrollment and participation.

  2. There are approximately ten rehearsals of each group each quarter.  Rehearsals are to begin at 40 minutes past the hour sharp. Students need to arrive in time to have all necessary equipment, implements, and music in order and prepared for rehearsal. Each student has a personal responsibility to the group and its members and therefore is expected to arrive with proper implements and music prepared. Any circumstance that requires late arrival or early dismissal must be communicated to the director ASAP.

  3. “Outside” practice is imperative to the success of the rehearsal and the ensemble in general. Rehearsals are to be used to “rehearse the music,” not to work out individual parts. Notification will be given in advance as to the music to be prepared for the up-coming performance and is therefore the responsibility of the individual to prepare, plan individual setups, and acquire all necessary implements.

  4. Students are expected to attend each rehearsal. If a student cannot attend a given rehearsal it is his/her responsibility to notify the director ahead of time explaining the reason for not attending. Students are required to attend the entire rehearsal unless otherwise stated.

  5. Students are required to attend concert sound checks at the designated times with equipment and music prepared for “performance.” The proper stage attire is also the responsibility of the student. Students are expected to help set and strike the stage before and after each concert. All equipment to be returned to its proper storage location in Beegle Hall 1 after each performance or rehearsal. Any student with a conflict with the above stated criteria must communicate with the director upon the realization of the conflict. Last-minute communications will not be accepted except in extreme emergency.

Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Thalia Symphony Orchestra

  1. Members of the Percussion Ensemble are required to provide the percussion needs of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and the Thalia Symphony. Other ensemble members will be utilized as necessary. Percussionists are encouraged to attend specified rehearsals prior to concerts as indicated by the Directors, Gerry Marsh and Dr. Hanson. Additional rehearsal attendance is encouraged. Students are required to stay for the entire rehearsal unless released by the Director. 

Grading

  1. Grades are determined by class attendance, individual preparation of the music, productivity and contribution to the groups during rehearsals, performances, and contributions to the success of the Seattle Pacific University music ensembles.

  2. With each rehearsal being of upmost importance to the success of the group, two (2) missed rehearsals will constitute a failing grade. Those who leave rehearsal early  without the permission of the director will be charged with at least 1/2 missed rehearsal or more depending on the situation.

  3. Lack of adequate music preparation will be considered lack of contribution to the group and therefore will lower a student’s grade accordingly.

  4. Concert attendance is mandatory. Except for extreme emergencies, failure to attend concerts will constitute a failing grade.

 
Credit
1 or 2 credits are offered for Percussion Ensemble each quarter. Students participating in two or more percussion groups and/or participating in Wind Ensemble or Thalia Symphony performances are encouraged to register for two credits. Students in one percussion group and not participating in Wind Ensemble or Thalia should register for one credit. If additional credit is desired, then registering for Wind Ensemble or Thalia Symphony is an option. This option requires regular rehearsal attendance.

 

Required Events
Students are expected to foster a supportive community for learning and creative work.  Students are expected to attend their applied music instructor’s faculty recitals and to support and learn from their fellow student by attending the recitals and concerts of other students and ensembles. Students are required to attend all on campus Percussion Ensemble performances. Students are also strongly encouraged to attend other SPU performances and performances in the Seattle metropolitan area.

 

Concert Dress
Percussion Ensemble & Mallet Ensembles:
Black long sleeve shirt, black slacks, black shoes and socks.
Ethnic Drum Ensemble:
Black slacks, black shoes and socks, bright ethnic shirts.