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Course Syllabus

MUSC 4106 Chamber Orchestra IV

  • Division: Fine Arts, Comm, and New Media
  • Department: Music
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 1; Lecture: 0; Lab: 2
  • Repeatable: Yes.
  • Prerequisites: MUSC 3106 or permission of instructor. Audition required.
  • Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
  • Semester Approved: Spring 2024
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2029
  • End Semester: Fall 2029
  • Optimum Class Size: 16
  • Maximum Class Size: 20

Course Description

The course provides training and practical playing experience in a wide range of works for orchestra. Concerts and special programs are given throughout the year in which the students will be expected to participate. This ensemble will provide students with an opportunity to develop technical skill, sight-reading ability, and knowledge of the repertory related to the ensemble. It further allows students to synthesize musical, historical and cultural knowledge into meaningful artistic expression. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.

Justification

This ensemble serves both music majors and non-music majors by providing an opportunity for students to perform standard orchestral works. The National Association of Schools of Music requires that member institutions serve both of these student populations. Through quality performance of significant literature, students will share this art with fellow student musicians and the composers whose music they create and preserve. Orchestra (symphony or chamber) is required for all string music majors in each semester of their programs both at this institution and at transfer institutions. Non-majors are granted elective credit upon transfer.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will be able to correctly perform various pieces using a proper musical style. Students will be able to perform one piece on a concert without a conductor.
  2. Students will demonstrate sensitivity to the dynamic requirements of the selected literature. Students will demonstrate an ability to properly balance and blend with other players.
  3. Students will demonstrate an ability to play with acceptable intonation, and sensitivity to the conductor's gestures.

Course Content

Concert repertoire will be chosen, rehearsed, and performed from each of the four major time periods: Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary/Twentieth Century. Music from a variety of nations and composers will be studied. Other topics will include using proper tone, variable dynamics and articulations, accurate intonation and rhythms, overall balance and blend, as well as following the conductor. Students of all backgrounds and cultures are invited to audition.