Academy of Instrumental Performance Course Descriptions

Course Title: Instrumental/Percussion Performance Ensemble        .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Basic proficiency in an instrument is required.

Music Ensemble provides a supportive environment for students who wish to experience the excitement and creativity of performing music as part of an ensemble while honing their individual skills and expanding their musical horizons. It offers students the opportunity to perform and study a wide variety of musical genres, including classical, contemporary, jazz, and popular music through an instrumental ensemble. Through regular rehearsals and guided instruction, students will develop their musical interpretation, improvisation, and ensemble coordination skills. The course culminates in live performances, showcasing the individual and the collective work of the ensemble.

Course Objectives:

• Develop ensemble performance skills
• Improve individual instrumental technique
• Explore a diverse range of musical styles
• Enhance sight-reading and musical interpretation abilities
• Collaborate effectively in a group setting

Course Title: Orchestra/String  Performance Ensemble            .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Basic ability to read music is required
Orchestra/String is open to violin, viola, cello, and double bass players of all skill levels, the ensemble emphasizes technical development, musical interpretation, and ensemble playing. Students will engage in regular rehearsals, exploring the roles of each instrument within the group and enhancing their ability to perform in harmony with others. The course culminates in a public performance, showcasing the collective work of the ensemble.

Course Objectives:

• Develop skills in ensemble performance, including intonation, rhythm, and dynamics
• Explore a variety of musical styles and genres specific to string instrumentation
• Enhance individual technique and musicality through group collaboration
• Improve sight-reading and listening skills within an ensemble context
• Gain experience in performance preparation and presentation

Course Title: Piano I                                    .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None

Piano I is designed for students with little to no prior experience playing the piano. This course covers the fundamentals of piano playing, including basic music theory, note reading, proper hand positioning, rhythm, and technique. Students will learn to play simple melodies, scales, chords, and progressions, as well as develop skills in sight-reading and ear training. Emphasis is placed on building a strong musical foundation, fostering creativity, and encouraging personal expression through music. Students will have the opportunity to perform individually and in small groups, allowing them to gain confidence in their playing abilities. 

Course Objectives:

• Learn the basics of piano technique, including posture, hand positioning, and finger movement.
• Read and interpret music notation, including treble and bass clefs.
• Develop rhythmic accuracy and timing through scales, chords, and simple pieces.
• Understand and apply basic music theory concepts, such as scales, key signatures, and chord progressions.
• Cultivate listening skills for musical interpretation.
• Perform beginner-level piano pieces with expression and confidence.
   

Course Title: Piano II                                .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Piano I or instructor approval

Piano II is a continuation of Piano I, designed for students with foundational piano skills who seek to advance their technique and musicianship. This course focuses on more complex repertoire, intermediate music theory, and further development of sight-reading, ear training, and expressive performance. Students will explore a wider range of styles, from classical to contemporary, while learning more advanced scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions. Students will refine their technical skills, develop dynamic control, and improve their ability to interpret musical compositions with greater depth. Individual and group performances will provide opportunities for students to showcase their progress and gain confidence as musicians. 

Course Objectives:

• Master intermediate piano techniques, including complex fingerings, hand independence, and pedal use.
• Read and interpret more advanced music notation, including multiple key signatures and rhythmic variations.
• Explore intermediate music theory, including chord inversions, harmonic analysis, and modulation.
• Develop advanced sight-reading skills.
• Perform a variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and popular genres.
• Demonstrate increased confidence and expression in both solo and group performances.

Course Title: Ear Training I                        .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None

Ear Training I is designed to develop students' aural skills, enabling them to recognize, understand, and reproduce musical elements by ear. The course focuses on the fundamental aspects of pitch, rhythm, intervals, and chords through both listening exercises and vocal/instrumental practice. Students will learn to identify and transcribe melodies, harmonies, and rhythms, enhancing their overall musicianship and ability to perform, compose, and analyze music. Students will engage in sight-singing, rhythmic dictation, and melodic and harmonic dictation. 

Course Objectives:

• Develop the ability to identify and sing intervals, scales, and basic chord structures.
• Improve rhythmic accuracy and recognition through clapping and vocal exercises.
• Transcribe simple melodies and harmonic progressions by ear.
• Enhance sight-singing skills using solfège and other techniques.
• Recognize and understand basic musical forms and structures through listening exercises.
• Build a strong foundation for further study in music theory and performance.

Course Title: Ear Training II                        .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Ear Training I or instructor approval

Ear Training II builds upon the foundational skills learned in Ear Training I, guiding students toward more advanced aural comprehension and musicianship. This course focuses on refining the ability to recognize and transcribe more complex musical elements, including advanced intervals, extended chord structures, and intricate rhythms. Students will also improve their sight-singing using more challenging melodic material and work with multi-part harmonies and modulations. Students will deepen their understanding of melodic and harmonic progression in various musical styles. 

Course Objectives:

• Accurately identify and sing advanced intervals, scales, and seventh chords.
• Transcribe more complex melodies and harmonic progressions, including modulations and non-diatonic chords.
• Improve sight-singing skills with more challenging melodies in different keys and meters.
• Recognize and reproduce syncopated and compound rhythms through dictation and performance.
• Analyze harmonic progressions and voice leading in multi-part music.
• Strengthen aural skills essential for advanced music theory, composition, and performance.

Course Title: Music Theory I                            .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None

Music Theory is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts that shape Western music. This course covers essential topics such as notation, scales, intervals, key signatures, rhythm, harmony, and form. Students will learn to analyze and compose music using these principles, developing both their technical skills and creative abilities. Students will engage in composing, harmonizing melodies, and analyzing various musical works across different genres. 

Course Objectives:

• Understand and apply fundamental music theory concepts such as scales, intervals, key signatures, and chords.
• Analyze musical structures, including melody, harmony, rhythm, and form.
• Develop skills in harmonization and voice leading.
• Compose simple melodies and harmonic progressions.
• Enhance aural skills through ear training, including interval and chord identification.
• Improve sight-singing abilities to connect theoretical knowledge with performance.

Course Title: Music Theory II                            1 Credit
Prerequisites: Music Theory I

Music Theory II builds on foundational concepts introduced in Music Theory I, offering an advanced exploration of harmonic structures, voice leading, and form. Students will delve deeper into diatonic harmony, secondary dominants, modulation, and more complex chord progressions. The course also introduces chromatic harmony and analysis of classical and contemporary works. Students will refine their ability to analyze, notate, and create music with greater sophistication.

Course Objectives:

• Deepen understanding of diatonic and chromatic harmony
• Analyze and apply secondary dominants, modulations, and other advanced harmonic techniques
• Develop proficiency in part-writing and voice leading
• Enhance ear training with a focus on recognizing complex harmonic progressions
• Explore musical form and structure in greater depth

Course Title: Music History                            .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None

Music History offers an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse history of music, from ancient times to the present day. Students will journey through key periods such as the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern eras, learning about the evolution of musical styles, forms, and cultural contexts. By examining the lives and works of influential composers and musicians, students will gain insight into how historical events, societal changes, and technological advancements have shaped the development of music. 

Course Objectives:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the chronological development of Western music
• Identify key musical forms, genres, and styles from different historical periods
• Analyze the social, cultural, and political factors that influenced the evolution of music
• Develop critical listening and analytical skills through study of representative musical works
• Explore the impact of major composers and performers on music history

Course Title: Music Composition/Songwriting             .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of music theory and proficiency in an instrument or voice is required.

Music Composition/Songwriting offers students a hands-on introduction to the art of composition and songwriting, providing the tools to create original music across a range of styles and genres. Students will explore key elements of melody, harmony, rhythm, and song structure, while also developing their own unique creative voice. Students will compose original works, both instrumental and vocal, and learn techniques for writing effective lyrics, arranging, and orchestrating. This course is ideal for aspiring composers and songwriters looking to express their creativity and craft original music.

Course Objectives:

• Develop skills in composing original music and writing songs
• Understand and apply key elements of song structure, melody, harmony, and rhythm
• Explore lyric writing and its relationship to music
• Learn arranging techniques and how to effectively orchestrate compositions
• Refine compositions through peer review and guided instruction

Vocal Ensemble provides singers with the opportunity to participate in a collaborative vocal ensemble, focusing on the preparation and performance of choral and small group works. Students will explore a diverse range of repertoire, from classical and contemporary choral music to jazz, gospel, and world music. Emphasis will be placed on vocal technique, blending, harmony, and ensemble dynamics, as well as performance skills. Through regular rehearsals and guided instruction, students will develop their musicianship and stage presence, culminating in a live performance at the end of the course. This course is designed for vocalists seeking to improve their individual proficiency, develop a deeper understanding of choral music, and gain valuable performance experience.

Course Objectives:

• Develop vocal ensemble performance skills, including blending, intonation, and harmony
• Explore and perform diverse repertoire from various genres and musical traditions
• Enhance individual vocal technique within an ensemble setting
• Improve sight-singing and musical interpretation abilities
• Build confidence and stage presence through live performances

Professional Preparation is designed for advanced instrumentalists seeking to prepare for a professional career in music performance. Students will focus on honing their technical proficiency, artistic expression, and performance skills while learning about the practical aspects of building a successful career in the music industry. Topics include audition techniques, portfolio development, networking, and business management for musicians. Through masterclasses, individual coaching, and performance opportunities, students will develop the confidence and expertise needed for auditions, competitions, and professional engagements. This course is designed for aspiring professional musicians looking to bridge the gap between academic study and a successful career in the music industry.

Course Objectives:

• Refine instrumental technique and musical interpretation
• Develop audition and performance skills for professional settings
• Build a professional portfolio, including resumes, headshots, and recordings
• Learn about networking, self-promotion, and career development strategies
• Gain practical experience through live performances and mock auditions

Course Title: Capstone Project (Development and Graduation Exhibition)                Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required

Capstone Project is the culminating course for advanced arts students, allowing them to showcase their mastery through an individualized, large-scale performance or research project. Students will design and execute a personalized project that reflects their artistic growth, technical proficiency, and musical interests. Options include preparing a solo recital, conducting an ensemble, composing an original work, or completing a research project on a relevant topic. Throughout the course, students will receive guidance from faculty, engage in peer feedback, and present their project to an audience in a final performance or presentation. This course is designed for students nearing the completion of their studies to demonstrate their readiness for professional performance, teaching, or further academic pursuits in their chosen arts academy.

Course Objectives:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive capstone project that reflects individual artistic and technical abilities
• Apply advanced techniques and concepts in a professional setting
• Enhance project management and self-directed learning skills
• Present the final project in a live performance or academic presentation
• Reflect on personal artistic growth and professional development

Course Title: Repertoire                        Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites:  Instructor approval required

Repertoire is designed for an instructor to critique and mentor students who are close to or at performance level. The instructor gives technical and/or advice and the audience learns by listening, observing, and applying any suggestions to their own practice. 

Course Title: Master Class Seminar                Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites:  Instructor approval required

This advanced seminar is designed for students, artists, and creatives seeking to refine their craft through in-depth exploration of artistic techniques, conceptual development, and professional practices. Each session features guest speakers, guest artists to conduct expert-led discussions, hands-on workshops, and critiques, allowing students to engage with various art forms and professionals. Through guided projects and mentorship, students will push the boundaries of their artistic expression while building a portfolio and gaining insights. The seminar also emphasizes  networking, development, and expansion of their craft.