Chamber Orchestra
Course Description This class is designed for high school students that have experience playing violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students need to have completed two or more years of prior instruction and reach a level of playing to be able to play music of grade 4 and above and have demonstrated the ability to be independent learners. Skills will be practiced in solo playing, orchestral performance, and small ensemble. The general goal is for students to be able to confidently and accurately perform appropriate grade level music. As a result of their practice and exposure to high quality musical performance and literature, they should also develop an appreciation for the skill and artistry involved in playing a musical instrument. Through the study of music theory and history, students should also be able to place famous composers in a historical context and discuss various elements of music used in traditional orchestral repertoire. Course Contents: North Carolina Strings Curriculum Standards aligned with National Standards for the Study of Music:
Objectives: The following objectives are based on the National Music Education Course Standards, and the North Carolina Music Education Achievement Standards. High school strings objectives expand and build on skills and concepts previously exercised in prior grades. Grade Level Objectives: • The student will be able to demonstrate shifting as needed to perform two and three octave scales. • The student will be able to tune Instruments by Fifths (violin/viola) and Harmonics (Cello/Bass). • The student will be able to sight read music in standard duple, triple, asymmetrical and multiple meter. • The student will be able to perform rhythms containing triplets and syncopation. • The student will be able to demonstrate bowing with detached slurs, spiccato, martele, and tremolo. • The student will be able to describe relative majors and minors. • The student will be able to write major and minor scales. • The student will be able to identify written intervals. • The student will be able to define vocabulary in orchestral selections. • The student will be able to perform in wide range of dynamics to include pp to ff. Advanced Level Objectives: Students considered “advanced” should fluently demonstrate all Grade Level Objectives. In addition to these, advanced level students are expected to assume positions of leadership within the Orchestra. They should consistently model appropriate performance skills and orchestral etiquette. Some examples of expectations for Honors Level students follow: • The student will be able to demonstrate fluent vibrato. • Private Instruction is highly recommended. • Additional performance opportunities such as recitals and performances at local venues. • Auditioning for DPS and Regional Orchestras is required of all Chamber Orchestra students. • Providing instruction to other class members when requested by Director. • Students are required to have the following materials daily for class: Instrument, instrument accessories, method book, folder containing current information and pieces of study, notebook, pencil, and rosin. |
Required materials: Essential Technique for Strings 3
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