Aural identification of factual stylistic knowledge of the major works, stylistic trends, and performance practices in twentieth-century jazz. Awareness of the major composers and geographical areas of influence in jazz from the late nineteenth century to the present. Development of a vocabulary for discussing jazz compositions, jazz performance, and improvisation. Demonstrable ability to process and write about music heard in concerts and in the class.

 

Advanced level big band. This ensemble is made up of traditional instrumentation of saxophones, trombones, trumpets, piano, bass, drums, and guitar. This ensemble performs a difficult level of music from a variety of jazz styles, including swing, be-bop, Latin jazz, and contemporary.

 

This is a performance group that requires additional rehearsal time to function. The additional time will account for what would ordinarily be homework in regular courses. This format is typical of institutions of our size that offer this class.

 

Performance of choral literature for mixed voices from all periods of music history, including sacred, secular, folk, and popular music.

 

This is a performance course open to all guitar majors. Designed to give guitar students experience performing in a large conducted ensemble. Repertoire includes music from a variety of stylistic periods. Open to non-majors; requires ability to read standard notation and a classical guitar. One public performance per semester.

 

Performance of choral literature for mixed voices from all periods of music history, including sacred, secular, folk, and popular music.

 

Orchestral ensemble open to music majors and non-majors. Audition required for all players. Ensemble will perform standard orchestral repertoire and accompany opera productions as appropriate.

 

Performance of orchestral literature of various styles and genres.

 

Designed to give students an opportunity to participate in a symphonic ensemble.

 

Rehearsal setting. Open to undergraduate and graduate non-music majors. Music majors and minors may enroll with permission of the instructor. No audition required for string players; audition required for woodwind, brass, and percussion players. One public performance each semester.

 

Performance of traditional and contemporary black gospel, spiritual, and popular music.

 

Concentration on choral literature for women's voices from all periods of music history, including sacred, secular, folk, and popular music.