Percussion Ensemble

Catalog description

Study and performance of percussion chamber music in various instrumental combinations, focusing on the classical and contemporary repertoire. MUSIC 86 Percussion Ensemble (1 per semester/maximum of 8) (GA)(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. Percussion Ensemble involves the rehearsal and performance of works for various combinations of percussion instruments in a chamber music setting. It also involves the group study of the various percussion instruments and techniques as described by or demonstrated by the conductor of the ensemble (percussion faculty member). The objectives of the course are to teach the art of ensemble performing (i.e., performing music well in a collaborative sense rather than just individually), to augment the understanding of the role of percussion within the discipline of music, and to foster the skills of organization and cooperation through rehearsal and performance of music requiring (generally) three to twelve players. Due to the nature of this type of musical organization and given the wide variety and large number of instruments which may be involved at any given time, there is also an inherent study of logistics involved when setting up or moving the instruments from one venue to another. Students performing in Percussion Ensemble are generally also involved in performing in other larger heterogeneous instrumental performing groups such as the bands and orchestras. Skills learned in the Percussion Ensemble setting directly affect the ability of these students to contribute a highly developed sense of musical unity in the larger performing groups. They also learn specific skills which are necessary for successfully entry and acceptance into professional music performance circles. The course is offered each semester and the enrollment is generally between six and twelve performers.