MUSIC 421
 INSTRUMENTAL CONDUCTING

Spring 2008 - Directed Study

INSTRUCTOR
Daniel Kiser, kiser@lrc.edu  
Mauney Music Building 11
Phone ext. 7154 

CATALOG DESCRIPTION
The emphasis of study will be on baton and rehearsal techniques, score reading and knowledge of various instrumental group voicing. Teacher Education competencies in instrumental conducting and graded literature are addressed. Three credits. (Even Spring)

OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course, students will have knowledge of and basic competence in instrumental conducting techniques and gestures, rehearsal procedures, balance and blend, articulation, stylistic and interpretive elements, terminology, and standard instrumental literature.

NORTH CAROLINA STATE TEACHER COMPETENCIES
Music teachers rehearse and conduct various types of ensembles.
Music teachers analyze musical scores and compositions.

REQUIRED TEXTS

TBD
 
Battisti, Frank and Robert Garafolo. A Guide to Score Study. Meredith Music Publications, 1990.

REQUIRED MATERIALS

1.  Scores
Selected scores will be purchased throughout the semester. Students are expected to order scores the same day as assigned. Among other vendors, J.W. Pepper is a reliable source for scores. Full scores should be obtained when available.

2.  Baton
Students should acquire a conductor’s baton that is lightweight, properly balanced, and 10-12 inches in length. Recommended models:  Mollard ”S” model & Hermele No. 4 handle, 10’, 11” or 12” shaft. Wood shaft batons will be lighter; fiberglass shaft batons will be more durable.

3.  Metronome
Basic metronome, either electronic or mechanical.

4. Video recordings
Students will maintain a video record of selected practical exams and Concert Band rehearsals, a copy of which will be submitted for permanent file at the end of the semester.

5. Recordings of studied literature
Students will acquire selected recordings for study. Some may be available electronically (iTunes or other vendor), other recordings may be ordered online. Walking Frog Records provides a good selection of concert band recordings.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1.  REGULAR ATTENDANCE 
Because of the performance nature of the course, regular attendance at all class meetings is expected.  Unexcused absences will result in a final grade reduction of one-third of a letter grade for each absence.  Attendance is mandatory for required conducting field trips and at the Northwest District Festivals.

2.  DAILY PRACTICE OF ASSIGNMENTS
Students are to practice in front of a mirror on a daily basis.  Knowledge of the works assigned will include the ability to sing, rehearse and conduct each instrumental line as well as to articulate potential problems in the composition and possible solutions to those problems.  

3.  CONDUCTING OF THE CONCERT BAND
Students will be expected to conduct the Concert Band as assigned during the semester and will maintain a video record of selected assignments.

4.  SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF QUIZZES, CONDUCTING EXAMS, WRITTEN EXAMS, AND PROJECTS:
Quizzes (i.e., on musical terms and techniques pertinent to conducting), midterm and final taped conducting exams (the student will be asked to supply a blank video), final written exam, listening and repertoire projects are all features of this course. 

5. LITERATURE AND CONDUCTOR REVIEWS & OBSERVATIONS
Attendance at the Northwest District Bandmasters Concert Band Festival is required. Middle school festival is March 12-14, and the high school festival is March 19-21. Students will be expected to complete a written critique of four middle school and four high school performances. Critiques should include the standard adjudication form and observations of the conductor’s technique and effectiveness.

EVALUATION
The course grade will be determined by written quizzes and exams, assignments, video record of conducting, daily practice, and score study, NW District festival assignments, and formal conducting assessments.

SYLLABUS
The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the syllabus as the semester progresses in order to most effectively meet the needs of the students. Appropriate advanced notice of any changes will be given to students.