COURSE SYLLABUS - MUSA 128-628 BASSOON (FAll 2010)


COURSE DESCRIPTION: Instruction in bassoon technique and performance: individual lesson.

COURSE OBJECTIVES: 1) Improved performance skills on the bassoon and if appropriate the contrabassoon; 2) Introduction and continued mastery of bassoon reed adjustment and making; 3) Study of performance and pedagogical materials including solo music, studies, and published writings, 4) Applications of technology to bassoon performance or teaching.

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Music or method books to be purchased will be discussed on an individual basis. Complete parts to the required orchestral repertoire will be furnished at lessons. All students must have a metronome, reed making tools, and the means to practice with MIDI or MP3 files. Bassoon major students will also need to purchase a contrabassoon reed. Bassoon students should have all required materials for their lessons including their Applied Bassoon Lessons Assignment Sheet.

The Double Reed will provide material for discussion in master classes and lessons.  Students are required to join the International Double Reed Society so that they will have The Double Reed for discussions.  

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES: Students should be adequately prepared for each lesson.  This includes ample practice during the week, long tone and scale practice with MIDI files, arriving with all materials needed for the lesson (music, instrument, reeds etc.), and being warmed-up BEFORE the lesson starts.  Any student who is unable to fulfill these responsibilities should talk with me. Students must find their own accompanist for juries, recitals, or other performances.

MAKEUP POLICY: Students are required to attend lessons at the assigned time. Students must notify me at least 24 hours prior to the lesson to reschedule.  Lessons are not automatically rescheduled, but based upon my ability to do so. For my policy on penalties for missed lessons please see the discussion below.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

Bassoon Reed Making

Performance and music education majors (except Freshmen) with bassoon as the major instrument are required to make bassoon reeds.  They will play all juries and university performances on self-made reeds (except Freshmen).  Freshmen must complete the  reed making test this semester.

Bassoon Student Notebook

Students will maintain notebooks that contain materials distributed in lessons and master classes, items written by the student, and other useful information.  This should be a three ring binder with section dividers.  The notebook will be graded upon its completeness and organization.  We will further discuss its contents in the master class.

Minimum Materials for Bassoon Student Notebook for this semester

1.    Lesson notes and other notes.
2.    Career. Include your CV, list of career options or areas of interest.  (Students are encouraged to sign up for Hire@TU and consult the free web-based features. Even if you are not seeking employment, it is important to learn about the job market.)
3.    Assessment. Jury forms, other assessment exams.
4.    Handouts by Ewell including new fingering chart, five components, reed finishing, practicing with drones, excerpts
5.    Presentation on performance health
6.    Other Items the student deems appropriate (including past materials)

Bassoon Digital Project

Students will give a Powerpoint presentation in masterclass on one aspect of performance health. In addition, students will record their scales with Audacity or another digital audio workstation.

For further details on any of the assignments, discuss with Dr. Ewell.

Master Classes and Concerts

Students are required to attend lessons. Attendance at master classes is required, experienced reed makers may be excused from the reed making sessions. Students need to inform me at least 24 hours in advance of an absence. When it is possible the missed lessons will be rescheduled for medical or excused absences. Two unexcused absences will result in lowering by ½ of a quality point  (4.00 to 3.5; A to A-, etc.)  with each subsequent unexcused absence an additional lowering by ½ of a quality point.

Master class hours are Friday 1-3PM in room 2102 or another room as specified.

“Students should not attend classes or other university events from the onset of flu-line symptoms until at least 24 hours after the fever subsides without the use of fever reducing medications. Such absences will be considered excused absences; however, students are responsible for the material covered during the period of their absence.”

Contrabassoon Lesson

As needed.

Jury

All students must take a jury unless they have recently given a recital.

Performance Health

At least every two years music lessons and master classes will address prevention of performance injuries and health for performers.  In Fall 2010 we address these issues.

Students with Disabilities: Towson University (TU) is in full compliance with section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Students with disabilities should register with the Office for Students with Disabilities (Dowell Hall, Second Level, 410/830-2638) after admission to ensure the timely provision of required support services. Students must provide documentation of a disability from the TU Office for Students with Disabilities.

Fall 2010 Required Recitals (students must attend 3 out of 4)

Aug. 30, Dr. Marguerite Levin, 8:15 Recital Hall