Course Syllabus

Course: MUSC 1800

Division: Fine Arts, Comm, and New Media
Department: Music
Title: Percussion Methods and Pedagogy I

Semester Approved: Fall 2022
Five-Year Review Semester: Fall 2027
End Semester: Summer 2028

Catalog Description: This course teaches students the fundamentals of playing all of the instruments in the percussion family. It will be taught every other year, alternating with MUSC 1700. It is optional but strongly encouraged, as it satisfies the instrumental music education major's similar requirements at transfer institutions.

Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 1; Lecture: 0; Lab: 2

Justification: This course is an important requirement in an instrumental music education degree. All other institutions in the state offer this course beginning in the freshman year, generally at the 1000 or 2000 level. Students may take this course at any time during their four-year career. However, offering this course at Snow enables students to be further ahead when they transfer.


Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to perform basic rudiments and techniques on all of the percussion instruments.  This outcome will be assessed via regular classroom participation, periodic playing tests, and written exams.

Students will know how to teach the fundamentals on these instruments to others. This outcome will be assessed via regular classroom participation, periodic playing tests, and written exams.

Students will feel confident about their knowledge in this area as they prepare to enter the workforce.  This outcome will be assessed via regular classroom participation, periodic playing tests, and written exams.


Content:
The following topics will be covered in this course:
A. Correct hand positions and sticking techniques.
B. How to read percussion notation.
C. Selection process of high quality literature for the different percussion instruments.
D. Pedagogical methods and strategies for instrumental music educators as they relate specifically to high school and middle school instrumental music programs.

Key Performance Indicators:
Class Participation 30 to 40%

Periodic Playing Tests  30 to 40%

Written Exams 30 to 40%


Pedagogy Statement:
This course will provide a welcoming environment for any student wishing to ultimately obtain a teaching license in music.

Instructional Mediums:
Lab

Maximum Class Size: 15
Optimum Class Size: 12