The Newman School, Boston, MA
Music 9, Ms. Millard, instructor
Course Description:
Pre-IB Music 9
Ms. Millard, instructor
The Newman School, Boston, MA
Course Description:
In Music 9, students will learn the nut and bolts of music theory. We will cover note reading in treble and bass clefs, major key signatures, basic time signatures, and rhythms in different time signatures Students will learn basic keyboarding skills and be introduced to the quality and capabilities of other instruments. As students develop their own musicianship, we will listen to and discuss music by different composers and performers and explore what it means to be a musician. Students are expected to participate in class daily, answering questions concerning readings, performing sight-reading exercises, and singing song literature. The culmination of these skills will be demonstrated in a Musical Presentation given in class.
Course Requirements and Required Materials:
Students must bring the following to class everyday:
1 inch three-ring binder exclusively for music class.
Pencils - you may not use pen for quizzes or homework!
Required text: Alfred’s Essentials of Music Theory: I will collect the books once a week to check your progress.
I will assign short readings from different sources, having to do with either music history or theory. These must be stored in your binder.
At the end of the semester all students will give a presentation to their classmates (Musical Presentation). The presentation may involve a demonstration of a musical instrument, biographical information about a composer or musical group or the discussion of a piece of music and its historical context. All subjects must be cleared with the instructor in advance.
Goals and Objectives:
Students in this class will:
Learn the basics of music theory, including clefs, notes, rhythms, time signatures and key signatures.
Develop a vocabulary with which to describe music and musical performances.
Develop a discerning ear.
Gain a greater appreciation for a variety of different kinds of music and musicians.
Grading:
Grades are calculated by using the following percentages:
25% Classroom participation and Conduct
25% Quizzes and written homework assignments
25% Musical Presentation
10% Midterm
15% Final
Percentages are subject to change at instructor’s discretion.
Course Policies and Expectations:
Students are required to participate in discussions and classroom exercises in a lively but respectful manner. Poor or disrespectful conduct will not be tolerated. Any student who does not meet these expectations will be asked to leave the classroom and be subject to disciplinary action. Poor behavior will also be reflected in the final grade.
Since classroom participation comprises a large percentage of the grade, attendance is crucial. Reading and listening assignments must be done on time; you will be asked to demonstrate your knowledge in class.
Written assignments are to be completed on time unless arranged with the instructor at least two school days in advance. Students are responsible for keeping up with material in the event of any absences; assignments will be posted online and class notes should be sought from a classmate. Late work will marked down incrementally .
Students must take the greatest care that the work they present is truly their own; cheating and plagiarism will result in a zero for the assignment and academic discipline as outlined in the Student Handbook.