2013-2014Syllabus
Fall Semester 2013—January Term 2014 in Eastern Europe—Spring Semester 2014
<PLEASE READ ALL OF THIS—THANKYOU!>
Welcome to a great year of music in the GUSTAVUS WIND ORCHESTRA! In particular, a big WELCOME to all new musicians! I am excited to include all of you as successful individuals and musicians, and as members of our fine organization. I look forward to lots of personal and collective musical growth, fulfillment, and joy!
Rehearsals and Sectionals
Rehearsal Schedule (Fall and Spring are listed here, J-Term is listed on p. 17.)
Monday Tuesday Wednesday ThursdayFriday
WW Sectional- No Rehearsal B & P Sectional Full Rehearsal-Rehearsals only
4:30-5:10 PM 4:30-5:10 PM 4:30-5:20 PMon “special needs”
Full Rehearsal- Full Rehearsal- Fridays*
5:10-6:20 PM 5:10-6:20 PM4:30-5:30 PM or as arranged
*Fall Semester 2013 Friday rehearsals: PLEASE MARK THESE DATES ON YOUR CALENDAR
- October 11—Christ Chapel (DR for Family Weekend Concert performance on October 16)
- November 1—Christ Chapel (DR for Gustavus Honor Band performance—rehearsal also Sunday night—November 3—combined with GHB and Choirs: 7:45-8:30 PM--tentative)
- November 22—BRH (sound check for Fall concert on November 23)
*Spring Semester 2014 Friday rehearsals: PLEASE MARK THESE DATES ON YOUR CALENDAR
- February 14—BRH (DR for Home Concert on February 15)
- March 14—BRH (DR for Showcase Concert on March 16)
- May 9—CC (DR for Spring Concert on May 10).
The Schedule
The Fall Semester schedule commonly has a few alterations from “the norm.” Commonly, we will not rehearse on the final class days prior to Fall Break and Thanksgiving Day. Thanksgiving Week, we will have full rehearsal on Monday only. Also, the last two weeks of the term may have slightly altered rehearsal schedules (please stay tuned).
N.B.>Please remember that we will typically hold a DR on the Friday preceding a weekend performance.
As is our practice,there will be one required sectional rehearsal per weekarranged and directed by the section principal (in a normal semester, I expect ten sectionals). Section Principals, this is very important; it is your responsibility. For all rehearsals and sectionals, it is very important that all GWO musicians are warmed up and ready to play at the scheduled time. All musicians are expected to be in the rehearsal hall warming up five minutes or more prior to the downbeat. Please be very focused about arriving on time, ready to play. This is an issue of preparation, respect for the musical process, and respect for each other. As a fine conductor once said, “You should be prepared to play the most difficult passage in any of your music during the first five minutes of the rehearsal.”
Grading
Grading is based on your personal and musical commitment/contribution to the development of the ensemble, attendance and timeliness to rehearsals and sectionals, and musical effort and demeanor throughout each rehearsal. If you are late on three or more occasions to rehearsals, it will impact your grade. Contribution/commitment to the wind orchestra is of high import; the development and success of our ensemble is a result of everyone’s effort toward the study of music. I expect that you overtly offer your best effort on a daily basis and to arrive at rehearsal with your music parts prepared. I will also encourage you to keep a journal of your thinking, learning, growth and observations in Gustavus Wind Orchestra over a broad range of music and music-related topics. Journal writing is a very helpful method by which people are able to assess their own comprehensive growth. Because it is impossible to make up a missed class, attendance is a must. In a performance-based class, attendance has legitimate educational purpose. Missing a performance will have a considerable impact upon a grade. Do not be absent for any dress rehearsals (last rehearsal prior to a performance). Caps/Hats may not be worn in rehearsal.
A - exemplary musical contribution, probing and thoughtful participation, not more than one unexcused absence, on time and prepared for each rehearsal and sectional
B - consistently strong musical contribution, probing and thoughtful participation, not more than
two unexcused absences, consistently on time and prepared for each rehearsal and sectional
C - inconsistent musical contribution, unthoughtful or “detached” participation, not more than
three unexcused absences, an emerging pattern of lateness and lack of preparation
D - poor evidence of musical contribution, “detached” participation, not more than four unexcused
absences, established pattern of lateness and lack of preparation
Personal Day: If you would like to use a "personal day," (one per semester, but not in January) please plan for it, letting me know (in person and in writing) at least one week in advance. This encourages you to plan ahead and also helps me plan rehearsals—thank you! (A personal day option was created to assist an individual desiring to attend a very special event, which would normally conflict with rehearsal time. A personal day is not an “entitlement.”) If you are a person who is absent from rehearsals once per week due to a lab or other class conflict, you are not eligible for a “personal day” for that semester. In addition, lab conflict issues typically require using the “satisfactory/unsatisfactory” grading option. Please give me this information (lab conflict) in writing (copy to the Gustavus Wind Orchestra Secretary) for clear records.
Section Principals are responsible for planning/executing sectionals (ten per semester) and general section leadership. A principal player’s grade, in part, is influenced by his or her leadership in that role, including attendance at weekly GWO Council Meetings (arranged).
Traveling Home? If your “ride is leaving early” to go home, please make arrangements for a different ride. “My ride is leaving early” is an unexcused absence.
Attendance and Timeliness: This issue is CENTRAL to GWO! (Review)
Attendance will be taken at all rehearsals and sectionals. All absences must be excused in advance, via the following: 1) an email to me and to the GWO Secretary, and 2) a brief discussion with me. Late arrivals to rehearsal require a brief discussion with me. A pattern of lateness to rehearsal will impact a student’s grade. Thank youfor being responsible regarding this issue. Stop by my office (FAM 102) or call: (x7340). If you are late (without a pre-arranged absence), do expect a phone call from the GWO Secretary, or your section principal—this is an issue of accountability.
If you choose to take a nap in the afternoon, establish a fail-safe method for waking up for rehearsal. “My alarm clock didn’t go off,” is an unacceptable reason for being late to, or missing a rehearsal.
Concert Dress
Please read page 12 of syllabus.
For 2013, everyone must have his/her concert attire for our first performance on Tuesday, October 1st (Nobel Conference Performance).
2013-2014 Gustavus Wind Orchestra Performance Calendar
Be sure that you check your schedule very carefully, verify that you have no conflicts with the following dates, including conflicts with theatre productions or other “performance” related responsibilities.
Nobel ConferenceOctober 1, Tuesday, 8:00 AM SOUND CHECK; 9:05 performance in Lund Center Dress Rehearsal on Monday, September 30—4:30 PM, Lund
Family DayOctober 16, Sunday, 1:15 PM call; 2:00 PM performance Christ Chapel
Dress Rehearsal on Friday, October14—4:30 PM, Christ Chapel.
GWO Photo ShootOctober 17, Thursday in BRH. This is not a performance per se, but we do dress in concert attire. Please stay tuned for a scheduling update.
Gustavus Honor Band XXV—November 3-4 (Begins with meeting GHB Guests, 3:30 PM, CC)
Performance in Christ Chapel at 7:00 PM on November 4.
Dress Rehearsal on Friday, November 1—4:30 PM, Christ Chapel
Combined Rehearsal with GHB on Sunday, November 3—7:45-8:30 PM, CC
Fall ConcertNovember 23, Saturday, 12:45 PM call, 1:30 performance in BRH
Dress Rehearsal (sound check) on Friday, November 22—4:30 PM, BRH
The Winds of Christmas—December 10 (Christ Chapel), Tuesday. 9:40 call, 10 AM performance
Dress Rehearsal on Monday, December 9 with VWO—4:30 PM, Christ Chapel
Gustavus Wind Orchestra Eastern Europe Tour: January 22 – February 7.
See more important information about the 2014 January Term GWO Schedule on pp. 17-21.
Stay tuned for much more information—this will be an incredible and LIFE CHANGING TOUR!
GWO Home ConcertFebruary 15, Saturday. 12:45 PM call, 1:30 performance in BRH
Dress Rehearsal (sound check) on Friday, February 14—4:30 PM, BRH
Rehearsals for the week of February 9-15 will be MWF, 4:30-6:30 PM. NR on R, the 13th.
Gustavus Showcase Concert, March 16, 3:30 performance at St. Andrew’s Lutheran in Mahtomedi. This will be a full-day (we will leave in the morning and return in the evening), spectacular event, featuring GWO, GC, GSO, and GJLB. Much more information to come later.
GWO Spring Concert,May 10. Saturday, 6:15 PM call; 7:00 PM performance, Christ Chapel
Dress Rehearsal on Friday, May 3—4:30 PM, Christ Chapel (tentative) This will be a combined “larger than normal” performance with GC and CCC. We will have rehearsals in the Chapel throughout that week. Plan ahead to be flexible.
Commencement, June 1, Sunday: Commencement Sound Check/DR: 6:45 – 8:00 AM. 12:45 PM Call
May 28 (W)—Commencement Rehearsal, 8-10 AM, followed by Boat Ballyhoo
NB: A minimum grade of C- is required for all music majors for each course in the major field.
Statements of Value
The Gustavus and Vasa Wind Orchestras
As we begin a new academic year it is important that we identify, discuss, and internalize the various contributing factors of excellence and greatness that make membership in the Gustavus Wind Orchestra a life-changing and life-long experience.
Important Thoughts
“In a nutshell,” being in the Gustavus and Vasa Wind Orchestrasare about studying and performing outstanding literature with some of the finest people to be found anywhere! That is, study and performance is always about us as a community of musicians. Nevertheless, each individual member of the ensemble is of very high value, both musically and personally. By audition, you have earned a place of membership; by definition, you hold both privilege and responsibility. As a mature young adult, your personal study via daily practice/preparation is essential and expected. The rehearsal is primarily the place of “putting it together,” rather than technical drill. That part (technical drill) of study ought to be carried out in the domain of personal and sectional study. The operative word is preparation. This is an issue of appropriate “musician maturity.”
With great commitment (that is, we give up any right to give up, reduce, or quit our unrelenting effort) and high expectations (we move the line of excellence and greatness forward every day), the future musical growth of the Gustavus and Vasa Wind Orchestras is unlimited. Wearedelighted that you are a member, and salute all of you as we prepare for an outstanding academic season. Get ready for an incredible, life-changing experience (ILCHE)!
Rehearsal and Ensemble Etiquette
The following are a few items that are essential as we approach each rehearsal. There is no way to list every type of appropriate or inappropriate rehearsal behavior. However, an attitude of respect for the music and for one’s fellow musicians is essential to a great ensemble. The following are “rules of the road.”
- Arrive to rehearsal at least five minutes ahead of the scheduled beginning of the rehearsal. Use the time to warm up thoughtfully, so that you are physically and mentally prepared for the downbeat. Be prepared to play the most difficult passage in the music during the first five minutes of the rehearsal.
- Before the rehearsal begins, turn off all cell phones and other electronic communication devices. All electronic communication during rehearsal is prohibited (texting, twittering, etc.) This is an issue of respect for the music and for each other, personal maturity, and adult responsibility.
- The order of music will be on the board prior to each rehearsal. Before rehearsal begins, order the music on your desk.
- Have your pencil and other ancillary items (mutes, valve oil, etc.) “at the ready.” (Good and simple preparation)
- When the conductor asks you to “mark that accent” or gives some other instruction to mark one’s music with a pencil, do mark the music immediately. Marking is not optional. When we mark, we remember the changes that we have made. Marking avoids hundreds of future mistakes. Please do not be casual about this issue.
- As we begin to warm up and create musical sounds, become engaged in the study effort by thinking and listening and responding to every sound. As great musicians, we can—and must—do this.
- Talk only about the music and talk only when necessary. This is an issue of respect for the music and for each other, personal maturity, and adult responsibility.
- Work hard to remain focused all the way to the end of the rehearsal. That is, play your best at the “bottom of the ninth inning” (the last ten minutes of the rehearsal) even when you are physically, mentally, or emotionally tired. Great music making is very challenging—BUT—the rewards are truly filled with majesty.
- As the great conductor Arturo Toscanini said, the rehearsal space is a “temple.” What we do in rehearsal commands our very best: in preparation, in listening (both to what is performed and what is said about the performance), in “trying again,” in attentiveness, and in personal maturity. This is “big stuff,” and when we pursue the excellence and greatness that lies inside of great music, the rewards and fulfillment that come to us are nothing short of magnificent!
- Finally—remember that a very big part of growing up—is showing up (on time).
Communication
- Our first choice in good communication will always be “in person.”
- Nearly all “out of rehearsal” communication will be handled via email. SO – IT IS CRITIAL AND EXPECTED THAT YOU WILL READ YOUR EMAIL FROM US PROMPTLY, and will respond in an appropriate and professional manner. A mature approach to communication will serve you well not only at Gustavus, but in all your personal and professional relationships throughout life.
- We will not communicate via other social networking means (Twitter, Facebook, My Space, etc.)
Other Communication
Studying music in the Gustavus and Vasa Wind Orchestras is a magnificent and life-changing experience. Nearly every day, a great sense of wonder and joy are a natural part of our rehearsals and performances. But sometimes, something may “go wrong,” and we may not even be aware of the situation. Regardless—if something is not right, please give us the chance to make it right. To do that, simply schedule a time to visit. We promise to be good listeners.
And of course, when things are going great, please share the good news!
Postscriptum (via djn): As part my 2009 spring semester sabbatical leave, I traveled to the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Finland, to observe, interview, video record, and gain insight, toward what makes the conducting program at the Academy so successful. Following my return to Saint Peter, I invested a lot of time editing video, writing, and reflecting upon the experience in Helsinki. I also wrote to Juhani Poutanen, the Intendant at SA, to ask for his “big picture” perspective on what makes the SA conducting program great. I think his response has value for the Gustavus and Vasa Wind Orchestras, too.
From Juhani Poutanen, Intendant at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Finland
(italics are added)
One basic factor for good results here at the Sibelius Academy
conducting class is our conducting class orchestra. The motivation of
players in the orchestra and the conducting students combined to the
challenge which the rehearsing situation makes when trying to survive
is every year leading to some kind of family community,which many
students remember long after they graduate.
Another element is the group lesson when looking the videos together
with the students and the teacher. There is often much time for a
long talk afterwards because the learning process and new ideas
need quite often much time. It is hard for new students to get used
to be estimated in front of your teacher and other students but in
the family you can make mistakes;Infront of the professional
orchestra, it is even much harder.
In my opinion, the modern way of studying gives the student feel not
only motivated but also gives time to understand your inner mind. I
asked one of our foreign students in the class what he thinks is
different comparing our conducting class to other classes. He said
it is the peace in the mind; little by little he is doing more right
things before the orchestra and the stress tolerance is now better
than before, which he could easily see looking the videos.
There are no extra gimmicks in our education but more like love for
music, hard work and study, inner self-knowledge and honest mind.
-Juhani Poutanen , April 2009
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GWO and VWO Outcomes
The student will:
1. Demonstrate a useful and evolving artistic instrumental tone in all registers, styles, and tempi, at all appropriate dynamic levels.
2. Demonstrate a competent and evolving skill/artistic level of aural sensitivity, insight, discrimination and perception. These skills will include topics of proper breathing techniques, pitch, balance, blend, attack/release, rhythm and rhythmic energy, pulse, harmony and dissonance, balance and blend, form and architecture, shaping of single notes and phrases, tempo.
- Demonstrate useful and effective interpersonal skills as a member of the Gustavus Wind Orchestra community. Such skills will include respect for the rehearsal process (via careful artistic preparation), musical inclusivity/awareness, respect for other members of the wind orchestra, and demonstrating a strong commitment to musical/artistic goals as the highest priority.
4. Demonstrate a commitment/contribution to the process of musical learning via appropriate preparation of the literature studied, attendance and timeliness (being on time for rehearsal and related events) and overt classroom involvement.
5. Exhibit a pattern of critical thinking and perception/reaction to artistic growth regarding the music studied.
Objectives
First Order
The student will:
1. Understand one's musical/artistic and ethical responsibility as a member of the Gustavus Wind Orchestra.