SYLLABUS

PMW 045H University Handbell Choir

2011-2012

Cincinnati Christian University Professor Gary J. Gregory

Non-Credit Campus Phone (513) 244-8174

Meets T 3:30-5:20 p.m. (or as otherwise agreed upon) email:

Course Description and Rationale:

The University Handbell Choir is a non-credit ensemble that performs a variety of styles of music on campus and at other arranged events. The ensemble performs in the Christmas Production and other Christmas functions during the fall semester. In the Spring the ensemble performs in chapel, at the Spring Ensemble Concert and in off-campus settings. An audition is required.

Course Objectives:

The student who satisfactorily completes this course should be able to:

1. Demonstrate a responsible attitude and participation in the ensemble setting.

2. Show sensitivity to ensemble participation through appropriate dynamics, phrasing, tempos and articulations.

3. Demonstrate a mastery of ringing techniques commonly use in Handbell choirs.

Course Policies and Procedures:

  1. EACH MEMBER IS EXPECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ENSEMBLE ALL SEMESTER.
  2. Ringers are expected to take the time for outside preparation to work out trouble spots in the music and to do assigned work in order that rehearsal time can focus on musical details.
  3. Music must be stored in the designated areas only. Any music that is lost will be charged to the student's account.
  4. A member may be dropped from class with a loss of credit if more than two weeks of rehearsals (equivalent of 4 hour rehearsals) are missed.
  5. All performances are mandatory. Absence from a performance may result in dismissal from the ensemble and loss of transcript documentation for taking the class.
  6. If a school activity will cause you to be absent, please notify your director at the first opportunity either by phone or email. Always notify the director if you must miss for any reason so that adjustments can be made in the rehearsal plans.
  7. Each player is expected to pay for the cost of performance gloves ($4.00). Personal practice gloves can be purchased for $2.75. In addition to this each member is expected to pay for the cost of any outfits that the group deems necessary for a performance situation.
  8. Rehearsal procedures. Set up BEFORE rehearsal time. Plan to come a few minutes early to help with setup. The following are not permitted in rehearsal: wearing caps, shorts, sweats, or immodest clothing; food or gum; causing disruption of the rehearsal. The following are encouraged: enthusiasm, attentiveness, good technique and great playing!
  9. Members are expected to take the time for outside preparation to mark your music, if needed, and to work out trouble spots in order that rehearsal time can focus on musical details.
  10. Up to one performance per month may be added to the schedule below. Scheduling will be by mutual agreement with the group at least three weeks in advance.

Performance Schedules may change during the semester. Clarification of changes will be made in rehearsals:

TENTATIVE FALL SEMESTER SCHEDULE:

December 3-5 Christmas on Campus Production

Other appearances to be announced

SPRING SEMESTER

April 16 Spring Ensemble Concert

Other appearances to be announced

Notice: Course Plans are subject to change during the semester at the discretion of the professor.