"No other school within the university...give[s] you such a sense of community or belonging. We are constantly interacting with each other, bettering each other as we better ourselves...that 'relentless pursuit of excellence' we all desire and strive to achieve."
Scott Copeland, BM Trumpet Performance 2009
PERCUSSION PROGRAM  

Curriculum

In addition to the requirements for our various degrees the percussion program is also proud to offer the following supplemental courses to percussion students.

Orchestral Repertoire Class (1 credit) - offered FALL / WINTER

Instructor: Prof. Ian Ding

**Eric Schweikert - Acting Principal Timpanist, Detroit Symphony Orchestra - Visiting Artist, Fall 2011

Prerequisites - Permission of Instructor

Orchestral Repertoire Class covers repertoire and techniques for standard orchestral percussion instruments -- timpani, bass drum, snare drum, xylophone, glockenspiel, tambourine, triangle, cymbals, and the occasional unusual instrument -- in the context of both real-world performance and auditions. Standard excerpts are presented and studied, sometimes in conjunction with sound recordings and score study.  Methods for the full exploitation of the acoustical characteristics of the instruments as well as musical interpretations are explored in depth. The course meets once-a-week during the semester and concludes with a live mock-audition.  

 

 Percussion Pedagogy (3 credits) - offered FALL ONLY

Instructor: Prof. Jonathan Ovalle

Prerequisites - Graduate Student or Upper Division Standing (jr, sr)

Percussion Pedagogy Class seeks to assist students in acquiring a broad understanding of various pedagogical approaches to teaching the percussive arts. Percussive teaching strategies as well as repertoire are covered in the areas of snare drum, mallet keyboards, timpani, multi-percussion, drumset and marching percussion. Special emphasis is given to the observation and critique of each student's individual teaching and class management skills as assessed in demo exercises and teaching models throughout the course. Additional topics covered include percussion arranging as well as use of technology.

 

 Percussion Literature (3 credits) - offered WINTER ONLY

         Instructor: Prof. Joseph Gramley

         Prerequisites - Graduate Student or Upper Division Standing (jr, sr)

The goal is to provide a broad based historical context focusing on the development, interpretation and theoretical analysis of percussion literature including the genres of symphonic, mixed chamber music, percussion ensemble, solo– including concerti, as well as intermediate repertory.  The course will primarily focus on works emanating from Western European Art Music traditions while also incorporating concepts of global music in an historical context and its social relevance within the community. 

 

Percussion Studio Class (0 credits)

Percussion Studio Class is a required 2hr weekly meeting of the entire percussion studio and is an integrated part of the applied lesson curriculum. Studio Class is a forum where guest artist clinics are hosted, faculty masterclasses/lectures are presented, and other special-topic forums are offered to the entire percussion studio. At least twice each semester, a performance class is scheduled allowing for students to present works they are studying in lessons and/or preparing for recitals/juries. Each student is required to perform a work in studio class at least once every semester.

 

Professor Udow works with BM Pete Dileo

Former Professor Michael Udow works with student Pete Dileo during percussion studio class.

 

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