Northern Virginia Community College-Annandale Campus

Small Ensemble and Chamber Music

Dr. James Fay, Professor of Music
Office: CM-228, (703) 323-3177 Fax: (703) 323-4248
e-mail: jfay@nv.cc.va.us   www: http://www.nv.cc.va.us/home/nvfayxj


Course Description and Objectives:

This course consists of rehearsing and when appropriate, performing music for small ensembles. Players will be placed in small groups, according to their instrument and performance level. Each group will rehearse during the class meeting times under the instruction of the teacher. 

The objective of this course is to further the ensemble playing skills of the student, in terms of technique, rehearsal skills, and musical style.


Prerequisites:

The ability to read music, and prior ensemble experience. Students are expected to supply their own instruments, piano excepted.


Policies:

Students are responsible for attending classes, doing assigned homework and ear training drills, and preparing for and taking tests. 

Students are expected to follow Information Technology Student/Patron Ethics Agreement as posted in computer areas and academic integrity standards as set down in the Student Handbook. Missing greater than 30% of classes will cause a failing grade for the class, regardless of the reason for the absence. Make-up tests will only be given when the student requests the teacher and provides acceptable reasons for the request.  Reasonably late homework is acceptable. 

In case of emergency, please follow the emergency procedure as discussed on the first day of school and as posted in the classroom.

NVCC is a place for learning and growing. You should feel safe and comfortable anywhere on this campus. In order to meet this objective, you should 

* let your instructor, his /her supervisor, the Dean of Students or Provost know if any unsafe, unwelcome or uncomfortable situation arises that interferes with the learning process; 

* inform the instructor within the first two weeks of classes, if you have special needs or a disability that may affect your performance in this course.

Grading Rationale: (91-100=A, 81-90=B, 71-80=C, 61-70=D, 0-60=F)

The student's grade will be based on attendance and punctuality at rehearsals and performances, and the level of mastery of the assigned music, weighed by the musical achievement and/or potential of the student.