Revised 08/2024

MUS 185 - Applied Music - Percussion (1 CR.)

Course Description

Teaches fundamentals of percussion instruments. Studies the standard repertoire. 1 half-hour lessons per week, 4 hours practice (laboratory) required.

General Course Purpose

Students taking applied strings lessons will develop markedly improved percussion technique (including hand and arm posture, mallet technique and music reading), basic knowledge of hand physiology and health, and an increasing repertoire of standard percussion literature appropriate and suitable for audition and public performance.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

None.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

• Recognize pitch notation in both treble and bass clef
• Recall beginning stick and mallet technics
• Recognize and perform rhythm notation
• Reproduce learned skills to learn a new piece without coaching
• Recall the correct physical approach to the instrument for better technical control and comfort
• Sight read at beginning level

Major Topics to Be Included

• Pitch and rhythm notation
• Technical exercises designed to strengthen and improve technique on the instrument
• Performing skills - how to prepare for a performance
• Problem solving skills designed to efficiently learn new music
• Close attention to the holding of the sticks or mallets in a relaxed manner and approach to the
• instrument being stuck