MUSC 237
STRING CLASS

1. Catalog Entry

MUSC237. String Class
Three hours laboratory (1:1).

Fundamentals of playing violin, viola, cello and bass; teaching skills; maintenance techniques.

2. Detailed Description of Content of Course

I. Introduction and General Information

A. Parts of the Instruments and Bows
B. Holding the Instruments and Bows
C. Tightening and Rosining the Bow
D. Sound Production and Tone Control
E. Basic Bowing
F. Tuning and Instruments

II. Basic Techniques

A. Right-hand

1. Bow direction
2. Bow speed and pressure
3. Bow angle and placement
4. Tone production
5. Slur

B. Left-hand

1. Basic hand - arm - thumb position and angle
2. Finger placement and relaxation
3. Finger agility

III. Intermediate Techniques

A. Positions and Principles of Shifting
B. Bowing Techniques, Scales and Arpeggios
C. Double Stops, Chords and Arpeggios
D. Harmonics: Natural and Artificial
E. Vibrato
F. Bowing Conventions and General Principles of Fingerings
G. Fingering Charts

3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Following an initial presentation of basic information this course is conducted as a learning laboratory with students involved with hands-on experience with the basic skills of string instrument performance techniques. Each student will develop basic performing skills on at least one bowed string instrument.

4. Goals and Objectives of the Course

Students should develop a practical knowledge of and experience with the basic skills of string instrument performance.

5. Assessment Measures

Grades are based upon testing of basic information knowledge and testing of basic performance skills on at least one string instrument.

6. Other Course Information
7. Approval and Subsequent Reviews

DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
February 2006 Reviewed E. Fellin, Chairman