Course Description and Objectives

Course Objectives: Theory I begins training in basic musicianship and written skills. Music Fundamentals focuses on the fundamental aspects of music theory including rhythm, meter, time signatures, musical notation, clefs, tempo indications, scales, keys, intervals, chords, cadences, harmonic progression, tonality, musical calligraphy, figured bass, and solfege.(For a list of specific topics covered in this class click here.) The student will also be able to aurally identify scales, scale degrees, simple intervals, and chord qualities.

By the completion of the course, the student should have a foundation to begin the study of part writing, and the harmonization of diatonic melodies which is the focus of Theory I.

Grading (percentages subject to change slightly):

Written Exams (2) 70% (35%each)
Dictation Exams (2) 20% (10% each)
Homework/Discussion Group Participation 10%

* The Written and Dictation Exams will be given on campus.

Midterm and Final Exams: Dates, time, and room TBA

Class Policy: Assignments must be postmarked on or by the date indicated on the schedule (The DUE DATE should be the POSTMARK DATE). Late work (work received bearing a postmark later than the one required) will not be graded. However, I will make every effort with you to make up work/tests missed due to "catastrophic" events. Contact me immediately if problems arise.

The Discussion Group and Chatroom is established for the discussion of issues pertinent to the class. The daily posting of questions will improve your participation grade.

Academic Dishonesty: Anyone found breaching the laws of academic integrity will be dealt with severely. All assignments must be done by the student without help from others, except your teacher. Do not solicit answers to assigned questions on the list-serv, through email, or directly from other students. Use these forums to pose questions that will help you to understand the concepts. Therefore, when test time comes around (and more importantly - when you apply these concepts to your musical performance or listening experiences!) you can apply the knowledge you gained. If anyone is found copying the work of other students, or doing the work for other students, they may be removed from class, and perhaps removed from the university. DO YOUR OWN WORK!