|
OBJECTIVES
The keyboard department offers classical piano and organ instruction with a commitment to developing the potential of each student. This is accomplished within several levels of study since many students have a primary interest in keyboard while others divide their time among multiple areas of interest. In all levels, the aim is to build a basic foundation in musicianship: technique, disciplined practice habits, and musical awareness.
Auditions/interviews are scheduled for all new students to determine the appropriate level of keyboard study. The division between private lessons and class piano is based upon student time commitment, academic schedule, and level of playing.
In addition to the regular training by the artistic faculty, we provide special opportunities for students to participate in master classes, workshops, and lectures/demonstrations by internationally-renowned artists. Recent guests include Marcus Roberts, Misha Dichter, Eugene Istomin, Jerome Lowenthal, Russell Sherman, Gerre Hancock, Gillian Weir, Frederick Swann and Marilyn Mason.
DESCRIPTION OF COURSES
PIANO
This program develops skills at various levels of piano study, and each student auditions for placement at the appropriate level. Each semester, students taking private lessons perform a program of works in a variety of styles. The department faculty evaluates and makes comments on student performances.
Class Piano
Grades 9-12
Full Year Course
Pre-requisite: Student has to have passed into Music Theory and Musicianship
.50 credit per semester, class meets daily.
Class Piano is paced for the motivated student beginning with no keyboard skills. The course uses the piano lab and emphasizes reading and keyboard theory. Most people will be able to meet the class requirements with practice during the class hour. However, students for which this is difficult may need to practice additionally outside of class. More experienced students will supplement class assignments with additional repertoire. Non-majors with advanced piano training should audition for secondary piano lessons.
At the end of two semesters of Beginning Piano Class students should be able to:
Fluently read both treble and bass clefs.
Have developed a process of effectively learning a piece of music within their capacity.
Be able to perform music at an advanced elementary stage.
Play all of their repertoire and technique showing healthy and strong hand position,alignment, and coordination.
Express and translate rhythms both at and away from the keyboard.
Know and play with correct fingering all major scales in two octaves, hands separately.
Know and play with the correct fingering all major and minor triads and inversions blocked and broken, hands separately.
Know and play with correct fingering basic I – IV – V – I cadence patterns in all keys.
Accompany simple melodies with block chords using I, IV, V chords.
PIANO LESSONS FOR PIANO MAJORS
Students enroll in one full period lesson per week with three hours minimum daily practice expected and participation in weekly studio class required. Public opportunities for performance include bi-weekly student recitals, the annual concerto competition, outreach performances and studio tours. Outstanding achievement is honored by the opportunity to present a full or partial solo recital.
PIANO SEMINAR
Grade 12
Pre/Co-Requisite: Music Theory and Musicianship
Piano Majors Only
Full Year Course
.50 credit per semester, class meets daily.
This class comprises Keyboard Harmonization and Improvisation, Piano Technology and Historical Development, Overview of Piano Literature and Masterclass, divided among the four class meetings each week. The objective is to develop a solid skill base in each of four areas critical to the pianist’s education. The course is team-taught by members of the keyboard faculty and our resident piano technician.
JAZZ PIANO CLASS
Grade 9-12
Pre/Co-Requisite: Piano proficiency and permission of Instructor
Full Year Course
.25 credit per semester, class meets 2 periods per week.
Students address the basic theory and techniques of jazz performance by listening to the work of the most influential pianists in the evolution of the idiom and developing their individual skills.
ORGAN
The program of organ study at the Interlochen Arts Academy is individualized and tailored to the level, background, and needs of each student. It stresses a solid foundation in technical skills and covers a wide range of literature. Students are expected to develop highly proficient keyboard facility through daily study and practice of both organ and piano.
BEGINNING ORGAN CLASS
This course is designed as an introduction for students with no prior experience with the organ. The prerequisite is proficiency in piano and primary instrument. The course starts with pedals. As students become comfortable with combining hands and feet, the class addresses topics such as organ repertoire, mechanics of the instrument, practical applications (hymn playing in particular) touch, articulation and registration. Practice time is included as part of the class.
ORGAN MAJORS CLASS
This course is an extension of private lessons. It addresses many of the same concepts, but in a group setting. It is designed to be flexible to meet the varying levels and needs of the organ majors. Topics covered are hymn playing, improvisation, practice skills and performance skills. Studio classes, master classes and regular performances at local churches are a large part of this course.
PIANO LESSONS AS A SECONDARY STUDY - BY AUDITION
Students are provided one half period or a full period lesson per week, depending on the student's level of skill and the availability of faculty. One to two hours of daily practice are required, as well as participation in weekly studio class. Students study intermediate level repertoire to further develop their musicianship and skills.
|
