MO
11001, 21001, 31001, 41001—Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra
and String Arts Ensemble (CRN 30225, 33544, 33554,
33564)
Classroom: KFAC Room 136 Class
Times: MW
7:15-9:45 PM
Dr. Michael Luxner Office
Hours: MW 11 AM-12 PM, 1-3 PM
PMC 333 (424-3774) TTh
9:30 AM-12:00 PM
mluxner@mail.millikin.edu Fri
2:00-4:00 PM
Course Overview
The Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra functions
as both a major ensemble of the MU School of Music and as a community-supported
professional orchestra in the Urban budget class (American Symphony Orchestra
League Group VII). MDSO fulfills the major ensemble requirement
for music majors and minors who play orchestral stringed instruments. It
is open to all students by audition and/or placement by MU performance
faculty who serve as orchestra principals.
The String Arts Ensemble comprises students
only and meets between MDSO concert cycles. The SAE performs on
and off campus and occasionally tours for recruiting purposes.
Course Learning Objectives
Development of performance competency in an ensemble
context
Mature understanding of meaningful repertoire in a wide range of musical
styles
Rigorous standards of artistic integrity
Engagement of performance skills with the wider community
Course Prerequisites
Audition to the School of Music on an orchestral stringed
instrument, audition to the orchestra, or placement by performance faculty.
Required Materials
A well-maintained instrument suitable for performance
in a professional orchestra, appropriate accessories, music as distributed,
and concert dress.
Course Activities and Conduct
The MDSO rehearses and performs a wide range of symphonic
literature in a professional structure. A high level of preparation
and rigorous standards of professional discipline are required. Section
leaders in the String Arts Ensemble may have additional responsibilities,
including bowing, fingering, and coaching. Students enrolled for
credit may also be required to attend certain on-campus performances
relevant to the orchestra curriculum and to complete occasional listening
and score-study assignments.
Attendance and Make-up Policies
Attendance is mandatory. Failure to appear cannot
be made up, nor excused after the fact except in the case of serious
and documented emergencies. An unexcused absence lowers the semester
grade by one letter; an unexcused tardy lowers the semester grade by
one-half letter. Three absences, or absence from a concert, results
in a failing semester grade.
Methods of Evaluation and Grading
In addition to attendance, punctuality, and productivity
in rehearsal and performance, grades will be based on readiness to play
at the highest possible level as reflected by:
Preparation in advance of and between rehearsals, as
measured by individual playing tests over the course of the semester;
Proper care of instruments and accessories, including
strings, resin, bow hair, and mutes;
Well-maintained parts, including such markings as the
section leaders deem necessary;
Adherance to collegial and professional standards of
behavior and decorum at all times.
Each player is expected to bring his or her music to
every rehearsal. Missing music may be recorded as an unexcused
absence. A charge will be made for lost or damaged folders or music.
Course Schedule
The schedule of rehearsals, performances, playing tests,
and required concert attendance for the current semester is attached
to this syllabus.
Disability Arrangements
Please address any special needs or special accommodations
with me at the beginning of the semester or as soon as you become aware
of your needs. If you are seeking classroom accommodations under
the Americans with Disabilities Act, you should submit your documentation
to the Office of Academic Development located in Shilling 205.
Academic Honesty
Please refer to the statements and policies concerning “Academic
Dishonesty: Cheating and Plagiarism,” and “Disciplinary Action
for Academic Dishonesty,” MU Bulletin pages 21-22.
Concert Dress (unless otherwise
directed):
Men: Black tuxedo or suit, white shirt, black bow tie,
black dress shoes and socks.
Women: Long black, full or ¾ sleeves, black shoes. |