This course has been revised since the previous semester. The course covers basic musicianship, piano technique fundamentals, elementary keyboard harmony, sightreading, pedal technique, and keyboard facility for use in support of other music classes. The course also offers an introduction to how the piano works, its development, and composers and pianists in various styles. Music theory in terms of scales, scale patterns, diatonic chords, available tensions, triads, seventh chords, improvisation, and some simple voicing techniques is covered. This course is for pianists and other instrumentalists who want to develop their keyboard skills.
Class is keyed to students' interests and needs.
There are opportunities to learn more advanced techniques as well as learning about song arrangements and theory. Class is keyed to students' interests and needs. Students will examine Montgomery's chord melody solos, the melodic content of his solos, and the use of playing with octaves. Students will learn the importance of Burrell's dynamics sensitivity, and will gain insight into Pass' playing of chords, walking bass lines, and improvising. Through the use of videotape these guitar masters will be introduced into the classroom.