Besides time spent in the lessons and ensemble classes, the student groups participate as representatives of SPC in many outside performance situations, such as bluegrass festivals, civic clubs, senior citizens centers, and at many community functions. In addition to the bluegrass classes, courses are offered in song writing, music theory, arranging, history of country and bluegrass, studio recording techniques, music promotion, plus private lessons and ensemble instruction in electric country and pop music styles. The Creative Arts Building, that houses the Bluegrass program, also is the home for the Sound Technology program, Commercial Music, and the Performing Arts Technology program. Students from all over the world come to Levelland, Texas and South Plains College to immerse themselves in and learn the fine art of bluegrass music from the exceptional faculty of professionals at the finest bluegrass teaching facility in the world. These ensembles are designed to be as close as possible to a full performing bluegrass unit, doing both vocal and instrumental music.
Placement is by audition.
Alan Munde, Steve Garner. CM 1236, Bluegrass Instrumental Ensemble - This ensemble is designed to develop bluegrass instrumental repertoire and improve playing techniques. The ensemble is open for all instruments. The curriculum for the class is the four volumes of Festival Favorites recordings by Alan Munde, and is open to all but very beginning players. CM 1236, Bluegrass Vocal Ensemble - This ensemble will introduce the basic concepts of bluegrass harmony singing with an emphasis on practical application.