Syllabus:

Newberry Middle School

Music Appreciation Syllabus 2024-2025 

Email: [cwatson@sdnc.org]

Office Hours: [8-8:30am]

Course Description:

Welcome to Music Appreciation! This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of music through hands-on experiences with bucket drumming, guitars, and piano/keyboard. Students will explore rhythm, melody, harmony, and basic music theory while developing performance skills on various instruments. No prior musical experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and participate!

Course Objectives:

Understand basic music theory concepts, including note reading, rhythms, and key signatures. Develop proficiency in playing simple melodies and chords on the guitar and piano/keyboard. Learn and perform basic drumming patterns using bucket drums. Explore different genres and styles of music from various cultures. Cultivate an appreciation for the role of music in society and history.

Course Materials:

Required Materials:

A pencil and eraser

Guitar picks (provided by the school)

Earbuds or headphones (optional for piano practice)

Provided Materials:

Guitars and keyboards

Bucket drums and drumsticks

Music sheets and instructional materials

Classroom Expectations:

Respect: Show respect to your peers, instruments, and the classroom environment.

Participation: Active participation is required in all activities, including playing instruments and group discussions.

Preparation: Come to class prepared with your materials and ready to learn.

Safety: Follow all safety guidelines when handling instruments to ensure a safe learning environment.

Grading Policy:

Participation (30%): Daily participation in class activities and discussions.

Performance Assessments (30%): Demonstrations of skills learned on instruments.

Written Assignments/Quizzes (20%): Music theory quizzes, reflections, and written assignments.

Final Project (20%): A group or solo performance showcasing skills learned throughout the course.

Course Schedule:

Week 1-2: Introduction to Music & Basic Theory

Week 3-5: Bucket Drumming Techniques & Rhythms

Week 6-11: Guitar Basics - Chords & Simple Songs

Week 12-17: Piano/Keyboard Basics - Scales & Melodies

Week 18: Exploration of Music Styles & Genres

Note: This schedule is subject to change based on the needs and progress of the class.

Homework and Practice:

Students are expected to practice their instruments at home whenever possible. Regular practice is essential for improvement and will be factored into participation grades.

Attendance and Make-Up Work:

Regular attendance is crucial for success in this course. If a student is absent, they are responsible for making up any missed work or performances. Please communicate with the instructor to arrange make-up sessions.

Parent/Guardian Involvement:

Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay involved in their child's musical education. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns throughout the school year.

HAVE PARENTS/GUARDIANS LOOK AT YOUR SYALLBUS!

Student Name: _______________________________

Student Signature: ___________________________ Date: __________

Parent/Guardian Name: ________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ___________________ Date: __________