Fundamentals of music

Lectures: 2 sessions / week, 1.5 hours / session

This course covers the following topics.

... He who cannot hear what he sees and cannot see what he hears is not a musician.

... The criteria of a good musician are: A well-trained ear, a well-trained intellect, a well-trained heart, and well-trained fingers.

... The real reward comes to those who sing and feel and think with others. This is what harmony means.

—Zoltan Kodály, Selected Writings

The Kodály Philosophy of music education is known among musicians worldwide for its inclusive points of view: Music is for everyone; no person is complete without music; the best approach to musical genius is through the instrument accessible to nearly everyone - the human voice; everyone can learn to sing in tune; authentic folk songs provide a body of masterpieces by which we can be led to the masterpieces of renowned composers; all musicians, whether novices or professionals, must aspire to develop their ability to hear with the inner ear the music which is on the page, and to express from the heart. It is due to this frame of mind that our approach to the Fundamentals of Music is based upon the Kodály Philosophy. You can read more about the Kodály Philosophy at the Web site of the Organization of American Kodály Educators.

While principles of musical notation are central to the course, we consider 21M.051 to be a skill-building course. In that regard, our goals include creating an environment in which the student can be encouraged to sing in tune, enabling the student to train her/his music literacy and inner hearing, and making music musically. Please be reminded that such skills are best learned under the guidance of a live teacher who possesses the experience necessary to evaluate your skill level and inspire your growth.

Students who have already taken 21M.301 or 21M.302 may not enroll in 21M.051.

Students are required to attend a weekly Piano Lab for one hour. You will be expected to prepare for your lessons by practicing daily as assigned by your Piano Lab instructor. The lab sessions are limited to four students per hour.

Students will take four tests during the term.

The greater portion of your grade will be determined by the quality of your daily preparation for and recitation in the Lectures and Piano Lab.

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