MUS 120 - Introduction to Piano

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the geographical layout of the piano.
2. Use appropriate posture and hand/arm positions when playing the piano.
3. Read and play simple compositions using a variety of reading techniques.
4. Demonstrate fluency in reading ability of simple compositions.
5. Read and perform rhythmic patterns of eighth notes and ties.
6. Recognize and interpret musical terms and symbols.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of the damper pedal.
8. Harmonize and transpose simple melodies using tonic triad and the first inversion dominant 7th chord.
9. Understand, play, read, and write all major and minor pentascales and triads.
10. Develop a plan for practicing a musical composition.

A. Sitting

B. Hand

C. Arm position

D. Keyboard geography

E. Musical alphabet

II. Notation: Reading Treble and Bass Clefs using Intervallic Reading Techniques

III. Terms and Symbols 

A. Definitions and uses

1. slurs and ties 

2. sharps 

3. flats

4. naturals 

5. whole steps and half steps

6. musical terminology

7. musical symbols and signs

IV. Rhythm and Meter

A. Duration

B. Time signatures

C. Upbeats (pickups)

D. Rests

E. Beat division

F. Dotted rhythms 

G. Tempo markings

V. Technique

A. Major and minor pentascales and triads 

B. Introduction to major scales

VI. Harmonization of Melodies using Tonic and Dominant Pitches

VII. Tranposition

VIII. Performance

A. Balancing melody and accompaniment

B. Efficient fingering 

C. Dynamics  

D. Articulation

E. Melodic shaping

F. Use of pedal

Demonstration: 20-35%

Student practice and performance: 50-70% 
Mandatory Course Components:
Individual practice outside of class is required. Most students require 2 hours per class period. Students must follow practice room protocols as established by the GRCC Music Department.
Equivalent Courses:
None