MUS 121 - Piano Techniques I

2. Understand and develop the following technique:

a. White key major and minor scales one octave hands together in quarter notes at 72 bpm using standard fingerings.

b. White key arpeggios 2 octaves hands separate in quarter notes at 72 bpm using standard fingerings.

c. White key major and minor triads and inversions, played hands separate,  blocked in quarters and broken in triplets using standard fingering at 40 bpm. 

d. White key major and minor cadences, played in the left hand only, using primary chords beginning with the tonic in root position.

4. Demonstrate skill in harmonizing melodies using chord progressions consisting of primary triads.

5. Demonstrate skill in transposition of short pieces with a melody in a single hand position.

6. Demonstrate skill in using basic articulations, in employing stylistic elements, and in following interpretative terms for each of the areas studied.
Course Outline:
I. Notation

II. Note Values

III. Scales, Arpeggios, Triads and inversions

IV. Technical Work

V. Musicianship Skills

A. Harmonization

B. Tranposition

C. Sight-Reading

VI. Performance in Class

VII. Ensemble Playing

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