Chamber Music Camp Activities

Campers participate in two elective activities. Choose from the following:

High School Camper Activities

All-State Etude Preparation

Get a jump on the competition through intensive work on the 2009-2010 All-State Orchestra Etudes. You'll be coached on strategies for efficient practice to better master technical challenges and how best to handle competitive auditions.

Composing and Arranging

An overview of tonal composition and the application of instrumentation. This course will integrate modern technology based resources in composition as well as reinforce traditional compositional processes.

Conducting

Gain insight into conducting, the ultimate synthesis of gesture, music theory, music history, ear-training, score-study, and group psychology. Determining and eliciting musical intent will be discussed, and basic patterns and cuing techniques will be introduced. Campers will need to bring a conducting baton.

Music and Technology

Introduction to computer assisted electronic music including the use of music notation programs as well as the use of technology in composition utilizing such programs as Finale, Sibelius, Garageband and Logic. An introduction to sequencing and MIDI conventions is also included in this course.

Music Literature

Listen to and discuss chamber and orchestral works. Explore the differences of musical style across history.

Musicianship for Pianists (Piano campers only)

This class will bring pianists together to discover new repertoire through listening to recordings, to explore the means by which an expressive interpretation may be achieved, and to develop listening skills.

Middle School Camper Activites

Functional Keyboard Skills

Students will explore sight-reading, harmonization, and improvisation at the piano including realization of lead-sheet chord symbols in popular and jazz styles. Both pianists and non-pianists with a basic knowledge of piano (three or longer years of piano lessons) will be welcome.

Music and Technology
Introduction to computer assisted electronic music including the use of music notation programs as well as the use of technology in composition utilizing such programs as Sibelius, and Garageband.

Music Literature

Listen to and discuss chamber and orchestral works. Explore the differences of musical style across history.

Music Theory
This course will cover a wide range of topics relating to tonal harmony as utilized in traditional Western music beginning with an introduction to music theory for the middle school student.

Violin/Viola Techniques and Cello/Bass Techniques

Get to know the ins and outs of your instrument as we introduce vibrato, explore tricks for better tone and tuning, and learn techniques for better rhythm and reading.

Questions or problems, contact Tracy See at tsee@wtamu.edu or 806-651-2854