Latin American Folk Music Ensemble

Course Description

Explores the folk and popular song and dance styles of the Spanish speaking areas of the region, with a heavy focus on South American and Mexican music. Students will also learn about history and social significance of those styles.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Recognize different Latin American music styles and its essential musical elements
  • Understand the role of each instrument in each style and its performance practice
  • Perform all the songs learned through the semester at an appropriate level.
  • Discuss the histories of the development of those styles
  • Learn about effective artistic communication between ensemble members, including player-to-player and player-to-conductor, in both a rehearsal and performance atmosphere.
  • Experience the making of collective musical arrangements and improvisation.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure Percentage/Points
Rehearsal Preparation and Participation 40%
Mastery of Content/Playing Proficiency 30%
Growth and Development 30% 30%

Participation will be graded according to the percentages indicated in the “Course Grading Information.”

Grading Scale

Percentage Letter Grade
≥ 93.0A
90.0-92.9A-
87.0-89.9B+
83.0-86.9B
80.0-82.9B-
77.0-79.9C+
73.0-76.9C
70.0-72.9C-
66.0-69.9D+
63.0–65.9D
60.0-62.9D-
<60.0F

Attendance/Participation:

Participation will be graded according to the percentages indicated in the “Course Grading Information.”

1 excused rehearsal absence NO PENALTY

1 unexcused rehearsal absence: Highest grade you can earn = B

2 unexcused rehearsal absences: Highest grade you can earn = C

3 unexcused rehearsal absences: Highest grade you can earn = D

4 unexcused rehearsal absences: Highest grade you can earn = F

5 or more rehearsal absences of any kind: Failing grade earned

1 unexcused performance absence: Failing grade earned

2 performance absences of any kind: Failing grade earned

2 tardies = 1 unexcused absence

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

No materials required, except for your instruments.

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.