LISTENING PROJECT- TERM 3 (March-May) Due May 19^th, 2011

Based on:

1) My belief that a person's love for music evolves and grows as that person's knowledge and experiences with music broadens,

2) That one of the goals of this Music Department is to produce educated, knowledgeable consumers of music .

3) The fact that a vast majority of high school musicians are not exposed to enough forms of music.

This term the assignment is:

1) Each student must attend a “minimum” of TWO (2) "out-of-school" concerts for the 3^rd term.

2) Following the FIRST concert/recital the student must come in and talk with me about the performance. BRING the concert program, program notes and “your” notes. This meeting will not last more than 5 minutes!! Following the SECOND concert/recital you will submit a written (preferably typed) report on the performance. GRAMMAR COUNTS! The student is responsible for stapling a copy of the program and program notes (if available) to the report. “Take notes at the concert” (small) that will help you complete your report. Be prepared to comment on concepts and observations other than "this movement was fast / this one was slow!" Take into account intonation, balance, blend, form, style, musicality, solos, quality of performance, difficulty of music, etc., etc., etc. BE SPECIFIC! Your paper need not be long – two to three pages are sufficient. The commentary should touch on ALL music performed in the concert; however you may choose one or two selections for more detailed analysis. You should listen for the musical elements and other items listed on the “LISTENING GUIDE SHEET”. Include as many of the elements as possible or as apply in your commentary. Please remember that the primary reaction to all art is emotional. Although I am asking you to listen for as many specific musical elements as possible, don’t exclude your emotional response or honest reaction from your commentary. Examples: The melody may sound melancholy to you; The harmonies may be very strange to your ear and you might not like it; You may find the instrumentation fascinating; You may favor the style of a certain composition over another composition on the same concert; You may really love the tempo and rhythm patterns of a particular piece on the program. Listen honestly, openly and intelligently and your paper and comments will reflect it! The grade for this report will be based on 70% Content and 30% Grammar. Please continue to pursue better writing skills with this assignment!

These concerts/recitals need not be far away or cost any money for admission. Many concerts in the area are free, or complimentary tickets may be obtained. Concerts or recitals attended must be "classical" or "jazz" in nature - and may NOT be part of our school calendar. Events to look for can come from Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Vancouver Opera, UBC Wind Symphony and Symphonic Orchestra, Capilano Ensembles, etc. “WARNING”: If you have a question about whether or not the concert/recital you plan to attend will be acceptable -ASK- when in doubt, check it out! Certain “cabaret” type concerts may not be approved...when in doubt “ASK!” This is a BAND/ ORCHESTRA Assignment – try to hear bands, orchestras – jazz bands, etc. NOTE: Ask at least one week in advance for free tickets! This project must be completed by May 19th, 2011 and will count for approx. 10% of your grade for the term. Nothing will be accepted after May 19th!

HAVE FUN, ENJOY!

Remember:

1. Hand-in written reports within 10 schools days.

2. Verbal reports must take place within 5 school days.

3. Arrive at the concert EARLY – read program notes (they will add to your understanding, knowledge and appreciation of the works on the concert!)

4. Be considerate of others at the concert – don’t detract from their listening

5. Hear the whole concert

6. Take brief notes – bring “Listening Guide Sheet” and something with which to write.

7. Bring notes & program to “discussion style” reports w/Ms. Anderson.