Certification Level 1: Music Theory

Description

Building on the basics of note-reading and rhythmic constructions, this course will ensure a basic working knowledge of music theory, both generally and as it pertains to handbells and handchimes. Rhythm, basic keys & the circle of fifths, building chords and scales, basic score navigation, common performance markings and terms, as well as ear-training in the form of rhythmic dictation (i.e., “write down what you hear”), and identification of basic intervals and major/minor triads will be discussed.

Prerequisites

This class is NOT a “music fundamentals” course, but a music theory course. It assumes students already have a solid working knowledge of basic treble- and bass-clef reading and standard time signatures/note values; an understanding of what sharps and flats do; and, ideally, a general navigation of the notes of the piano keyboard.

Required Text (purchase before coming to class)

• Handbell and Handchime Notation Guide, AGEHR Music, AG015, 2016/2017

Recommended Texts

• Randel, Don Michael (ed.), New Harvard Dictionary of Music, The, Harvard University Press/Belknap Press, ISBN 0674011635 (4th edition), 2003
• Various handbell music as recommended by instructor
• Surmani, Andrew, Surmani, Karen Farnum, Manus, Morton, Alfred’s Essentials of Music Theory: A Complete Self-Study Course for All Musicians, Alfred Publishing, 2004, ISBN 9780739036358 (includes 2 CDs and answers)

Schedule

This course will be offered in three 75-minute live webinar sessions.

Session 1 – Monday, March 26, 8:00 PM Eastern

Session 2 – Monday, April 2, 8:00 PM Eastern

Session 3 – Monday, April 9, 8:00 PM Eastern

Course Fee:

Regular Registration - $165 (not including test)

Member Discounted Fee: $125 (not including test)

Testing will be available at the Handbell Musicians Certification & Instructor Accreditation event in Dallas, Texas, May 31-June 2 or at National Seminar in Grand Rapids, Michigan, July 17-21.