Central Methodist University Department of Music
MU305 A/B, Jazz Ensemble
0 or 1 credit
Fall 2020
Meeting Location and Times:
Classic Hall Band Room, Tue/Thu 1p-1:50p
Dr. David Witter
Classic Hall 202-C
660-651-9964, dwitter@centralmethodist.edu, office hours by appointment
Mission
Central Methodist University prepares students to make a difference in the world by emphasizing academic and professional excellence, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.
Description
Performance ensemble. Will include performances on campus, as well as specialized practice in small and large group jazz ensemble work.
Purposes
To gain an understanding of how to perform jazz music
To refine performance skills on one’s respective instrument or voice
To gain an understanding of how to collaboratively participate in a musical ensemble
Outcomes
The successful student will:
—Perform at their highest level
—Demonstrate leadership in an ensemble
—Collaborate musically
—Understand the role of different instruments and voices in a jazz ensemble
—Be able to improvise their own part for a jazz standard using a lead sheet
Assessment activities (student mastery of outcomes will be demonstrated through the following activities)
—Regular performances including to but not limited to on-campus big band, combo, and solo concerts
—Weekly rehearsals
—Participating in classroom discussion
Course Grades
90-100%A
80-89%B
70-79%C
60-69%D
0-59%F
Facemask Policy
Wearing a face mask is about protecting others, our Central Methodist Community and the communities we work in. The primary purpose of wearing a face mask is to reduce the probability of virus spreading from the wearer (who may not know they are spreading the virus) into the environment and to others. The secondary purpose of the face covering is to reduce the likelihood that large droplets containing virus that are spread by others may enter the nose and mouth of the wearer. The use of a face mask does not replace the continued need to maintain physical distances from others, at least 6 feet, but instead augments physical distancing and helps us further reduce the likelihood of virus transmission.
A face mask is a cloth, bandana, or other type of material that covers an individual’s mouth and nose. The CDC lists five criteria for “cloth face coverings,” which should:
•Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
•Be secured with ties or ear loops
•Include multiple layers of fabric
•Allow for breathing without restriction
•Be able to be cleaned or laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to shape.
The complete CMU Face Mask Policy is available at:
https://www.centralmethodist.edu/about/offices/human-resources/_docs/FaceCoveringPolicy.pdf
Absence Policy
Attendance may not be tied to grades in any way in Fall 2020. If there are extenuating circumstances that require your absence, please contact me and your band leader within 24 hours of any rehearsal or performance you are expected to be at. Please keep in mind that both that your bandmates are depending on you, but that we also all expect that you pay attention to your own health and your role in keeping your neighbors healthy as well.
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, dry cough, unusual tiredness, gastro-intestinal distress, change in sense of smell or taste. If you are experiencing symptoms, please attend class on Zoom. For a more thorough list of symptoms visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html.
Class Cancellation
In the event of a Church or rehearsal cancellation, I will notify you via email within 24 hours of the event.
Non-discrimination Policy
Central Methodist University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual preference, religion, sex, national origin, age, or federally defined disability. This includes but is not limited to recruitment and admission of students, educational programs, services, activities, financial aid, and scholarship programs. The University complies with all federal and state non-discrimination requirements.
The procedures, described in the university’s catalog, are intended to guide and assist faculty, staff, and students in complying with this policy and in determining reasonable accommodations to be made for the federally defined disability claimed. All materials and information regarding disabilities will be governed by the University’s normal policies regarding privacy.
Students Requiring Special Accommodations
Central Methodist University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual preference, religion, sex, national origin, age, or federally defined disability/state defined handicap ("disability"). This includes but is not limited to recruitment and admission of students, educational programs, services, activities, financial aid, and scholarship programs. The University complies with all federal and state non-discrimination requirements. The Center for Learning & Teaching at Central Methodist University is committed to ensuring nondiscrimination and equal access to all programs, service, and activities for qualified students with a disability. It is the responsibility of any student who wishes to claim a disability and seek an accommodation to file official documentation confirming the disability and a completed Disability Services Student Information Form with the Center of Learning and Teaching prior to seeking any accommodation based on the disability.
Grievance Policy
Central Methodist University has established a grievance policy and process designed to provide students and others with a process to resolve potential issues. This policy and process is established to provide persons with an avenue to file a written concern and to establish a process to track and implement changes as a result of said concern. For more detailed information, consult the CLAS catalog at: https://clas-catalog.centralmethodist.edu/info/University%20Policies.html#info13-grievance
If an issue cannot be solved through consultation with the faculty or division chair, students can report an incident/issue within 30 days of the event via the online web form https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?CentralMethodistUniv&layout_id=3
Health and Safety for Musicians
Musicians face a number of health and safety issues, particularly in applied lessons and ensembles. Hearing concerns, vocal health, and muscle injuries are a concern for faculty and students. Awareness and education are key to preventing harmful habits or injuries.
In addition to the information shared with you in lessons and rehearsals, there is material available to you regarding best practices for maintaining hearing, vocal, and muscular health. Helpful information is posted on the Fine Arts section of the CMU webpage.
http://www.centralmethodist.edu/student-life/services-and-resources/music-resources.php
Contribution
Each class member is required to prepare for and contribute to assigned rehearsals and performances accordingly.
Grade Weight
Rehearsal/Performance Attendance 50%
Contribution 50%