MUSC 220 - Fundamentals of Music Theory

Hayden Hall, Room 105.
Tuesdays 12:30-1:45, Wednesdays 1:00-1:50, Fridays 12:30-1:45
Class 3Friday, January 19

OK, we did three different things in class today.

  • We reviewed how to count "telephone" and "grasshopper" figures, because some people are finding them tricky on Worksheet #2.
  • Next we got into finding notes on the piano keyboard, and measuring whole steps and half steps. These are covered in chapters 4 and 5 of our theory anthology. I gave out Worksheet #3 which includes these things.
  • Finally, we did some dictation exercises (writing down simple rhythms by ear) which went pretty well.

All current homework assignments (including the new one, #3) are blogged below.

Assignment #1: Student Survey

The next task is to fill out a short survey that asks you about your musical experiences, what you like, and where you get your music from.

This is the first homework assignment! If you complete it before class on Friday, Jan 26 you get an automatic check- plus (100). You can do it later, as well, but it's only a check (92).

Homework #2: Rhythms in 4/4

I'll give out our first worksheet on Tuesday. This one will be due on Tues, Jan 23.

To get started, take a look at pp. 6-9 in our theory anthology.

Homework #3: Piano Notes, Whole Steps, and Half Steps

This worksheet quizzes you about the notes on the piano, and it asks you to count out two small distances (half steps vs. whole steps).

Due date is Fri, Jan 26.

I'm Not Trying To Be Controversial Here But I Would Say that the Piano is a Pretty Good Instrument