Louisiana Tech University
 

Fall

Low Brass Studio
Low Brass Ensemble
Low Brass Methods
Rudiments of Music
Composition - Private Lessons
Sophomore Theory (Sixth Quarter) MUTH 203
 

Winter

Low Brass Studio
Low Brass Ensemble
Composition - Private Lessons
Sophomore Theory (Fourth Quarter) MUTH 201
 

Spring

Low Brass Studio
Low Brass Ensemble
Composition - Private Lessons
Composition - Class
Sophomore Theory (Fifth Quarter) MUTH 202

Spring 2002 Teaching Schedule

Low Brass Studio
Low Brass Ensemble
Sophomore Theory (Fifth Quarter) MUTH 202
Composition

Winter 2001-02 Teaching Schedule

Low Brass Studio
Low Brass Ensemble
Sophomore Theory (Fourth Quarter) MUTH 201
Elementary Teachers Appreciation/Methods  MUS 334

Fall 2001 Teaching Schedule

Low Brass Studio
Low Brass Ensemble
Low Brass Methods
Sophomore Theory (Sixth Quarter) MUTH 203
Elementary Teachers Appreciation/Methods  MUS 334

Spring 2001 Teaching Schedule

Univ. of AL at Birmingham           Samford University                   Birmingham-Southern College
Low Brass                                               Tuba/Euphonium Lessons                     Music Fundamentals
Music Appreciation                                  Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble
Brass Class

University of Alabama at Birmingham                              Samford University
Low Brass                                                                                          Tuba lessons
Music Appreciation                                                                             Tuba ensemble

Birmingham-Southern College                                         University of Alabama
Second Semester Theory                                                                    Musicianship MUS 117
Orchestration

University of Montevallo        Judson College           Birmingham-Southern College
Second Semester Theory            Fourth Semester Theory    Fourth Semester Theory
Orchestration                                                                      Music Fundamentals

University of Montevallo          Judson College         Birmingham-Southern College
First Semester Theory                        Third Semester Theory    Third Semester Theory
Music Appreciation                                                                   Twentieth Century Analysis

Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                                                            Telephone: 257-4200
OFFICE: HC 225                                                                                                                       alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA

The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS

Text are determined on the student’s abilities and development potential.  All students will be expected to purchase the texts/methods as required by the instructor.  (I usually make one large order for the studio each quarter to help speed up the process.)  All students are required to own a professional mouthpiece, metronome, tuner and value oil/slide cream.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

1.    The development of technical accuracy and a quality sound concept.
2.    The development of a thorough concept of musicianship.
3.    The understanding of how the marriage of the above objectives compliment each other in
       performance.
4.   Thorough knowledge and acquisition of repertoire and pedagogical materials.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1.    Attendance: show up on time and be prepared (i.e. warmed up before hand )...  I will dismiss you from the lesson if you are not prepared. Each lesson will cover assigned materials and a problem-solving/goal setting session.

2.    Performance requirements:  Each music major will perform several times per school year in studio class (Low Brass Ensemble time).  Failure to perform when assigned will affect your grade.  In addition, all majors must perform once each quarter in the student recital class (Thursday 12:30).  I will typically have the ensemble perform for the fall quarter requirement.  Check student handbook for all recital attendance/performance requirements.

3.   Practice:  Regular daily practice is required for consistent progress.  I expect at least an hour of day for non-majors (minors).  All music majors are expected to practice at least two hours per day if they are music education majors and four hours per day if they are performance majors.  Ensemble rehearsal time does not constitute personal practice time.

 4.  Juries and sophomore double jury:  All music majors and music minors are required to take jury exams as designated by the instructor.  Non-majors my take a jury at the discretion of the instructor.  (See student handbook) The grades received will be used by the instructor when averaging the student’s final grade.  At the end of the sophomore year, all music majors must pass a jury which includes all major and minor scales and three compositions.  (See student handbook)

5.    Recital Attendance: All music majors MUST attend five (5) recitals outside of the Thursday 12:30 recital hour.  I will assign certain recitals (You must support your fellow wind players!!)  Check board for additional information.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

1.    Attendance is required.  Unexcused absences will lower the final grade by one letter grade per absence. Excused absences include: illness, an act of God, or prior approval from the instructor.  Please notify me in advance if you can not make your lesson.  In the event you miss a lesson... the lesson will be made up at my discretion.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

2.    Attendance at all tuba/euphonium performances is mandatory for all majors and minors. Students missing a performance will receive an “F” for your final applied grade.

3.   Performance in the Low Brass Ensemble is required (It doesn't matter if the class is taken for credit or not) of all music majors and highly encouraged for music minors.

4.   Attendance at the low brass studio class is required of all music majors.  It will meet on Friday mornings at 9:30 in the Recital Hall.  Current students which have class conflicts are excused during the Fall Quarter.

5.    Excuses are granted at the discretion of the instructor and are not granted automatically, but for legitimate reasons only.

EVALUATIONS

Grading will be based mainly on the student’s demonstration of clear and consistent progress over the quarter but the following points should serve to guide you.

A. 1. Consistently does more than required
     2. Has wide vocabulary at command
     3. Is prompt, thorough in all work, and usually free from teacher’s correction
     4. Unusually dependable and original in attacking problems
     5. Has ability to associate and re-think problems and can adapt to changing situations
     6. Enthusiastic and interested in work at hand
     7. Has ability to apply learned ideas to new material
     8. Enthusiastically attends recitals and concerts as an active listener

B. 1. Frequently does more than required
     2. Has good vocabulary and speaks with conviction
     3. Is careful in complying with assignments
     4. Eagerly attacks new problems, and profits from criticism
     5. Is prompt, thorough and accurate in all work
     6. Willing attends recitals and concerts

C. 1. Does what is required
     2. Has a moderate vocabulary
     3. Applies him/herself during lesson times
     4. Attentive to assignments and relatively free from carelessness
     5. Able and willing to comply with instructions and responds cheerfully to corrections
     6. Is reasonably prompt and accurate in all work
     7. Has ability to retain general principals and apply them

D. 1. Usually does what is required
     2. Attendance is often irregular
     3. Sometimes forgets materials
     4. Frequently “misunderstands” assignments
     5. Is willing but slow in complying with instructions and corrections
     6. Is careless and lacking in thoroughness in preparations
     7. Fails to take advantage of recitals and concerts voluntarily

F.  1. Usually does a little less than required
     2. Is listless and inattentive
     3. Frequently forgets materials
     4. Is often tardy
     5. Seldom knows anything outside the lesson material
     6. Retains only fragments of general principles
     7. Lacking in conviction and is unwilling or “unable” to do the work

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA

The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS

This is a “writing” class and there will not be a specific textbook used.  Students will be assigned various scores to study as well as articles or excerpts to read as their skill’s develop.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

This course is designed to explore all aspects of the creation of music.  Students are required to know music theory before starting this class.  Prerequisite:  permission of the instructor.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Unexcused absences will lower the final grade by one letter grade per absence. Excused absences include: illness, an act of God, or prior approval from the instructor.  Please notify me in  advance if you can not make your lesson.  In the event you miss a lesson...the lesson will be made up at my discretion.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

EVALUATIONS

The course is graded in four areas.

Composition(s)*                                 50% of final grade           A = 90-100
Performance of the compositions         25% of final grade           B = 80-8
Reading assignments                           10% of final grade           C = 70-79
Score analysis                                     15% of final grade           D = 60-69
                                                                                                 F = below 59

* The number and scope of the compositions to be composed will be determined at the beginning of the quarter and will be based on the student's abilities, knowledge and creative skills.

Class Schedule

During the first class meeting, the student and teacher will determine the various projects to be created during the quarter.  The teacher will then assign appropriate scores for the student to study which will aid the student in the creation of the previously decided project(s).  The student will be expected to spend an hour each day composing and 30 minutes each day studying scores.  At the completion of each project, the work will be performed. The performance must be observed by the teacher and could occur during class or during the Thursday Student Recital hour. (If the project is an unusually large one, it may be permissible to have the performance in the following quarter but the student must be enrolled in composition lessons during both quarters.)  Rehearsing and performing are an integral part of the creation process and the student will be expected to find performers, teach the music to them, as well as observe the final performance of the piece.
 

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

 Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                                                            Telephone: 257-4200
OFFICE: HC 225                                                                                                                       alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.
 
 
 

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA

The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS

 Adler   The Study of Orchestration,  3rd 3d.

 Students will also be assigned various scores to study as well as articles and/or excerpts to read as their skill’s develop.
 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

This course is designed to explore all aspects of the creation of music.  Students are required to know music theory before starting this class.  Prerequisite:  permission of the instructor.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Attendance is required. You are allowed three (3) free absences.  Sickness, tours and whatever else WILL be included in these 3 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

EVALUATIONS

The course is graded in four areas.

Composition(s)*                                         50% of final grade           A = 90-100
Performance of the compositions                 25% of final grade           B = 80-8
Reading assignments                                   10% of final grade           C = 70-79
Score analysis                                            15% of final grade            D = 60-69
                                                                                                         F = below 59

* Each student will compose two contrasting movements for an unaccompanied instrument, two contrasting movements for two instruments and one movement for three instruments
 
 

Class Schedule

During the first class meeting, the student and teacher will determine the instrumentation for the various projects to be created during the quarter.  The teacher will then assign appropriate scores for the student to study which will aid the student in the creation of the previously decided projects.  The student will be expected to spend an hour each day composing and 30 minutes each day studying scores.  At the completion of each project, the work will be performed. The performance must be observed by the teacher and could occur during class or during the Wednesday Student Recital hour.  Rehearsing and performing are an integral part of the creation process and the student will be expected to find performers, teach the music to them, as well as observe the final performance of the piece.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA:

The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

 1.    The development of technical accuracy and a quality sound concept.
 2.    The development of a thorough concept of musicianship.
 3.    The understanding of how the marriage of the above objectives compliment each other in
        performance.
 4.   The understanding of how to perform in an ensemble.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

 1.    Attendance: show up on time and be prepared (i.e. warmed up before hand )...  Each
        rehearsal  will cover assigned materials and a problem-solving/goal setting session.
 2.    Performance requirements: The ensemble will perform several times per school year.
        Failure to perform when assigned will affect your grade.
 3.    Practice: Regular daily practice is required for consistent progress.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:

 1. Attendance is required.  Unexcused absences will lower the final grade by one letter grade per absence. Excused absences include: illness, an act of God, or prior approval from the instructor.  Please notify me in advance if you can not make the rehearsal.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.
 2.    Attendance at all tuba/euphonium performances is mandatory. Students missing a performance will receive an “F” for your ensemble grade.
 3.    Excuses are granted at the discretion of the instructor and are not granted automatically, but for legitimate reasons only.

EVALUATIONS:

  75% Class Participation
  25% Performance

SESSIONS:

 All class meetings are rehearsals for concert performance.   At each session, students are to practice and perform prepared repertoire.  All parts are critical and need to be “worked” each time.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                                                            Telephone: 257-4200
OFFICE: HC 225                                                                                                                       alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA:  The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS:       Kostka & Payne Tonal Harmony.  4th ed.
                     Kostka & Payne  Workbook for Tonal Harmony.  4th ed.
                     Berkowitz, et al  A New Approach to Sightsinging.  4th ed.
                     Turek    Analytical Anthology for Music.  2nd ed.
                     Bach/Riemenschneider 371 Harmonized Chorales & 69 Chorale Melodies

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is a continuation of the music theory sequence in which the student will learn the basic principals of analytical and aural music theory.  Moreover, the student will continue to develop aural theory skills in the areas of sight singing, dictation, aural identification, contextual listening and keyboard harmony.  Emphasis will be given on Classical Era music

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
       Written theory:
 Review of 18th century harmonic practices
  Roman numeral analysis, diatonic harmony, secondary dominant function chords
 New topics:
  Modulations (pivot chord), Form (Binary & Ternary)
       Aural Skills:
 Singing Skills:
  Ability to prepare and/or sing at sight increasingly chromatic materials: melodies with
        chromatic non-chord tones, melodies with tonicizations and modulations.
  Ability to prepare and/or sing at sight melodies with larger leaps, especially to tones
       other than those in the tonic triad.
  Ability to read rhythms involving smaller subdivisions of the beat; rhythms using
       borrowed divisions and cross rhythms; syncopated rhythms.
 Dictation skills:
      Ability to take melodic dictation involving chromatic material as above.
      Two part dictation.
      Harmonic dictation involving increasingly chromatic material: Neapolitan chord,
      augmented 6th chords, secondary dominants and modulations.
 Dictation of increasingly complex rhythms as above.

COMPUTER LAB:  Students enrolled in MUTH 201 are required to log-in and drill music theory skills in the Music Theory Computer Lab HC 300 at least twice (2) a weeka week for a total of 1 hour.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:  Attendance is required. You are allowed four (4) free absences.  Sickness, tours and whatever else WILL be included in these 4 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

CHEATING:  Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of “F” for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.  Please review Academic Misconduct (p.30) in Bulletin 2001-02.

EVALUATIONS: Part Writing/Keyboard    50% of final grade          A = 90-100    D = 60-69
                                           Sight Singing       25% of final grade          B = 80-8        F = below 59
                                            Ear Training       25% of final grade          C = 70-79

- Homework, quizzes and keyboard assignments will account for 55% of the Part Writing (PW) grade. The remaining 45%
     of the PW will be derived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of major section.
-The sight singing grade will consist of 66/34 split of "in class" assignments and two actual tests.
-Two ear training tests will be given during the semester.
-The final grade will consist of computing your grades using the above stated formula (and then
     subtracting your attendance portion if necessary).

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:  If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to develop an appropriate plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the course requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement this plan.  It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students MUST bring the appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                                                            Telephone: 257-4200
OFFICE: HC 225                                                                                                                       alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA:  The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS:       Kostka & Payne Tonal Harmony.  4th ed.
                     Kostka & Payne  Workbook for Tonal Harmony.  4th ed.
                     Berkowitz, et al  A New Approach to Sightsinging.  4th ed.
                     Burkhart  Anthology for Musical Analysis.  5th ed.
                     Cho & Turner  Melodic, Dyadic & Harmonic Singing   4th ed.
                     Bach/Riemenschneider 371 Harmonized Chorales & 69 Chorale Melodies

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  This course is a continuation of the music theory sequence in which the student will learn the basic principals of analytical and aural music theory.  Moreover, the student will continue to develop aural theory skills in the areas of sight singing, dictation, aural identification, contextual listening and keyboard harmony.  Emphasis will be given on Romantic Era music.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
       Written theory:
 Review of 18th century harmonic practices
   Roman numeral analysis, diatonic harmony, secondary dominant function chords
 New topics:
   [Neapolitan chords, augmented 6th chords, chords of modal mixture, chromatic 3rd relationships, modulations (pivot
   chord, pivot tone, enharmonic, sequential, etc.)]
       Aural Skills:
 Singing Skills:
  Ability to prepare and/or sing at sight increasingly chromatic materials: melodies with
        chromatic non-chord tones, melodies with tonicizations and modulations.
  Ability to prepare and/or sing at sight melodies with larger leaps, especially to tones
       other than those in the tonic triad.
  Ability to read rhythms involving smaller subdivisions of the beat; rhythms using
       borrowed divisions and cross rhythms; syncopated rhythms.
 Dictation skills:
      Ability to take melodic dictation involving chromatic material as above.
      Two part dictation.
      Harmonic dictation involving increasingly chromatic material: Neapolitan chord,
      augmented 6th chords, secondary dominants and modulations.
 Dictation of increasingly complex rhythms as above.

COMPUTER LAB:  Students enrolled in MUTH 202 are required to log-in and drill music theory skills in the Music Theory Computer Lab HC 300 at least twice (2) a week for a total of 1 hour.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:  Attendance is required. You are allowed four (4) free absences.  Sickness, tours and whatever else WILL be included in these 4 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

CHEATING:  Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of “F” for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.  Please review Academic Misconduct (p.30) in Bulletin 2001-02.

EVALUATIONS: Part Writing/Keyboard    50% of final grade          A = 90-100    D = 60-69
                                           Sight Singing       25% of final grade          B = 80-8        F = below 59
                                            Ear Training       25% of final grade          C = 70-79

- Homework, quizzes and keyboard assignments will account for 55% of the Part Writing (PW) grade. The remaining 45%
     of the PW will be derived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of major section.
-The sight singing grade will consist of 66/34 split of "in class" assignments and two actual tests.
-Two ear training tests will be given during the semester.
-The final grade will consist of computing your grades using the above stated formula (and then
     subtracting your attendance portion if necessary).

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:  If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to develop an appropriate plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the course requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement this plan.  It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students MUST bring the appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                                                            Telephone: 257-4200
OFFICE: HC 225                                                                                                                       alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA:  The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS:       Koska  Materials and Techniques of Twentieth-Century Music 2nd ed.
                     Berkowitz, et al  A New Approach to Sightsinging.  4th ed.
                     Burkhart  Anthology for Musical Analysis.  5th ed.
                     Cho & Turner  Melodic, Dyadic & Harmonic Singing   4th ed.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is a continuation of the sophomore music theory sequence in which the student will learn the basic principals of analytical and aural music theory.  Moreover, the student will continue to develop aural theory skills in the areas of sight singing, dictation, aural identification, contextual listening and keyboard harmony.  Emphasis will be given on 20th Century music.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
 Written theory:
      Brief review of late 19th century harmonic practices  [Neapolitan chords, augmented 6th chords, chords of modal mixture,
      chromatic 3rd relationships, modulations (pivot chord, pivot tone and enharmonic)],
 New topics:
      expanded tonality (linear harmony and non-functional harmony), early 20th century music,
      atonality, serial music and recent musical development.
 Aural Skills:
 Singing Skills:
     Ability to prepare and/or sing at sight increasingly chromatic materials: melodies with
        chromatic non-chord tones, melodies with tonicizations and modulations.
  Ability to prepare and/or sing at sight melodies with larger leaps, especially to tones
       other than those in the tonic triad.
  Ability to read rhythms involving smaller subdivisions of the beat; rhythms using
       borrowed divisions and cross rhythms; syncopated rhythms; mixed and changing meters.
 Dictation skills:
  Ability to take melodic dictation involving chromatic material as above.
  Two part dictation.
  Harmonic dictation involving increasingly chromatic material: Neapolitan chord,
       augmented 6th chords, secondary dominants and modulations.
  Dictation of increasingly complex rhythms as above.

COMPUTER LAB:  Students enrolled in MUTH 203 are required to log-in and drill music theory skills in the Music Theory Computer Lab HC 300 at least twice (2) a week for a total of 1 hour.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:  Attendance is required. You are allowed four (4) free absences.  Sickness, tours and whatever else WILL be included in these 4 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

CHEATING:  Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of “F” for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.  Please review Academic Misconduct (p.30) in Bulletin 2001-02.

EVALUATIONS: Part Writing/Keyboard    50% of final grade          A = 90-100    D = 60-69
                                           Sight Singing       25% of final grade          B = 80-8        F = below 59
                                            Ear Training       25% of final grade          C = 70-79

- Homework, quizzes and keyboard assignments will account for 55% of the Part Writing (PW) grade. The remaining 45%
     of the PW will be derived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of major section.
-The sight singing grade will consist of 66/34 split of "in class" assignments and actual tests.
-Three ear training tests will be given during the semester.
-The final grade will consist of computing your grades using the above stated formula (and then subtracting your attendance
    portion if necessary).

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:  If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to develop an appropriate plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the course requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement this plan.  It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students MUST bring the appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                                                            Telephone: 257-4200
OFFICE: HC 225                                                                                                                       alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA

The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS

None

COURSE DESCRIPTION

1.  To equip the future music educator with the necessary knowledge and skills to teach low brass instruments (trombone, euphonium & tuba) in the elementary, middle and secondary schools.

2.  To develop a basic playing proficiency on each low brass instrument so that the future music educator will better understand the components of playing the low brass instruments.

3.  To acquaint the future music educator with methods, etudes, solos, ensemble literature, books, recordings and other source materials for the low brass instruments.

4.  To further develop analytical skills in teaching.

5.  To develop an understanding of idiomatic problems with individual low brass instruments.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Attendance is required. You are allowed two (2) free absences.  Sickness, tours and whatever else WILL be included in these 2 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

CHEATING:  Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of “F” for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.  Please review Academic Misconduct (p.30) in Bulletin 2001-02.

EVALUATIONS

  2 Writing Test                       20 % of final grade           A = 90-100
  2 Playing Test                       20% of final grade            B = 80-89
  Daily Participation                 40% of final grade            C = 70-79
  Teaching Observations          20% of final grade            D = 60-69
                                                                                      F = below 59

Daily Participation will include homework, quizzes (fingering/slide position for example), etc. Students will have the opportunity to observe and teach at the A. E. Phillips Laboratory School.  This may be combined with the classroom observation requirement mandated by the School of Education.  The minimum observation requirement for this course is six (6) hours.  This should be coordinated through Dr. Westbrook.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to develop an appropriate plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the course requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement this plan.  It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.

Students MUST bring the appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

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Dr. Joe L. Alexander                                                                                     Telephone: 257-2208
OFFICE: BB 106                                                                                alexanda@ltparts.latech.edu
OFFICE HOURS: Hours are posted on the door.

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE SPA:  The Louisiana Tech School of the Performing Arts   provides comprehensive training in the fields of music, theatre, dance and arts management which connects the broad spectrum of historical and contemporary issues related to art and craft; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepares professionals and teachers for leadership in national and international culture and art for the twenty-first century.

TEXTS:   Rozmajzl and Boyer-Alexander   Music Fundamentals, Methods, and Materials for
    the Elementary Classroom Teacher.  3rd ed.
   Soprano Recorder (I have ordered them from a local dealer at a discount and are available for
   approximately $10.00.  You do not have to buy them through me.)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: MUS 334 is a course for the elementary school classroom teacher.
   Students will be actively involved in experiencing music during each session.  Students will have
   the  opportunity to explore many kinds of music and participate in beginning experiences on
   classroom music instruments.  Concepts covered will include: listening to music, learning music
   fundamentals, and learning how to use these skills as a classroom teacher.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:  Students will learn how to teach music to elementary school
   students as well as which material is appropriate for which grade level.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:  Attendance is required. You are allowed three (3) free absences.
    Sickness and ‘whatever’ else WILL be included in these 3 days.  Your final grade will be
    lowered one grade for each additional absence.  If for any reason you feel you will not be able to
    meet the course requirements, let me know immediately.

CHEATING:  Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the
   grade of “F” for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.
   Please review Academic Misconduct (p.30) in Bulletin 2001-02.

EVALUATIONS:              2 Written Tests                           200 Points
                                           1 Playing Test (Recorder)            100 Points
                                           Homework & Quizzes                 300 Points
                                           2 Concert Reviews                      100 Points

                        A = 700-630          D = 489-420
                        B = 629-560          F = below 419
                        C = 559-490

Extra Credit:       An additional 25 points of extra credit may be earned for attending (and writing) a third recital review.  This is the only form possible.

In reality, this is a contest to accumulate 630 points.  It does not matter how you earn them; wither it be by doing well on the tests, the quizzes, or writing a third review.
 

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:  If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to develop an appropriate plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the course requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement this plan.  It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students MUST bring the appropriate books/workbooks, instruments, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

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OFFICE:  Office: 113 Hill Building, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35254.

OFFICE HOURS: 8:00-9:00   Monday, Wednesday & Friday

TEXTS:
Required Kostka Materials and Techniques of Twentieth-Century Music 2nd ed.

COURSE DESCRIPTION
   This is an integrated courses in harmony with emphasis on 20th Century
    compositional techniques

TOPICS INCLUDE:
     Brief review of late 19th century harmonic practices.

     New topics:
   expanded tonality (linear harmony and non-functional harmony), early 20th century music, atonality, serial music and recent musical development.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
   Attendance is required. You are allowed three (3) free absences.  Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 3 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

CHEATING:
   Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of "F" for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.

EVALUATIONS:

Homework and quizzes will account for 35% of the final grade, 20% will be the composition projects and the remaining 45% will be derived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of each chapter in text.  The final grade will consist of computing your grades using the above stated formula (and then subtracting your attendance portion if necessary).

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.

Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:   Office: 113 Hill Building, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35254

OFFICE HOURS:  8:00-9:00 MWF

TEXTS:
 Adler, The Study of Orchestration, 2ed.
 Adler, The Workbook for Study of Orchestration, 2ed.
 The accompanying CDS are highly recommended but are optional.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
 Attendance is required. You are allowed two (2) free absences.  Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 2 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

CHEATING:
 Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of "F" for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.

EVALUATIONS:
 Homework                 33%
 4 Projects                   34%
 4 Tests                       33%

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
 The study of orchestration through analysis and transcription/composition.
 Topics include:
   the study of the individual instruments of the orchestra, including ranges, transpositions, special
   effects, etc.
   writing for the individual sections
   study of the history of orchestration and orchestrational styles, including repertory
   writing for the full orchestra in appropriate historical styles
   transcriptions
   basic notation and calligraphy
   score preparation
   part extraction
 

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework. I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students must bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

FINAL NOTE:

It is the student's responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.  The student is also responsible for bringing the textbook, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers to EVERY class. Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:   Office: 113 Hill Building, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35254

OFFICE HOURS:  2:00-2:40 T-TH

TEXTS:
 Adler, The Study of Orchestration, 2ed.
 Adler, The Workbook for Study of Orchestration, 2ed.
 The accompanying CDS are highly recommended but are optional.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
 Attendance is required. You are allowed two (2) free absences.  Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 2 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

CHEATING:
 Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of "F" for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.

EVALUATIONS:
 Homework                 33%
 4 Projects                   34%
 4 Tests                      33%

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
 The study of orchestration through analysis and transcription/composition.
 Topics include:
   the study of the individual instruments of the orchestra, including ranges, transpositions, special
   effects, etc.
   writing for the individual sections
   study of the history of orchestration and orchestrational styles, including repertory
   writing for the full orchestra in appropriate historical styles
   transcriptions
   basic notation and calligraphy
   score preparation
   part extraction
 

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students must bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

FINAL NOTE:

It is the student's responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.  The student is also responsible for bringing the textbook, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers to EVERY class. Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:  See Dr. Walworth

OFFICE HOURS: 2:30-3:00 Tuesday & Thursday

TEXTS:   Kostka & Payne Tonal Harmony 2nd edition.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  These are integrated courses in harmony, the elements of musical form and practice.

TOPICS INCLUDE:
  Written theory:
     Review of 18th century harmonic practices

     New topics:
         Secondary Leading Tone Chords, Modulation, Binary & Ternary Form, Neapolitan chords, augmented 6th chords, chords of modal mixture, chromatic 3rd relationships, modulations (pivot chord, pivot tone and  enharmonic)

 ATTENDANCE POLICY:
        Attendance is required. You are allowed four (4) free absences.  Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 4 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.  Also, if you only miss two (2) days, I will add 1/3 of a letter grade to your final average.

CHEATING:
       Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of "F" for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.

EVALUATIONS:
       Homework and quizzes will account for 40% of the Part Writing (PW) grade. The remaining 60% of the PW will bederived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of each chapter in Tonal Harmony.

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.

Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:    212 Davis Hall  phone number 665-6681

OFFICE HOURS:  8:00-9:00  M-Th

TEXTS:      Ottman   Elementary Harmony, and accompanying  workbook, Volume 1 (5th edition)
                   Benjamin           Music for Sight Singing (2th edition)
                   Cho and Turner     Melodic, Dyadic and Harmonic Singing (4th edition)
                   Computer disk for Musica Practica (Mac version)

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
                   Exploration of compositional concepts drawn from the basic properties of sound.  Includes developing skills in visual-aural analysis.

TOPICS INCLUDE:
 1. Brief review of inversions, cadences, progressions, root movements and general four voice
     part-writing procedures.
 2. Nonharmonic tones
 3. Texture; recognition of harmonic structures in non-chordal textures.
 4. Melodic organization.
 5. Part-writing of seventh chords
 6. Secondary Dominants
 7. Pivot chord modulations to closely related keys.
 8. Binary and Ternary Form

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
                Attendance is required. You are allowed four (4) free absences. Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 4 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

CHEATING:
                Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of "F" for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.

EVALUATIONS:
     Part Writing    50% of final grade               Aural Skills  50% of final grade

     Part Writing                                               Aural Skills

                                                                      Dictation 50%                       Sight Singing 50%

 Homework & quizzes 55%                            3 dictation test 50%               3 sight singing test 50%
 3 test                                                             45% In class work   50%       In class work 50%
                                                                                                                 (9 in class performances)
 

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:

"It is the policy of the University of Montevallo to afford equal opportunity in education to qualified students.  If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to file a student disability statement and to develop an accommodation plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement a reasonable accommodation plan."

It is the student's responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.  The student is also responsible for bringing the textbook, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers to EVERY class.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:    212 Davis Hall  phone number 665-6681

OFFICE HOURS:  8:00-9:00  M-Th

TEXTS:
             Adler,         The Study of Orchestration, 2ed.
             Adler,         The Workbook for Study of Orchestration, 2ed.
             The accompanying CDS are highly recommended but are optional.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
         Attendance is required. You are allowed three (3) free absences.  Sickness, tours and  what ever else WILL be included in these 3 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

CHEATING:
         Cheating will not be tolerated. If I find you cheating, you WILL receive the grade of "F" for the class and your name will be turned in to the dean for further punishment.

EVALUATIONS:
        Homework                 33%
        4 Projects                   34%
        3 Tests                       33%

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
 The study of orchestration through analysis and transcription/composition.
 Topics include:
      the study of the individual instruments of the orchestra, including ranges, transpositions, special
      effects, etc.
      writing for the individual sections
      study of the history of orchestration and orchestrational styles, including repertory
      writing for the full orchestra in appropriate historical styles
      transcriptions
      basic notation and calligraphy
      score preparation
      part extraction
 

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.   Students must bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:

"It is the policy of the University of Montevallo to afford equal opportunity in education to qualified students.  If you have a disability that may prevent you from meeting course requirements, contact the instructor immediately to file a student disability statement and to develop an accommodation plan.  Course requirements will not be waived but reasonable accommodations will be developed to assist you in meeting the requirements.  You are expected to work with the instructor and implement a reasonable accommodation plan."

FINAL NOTE:

It is the student's responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs as soon as possible after class registration.  The student is also responsible for bringing the textbook, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers to EVERY class. Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:  Office: 113 Hill Building, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35254.

OFFICE HOURS: 1:00-1:30   Monday, Wednesday & Friday

TEXTS:
Required         Benward & Jackson Practical Beginning Theory: A Fundamentals Worktext

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
     A course in the rudiments of music designed for the non-music major and for majors who need to develop basic skills.

TOPICS INCLUDE:
     Notation of music, clefs, scales, key signatures, intervals, chords, the study of simple and compound meter, melody and an introduction to functional harmony.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
    Attendance is required. You are allowed three (3) free absences.  Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 3 days. Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

EVALUATIONS:
     Homework and quizzes will account for 65% of the final grade and the remaining 35% will be derived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of each chapter in the text.  The final grade will consist of computing your grades using the above stated formula (and then subtracting your attendance portion if necessary).

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.

Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page

OFFICE:  Office: 113 Hill Building, 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35254.

OFFICE HOURS: 1:00-1:30   Monday, Wednesday & Friday

TEXTS:
Required         Ottman Advanced Harmony, 4th. ed.
                       Ottman   Workbook for Advanced Harmony, 4th. ed.
Optional          Burkhart Anthology for Musical Analysis, 6th. ed.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
   This is an integrated courses in harmony with emphasis on 20th Century compositional techniques

TOPICS INCLUDE:
     Brief review of late 19th century harmonic practices.

     New topics:
     expanded tonality (linear harmony and non-functional harmony), early 20th century music, atonality, serial music and recent musical development.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
    Attendance is required. You are allowed three (3) free absences.  Sickness, tours and what ever else WILL be included in these 3 days.  Your final grade will be lowered one grade for each additional absence.

EVALUATIONS:

Homework and quizzes will account for 35% of the final grade, 20% will be the composition projects and the remaining 45% will be derived from the average of the exams which will be given at the completion of each chapter in Advanced Harmony.  The final grade will consist of computing your grades using the above stated formula (and then subtracting your attendance portion if necessary).

Home work is due at the beginning of class.  I DO NOT and WILL NOT accept late homework.  I will, however, correct any work you show me or turn in to me.  I will not write down a grade for the corrected work.  If you are going to miss class, turn it in early.  Plan appropriately.

Students MUST bring their appropriate books/workbooks, paper, staff paper, pencils and erasers for EVERY class meeting.

Return to Joe L. Alexander's home page