• Syllabus for Guitar Ensemble Wall Township High School 

    Course Overview:

    This year-long course focuses on developing ensemble playing skills and musicianship through collaborative guitar performance. Students will explore a variety of musical genres, learn arrangements for multiple guitars, and enhance their sight-reading and improvisational skills. By the end of the course, students will have a diverse repertoire and experience performing in front of an audience.

    Course Objectives:

    • Develop skills in guitar ensemble playing.

    • Foster teamwork and collaboration through group performances.

    • Enhance understanding of music theory and arrangement.

    • Improve sight-reading and improvisational abilities.

    • Gain experience performing live in various settings.

     

     

    Course Outline:

    Quarter 1: Introduction to Ensemble Playing

    • Week 1-2: Introduction to ensemble concepts (listening, blending, and tuning)

    • Week 3-4: Basic warm-up exercises for guitar ensembles (scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions)

    • Week 5-6: Introduction to simple arrangements (duets and trios)

    • Week 7-8: Selecting and arranging repertoire from various genres (folk, classical, pop)

    • Assessment: Group performance of a selected arrangement

    Quarter 2: Expanding Repertoire and Technique

    • Week 9-10: Exploring different musical styles (classical, jazz, rock)

    • Week 11-12: Learning ensemble techniques (cues, dynamics, and phrasing)

    • Week 13-14: Incorporating rhythm sections (percussion and bass) into ensemble plays

    • Week 15-16: Group work on a more complex arrangement (4-6 guitars)

    • Assessment: Midterm performance featuring varied styles and arrangements

    Quarter 3: Composition and Arrangement

    • Week 17-18: Basics of guitar arranging (voice leading, parts for different skill levels)

    • Week 19-20: Introduction to composition techniques (melody writing, harmonization)

    • Week 21-22: Collaborative composition project in small groups

    • Week 23-24: Preparing original compositions for performance

    • Assessment: Group presentation of original works and peer critiques

    Quarter 4: Performance and Reflection

    • Week 25-26: Preparing for the end-of-year concert (rehearsal schedules, logistics)

    • Week 27-28: Focus on performance techniques (stage presence, audience engagement)

    • Week 29: Final rehearsals and adjustments based on feedback

    • Week 30: End-of-year concert showcasing a variety of pieces (arrangements and original works)

    • Final Assessment: Group concert performance and individual reflection on progress and growth

     

     

    Materials Needed:

    • Acoustic or electric guitar

    • Guitar picks

    • Music stand

    • Notebook for arrangements and compositions

    • Access to recordings of pieces for practice and inspiration

    Grading:

    • Classwork/Homework/Participation: 20%

    • Projects: 20%

    • Assessments (quizzes and performance evaluations): 30%

     

     

    Additional Notes:

    • Students should strive to practice regularly at home, focusing on both individual and ensemble skills.

    • Optional masterclasses with guest musicians may be organized throughout the year.

    • Students are encouraged to suggest pieces or styles they are interested in exploring as a group.

     

     

    This syllabus provides a framework that supports musical growth and collaboration, allowing students to thrive in a dynamic ensemble setting while fostering a love for guitar music across genres.