MUS 645:
Course Requirements: 1.) Guide to Teaching Brass, by Bachelder, Don, and Norman
Hunt, 6th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2002. ISBN: 9780072414233.
2.) Essential Elements (plus DVD) 2000 Methods, Trumpet in Bb (ISBN:
9780634003202), French Horn (ISBN: 9780634003219), Trombone (ISBN:
9780634003226). Milwaukee: Hal Leonard. (available in Hunter bookstore)
Course Objective: This course will provide an understanding of the fundamental
techniques involved in playing a number of brass instruments, such as the
Trumpet, Trombone, and French Horn. These techniques include breathing, tone
production, fingerings, and slide positions. Time will also be spent studying the
acoustical principles of brass instruments as well as basic pedagogical methods.
Grading Policy: Grades will be based on the following: Attendance and class
participation (40%), written quizzes and performances exams (3 total - one for trumpet,
one for trombone, and one for french horn) (30%), final exam (cumulative) (30%).
Quizzes and Exams: Quizzes will consist of timed fingering and position tests, and a
review of material covered up to that point.
Attendance: It is imperative to your acquisition of the material, and also your grade, that
you are present for every class. There will be quite a bit of in-class playing, and, as this
class meets only once a week, the majority of your grade will be based on your
attendance and participation. Two (2) absences will be allowed no questions asked.
Further absences will lower your grade one-half a letter grade (A to A-, A- to B, etc.).