MUS 361
Instrumental Conducting, Methods and Literature
Instructor Dr. Boyd Perkins
Office
JC 113
Phone
605-626-2501
Office Hours
Please see schedule on office door
E-Mail Address boyd.perkins@northern.edu
Course Description
A study of baton technique, score reading and practice in conducting instrumental music. Includes the
organization and administration of high school bands and orchestras, rehearsal techniques, band
literature and program building. Required for Plan I music majors. To be taken before the professional
semester.
Credit Hours
2 credits
NASM Competency VII. A. 4. Students must acquire knowledge and skills sufficient to work as a leader
and in collaboration on matters of musical interpretation. Rehearsal and conducting skills are required as
appropriate to the particular music concentration.
NASM Competency VII. F. 2. While synthesis is a lifetime process, by the end of undergraduate study
students should be forming and defending value judgments about music.
NASM Competency VIII. B. 1. Conducting and Musical Leadership. The prospective music teacher must
be a competent conductor, able to create accurate and musically expressive performances with various
types of performing groups and in general classroom situations. Instruction in conducting includes score
reading and integration of analysis, style, performance practices, instrumentation, and baton techniques.
Laboratory experiences that give the students opportunities to apply rehearsal techniques and
procedures are essential. Prospective teachers in programs with less focus on the preparation of
ensemble conductors must acquire conducting and musical leadership skills sufficient to teach effectively
in their area(s) of specialization.
Caveat
The schedule and procedures in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating
circumstances.
Disability Statement
Northern State University recognizes its responsibility for creating an institutional climate in which
students with disabilities can thrive. If you have any type of disability for which you require special
accommodations to promote your learning in this class, please contact the NSU Office of Disability
Services (626-2371) as soon as possible to discuss your needs.
Academic Freedom
Under Board of Regents and University policy student academic performance may be evaluated
solely on an academic basis, not on opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic
standards. Students should be free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any
course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion, but they are responsible for
learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled. Students who believe that
an academic evaluation reflects prejudiced or capricious consideration of student opinions or
conduct unrelated to academic standards should contact the academic dean administratively in
charge of the class to initiate a review of the evaluation.
Diversity Statement
Northern State University strives to build an academic community of people from diverse
backgrounds and experiences who are committed to sharing diverse ideas in a mutually
respectful environment. We value open discourse and consideration of multiple perspectives on
issues of regional, national, and international importance, in which individuals are free to express
their points of view. Our goal is a diverse learning community with equal opportunity for all.