Course Syllabus

2022-23 FHS Guitar Class Syllabus

Mr. Southerland - Director of Bands

dereksoutherland@fcschools.net

(919) 494-2332, ext. 307 (Band Room)

(919) 494-2332, ext. 373 (Band Office)

Course Description

This course is designed to give the student an enriching and exciting experience playing the guitar as a soloist and in small (and large) ensembles. The daily objective of the course is to foster and promote musical growth through the playing of guitars by the student and through instruction on music theory and history. As a member of this class, and therefore also the band family at large, focused individual effort and flexibility is necessary for success.

Required Materials

• A guitar - if you've got one!
• Picks
• Binder with Page Protectors OR Folder (for loose sheet music)
• PENCIL EVERY DAY!

Class Expectations

Each day, you will be expected to arrive to class and quickly grab your instrument, and prepare and take your assigned seat. If there is a bell-ringer activity on the board, begin it quietly until we begin class as an ensemble. If there is no explicit bell-ringer communicated, you are expected to use your few minutes to prepare your mind, ears, and fingers to be ready to succeed.

Class Rules

• Students will follow all FCS and FHS rules and regulations. 

• Put your cell phone away!! Give me the time and attention I need to teach you, please!
• If DSouth is speaking, there can. be. no. playing. It seriously impedes our ability to communicate.
• ZERO FOOD ALLOWED!! Please help us avoid mice and insects in our spaces!
• Respect your peers and their efforts in my class at all times. Period.

Grading

60% - Formative Assessments (small playing assignments, music theory exercises, listening assignments, comprehension checks, etc)

40% - Summative Assessments (full performances of pieces, music theory and history quizzes and tests, End-of-Semester Performance, etc)