Sound Before Symbols Workshop
University of North Florida School of Music
Sounds Before Symbols Workshop
Learn to implement a new method of music instruction for band/orchestra that enables students to improvise, play expressively, and understand theory organically from the very beginning.
For over 100 years, we have focused almost exclusively on reading music… this method puts “speaking” music first, but rarely leads to lifelong music-making.
Since the 1920s, the purpose of band programs in schools has been heavily focused on reading, with the purpose of preparing concerts, especially adjudicated performances in the spring. However, it is a sadly small proportion of musicians who continue making music after high school, and even fewer after college. Band and orchestra instruments seem to only serve a purpose when students are gathered together under the baton of an instructor.
This method teaches students music holistically and naturally, the way we learn our first language as small children. Students develop skills at rhythm reading, and then learn pitches in a simple and logical way that also reinforces music concepts often not learned until college theory classes. Students engage with elements of music one at a time, always using the aural first, and not using the visual until aural can be done with confidence. By the end of the first year, students will be able to improvise and compose melodies with harmonies, bass lines, and rhythms in various textures with ease. When the time comes for students to learn to read musical notation, they already know how to play all of the notes and simply need to connect their existing skills with the reading component.
By participating in this summer workshop, you will develop the skills to teach your students in a way that will enable them to not only perform the musical ideas of others, but to express their own musical ideas at any time, with any size group, to express any thoughts or feelings they wish to express. Students can continue performing the amazing body of repertoire developed for our ensembles but can also perform what is in their hearts, and form relationships with other musicians to develop their own unique ideas and styles.
Cost
The cost of the workshop, which includes instructional materials to use with your students, is $250.
Register
To register, please click below. Assistance finding lodging may be available, but will be at the attendee’s expense. The workshop is held in the Fine Arts building of the University of North Florida.
For further information, you can email Dr. Timothy J. Groulx, Associate Professor of Music Education at the University of North Florida at timothy.groulx@unf.edu