University of Illinois School of Music

Piano Pedagogy Division

Undergraduate Group Piano Courses
(Music 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 199-Discovery)
Faculty
Dr. Christos Tsitsaros, ctsitsar@illinois.edu
Professor Joan Hickey, joanpno@aol.com
Dr. Sam Gingher, samgingher@gnmail.com
Teaching Assistants
Hayeon Park, hpark106@illinois.edu
Dimitrije Vasilijevic, vasilije2@illinois.edu
Group Piano Policy Sheet for All Courses
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
Students in the group piano curriculum will experience solo and ensemble piano
literature. Each piano class also focuses on such skills as sight-reading,
harmonization, transposition, and improvisation. Throughout these learning
experiences, attention is given to the development of effective technique and
hand position.
REQUIRED TEXTS:
Keyboard Musicianship: Piano for Adults (Book I or II, 10th edition) by Lyke,
Alexander, Caramia, Haydon, and Chioldi
Music 172-173 (KM, Book I, 10th edition)
Music 174-175 (KM, Book II, 10th edition)
Keyboard Fundamentals (6th edition) by Lyke, Edwards, Haydon, Chioldi, and
Evans
Music 170-171 (KF, 6thth edition)
Music 199-Discovery Course (KF, 6th edition)
GRADING POLICY:
Generally there are Four unit tests emphasizing keyboard skills, piano solos and
duets (approximately one test every four weeks). The first three tests are each
worth 50 points; the fourth test is worth 70 points. Students will be notified of the
test date and content in advance. The test portion of the semester equals a total of
220 points. Large section enrollments (e.g., more than 8 students) may result in
one less playing test during the semester.
Preparation for each class (through careful and consistent practice outside of
class) and class participation are important for developing keyboard skills. Each
student will receive a grade for overall preparation and participation. With
exception of unit test dates, participation points will be based on the quality of
the student's weekly class work as perceived by the instructor as well as the
attendance record. Class preparation and participation points total 100 for the
semester.

Revisedfallterm2013

The final grade for the semester's work is based on the following scale:
A 320-297 (93-100%)
D 249-208 (65-78%)
B 296-278 (87-92%)
F under 208 (under 65%)
C 275-252 (79-86%)
Note: Within this scale, instructors have the option to modify the scale if needed
and to adjust for plus and minus grades.
GRADE INTERPRETATION:
A
B
C
D
F

The keyboard skill or composition is understood and performed with

ease demonstrating near flawlessness.
The student has a solid grasp of the material. This is a GOOD grade
indicating a skill level just short of mastery.
A student performs the skill or piece with basic competence, but without
the fluency meriting the above grades.
Student's performance is below average.
Little or no learning/practicing has occurred.

ATTENDANCE POLICY:
Regular attendance in piano classes is required for achieving a satisfactory level
of proficiency and enhancing the overall learning experience.
If you are unable to attend class in case of an illness or emergency, please notify
the instructor prior to class time and follow up with a written proof, such as a
doctors note, or a letter from the Dean of Students. For professional
engagements and ensemble events that require you being out of campus, please
make sure that your conductor or advisor notifies well in advance your instructor
of your obligation to attend the event.
You are allowed two unexcused absences during the semester at no penalty,
which you are advised to use only if strictly needed. After that, any unexcused
absence will lower your grade by a third of a letter. If you are more than five
minutes late to class four times, you will have accumulated an unexcused
absence.
Note also that being absent for a unit test is regarded as a serious matter. If you
need to miss a unit test due to an excused absence (such as in the case of serious
illness), you need to notify your instructor in advance and have two weeks to
make it up. There will be no make-up exams for unexcused absences.
In the unusual event of an extended illness, you are required to provide proper
documentation to the instructor from the Dean of Students and/or doctor or health
provider. Such cases will be evaluated individually with due consideration to the
needs and situation of each student.

Revisedfallterm2013