Music Theory course syllabus

Mr. Pelt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/PeltTCS
pelt@timothychristian.com Edmodo join code: ______________________

Course Description
Music Theory is an advanced level course that is suitable for students who want to learn more about
the mechanics of music and who need to prepare for college music courses. Students in this class
should have a working knowledge of music fundamentals (notation, pitch, rhythm, terms, etc.) before
taking this class. Students will view videos and slideshows at home and complete assignments in class
and as homework.

Materials
Practical Theory - Complete by Sandy Feldstein (Alfred Publishing Co., Inc.)
Notebook and staff paper
Dedicated binder for assignments, class notes, etc.
Pencil and eraser
Internet access/ability to view YouTube outside of class
Edmodo account

Grading Policy
Students will earn a grade based on the total points accumulated throughout the semester. Specific
areas of assessment will include:

Participation All students are expected to actively participate in class discussions and keep clean and
accurate notes.
Assignments The class text includes many exercises that will be completed in class or as homework.
Additional worksheets will also be handed out for students to complete. These
assignments must be turned in on time to receive credit.
Unit Tests Each unit will include a written test about the material covered.
Binder Each student will keep all materials organized in a binder.
Final Project Each student will complete a project as their final.

Course Outline
This is a general explanation of the units of study covered in this class.

Unit 1 – Elements of Rhythm: note durations, rests, meter, time signatures

Unit 2 – Elements of Pitch: clefs, major and minor scales, key signature
Unit 3 – Chords: triads, 7th chords, inversions
Unit 4 – Function: functional harmony, diatonic chords, circle of 5ths progressions

Additional areas of study:

Form, Music History, Instruments & Orchestration
Music Theory Binder

Description
Each student will maintain a binder of the note pages, assignments, articles, and other materials
presented in class. Ideally, this will be a resource you can refer back to and add to throughout your
musical career. Neatness and organization are paramount; when possible, materials should be typed
and pleasing to the eye. Students may decorate their binders to add a personal touch of flair – at the
very least your name and the subject should appear on the cover and spine of the binder.

Materials
3 ring binder –1” spine
8 tab dividers labeled with each unit:
Elements
Rhythm
Pitch
Chords
Function
Form
Resources
Devotions

Grading
You will receive a grade on your binder based on the criteria of neatness & organization and inclusion
of all completed materials.

20% Three ring binder – with room for growth

10% Tab dividers – 8 with appropriate labels
40% Notes – placed in sequential order under the appropriate tabs
10% Assignments & tests – put under the appropriate tabs
20% Presentation – neat and clean, artwork enhances content
001 Defining Music
My ideas about defining the term “music”:

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Aaron Copland’s definition of music:

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Mr. Pelt’s definition of music:

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My definition of music:

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How well does a definition encompass all forms of music?

What types of sound might not fall under the definition of music?
002 Components of Sound
Common term Musical term Description Measurement
(scientific)

notes:

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