STUDIO POLICY/SYLLABUS

Dr. Thomas Joiner (MUSA 83-Violin)

Furman University, Department of Music

Study of an applied instrument encompasses private lessons, studio class, large and small ensemble experiences, daily listening to repertoire of your instrument and attending concerts. While each student possesses varying expectations, different strengths, and progresses at different rates, all students share basic technical studies and standard repertoire of the instrument.

The following items serve as the studio policy / syllabus for violin study.

• A 30-minute warm-up period is recommended prior to a lesson.

• 2 and 4 credit lessons are 50 minutes, 1 credit lessons are 25 minutes.

• 24-hour notice must be given when missing a lesson or it will not be rescheduled.

If a lesson is missed with no prior notice from the student a grade of "F" is entered for the

week. If the teacher must miss a lesson for any reason it will be rescheduled.

• Phone calls at home are accepted when necessary (xxx-xxxx)- after 8:00 PM in an emergency.

• Recommended practice schedule:

BM in Performance 3-4 hrs. daily

BMEd, Theory, etc. 2 hrs. daily

BA in Music 1-2 hrs. daily

Non-Major 5 hours per week

• Performances are encouraged and required for students earning Music degrees. Non-majors

may be asked to perform in the appropriate venue. The teacher must hear and approve any

solo music that will be performed for any public / community event.

• Studio class is the "lab" experience for applied instruction at Furman. Studio classes are

held during fall and spring terms. The class will include solo performances, sectional

rehearsals on orchestra music, discussion of pedagogy, ensemble playing, and visits by guest

clinicians / speakers. Attendance is required.

• All violin students enrolled for credit are required to play a "jury" at the end of the fall and

spring term. A jury is the playing exam for the term. Three or more string faculty listen to each jury and give a grade. The grade is averaged with those of the principal applied teacher.

• Grades: Violin students receive a grade for each lesson. The grade reflects weekly preparation; overall improvement depending on each individual level, and attendance and promptness to scheduled lessons.

• Concerts: Attendance at concerts / recitals of any and all instruments enhances your musical education. Majors have a certain number required per term by the music department. When your teacher is performing on campus you are required to attend.

• Music: All music that is assigned must be ordered promptly. Xeroxed music (allowing 1-2 weeks for a new part to arrive) will not be allowed in lessons. All Xerox's must be returned to the teacher after that period.