Test grades are only contestable if you can verify that you actually answered the question correctly.

Although I rarely take attendance, the quizzes will help determine class attendance. Quizzes may only be made up by verified absences (a note from the infirmary, an excuse from the dean or the comandant, or some other means. Simply telling me that you missed the quiz because your alarm failed to awaken you is not acceptable.)

Tests are scored on a strict scale basis using percentages and are NOT curved or rounded up. Make-ups will be given ONLY with a note from the Dean or from the infirmary.

Music in America (Classical) is designed to acquaint students with music and materials of America that is basic to an understanding of American Art Music in today's world. In the process of achieving this result, selected goals of Areas 2 and 6 of the University Core Curriculum will be addressed. Please refer to the booklet: University Core Curriculum / A Guide for Students / 1996-97 for a complete list of these goals.

Goal # 1 "Examine some of the formative ideas and cultural traditions that have shaped Western experience."

Western traditions, such as music notation, formal concerts, aural traditions, composition and advanced study will be examined to determine what sets this art form apart from other traditions.

Goal # 2 "Study classic and contemporary texts that have influenced or exemplified currents in Western thought and imagination."

An examination of the various jazz styles illustrates how this art form has developed - from the development and use of notation to the examination of non -Western cultures as source material for composition.

Goal # 3 "Gain an understanding of some aspects of human achievement and experience that have been persistently overlooked in mainstream Western culture, including those of women, minorities, and non-Western peoples."

A substantial percentage of creative works under consideration in this course are those created by women, minorities.

Goal # 4 "Analyze creative works of various mediums both in the arts and technology from the viewpoints of cultural meanings and influence."

Nearly 100 creative works will be studied.

Goal # 9 "Study the life, thought, and creative activity of men and women of achievement in various fields of human endeavor."

As part of the examination of the great works in Jazz, a brief look at the lives and creative process of the artists is included. Here one can observe how various influences have been at work shaping the creative output of these people.

Goal # 1 "Participate in cultural events and activities on campus, in both popular and classical arts"

While not required, attendance at cultural events is strongly encouraged to reinforce the knowledge gained in class.

Goal # 2 "Understand how the artists or designers who produce these events and works have shaped their ideas"

What is in the mind of the performer/creator? Why are various tempi chosen? Why is the ensemble set up as it is? These and other questions will be answered.

Goal # 5 "Study selected works of fine and applied arts"

This course will define fine and applied arts and take a close-up look at nearly 100 creative works.

Each test will devote several questions to the criteria stated above to assess the student's understanding.