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Dr. Evan Feldman
Learn and practice the basic principles of running an effective music ensemble rehearsal. Techniques and strategies are applicable to a variety of ensembles, including bands, orchestras, choirs, and chamber groups.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Syllabus
An Introduction to Rehearsing
This week, Module 1, we’ll discuss basic philosophical issues such as: What we do in rehearsals, what skills are needed, and the idea of the conductor as “the composer’s advocate.” I will also introduce the concept of Macro-Micro-Macro, which serves as the overarching principle of rehearsals. Then we will move on to basic conducting technique.
Read more
Syllabus
An Introduction to Rehearsing
This week, Module 1, we’ll discuss basic philosophical issues such as: What we do in rehearsals, what skills are needed, and the idea of the conductor as “the composer’s advocate.” I will also introduce the concept of Macro-Micro-Macro, which serves as the overarching principle of rehearsals. Then we will move on to basic conducting technique.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Shortens the time to competency in managing effective rehearsals
Focuses on refining professional skills for conductors
Practical strategies provide options for dealing with a range of ensemble issues
Suitable for beginners, with step-by-step guidance from preparing to conducting
Builds on prior musical knowledge and experience
Requires a solid foundation in music theory and conducting techniques
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Reviews summary
Practical ensemble rehearsal techniques
According to learners, this course provides a positive and practical foundation in leading musical ensembles. Students frequently highlight the clarity and expertise of the instructor, finding the techniques taught, especially the concept of a "rehearsal toolkit", to be immediately applicable to their own conducting situations. While it's particularly strong for those new to conducting or looking to solidify fundamental skills, more experienced participants note it still offers valuable tips and a structured approach, although some desired deeper dives into more advanced or specific ensemble topics. Overall, it's seen as a highly useful course for improving rehearsal effectiveness.
Course is well-organized and easy to follow.
"The modules flowed logically, building from basic concepts to more detailed techniques."
"Syllabus is clear and the progression of topics makes sense."
"Videos are well-produced and the content is presented clearly."
"Easy to navigate and review specific topics as needed."
Excellent for beginners and building a base.
"As someone fairly new to conducting, this course gave me a solid foundation."
"Covers the fundamentals really well. Great starting point."
"Perfect for understanding the basic principles before moving to more complex scores."
"Helped me fill in gaps in my basic conducting knowledge."
Instructor is clear, engaging, and very knowledgeable.
"The professor is excellent! Clear explanations and great examples."
"His insights come from real experience, making the advice highly credible."
"Found the instructor's presentation style engaging and easy to follow."
"Knowledgeable, passionate, and communicates complex ideas simply."
Provides immediately useful techniques for rehearsals.
"The rehearsal toolkit concept is fantastic and gives me concrete things to try in my next rehearsal."
"I've already started applying some of the communication strategies, and I've seen a difference."
"This course gave me practical tools I can use right now with my community choir."
"Focused on real-world application, which was exactly what I needed."
Some wish for more advanced or specific examples.
"Would love to see more examples with different types of ensembles (e.g., professional orchestras)."
"Felt like it could go deeper on score study techniques."
"Good foundation, but leaves you wanting more advanced strategies if you have some experience."
"More complex rhythmic examples would be helpful."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles with these
activities:
Review basic music theory concepts
Show steps
Reviewing basic music theory concepts such as scales, intervals, and chords will help strengthen your understanding of the material covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
-
Review a music theory textbook or online resource
-
Complete practice exercises to test your understanding
Watch video tutorials on conducting techniques
Show steps
Watching video tutorials on conducting techniques will help you visualize and learn the proper techniques for conducting an ensemble.
Show steps
-
Find video tutorials on conducting techniques
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes
Read 'The Score: Music, the Brain, and the World We Make'
Show steps
Reading 'The Score' will provide you with a deeper understanding of the science of music and how it affects the brain.
View
This Is Your Brain on Music
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book
-
Take notes on key concepts
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a practice plan for an upcoming rehearsal
Show steps
Creating a practice plan for an upcoming rehearsal will help you organize your thoughts and prepare for the rehearsal in a structured way.
Show steps
-
Identify the goals of the rehearsal
-
Plan the order of activities
-
Prepare materials and resources
Start a project to conduct a small ensemble
Show steps
Starting a project to conduct a small ensemble will give you hands-on experience in conducting and allow you to apply the concepts you learn in the course.
Browse courses on
Musical Performance
Show steps
-
Find a group of musicians to form an ensemble
-
Select a piece of music to rehearse and perform
-
Rehearse the piece regularly
-
Perform the piece for an audience
Review basic music theory concepts
Show steps
Reviewing basic music theory concepts such as scales, intervals, and chords will help strengthen your understanding of the material covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review a music theory textbook or online resource
- Complete practice exercises to test your understanding
Watch video tutorials on conducting techniques
Show steps
Watching video tutorials on conducting techniques will help you visualize and learn the proper techniques for conducting an ensemble.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find video tutorials on conducting techniques
- Watch the tutorials and take notes
Read 'The Score: Music, the Brain, and the World We Make'
Show steps
Reading 'The Score' will provide you with a deeper understanding of the science of music and how it affects the brain.
View
This Is Your Brain on Music
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book
- Take notes on key concepts
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a practice plan for an upcoming rehearsal
Show steps
Creating a practice plan for an upcoming rehearsal will help you organize your thoughts and prepare for the rehearsal in a structured way.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the goals of the rehearsal
- Plan the order of activities
- Prepare materials and resources
Start a project to conduct a small ensemble
Show steps
Starting a project to conduct a small ensemble will give you hands-on experience in conducting and allow you to apply the concepts you learn in the course.
Browse courses on
Musical Performance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a group of musicians to form an ensemble
- Select a piece of music to rehearse and perform
- Rehearse the piece regularly
- Perform the piece for an audience
Career center
Learners who complete Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Music Instructor
Music Instructor
Music Instructors lead music education programs and tutor students of all ages. They develop lesson plans, set up practice schedules, and teach students about different musical styles. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can provide a solid foundation for Music Instructors who wish to teach ensemble playing. The course covers topics such as conducting technique, rehearsal strategy, and score study, which are all essential skills for leading a successful music ensemble.
Music Director
Music Director
Music Directors oversee the artistic direction of musical organizations, such as orchestras, choirs, and bands. They are responsible for selecting repertoire, hiring and managing musicians, and leading rehearsals and performances. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can be beneficial for Music Directors who want to improve their rehearsal skills and learn new strategies for working with ensembles.
Orchestra Conductor
Orchestra Conductor
Orchestra Conductors lead orchestras in rehearsals and performances. They are responsible for interpreting the music, setting tempos, and coordinating the musicians. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can be helpful for Orchestra Conductors who want to develop their conducting technique and learn more about rehearsal strategies.
Choir Director
Choir Director
Choir Directors lead choirs in rehearsals and performances. They are responsible for selecting repertoire, teaching vocal technique, and leading the choir in singing. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can be beneficial for Choir Directors who want to improve their rehearsal skills and learn more about working with vocal ensembles.
Band Director
Band Director
Band Directors lead bands in rehearsals and performances. They are responsible for selecting repertoire, teaching instrumental technique, and leading the band in playing. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can be beneficial for Band Directors who want to improve their rehearsal skills and learn more about working with instrumental ensembles.
Music Teacher
Music Teacher
Music Teachers provide music instruction to students of all ages. They teach students about different musical styles, instruments, and music theory. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can be helpful for Music Teachers who want to learn more about rehearsal strategies and how to work with ensembles.
Musician
Musician
Musicians perform music in a variety of settings, such as orchestras, bands, and choirs. They may also teach music or compose their own music. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course can be beneficial for Musicians who want to learn more about rehearsal strategies and how to work effectively with ensembles.
Music Therapist
Music Therapist
Music Therapists use music to help people improve their physical and mental health. They work with people of all ages and abilities, using music to help them relax, reduce stress, and improve communication skills. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Therapists who want to learn more about rehearsal strategies and how to work effectively with groups.
Arts Administrator
Arts Administrator
Arts Administrators manage the business and operations of arts organizations, such as orchestras, theaters, and museums. They are responsible for fundraising, budgeting, and marketing. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Arts Administrators who want to learn more about the artistic side of music and how to work effectively with musicians.
Music Critic
Music Critic
Music Critics write reviews and articles about music performances and recordings. They provide their opinions on the quality of the music and the performance. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Critics who want to learn more about the technical aspects of music and how to analyze performances.
Music Journalist
Music Journalist
Music Journalists write articles and stories about music and the music industry. They interview musicians, review concerts and recordings, and write about music trends. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Journalists who want to learn more about the technical aspects of music and how to write about music effectively.
Music Producer
Music Producer
Music Producers oversee the recording and production of music. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to create and release music. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Producers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of music and how to work effectively with musicians.
Music Engineer
Music Engineer
Music Engineers record, mix, and master music. They work with musicians, producers, and other professionals to create and release music. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Engineers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of music and how to work effectively with musicians.
Music Promoter
Music Promoter
Music Promoters promote and publicize music events and artists. They work with venues, artists, and other professionals to create and market events. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Promoters who want to learn more about the music industry and how to work effectively with musicians.
Music Librarian
Music Librarian
Music Librarians manage and organize music collections in libraries and other institutions. They provide access to music and information about music to researchers, students, and the general public. The Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles course may be helpful for Music Librarians who want to learn more about the technical aspects of music and how to work effectively with musicians.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nlhdd1/fundamentals
Reading list
We've selected 16 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles.
Offers practical advice on how to conduct with confidence and authority. It is full of tips and strategies that can help conductors of all levels improve their skills.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the philosophy of music. It covers all aspects of the philosophy of music, from the basics of musical ontology to the advanced topics of musical meaning and expression. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the philosophy of music.
Comprehensive guide to the history of music. It covers all aspects of the history of music, from the basics of musical history to the advanced topics of musical historiography. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the history of music.
Comprehensive guide to the theory of music. It covers all aspects of the theory of music, from the basics of musical theory to the advanced topics of musical analysis. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the theory of music.
Comprehensive guide to the practice of music. It covers all aspects of the practice of music, from the basics of musical practice to the advanced topics of musical performance. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the practice of music.
Comprehensive guide to the business of music. It covers all aspects of the business of music, from the basics of music business to the advanced topics of music marketing and promotion. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the business of music.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the psychology of music performance. It covers all aspects of the psychology of music performance, from the basics of music performance to the advanced topics of music performance anxiety and stage fright. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the psychology of music performance.
Collection of Bernstein's lectures on conducting. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of conducting technique to the interpretation of music. This classic text that is still widely read and used by conductors today.
Save
Classic text on conducting. It covers all aspects of the conductor's craft, from the technical to the artistic. Weingartner's insights into the art of conducting are invaluable for any musician who wants to become a better conductor.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the aesthetics of music. It covers all aspects of the aesthetics of music, from the basics of musical aesthetics to the advanced topics of musical beauty and expression. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the aesthetics of music.
Offers a personal and insightful look at the art of conducting. It must-read for any aspiring conductor.
Save
Classic text on the psychology of music. It covers all aspects of the psychology of music, from the basics of musical perception to the advanced topics of musical creativity. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the psychology of music.
Classic text on orchestration. It covers all aspects of the art of writing for orchestra, from the basics of instrumentation to the advanced techniques of orchestration. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn how to write for orchestra.
Comprehensive guide to orchestration. It covers all aspects of the art of writing for orchestra, from the basics of instrumentation to the advanced techniques of orchestration. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn how to write for orchestra.
Classic text on the sociology of music. It covers all aspects of the sociology of music, from the basics of musical sociology to the advanced topics of musical taste and preference. This is an essential text for any musician who wants to learn about the sociology of music.
Save
This classic book by one of the greatest conductors of all time offers insights into the art of conducting. It must-read for any aspiring conductor.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nlhdd1/fundamentals
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Effort
20-25 hours of lectures and exams
Via
Coursera
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Instructor
Dr. Evan Feldman
Language
English
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