'This course is perfect for anyone with an interest in music. It starts with the very basics of theory and the information is made easy to understand. There is a good atmosphere in the class, being with people who share your passion for music.'
– I. Colgan
Learning to read music, a vital first step in any musical education, needn’t be intimidating. Music Fundamentals I and II are 10-week courses that together introduce the essentials of reading and writing musical notation, as well as elementary musical grammar, to music-reading beginners and improvers. Students learn the basics and more (treble and bass clefs, note values, time and key signatures, scale construction, frequently used terms and signs). While a lot of ground is covered each week and homework given, the courses are both enjoyable and student-friendly. Music Fundamentals I and II are recommended as supplemental courses for anyone beginning an instrument at the New School – whether classical, traditional, jazz or popular – as well as for students who are already singing or playing an instrument but haven’t learned to read music, or who need a refresher course.
No previous musical experience is required for Music Fundamentals I. Students with basic knowledge of music theory who are interested in joining Music Fundamentals II should ask for a self-assessment test (based on the Associated Board Music Theory in Practice Grade 1 workbook) from the school office to assess your own level.
Music Fundamentals I covers all aspects of Associated Board Grade 1 theory, and Music Fundamentals II covers all aspects of AB Grade 2 theory. Students wishing to do so may be entered for the Grade I or Grade II theory exam after one or both courses.
Students are advised to purchase The AB Guide to Music Theory, Part 1 by Eric Taylor, as well as Music Theory in Practice, Grade 1 (for Music Fundamentals I) or Music Theory in Practice, Grade 2 (for Music Fundamentals II), all available in Waltons music shops, before the start of the course.
Music Fundamentals is one of our group theory courses for beginners. Private, partner, group and intensive music theory and composition lessons are also available for students at all levels, from beginner to advanced. Go to Music Theory & Sight Singing for more information.
First Term Schedules & Fee
MUSIC FUNDAMENTALS I
10 weeks, October 5 – December 14, 2010
Tuesdays 6.30 – 7.30 pm
MUSIC FUNDAMENTALS II
10 weeks, October 5 – December 14, 2010
Tuesdays 7.30 – 8.30 pm
No classes on October 26
Tuition Fee: €130
Ronan O'Sullivan, Teacher
Ronan O'Sullivan studied piano, clarinet and saxophone at third level at the DIT Conservatory of Music and Drama, earning a Teacher’s Diploma and a Degree in Performance. He completed his post-graduate training at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow. Ronan has been a member of the National Youth Orchestra, Irish Youth Wind Ensemble and the European Youth Wind Orchestra. He has taught the Music Fundamentals courses for the last seven years. Aside from his extensive teaching practice, Ronan performs regularly with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and performs many concerts as a freelance musician around Ireland.
Enrolment
Enrolment for these courses requires a completed enrolment form and full payment of tuition fees. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, based on the date of enrolment. Early enrolment is recommended, as places are limited.
Purchasing this course as a gift? Download a gift certificate booking form.
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