Every attempt will be made to help a student succeed in the Piano Department. However, the final outcome of the student's grade in the Piano Class depends entirely on the student's participation, diligent study, excellent performance, and satisfactory work ethic. Grades are based on several factors, with the most signficant grading weight on performances and juries. Criteria may be added throughout the course of the year to reflect important elements of the class. Criteria may vary, but grades are based generally on the following:
Middle School Students
Jury -- 200 points per performance (1 during First Semester, 2 during Second Semester)
Please follow the link to Jury Requirements for grading rubrics
Journal/Notebook -- 50 points
Quizzes -- points as determined
Student presentation -- 100 points per semester
Please follow the link to The Student Presentation for grading rubrics
Classroom Performances -- 30 points per performance, two performances required before each recital
Other classroom work -- points as determined
Accompanying -- Two accompaniment pieces, 50 points per piece, grade assigned during the last quarter
Music Theory -- points assigned to reflect approximately 15% of the student's grade
Utilization of Class Time -- points as determined
Extra credit may be earned through participation in DSA Piano activities, which can include accompanying, attendance at Piano Department performances, or through participation in community service musical actvities
High School Students
Jury -- 200 points per performance (1 during First Semester, 2 during Second Semester)
Please follow the link to Jury Requirements for grading rubrics
Quizzes -- points as determined
Directed Independent Study -- 100 points per study
Please follow the link to The Student Presentation for grading rubrics
Final Formal Paper -- 100 points
Classroom Performances -- 30 points per performance, two performances required before each recital
Other classroom work -- points as determined
Accompanying -- Two accompaniment pieces, 50 points per piece (HS Students MUST participate with one major musical organization, such as the Band, Orchestra, Choir, or the Dance Department, each year). Grade will be assigned during the last quarter.
Utilization of Class Time -- points as determined
Extra credit may be earned through participation in DSA Piano activities:
Attendance at Piano Department performances (20 points for class recitals, 10 points for other events) Performance at Music Department Convocations (20 points, HS only)
Participation in community service musical actvities.
Students are encouraged to complete all work. In most cases, late work will be accepted, but will be assigned a reduced grade. Generally, a student can expect to receive 50% of the original points for a late assignment.
Please also review Rules for the Piano Room and Piano Attendance Policy for other classroom policies, some of which can affect a student's grade.
Back to Syllabus for HS and MS Students, 2009-10
Back to Piano Majors