BRYANT, STEPHEN

Syllabus for Beginning Guitar Course Wall Township High School 

Course Overview:
This year-long course is designed for students who are new to playing the guitar. Students will learn fundamental techniques, music theory, and performance skills. By the end of the course, students will be able to play a variety of songs, understand basic music notation, and demonstrate basic guitar techniques.

Course Objectives:

• Develop basic guitar-playing skills.

• Understand music theory and terminology.

• Learn to read basic music notation and tablature.

• Perform simple songs individually and in groups.

• Build confidence in performing in front of peers.

Course Outline:

Quarter 1: Introduction to Guitar

• Week 1-2: Introduction to the guitar (parts of the guitar, holding the instrument, tuning)

• Week 3-4: Basic strumming patterns and rhythm exercises

• Week 5: Introduction to basic chords (C, G, D, E minor)

• Week 6: Simple songs using learned chords (e.g., "Knockin' on Heaven's Door," "Three Little Birds")

• Week 7-8: Understanding music notation and tablature

• Assessment: Basic chord play test and written quiz on guitar parts and tuning

Quarter 2: Expanding Skills

• Week 9-10: Introduction to fingerpicking techniques

• Week 11-12: More chords (A, F, E, D7) and transitions between chords

• Week 13: Playing along with tracks (finding the right tempo)

• Week 14-15: Learning a popular song using fingerpicking or chord strumming

• Week 16: Group performances and peer reviews

• Assessment: Fingerpicking assignment and song performance

Quarter 3: Songwriting and Music Theory

• Week 17-18: Basics of music theory (scales, key signatures, and chord progressions)

• Week 19-20: Introduction to songwriting (lyrics and melody)

• Week 21-22: Writing simple songs or melodies using learned chords

• Week 23-24: Collaborating in small groups to arrange and perform original songs

• Assessment: Submit a written song (lyrics and chord structure) and group performance

Quarter 4: Performance and Review

• Week 25-26: Learn about stage presence and performance techniques

• Week 27-28: Preparing for a final performance (practice sessions)

• Week 29: Individual performance presentations (students perform their favorite song)

• Week 30: Reflection and review of the year, discussing progress and future goals

• Final Assessment: Group concert showcasing original and cover songs

Materials Needed:

• Acoustic Nylon String Guitar Provided by WHS 

• Dedicated 3 Ring Binder with clear sleeves 

• Supplemental Materials provided by WHS. All materials are  available as a PDF in Google Classroom 

Grading:

• Classwork/Homework/Participation: 20%

• Projects: 20%

• Assessments (quizzes and performance evaluations): 30%

Additional Notes:

• Students are encouraged to practice at home for at least 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times a week.

• Optional after-school jam sessions may be organized for additional practice and collaboration.

• Students should come to class prepared with their instruments and materials.

This syllabus provides a structured yet flexible framework to guide students through the basics of playing the guitar, fostering creativity, collaboration, and musical appreciation.

This course of study offers the students the opportunity to explore music in a performance-based environment.   The primary goal of the course is to increase the ability, aesthetic awareness and cultural literacy of the young musician while meeting Core Curriculum Standards. 

MATERIALS NEEDED 
Each student will need a three-ring binder with clear inserts.  Students will be given several supplemental text books and are available in full PDF in the Google Classroom.

Students will be assigned a school-owned instrument that may be taken home for practice after a signed contract is returned with a parent's signature. 

Mr. Bryant's Extra Help Day will be Monday afternoon at 2:10pm

Syllabus for Guitar Ensemble Wall Township High School 

Course Overview:
This year-long course focuses on developing ensemble playing skills and musicianship through collaborative guitar performance. Students will explore a variety of musical genres, learn arrangements for multiple guitars, and enhance their sight-reading and improvisational skills. By the end of the course, students will have a diverse repertoire and experience performing in front of an audience.

Course Objectives:

• Develop skills in guitar ensemble playing.

• Foster teamwork and collaboration through group performances.

• Enhance understanding of music theory and arrangement.

• Improve sight-reading and improvisational abilities.

• Gain experience performing live in various settings.

Course Outline:

Quarter 1: Introduction to Ensemble Playing

• Week 1-2: Introduction to ensemble concepts (listening, blending, and tuning)

• Week 3-4: Basic warm-up exercises for guitar ensembles (scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions)

• Week 5-6: Introduction to simple arrangements (duets and trios)

• Week 7-8: Selecting and arranging repertoire from various genres (folk, classical, pop)

• Assessment: Group performance of a selected arrangement

Quarter 2: Expanding Repertoire and Technique

• Week 9-10: Exploring different musical styles (classical, jazz, rock)

• Week 11-12: Learning ensemble techniques (cues, dynamics, and phrasing)

• Week 13-14: Incorporating rhythm sections (percussion and bass) into ensemble plays

• Week 15-16: Group work on a more complex arrangement (4-6 guitars)

• Assessment: Midterm performance featuring varied styles and arrangements

Quarter 3: Composition and Arrangement

• Week 17-18: Basics of guitar arranging (voice leading, parts for different skill levels)

• Week 19-20: Introduction to composition techniques (melody writing, harmonization)

• Week 21-22: Collaborative composition project in small groups

• Week 23-24: Preparing original compositions for performance

• Assessment: Group presentation of original works and peer critiques

Quarter 4: Performance and Reflection

• Week 25-26: Preparing for the end-of-year concert (rehearsal schedules, logistics)

• Week 27-28: Focus on performance techniques (stage presence, audience engagement)

• Week 29: Final rehearsals and adjustments based on feedback

• Week 30: End-of-year concert showcasing a variety of pieces (arrangements and original works)

• Final Assessment: Group concert performance and individual reflection on progress and growth

Materials Needed:

• Acoustic or electric guitar

• Guitar picks

• Music stand

• Notebook for arrangements and compositions

• Access to recordings of pieces for practice and inspiration

Grading:

• Classwork/Homework/Participation: 20%

• Projects: 20%

• Assessments (quizzes and performance evaluations): 30%

Additional Notes:

• Students should strive to practice regularly at home, focusing on both individual and ensemble skills.

• Optional masterclasses with guest musicians may be organized throughout the year.

• Students are encouraged to suggest pieces or styles they are interested in exploring as a group.

This syllabus provides a framework that supports musical growth and collaboration, allowing students to thrive in a dynamic ensemble setting while fostering a love for guitar music across genres.