KEYBOARD CLASS CRITERIA

james.hartmann@rcsdk12.org
242-7682 x1900

This class is designed to help you achieve higher levels of piano performance and musicianship through
private coaching, practice, performances, and written work. We emphasize individual work and
achievement in order to develop technique, stylistic knowledge and performance ability. We expect that by
the end of the year you will have improved at least one piano grade level as described in the NYSSMA
manual. In addition to being a better pianist, you will also be a better musician.

Course Objectives
1) To increase technical fluency (to be able to play more notes with better speed and accuracy).
2) To discover new composers and new styles of music.
3) To better understand how to practice efficiently to get the most out of your time.
4) To become a better music reader.
5) To learn how to play in a group or as an accompanist.
6) To listen to your playing more carefully so you can make corrections.
7) To have a better understanding of music theory and how pieces are put together.
8) To perform well in public (whether in class or in recital).
9) To learn how to approach new pieces of music.

Course Requirements
1) Arrive on time each day ready to work. Attendance and promptness will affect your grade.
2) Always bring your music, paper and a pencil. Keep a separate folder for your piano music. Your
grade will be lowered if you lose your music.
3) All students are expected to be respectful of the musical equipment. There will be absolutely no
food, drink or gum in the piano room.
4) All students will play wearing headphones at all times. We have some headphones, but they may
not always work. Bring your own!
5) The teachers reserve the right to move you to any piano in the room at any time for any reason.
6) Once you have been assigned a piece, you can expect to be graded on it.
7) All students are expected to be patient and supportive of other students.
8) Fingernails must be kept short enough that they do not interfere with correct piano playing.
9) Piano majors are required to participate in two formal recitals per year (one per semester). As an
option they may choose to play in one recital and write a ten-page paper on an agreed-upon topic.
Non-majors can play in recitals but are not required to do so.
10) Cell phone use is not permitted. Keep your cell phone off and out of sight.

Grading Policy
1) Your grade will be based on performances (in-class or out). You will be graded on scales and
prepared pieces. There may be written tests on materials covered in class. Also affecting your grade
will be attendance, promptness, attitude and effort. School performances (recitals, etc.) always help
your grade. Extra credit may be earned by writing research papers (after consultation with the
teacher). HARD WORK = PROGRESS = GOOD GRADE
2) For extra credit, students can attend a concert or performance AND write a one-page paper about it.
3) Students are expected to follow the School District Attendance Policy. In brief, the policy states that
students must be in attendance 85% of the time or they may fail the course. Students can avoid this
penalty if they request within ten days to make up any work missed, and the work is made up
satisfactorily. If you are required to play in a performance and you miss it without a valid excuse
(verified by a parent/guardian), it will severely damage your grade.
 The piano staff here at SOTA is looking forward to helping you learn more about piano and become a
better musician. Your progress depends on how hard you work! You can make tremendous progress!
IT'S ALL UP TO YOU!

Grading will be based on the following:

 Playing Tests (pieces)– 40%
 Playing Tests (quizzes) – 20%
 Attendance and Participation – 15%
 Homework/Practicing – 15%

Dates for parent conferences are Oct 12, Nov 30 and March 8 from 5-7 PM, and Feb 2 from 12:30- 2:30.
Curriculum night is September 19 from 6-8 p.m.

All students must respect the School of the Arts culture and climate:

Be on time, Be prepared, Be engaged.

Cell phones and all electronics are prohibited in ALL classrooms.

To include but not limited to: ear buds, headphones, IPODS.

The dress code will be strictly enforced.

To include but not limited to: hats, hoodies and bandanas, as well as what is prescribed by the
school handbook and posters.

Disrespect/Disruption to the educational process is prohibited.

To include but not limited to: bullying, profanity, food consumption and personal grooming.

CONSEQUENCES: To include but not limited to:

Verbal/non-verbal warning/contact log

Move the student’s seat

Parent contact

Lunch detention

After school detention

Conference with administrator

NON-NEGOTIABLES – Immediate removal from classroom

To include but not limited to: Fighting; both physical and verbal, vandalism, theft, chronic
disruption, and suspicion of being under the influence of illegal substances.

SEVERE CONSEQUENCES: To be determined by administration

I, understand my responsibilities as a piano student.
I will strive to be on time with a good attitude. I will work at reading music. I will be prepared with
my music and something to write with. I will be respectful and respected. I will use piano class
time to practice, perform, learn, and listen. I will perform in class and in recitals as required. I will
help my classmates to become better pianists in any way that I can.

I understand and will abide by the Course Requirements.

In return for applying myself, I know that I will become a better pianist and musician. I will learn about
different composers and types of music. I will be able to learn music easier and play it better. I will
have an understanding of making music with others, either by playing in a group or accompanying.

Student Signature Date

Parent Signature Date

Home phone Work phone

Cell phone Parent Email

OR: parents, send an email with your name, your child's name and contact information (Subject: Piano
Class) to: james.hartmann@rcsdk12.org

You can always contact me at james.hartmann@rcsdk12.org or 242-7682 x.1900

Email contact is preferred.