Beginning Band Bops: Examining the Compositional Process of Music Written for Beginning Band
Open Access
Author:
Schultheis, Sarafina
Area of Honors:
Music Education
Degree:
Bachelor of Music Education
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Linda Carol Porter Thornton, Thesis Supervisor Linda Carol Porter Thornton, Thesis Honors Advisor Robert Gardner, Faculty Reader
Keywords:
Music Education Band Composers Compositon Music Beginning Band
Abstract:
Much research in the field of instrumental music education focuses on teaching strategies or repertoire selection and composition for experienced groups. However, it is important to learn more about these same aspects for teaching beginning band students as well. The purpose of this study was to create a more comprehensive approach to composing for a beginning band ensemble so more educators of beginning band students better understand what is necessary to make a great composition to aid in selecting repertoire, or even to compose for the beginning band level themselves. Five composers, Scott Watson, Jodie Blackshaw, Jennifer Jolley, Robert
Sheldon, and Frank Ticheli were interviewed in Fall 2021 regarding their perspectives and process for writing for beginning band. Using the information gained from a review of literature and interviews with these prominent composers, I composed a new piece for beginning band and analyzed my experience.
