Rock and Pop Ensemble

Last Updated: Tue, 01/06/2026
Course prefix:
MUSI
Course number:
3551
Semester:
Spring
Academic year:
2026
Course description:

In this course, students will learn, rehearse, and perform a set of rock/pop music. “Rock/pop” is construed as widely as possible, encompassing all styles of Anglo-American vernacular music from roughly 1950 onwards, as well as derivative genres from overseas. Example genres include blues, folk, rhythm and blues, k-pop, prog-rock, hip-hop, electronic, heavy metal, punk, and reggae. The set list may include cover songs, original songs, or both. We may also work on producing high-quality recordings of original music.

Course learning outcomes:

In preparing for performance(s), students will build their knowledge and skills as professional musicians. Topics we will work on may include:

  • Musicianship (e.g., playing in tune, playing in time)
  • Ensemble dynamics (e.g., how to play off each other)
  • Jamming
  • Improvising—both individually and as a group
  • Musical dynamics
  • The role of all the instruments in a typical rock band, and how to set them up and break them down
  • How to make your instrument(s) sound good
  • Professional recording practices
  • Ensemble arranging
  • Composition
  • Songwriting

My hope is that each and every student grows as a musician each semester. I will work with each student, or band, to identify specific skills that you can focus on developing, and guide you towards projects that will facilitate that development.

Required course materials:

All musicians are expected to have their instruments available to play at home—the only exceptions are drummers and pianists/keyboardists. For in-person rehearsals/jams, drums, keyboards, and amplification (guitar amps, PA, etc.) will be set up in West Village rehearsal spaces.

  • Guitars, bassists should bring their own instrument, cables, and a tuner. You may bring your own amp and/or effects pedals.
  • Drummers should bring their own cymbals and sticks to rehearsals.
  • Keyboardists may wish to bring their own keyboard and laptop (with software synths).
  • Other instrumentalists (e.g., brass players) need to have their own instruments which they can play at home and bring to in-person rehearsals.
Grading policy:

Participation/Engagement 40

Punctuality/Attendance/Not wasting time 20

Out-of-class preparation 20

Peer feedback/support 10

Maintaining Equipment/Set up 10


 

Attendance policy:

Attendance in this course is graded. Show up on time, or your grade will be affected.

If you are feeling sick, please do not come to rehearsals, performances, or in-person office hours. I will do everything I can to help you catch up on anything you miss due to illness. For occasional mild illnesses, you do not need to officially document your illness or receive a doctor’s note—it is best to simply stay home and inform me of your absence via email before rehearsal starts. However, if you miss more than two consecutive rehearsals, or more than five in total, we must meet (remotely) to discuss how your absences will affect your band—in these cases, I may need to ask for formal documentation (e.g., a doctor’s note) to justify significant accommodations.

Absences for other valid (documented) professional purposes (e.g., interviews) are also acceptable. If you miss sessions for any other reason, or if you fail to inform my why you were absent before rehearsal, I don’t mind personally, but you will not receive credit for attendance.

Academic honesty/integrity statement:

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.

Core IMPACTS statement(s) (if applicable):

This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Humanities area. Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.

  • This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:
    • How do I interpret the human experience through creative, linguistic, and philosophical works?
  • Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:
    • Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance, and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts or of works in the visual/performing arts.
  • Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:
    • Ethical Reasoning
    • Information Literacy
    • Intercultural Competence
Instructor First Name:
Nathaniel
Instructor Last Name:
Condit-Schultz
Section:
All sections
CRN (you may add up to five):
30258
26121
View PDF
Department (you may add up to three):
Music

Jazz Combo

Last Updated: Mon, 01/05/2026
Course prefix:
MUSI
Course number:
3321
Semester:
Spring
Academic year:
2026
Course description:

Jazz Combo - MUSI-3321-JC

MUSI 3321 – Jazz Combo 

TERM: Spring 2026

COURSE INFORMATION: 

            Course Title:MUSI 3321 - JC

            Credit & Format:1 hour Electives Credit – Lecture

            Time & Location: TR 5:00-6:15PM, WV 175, 163, 277

 

INSTRUCTOR:

Name: Dr. Chip Crotts (Director of Jazz Area) Mr. Mace Hibbard (Combo Coach), Ben Weatherford

Telephone: 404.894.3194

Email: chip.crotts@music.gatech.edu

Office: West Village 271

Office Hours: By appointment

 



 

Course learning outcomes:

PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES: An auditioned small jazz ensemble, focused upon the rehearsal, study and performance of jazz music. The purpose of this class is to develop:

 

  1. Understanding of various jazz styles through listening and performance
  2. Understanding of basic jazz theory and harmony.
  3. Knowledge and understanding of basic improvisation and its importance in jazz.
  4. Improved listening skills of jazz music.
  5. Ability to produce polished and professional performance throughout the semester.

 

Upon completion of the course, each student will be able to:

  1. Read jazz music in a fluent manner
  2. Be able to perform in a variety of jazz styles
  3. Improvise on a very basic level
  4. Have a basic knowledge of jazz harmonies and theory
  5. Discern various genres of jazz history and its important musicians



 

Required course materials:

No textbooks, music as selected via pdf and printed materials. 

Grading policy:

PROCEDURES: Attendance at rehearsals is required and will be factored into your grade. The instructor is under no obligation to make up material presented in class unless the student can provide a reasonable and, if appropriate, documented excuse. Some assignments and projects may require additional lab time, which will be established the first week of class. Additional or alternate lab times will be arranged with the instructor and the assigned section leader.

ATTENDANCE: Grade is based on two factors:

  1. Attendance Regular attendance is expected and required of all singers. Attendance will be taken at each rehearsal. Each student is allowed two excused absences. Any (excused or unexcused) absences in excess of two will result in1 letter grade reduction for EACH additional absence. Two 23) tardies of 10 minutes or more will count as one absence.Additional sectional rehearsals will be scheduled within the first two weeks of the semester. Regular attendance is expected and required. The absence of a concert will result in an automatic F for the course.

 

  1. Attitude Each rehearsal is a laboratory setting. Musicians will be regularly assessed on an individual basis for attitude, effort, cooperation and preparation. Grades will be assigned accordingly.



 

Attendance policy:

ATTENDANCE: Grade is based on two factors:

  1. Attendance Regular attendance is expected and required of all singers. Attendance will be taken at each rehearsal. Each student is allowed two excused absences. Any (excused or unexcused) absences in excess of two will result in1 letter grade reduction for EACH additional absence. Two 23) tardies of 10 minutes or more will count as one absence.Additional sectional rehearsals will be scheduled within the first two weeks of the semester. Regular attendance is expected and required. The absence of a concert will result in an automatic F for the course.
Academic honesty/integrity statement:

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.

Core IMPACTS statement(s) (if applicable):

This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Humanities area.

Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.

This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:

  • How do I interpret the human experience through creative, linguistic and philosophical works?

Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:

  • Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts or of works in the visual/performing arts.

Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:

  • Ethical Reasoning
  • Information Literacy
  • Intercultural Competence
Instructor First Name:
Cameron
Instructor Last Name:
Crotts
Section:
A
CRN (you may add up to five):
27335
View PDF
Department (you may add up to three):
Music

Jazz Ensemble

Last Updated: Mon, 01/05/2026
Course prefix:
MUSI
Course number:
3311
Semester:
Spring
Academic year:
2026
Course description:

Jazz Ensemble - MUSI-3311-A

TERM: Spring 2026

 

COURSE INFORMATION:

            Course Title: MUSI 3311-A

            Credit & Format:1 Humanities Credit – Lecture

            Time & Location:T & R 3:30-4:45 pm WV 163, 175, 277

            Bimonthly Sectional: TBA

 

INSTRUCTOR:

Name: Dr. Chip Crotts, Mr. Mace Hibbard

Telephone: 404.894.3194

Email: chip.crotts@music.gatech.edu

Office: WV 271

Office Hours: By appointment

Class meetings for most ensemble courses will include singing and/or woodwind and brass instruments indoors.

PREREQUISITE: No prerequisites for this course. Membership, however, is based on passing a successful audition into the ensemble.

 

 

 

ATTENDANCE:

  1. Attendance Regular attendance is expected and required of all musicians. Attendance will be taken at each rehearsal. ANY (excused or unexcused) absences in excess of two will result in 1 letter grade reduction for EACH additional absence. Additional sectional rehearsals will be scheduled within the first two weeks of the semester. Regular attendance is expected and required and please do not miss FOR ANY REASON (included unexcused) without prior and proper notification. This is a common courtesy for any music ensemble course that is team oriented in its setting.

 

  1. Attitude Each rehearsal is a laboratory setting. Musicians will be regularly assessed on an individual basis for attitude, effort, cooperation and preparation. Grades will be assigned accordingly.

 

PERFORMANCES: Concert performances will be announced well in advance and will serve as exams. Unexcused absences from performances will result in a minimum two letter grade drop per event.

 

MUSIC: Music will be provided by GA Tech, distributed during the first few weeks of rehearsal, and supplemented throughout the semester. You are responsible for returning ALL original music by the end of the term.

 

METHOD OF INSTRUCTION:

  1. Ensemble Instruction
  2. Lecture/Discussion
  3. Listening to recordings
  4. Assigned readings and recordings
  5. Individual instruction within sectional framework

 

METHOD OF EVALUATION:

  1. Rehearsal/Sectional attendance                        40%
  2. Performances                                                     30%
  3. Musical preparation and assignments               30%

                                                                                 100%
 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY:

Students must do their own work on assignments, projects, and tests unless collaboration is previously specified and approved by the instructor. Students caught cheating will receive zero credit for that assignment/quiz/test and may be subject to further sanctions through the Office of Student Integrity. Students are expected to abide by the Georgia Tech Honor Code and avoid any instances of academic misconduct, including but not limited to:

 

  1. Possessing, using, or exchanging improperly acquired written or oral information in the preparation of a paper or for an exam.
  2. Substitution of material that is wholly or substantially identical to that created or published by another individual or individuals.
  3. False claims of performance or work that has been submitted by the student.

 

Please refer to the published Georgia Institute of Technology Academic Honor Code for further information: http://www.deanofstudents.gatech.edu/integrity/policies/honor_code.html (Links to an external site.)

 

 

STATEMENT REGARDING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, students with bona fide disabilities will be afforded reasonable accommodation. The ADAPTS Office will certify a disability and advise faculty members of reasonable accommodations. The web site for a student requesting accommodation is:

http://www .adapts.gatech.edu/faculty _guide/sturespon.htm

 

STATEMENT REGARDING CHANGES IN COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

Since all classes do not progress at the same rate, it may be necessary to modify the above requirements or their timing as circumstances dictate. For example, the number and frequency of exams may be changed, or the number and sequence of assignments will be altered. In either of these cases, adequate notification will be given in writing and be discussed in class.

 

CARE Center, Counseling Center, Stamps Health Services, and the Student Center

These uncertain times can be difficult, and many students may need help in dealing with stress and mental health. The CARE Center (Links to an external site.) and the Counseling Center (Links to an external site.), and Stamps Health Services (Links to an external site.) will offer both in-person and virtual appointments. Face-to-face appointments will require wearing a face covering and social distancing, with exceptions for medical examinations. Student Center services and operations are available on the Student Center (Links to an external site.) website. For more information on these and other student services, contact the Vice President and Dean of Students or the Division of Student Life (Links to an external site.).

Accommodations for Students at Higher Risk for Severe Illness with Covid-19

Students may request an accommodation through the Office of Disability Services (ODS) due to 1) presence of a condition as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or 2) identification as an individual of higher risk for Covid-19, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Registering with ODS is a 3-step process that includes completing an application, uploading documentation related to the accommodation request, and scheduling an appointment for an “intake meeting” (either in person or via phone or video conference) with a disability coordinator.

 If you have been approved by ODS for an accommodation, I will work closely with you to understand your needs and make a good faith effort to investigate whether or not requested accommodations are possible for this course. If the accommodation request results in a fundamental alteration of the stated learning outcome of this course, ODS, academic advisors, and the school offering the course will work with you to find a suitable alternative that as far as possible preserves your progress toward graduation.

Course Homeworks/Assignments/Papers

All course assignments will be submitted electronically via Canvas. Point students to where these can be found in Canvas. If your students are expected to submit physical artifacts, share information on how they will be able to do this.

 

CALENDAR/Concert Dates/Required Events

Tuesday, February 19th - GT Jazz Ensembles Concert #1 -Ferst Center for the Arts - 7:30pm

Tuesday, April 21st - GT Jazz Ensembles Concert #2 with Guest Aartists - First Center for the Arts - 7:30pm

Other Events - TBD

 

The School of Music community of faculty, staff, and students aspires to create and nurture an environment that is supportive of all backgrounds where different views and ideas are respected and encouraged. In all our pursuits, we commit to justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion with regard to race, national origin, language, age, sexual orientation, gender, religion, and ability. Moreover, we will encourage intellectual inquiry and respectful exchange that cements our dedication to these principles.

 

Course learning outcomes:

Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:

  • Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts or of works in the visual/performing arts.

PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES: An auditioned jazz ensemble, focused upon the rehearsal, study and performance of jazz music. The purpose of this class is to develop:

 

  1. Understanding of various jazz styles through listening and performance
  2. Understanding of basic jazz theory and harmony.
  3. Knowledge and understanding of basic improvisation and its importance in jazz.
  4. Improved listening skills of jazz music.
  5. Ability to produce polished and professional performance throughout the semester.

 

Upon completion of the course, each student will be able to:

  1. Read jazz music in a fluent manner
  2. Be able to perform in a variety of jazz styles
  3. Improvise on a very basic level
  4. Have a basic knowledge of jazz harmonies and theory
  5. Discern various genres of jazz history and its important musicians

 

Required course materials:

Jazz Ensemble Music, printed and pdf format. No textbooks. 

Grading policy:

PROCEDURES: Attendance at rehearsals is REQUIRED and MANDATORY and will be factored into your grade. The instructor is under no obligation to make up material presented in class unless the student can provide a reasonable and, if appropriate, documented excuse. Some assignments and projects may require additional lab time, which will be established the first week of class. Additional or alternate lab times will be arranged with the instructor and the assigned section leader. 

If you have to miss class for an approved reason or sickness/conflict, please notify the Instructor PRIOR to that class date. Any notifications AFTER the class will be considering an unexcused absence unless circumstances are such in special and unique circumstances.  Read below for more specifics related to attendance. 

METHOD OF EVALUATION/GRADING:

  1. Rehearsal/Sectional attendance                        40%
  2. Performances                                                        30%
  3. Musical preparation and assignments             30%

                                                                                      100%
 



 

Attendance policy:

ATTENDANCE:

  1. Attendance Regular attendance is expected and required of all musicians. Attendance will be taken at each rehearsal. ANY (excused or unexcused) absences in excess of two will result in 1 letter grade reduction for EACH additional absence. Additional sectional rehearsals will be scheduled within the first two weeks of the semester. Regular attendance is expected and required and please do not miss FOR ANY REASON (included unexcused) without prior and proper notification. This is a common courtesy for any music ensemble course that is team oriented in its setting.

 

  1. Attitude Each rehearsal is a laboratory setting. Musicians will be regularly assessed on an individual basis for attitude, effort, cooperation and preparation. Grades will be assigned accordingly.

 

Academic honesty/integrity statement:

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.

Core IMPACTS statement(s) (if applicable):

This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Humanities area.

Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.

This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:

  • How do I interpret the human experience through creative, linguistic and philosophical works?

Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:

  • Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts or of works in the visual/performing arts.

Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:

  • Ethical Reasoning
  • Information Literacy
  • Intercultural Competence

 

Instructor First Name:
Cameron
Instructor Last Name:
Crotts
Section:
A
CRN (you may add up to five):
26550
View PDF
Department (you may add up to three):
Music

Symphony Orchestra

Last Updated: Fri, 11/14/2025
Course prefix:
MUSI
Course number:
3611
Semester:
Fall
Academic year:
2026
Course description:

An advanced instrumental ensemble performing traditional and contemporary literature. Offered to all students with string, woodwind, brass, or percussion experience. Audition required.

Course learning outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, each student will be able to:
1. Perform the repertoire studied in a polished and professional manner
2. Apply knowledge of historical, social, and cultural influences to the analysis and understanding of a
work of music.
3. Demonstrate musical skill improvement in the areas of tone, technique, and listening awareness
4. Recognize themselves as participants in a particular musical culture and see how this affects their
artistic experiences and values.
 

Required course materials:

None. Sheet music will be provided.

Grading policy:

METHOD OF EVALUATION:
1. Rehearsal/Sectional attendance and Preparation 60%
2. Performances 30%
3. Integration of historical and social context 10%
 

Attendance policy:

Attendance is mandatory.

Academic honesty/integrity statement:

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.

Instructor First Name:
Chaowen
Instructor Last Name:
Ting
Section:
CO
CRN (you may add up to five):
000000
View PDF
Department (you may add up to three):
Music

Symphony Orchestra

Last Updated: Fri, 11/14/2025
Course prefix:
MUSI
Course number:
3611
Semester:
Fall
Academic year:
2026
Course description:

An advanced instrumental ensemble performing traditional and contemporary literature. Offered to all students with string, woodwind, brass, or percussion experience. Audition required.

Course learning outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, each student will be able to:
1. Perform the repertoire studied in a polished and professional manner
2. Apply knowledge of historical, social, and cultural influences to the analysis and understanding of a
work of music.
3. Demonstrate musical skill improvement in the areas of tone, technique, and listening awareness
4. Recognize themselves as participants in a particular musical culture and see how this affects their
artistic experiences and values.
 

Required course materials:

None. Sheet music will be provided.

Grading policy:

METHOD OF EVALUATION:
1. Rehearsal/Sectional attendance and Preparation 60%
2. Performances 30%
3. Integration of historical and social context 10%
 

Attendance policy:

Attendance is mandatory.

Academic honesty/integrity statement:

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.

Instructor First Name:
Chaowen
Instructor Last Name:
Ting
Section:
SO
CRN (you may add up to five):
000000
View PDF
Department (you may add up to three):
Music
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