The Tripods* Method is an innovative group learning method. It complements private lessons with three additional facets of music: 1) the science behind music, 2) strings technique, and 3) super-fun ensemble work. (These three form the basis for the title "Tirpod.") Why add to private lessons? Consider an analogy: a basketball player can work on all types of individual tecnique, but the team performance is where real skills are displayed. An orchestra (and even solo) performance involves two or more musicians most of the time. The Tripods strengthen the skills necessary to be a good team player and to offer a fine performance. The Tripods are the "group" practice sessions where individual skills are coordinated for the team's public performance. The Tripods provide a fun way for the ambivalent and/or "social" students to get serious musical training while interacting with peers, computers and other aspects of music that aren't traditionally included in private lessons.
The Tripods format is for 4-6 students in a 2-hr class. Basically, private lessons focus on solo repertoire and the technical skills needed for that specific instrument. The Tripods broaden the solo/individual experience, adding a collaborative and social aspect to learning along with playing rock, pop, jazz, fiddling and latin styles of music. The Tripods develop the right/creative brain, inspiring and challenging the students to explore their own musical voices. With technology and peer interaction, serious music study is fun. Special rates are available for students who want both a private lesson and a Tripod class each week. See either application form.
Tripods Stage 1 - Science behind music (aka theory)
Initially, for 30 minutes the students learn music theory, at times using Music Mind Games (see www.musicmindgames.com) material. Theory includes: reading notes, learning multiple clefs, rhythm, major/minor scales, tuning and musical terms.
Tripods Stage 2 - Stringed instrument technique
In this 30 minute segment the students learn in-depth skills involved with playing their particular stringed instrument. Some technical skills include: finger patterns, shifting, vibrato, bow distribution and bowing techniques, along with ensemble tuning, dynamics and ensemble phrasing.
Tripods Stage 3 -
The last "tripod" is a 60 minute ensemble segment where they all work together to perform ensemble repertoire inclusive of a wide array of styles, including their own compositions and/or arrangements.
The fee per student is $30 dollars per 2-hr session. Please contact Teresa Hernandez if interested in financial assistance. Students can sign up with either a pre-selected group, or can be assigned to a group.
If interested in signing up, click on the "Forms and Policies" page.
Call now to reserve a spot!
* Tripods Music Method is copywritten in 2000 by Teresa E. Hernandez
the Great Playn's Music Program 336 S Santa Fe Ave, Suite 5, Salina KS (785) 404-6065 teresa@greatplaynsmusic.com
