Elective Exploration Hour classes provide the opportunity to explore a favorite topic, or learn about something new! Exploration class options may include the following.
Please submit class preference by June 17, 2013 on the form in the confirmation packet, or print and mail: 
exploration hour2013.pdf
Beginning Guitar Class - Beginners and semi-beginning students may select this class that will help them learn to play the acoustic guitar. Students may bring their own guitar (a limited number of instruments will be available for the class).
Chamber Music – In this class, students will rehearse music for smaller ensembles, such as quintets, quartets, and so on. The makeup of the groups will depend on the instruments represented in the class. Rehearsal techniques and listening skills are emphasized.
Double Reed Workshop – (for oboe and bassoon players). Learn how to adjust and make double reeds. If you take this class, there is a $15 supplies fee to cover the cost of reed cane and other materials.
Finale – Learn about using the music notation software, Finale, in the computer lab. This class is open to people who have never used Finale before and also to those with more experience.
Gamelan – Learn to play music from another culture on Lawrence’s Balinese gamelan instruments! The term Gamelan refers to an ensemble of traditional percussion keyed instruments, gongs, drums, and bamboo flutes from Indonesia. No notation is used, so the emphasis is on building memory, rhythmic, and teamwork skills in a fun, cross-cultural learning environment. This is a great opportunity to learn about another culture through its music.
Humor in Music – What is it about music that makes us smile and laugh? Listen to and discuss some of the funny things about serious music.
Improvisation (for those not participating in the jazz band) – This class will help you with basics of improvisation and is especially designed for those who play instruments not usually associated with a jazz orchestra.
Instant Musical Theatre – This course deals with writing and producing musical theatre. Writers, actors, singers, costume designers, musicians, composers, lyricists and technical workers will be chosen from students in the class and a short musical will be produced for the Friday evening talent show. Open to any student having lots of imagination and enthusiasm!
Jazz Ensemble – Interested students must select this class as their first choice for Odyssey Hour. Members of the jazz ensemble will be selected by audition on Sunday afternoon. Those not selected for the jazz ensemble will be placed in one of their other activity hour choices.
Keyboard Skills – This class will show you the basics of piano, how to practice, and some beginning piano literature you can play. (for non-pianists, enrollment is limited)
Percussion SuperClass – Different types of percussion music are featured in this “no previous experience required” class. Body percussion, samba, and other ethnic drum ensembles are examples of the type of experiences you will have in this class.
Performance Master Class (for advanced students) – What must a student do to become an accomplished performer? Methods of practice, what to practice, and advice on phrasing, nuance, breathing, stage presence, etc. are emphasized. If time allows, students will have an opportunity to perform and be critiqued by instructors and class members. Students interested in this class should prepare a solo or excerpts from a solo for in-class use.
World Dance – This class teaches traditional and contemporary dance styles from around the world. Come and experience the dances from Ireland, South and North America, India, China, and South Africa. There is an opportunity to perform at the Friday evening talent show. Open to any students who like to move!
