| The purpose of this project was to create an intermediate string orchestra curriculum which develops string techniques through the study and performance of music from Cuba, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Puerto Rico. This year-long curriculum encompasses five, country-specific units which can be interspersed throughout the academic year. Each unit includes musical arrangements which vary in style, genre, or originating region. These arrangements are accompanied by lesson plans which include cultural and historical background information, listening suggestions, learning objectives, learning sequence, and assessment strategies. The musical arrangements seek to develop intonation, left-hand positions, bow distribution, string crossings, bowing styles, and reinforce knowledge of musical concepts and ideas. The learning objectives within each lesson are divided into listening, performing, composing, and improvising experiences to encourage exploration of musical roles within an ensemble and as a solo musician. The ensemble national core standards are connected to these learning objectives and are listed within each lesson plan. |
