Developing Musicianship through Chamber Ensembles: A Sequential Unit Design

Abstract

Shifting school schedules, small class sizes, and unpredictable instrumentation resulting from the global pandemic necessitated a creative approach to teaching ensemble music classes this year. In response to that challenge, I constructed a curriculum for developing independent musicianship through chamber music. Part independence, self-evaluation, communication skills, and practice strategies were key focuses during the term. This sequential approach to introducing chamber music can be transferred beyond a “pandemic schedule” with any ensemble regardless of experience level or instrumentation.