Mallet Percussion Ensemble (MPE) creates and develops original compositions for keyboard mallet instruments using a collective improvisation process. The ensemble also learns, arranges, and presents folkloric, classical, modern, and global genres of music. Students will study marimba, xylophone, glockenspiel, vibraphone, and African balafon. Our coursework connects to music theory through the practice of scales, modes, and arpeggios while adapting and arranging various repertoire of our choosing. No prior experience playing a mallet keyboard is required, but playing an instrument and having basic knowledge of understanding music notation, along with pattern recognition is preferred, but not mandatory. Rehearsing individually and scheduling a practice lab is highly recommended. Presenting solo and ensemble works-in-progress for music workshop and campus events are encouraged.
A recording, video, zoom, or in person audition is necessary, in addition to a note of interest to the instructor.
Learning Outcomes:
Engage with your group as a community of collaborators
Practice exploring the unfamiliar as part of your liberal arts education
Improve your ability to read and analyze music notation, music scores, and mallet technique
Improve your knowledge of music theory
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Prerequisites: Playing an instrument - Reading basic music notation or chord charts. Auditions by appointment the week of May 3-7 via Zoom To schedule, email mwimberly@bennington.edu
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 4
M/Th 10:00AM - 11:50AM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 6
Course Frequency: Once a year
Categories: All courses , Fully In-Person , Performance
Tags: Classical Music , ensemble , Folklore , Global Music , improvisation , Music Composition , Music Notation , music theory , Original Work , Percussion , performance