CERTIFICATE-A (CP-A) 9 CREDITS
The Certificate Program is an intensive period of study, which focuses on musicianship skills, style performance competencies, and professional performance experiences. This is the first half of the complete Certificate Program.  

Musicianship and Technique Courses:

READING PROFICIENCY PROGRAM (1 credit)

DRUMMERS MUSICIANSHIP SEQUENCE (1 credit)

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE-1
Students work in an ensemble setting learning and applying foundation rudiments. This course focuses on hand technique, ensemble performance, and reading skills.

ODD METERS-1

POLYRHYTHMS-1

BUSINESS SAVVY-1

DRUMMERS LAB-1 (0 CREDIT)
This class is designed to help students integrate all the information that they are receiving in other classes and apply that information towards the steady development of new performance skills.

NON-DRUMMERS MUSICIANSHIP SEQUENCE (1 credit)

MUSIC THEORY-1
This course focuses on establishing a firm base of rudimentary musicianship skills. The course covers music theory, notation, key signatures, chord structures and simple chord progressions. (by placement exam)

ODD METERS-1

BUSINESS SAVVY-1

EAR TRAINING LAB-1 
This lab is designed to drill each student in the basic aural recognition elements of intervals, scales, modes, chords, and chord progressions. Students have access to the computer ear-training software for additional drills.

STYLE COURSES SEQUENCE A: (4 credits)
Each style is presented in a four-class sequence consisting of a style analysis class followed by two groove mechanic classes and culminating with a pro style rhythm section. This is the style
Style sequence:

1. US ROOTS (R&B)
2. US ROOTS (JAZZ)
3. ROCK / BLUES
4. AFRO-CUBAN PERCUSSION
5. TRADITIONAL FUNK-SOUL
6. TRADITIONAL AFRO-CUBAN
7. JAZZ-40'S & 50'S
8. CARIBBEAN

1.    STYLE ANALYSIS - SERIES 1 
Students are introduced to various styles and periods of music, and the important musicians and groups who helped define each style. Faculty demonstrate the role played by each instrument in each style. Course material includes specially selected and representative discographies, which have been compiled by the instructors for class discussion and review.

2.    GROOVE MECHANICS- SERIES 1 
This course follows up on the Style Analysis class by having the instructor work with the students in developing the instrumental techniques and conceptual frameworks required to perform competently in the designated style. All instruments meet separately. Students are also given I-pods on with the repertoire compilations are recorded. Each instrument meets separately.

3.    STYLE RHYTHM SECTION - SERIES 1
This is an opportunity for students to work in a rhythm section setting with professional musicians who are experts in the designated style. Student performances are critiqued by the instructor and other rhythm section musicians. Each instrumental division meets separately.

Professional Studies Courses:

STUDIO RECORDING 1 (1 credit)
This course introduces the student to the recording studio. After receiving an over- view of the technical aspects of recording, students are given the opportunity to record over pre-recorded tracks in a variety of settings and styles.

REAL-DEAL REHEARSAL 1 (1 credit)
This course gives students the practical experience of working together with a faculty “band leader” in an actual rehearsal situation. Students perform and create arrangements in a variety of styles and settings in response to the demands of the music and the bandleader.

Individual Study and Practice:

WEEKLY ELECTIVE PRIVATE LESSONS (1 credit)
Students may study with an individual instructor or series of instructors of their choice.

DAILY INDIVIDUAL PRACTICE TIME (0 credit)
Students are assigned 17 hours per week of individual practice time, with additional hours available at scheduled times throughout the week.