WT 244: Campanology, Winter 2008
Overview
- Texts:
- Dorothy L. Sayers, "The Nine Tailors," Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1934.
Venita MacGorman, "Basic Training for Bells," Choristers Guild, 2003.
- Course Description:
- (from the Catalog) Students will learn about the history and practice of bell ringing.
Bells have been used for music and communication since ancient times. Part of the course will
involve reading and discussing bell-related literature (for example, Poe's "The Bells" and Sayers'
"The Nine Tailors"). Another aspect of the course will look at the physics of bells and their unique
harmonics, as well as mathematical patterns in the ringing of bells. A major component of the course
will be learning to ring music on English handbells, with the goal of giving a small concert at the
end of the term. The class will also experience carillon music and tower change-ringing, perhaps
through trips to nearby bell towers. Students will give a presentation on an aspect of the history
of bells, and will also be evaluated on their contribution to class discussions, rehearsals, and the
final performance. No prior musical skills will be required.
- Grading:
- The most important part of the grade will be participation in discussions, rehearsals, and
the concert. A handbell group cannot function without the participation of all of its members.
In addition, the presentations will be graded for content. Either a poor presentation
or lack of participation will result in a grade of D or U (unsatisfactory).
- Policy Statements:
-
- You are expected to attend all class sessions. This is especially important
given the short duration of the term, and the dependence on everyone's
participation during rehearsals. If you need to miss a class, you must let
me know in advance so that I may adjust for your absence.
- On days when readings are assigned, it is essential that you come to class
prepared to discuss the material.
- Calendar:
-
| Week |
Monday |
Tuesday |
Wednesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
| 1 |
|
|
|
Jan. 3 |
4 |
| 2 |
Jan. 7 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
| 3 |
Jan. 14 |
15 |
16 |
17 |
18 |
| 4 |
Jan. 21: MLK Day
No Class |
22 |
23: Concert |
|
|
DePauw University,
Computer Science Department,
Winter 2008
Maintained by Brian Howard
(bhoward@depauw.edu).
Last updated Wednesday, January 2, 2008