department of music - Casper College

Prélude
Welcome from the Dean
Welcome to the Casper College Department of Music! This Handbook has been
prepared to answer many of the questions you may have about your study at Casper
College. Refer to it often, and it should serve you well. When you have additional
questions, please contact any faculty member or me. We are here to assist you!
There are so many things that make Casper College a great place to begin one’s
career in music. As a serious musician, you are expected not only to perform, but also to
attend a wide variety of concert offerings. Fortunately, Casper has many performance
organizations, such as the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra, musical theatre at Krampert
Theatre, the Casper Chamber Music Society, the ARTCORE series, and an almost
overwhelming array of performances by Casper College ensembles. I encourage you to
take advantage of these fine opportunities, remembering that a good musician is first and
foremost a good listener.
The College has been an accredited institutional member of the National
Association of Schools of Music (NASM) since 1984. To learn more about NASM,
please visit the website at http://nasm.arts-accredit.org/.
Many graduates of Casper College transfer to renowned universities and colleges
nationwide, and have achieved much success. I expect that you will soon join our alumni
and enjoy a productive and satisfying career in music!
We hope you will find music study at Casper College stimulating, challenging,
rewarding, and enjoyable. I extend my best wishes to you as you begin your career path
at Casper College.
Here are a few tips for success:
• Brush up on the fundamentals of music before you attend Casper College (see page 8)
• Attend class, and be on time. This is critical and important!
• If you’re ill, call the instructor and let her know when you expect to return to class. If you expect
an extended period of illness, call the Student Services Office.
• Be prepared to submit all classwork on time.
• Practice, practice, practice your instrument according to your teacher’s guidelines.
• Attend as many concerts as you can.
• Perform as often as you are prepared and able.
• Let your teacher know when you’re having difficulty in class. Consult with the teachers on a
regular basis. They are here for you!
• Keep on your degree “track,” including your general education classes.
• As tempting as it may be, limit your ensembles; Balance your desire to perform with your
academic classes that deserve your fullest attention.
• Strive for high grades in all classes. This seems very important in a job market where potential
employers scrutinize your college transcripts.
Eric W. Unruh, D.M., Dean
School of Fine Arts and Humanities
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