Fall 2023 MECA
Continuing Education Courses
Overview
This course is designed for practicing band directors who want to learn more about playing and teaching the tuba. Students will learn breathing, tone, articulation, slurring, and scale patterns. Students will submit weekly recorded assignments and receive individual asynchronous feedback. Playing level is intended for beginner to intermediate, with the option for more advanced study as applicable.
* This course is offered at two course levels. Students enrolled in the MMEd program at VanderCook are eligible to enroll for the 500 course number. Students not enrolled in the MMEd program who wish to earn graduate credit as a MECA Continuing Education student should register for the four digit course number. The difference in credits earned and tuition cost is attributed to the difference in tuition rates for the MMEd and MECA Continuing Education programs. If you are unsure which section is best for you, please contact us directly at [email protected].
Requirements
Chat Session
Prerequisites
Required Text(s)
Hovey N. W. 1989. Rubank Elementary Method E-Flat or Bb-Flat Bass : (Tuba – Sousaphone).
Rubank Publications.
Endresen R. M. 1989. Supplementary Studies for Eb and BBb Basses. Rubank Publications.
Arnold Jacobs, Special Studies for the Tuba (provided)
Long N. 1934. Rubank Elementary Method Trombone or Baritone. Rubank Publications
Endresen R.M. 1935 Supplementary Studies for Trombone. Rubank Publications
Learning Platform Information - Online Courses Only
Schoology is a learning management system that allows you to interact directly with your instructors, fellow students, and members of the greater VanderCook community.
The evening before your class begins, be on the lookout for an email from Schoology with log-in instructions. Once you receive credentials, visit www.online.vandercook.edu to login.
Some courses have specific online chat meeting times (please see course descriptions), while others have a flexible meeting schedule. You can expect all courses to meet together in a live online chat. If a live meeting time doesn’t work, you can work with your instructor to make other arrangements.
More information about Schoology can be found at www.schoology.com
Please see specific software/hardware requirements in the course description.
Online course grades are available within two weeks of the course(s) completion. If you need a transcript, please CLICK HERE to access the online transcript request form. For a faster turnaround time, please submit the transcript request to the registrar prior to the end of your course(s).
Instructor
Dr. Maxwell Briggs
Dr. Max Briggs, an accomplished tubist hailing from Chicago, brings a genuine passion for music and education to his craft. With a commitment to both performance and teaching, he has made significant contributions to the world of tuba and euphonium.
Having earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Illinois Wesleyan University, followed by a Master of Music degree and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Northwestern University, Dr. Briggs possesses a solid foundation of academic excellence. His commitment to musical growth and mastery led him to study under the guidance of renowned tuba virtuosos, Ed Risinger, Rex Martin, and Gene Pokorny.
As a performer, Dr. Briggs has had the privilege of sharing his music with diverse audiences. He has had the opportunity to play with several esteemed ensembles, including the Kenosha Symphony, Evanston Symphony, North Shore Concert Band, Temperance Brass, Northside Brass, and Heartland Brass Quintet. He has been featured as a soloist with ensembles including the Lake Forest College Concert Band, and the VanderCook College Symphonic Band at the 2022 Midwest Clinic. These experiences have allowed him to showcase his musicality and connect with listeners on a profound level.
Dr. Briggs’s musical achievements include being named a winner of the Falcone Festival solo competition and the Chicago Brass Festival solo competition. These accolades are a testament to his talent, dedication, and commitment to musical excellence.
In addition to performance, Dr. Briggs is committed to nurturing the talents of future musicians. He serves as a respected educator at various respected institutions, including VanderCook College of Music, Lake Forest College, Merit School of Music, Music Institute of Chicago, Niles North High School, New Trier High School, Loyola Academy, Neuqua Valley High School, Waubonsie Valley High School, and Meet Valley High School. Through his teaching, he empowers his students to develop their own musical voices and reach their full potential.
Dr. Briggs’s teaching approach is rooted in the pedagogy of Arnold Jacobs. He emphasizes the development of a resonant tone, solid technique, and a deep understanding of musicianship. By instilling these foundations in his students, he equips them with the tools to excel in their musical endeavors.
Furthermore, Dr. Briggs finds joy and fulfillment in sharing his experiences and insights as a masterclass clinician. He has been invited to contribute his expertise to workshops and music festivals, inspiring and guiding aspiring musicians on their own musical journeys.
Dr. Max Briggs continues to contribute to the world of tuba and euphonium. His solo performances, collaborative endeavors, and dedication to teaching have shaped his musical path. Through his passion, talent, and commitment to education, he strives to inspire others and leave a lasting impact on the music community.