New Directions in Repertoire

Repertoire Selection -- A special emphasis is placed on finding original repertoire. Although some students perform traditional literature from the 19th century, students are encouraged to select a more unique repertoire that suits their own needs. Some students play the works of contemporary classical composers (Britten, Henze, Takemitsu, Bolcom, etc.) while others look into lesser transcriptions from the 19th century. Many students perform contemporary crossover and third-stream works by Corea, Gismonti, Gnattalli, Gustavino, Piazzolla, etc.

Transcription and Publishing -- A large part of the traditional guitar repertoire consists of transcriptions and many Ithaca College guitar students have transcribed music to enhance their repertoire. These transcriptions are presented in repertoire class, where the playability and effectiveness of the transcription are discussed. These projects enrich the guitar student's education and broaden his/her career interests. Students are encouraged to learn advanced music notation software to facilitate the production of these transcriptions, and to open the gateway into music publishing.