Concert Critique

All students will be required to write one concert critique per semester. This is the only written assignment you will have for this class. Therefore, this critique should be professionally written. Be critical and thoughtful and produce a document that is a reflection of you.

First, attend any of the following concerts:

• any school concert- elementary, middle school, or high school
• any professional concert- Olympia Choral Society, Olympia Symphony, or various guest soloists.
• any special exceptions passed by Mr. Schwartz

Concerts in which you perform may not be used. 

While at the concert, take good notes. Most students bring a separate note pad and pencil. Be sure to get a program for reference during the concert for names of pieces and composers. Try to gather as much info as possible. Don’t just listen! Use all your senses. This will make the performance more memorable. 

Next, write a one page critique of the concert. Try to include the following.

• Describe what you liked or disliked.
• Describe specific techniques used by the performer or conductor.
• Name specific pieces or movements that you enjoyed or disliked.
• Anything else you feel is relevant.

The final draft should be at least one page, typed, double spaced, no larger than size 12 font. If you do not have a computer at home, use the computer lab at school. Your report is due within two weeks of the performance you are critiquing. The last day of each semester is the deadline for critiques.

If you have any questions or would like to see examples of past critiques, see Mr. Schwartz.