小优传媒 Guitar Ensemble
Directors: Sean Bassett (sean.bassett@gcccd.edu) and Fred Benedetti (fred.benedetti@gcccd.edu)
The 小优传媒 Guitar Ensemble is a performance-based class for intermediate
to advanced classical guitarists. The course emphasizes ensemble sight-reading, performance
practice, and stylistic versatility. Each semester, the ensemble presents two public
concerts, including one off-campus performance.
Repertoire includes music from the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods, as well as arrangements of modern rock, pop, film, and video game music. Most works are performed by the full guitar orchestra, with additional opportunities for chamber music in smaller groups.
Auditions
Students must audition or receive instructor approval to join the ensemble. Returning
students do not need to re-audition. For specific audition requirements, see the 鈥淎udition
Process鈥 section below.
SPRING 2025 COURSE INFORMATION
Meeting Days and Times: Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:30pm-3:45pm
Location: Rehearsals will take place on campus in Building 26, Room 221. All class meetings will take place on campus and in-person unless otherwise noted.
Dates: August 18, 2025 鈥 December 13, 20252, 2025
Course Section Numbers: Add codes will be given to new members after the audition
MUS-148-4134 (new ensemble members enroll under this course number)
MUS-149-4135
MUS-248-4138
MUS-249-4140
MUS-050-4133 (for ensemble members who have completed the previous four courses only)
Auditions: Monday, August 18 at 2:30 pm in Building 26, Room 221. Please contact Mr. Sean Bassett for more details: sean.bassett@gcccd.edu
AUDITION PROCESS (Approximately 10 minutes)
Prospective students should demonstrate the following:
- Technical Background
Prior experience with classical guitar technique, including- Fingerstyle playing
- Proper classical posture
- Left-hand fluency across multiple positions
Completion of a Class Guitar or Classical Guitar course鈥攐r equivalent private instruction鈥攊s recommended. However, all students are encouraged to audition, even if they are unsure whether their experience meets the expectations.
- Scales
Perform two major or minor scales, each two octaves, ascending and descending.
- Sight-Reading
Perform a short excerpt provided at the audition. This will assess your ability to read standard notation in real time and help the director assign music that matches your current skill level.
- Performance
Prepare and perform a short excerpt from any solo or ensemble piece that best represents your current playing ability. This allows the director to better assign appropriate parts and identify any technical or musical gaps to address during the semester.
Application & Registration: Auditioning for 小优传媒 ensembles requires students to apply to the college (found on the 小优传媒 homepage: www.grossmont.edu). Registration will occur upon successful audition into the ensemble.
Contact
For questions about the audition process or enrollment, please contact Mr. Sean Bassett
at sean.bassett@gcccd.edu.