TMI Electives

In addition to participating in Majors and Chorus, each delegate will be able to choose an elective to take part in for the week. While electives used to be a part of TMI many years ago, they were brought back in 2021. Electives meet for 75 minutes every day. There are a lot of great options to choose from, so feel free to browse the descriptions below!

  • Band/Choral Composition

    • Fancy creating something that the world has never seen or heard?  Come and learn the art of music composition - from melody writing, basic harmonization, structure, form, and getting published.  You could be the next John Williams, Taylor Swift, or Andrew Wainwright!? If you have already done some writing, make sure you bring it with you to share with your class and instructor!

  • Choreography

    • Are you a dancer who sees movement in your head when you hear music? Are you an experienced choreographer,  but all of your dances are starting to look the same? Well this class will have something for everyone! Through practical exercises and a lot of moving, you will gain tools for your choreography tool belt, helping you to create fresh and meaningful movement whenever you need it.

  • Sewing 101

    • Hearken back to the days of old, when you didn't throw away damaged clothes, instead opting for simple repairs and adjustments! Learning the basics of sewing will enable you to hem your own uniform pants or skirts, mend a hole in your sweater, sew on a button, etc. Furthermore, this class will give you a deeper look into the psychology of colors and shapes in costume choices.

  • Mastering the Monologue

    • Whether you're gearing up for an audition or a performance, this class will help you master the monologue by digging into the details of preparation and practice. Check it out!

  • Guitar 101 (Beginner Guitar)

    • Ever wanted to learn how to play guitar? This is your time! Playing guitar is scientifically proven to make you better at math, give you more swagger, and make you 17% more attractive to that guy or girl you've been crushing on. Come learn how to play guitar (and maybe even get better at math)!

  • Intro to Sound

    • Technology in worship has become an absolute necessity for the way we communicate the gospel. Unfortunately, our sound and media techs are often the most under-trained personnel on the team. We need quality sound techs in our corps! Come learn how to not only operate a sound system, but also how to make worship sound as great as possible!

  • Mastering Your Performance Anxiety:

    • No matter where you are in your journey as a performing artist, you have felt the effects of Performance Anxiety. In this class, you will learn the basics of what happens in your brain when you get on stage and how to master it, so you can be the best performer you can be!

  • Percussion Fundamentals

    • "There is music wherever there is rhythm, as there is life wherever there beats a pulse." - Igor Stravinsky. Percussion instruments are found in nearly every culture in the world and have existed since before 6000 B.C. Throughout human history, drums and percussion have had strong ceremonial, sacred, or symbolic associations almost everywhere. In this class, we will explore the vast diversity of instruments found in a modern-day percussion section. For beginners or anyone interested, all are welcome to join us as we dive into learning what's possible with a bit of practice and good vibrations.

  • Piano for Worship

    • Want to learn how to play 1000 songs on piano in a week?  It can be done!  Learn how to chord your way through the latest praise and worship songs as well as your favorite hymns.

  • Brass Technique

    • Do you want to be a better brass player? Learn from one of the world's best trumpet players! Mark Ridenour, assistant principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony, will teach advanced brass techniques in this class.

  • Teaching Beginner Band

    • How to be an effective beginner brass instructor.  Every corps needs one - perhaps you have the skills or desire to pass on your knowledge to the next generation.  In this "teach the teacher" course you will learn how to start a beginner band, how to manage the classroom, how to instill confidence in students, and how to get them to the next level. Come and learn all the tricks of the trade!

  • Videography

    • Everyone is making videos these days, but this class will help you learn to take your photography and editing skills to the next level. Make your videos unforgettable by taking this class!

  • Visual Art

    • Come and get your hands dirty! Roll up your sleeves and dig in to some creative work to get your juices flowing. All levels are welcome to jump in to this colorful class!

  • Choral Leadership

    • In this class you will learn the basics of leading a choir, including basic conducting skills, rehearsal planning and execution, and communication.

      NOTE: This is an elective class that meets once per day. You will also have a major and chorus class.

  • Creative Arts Leadership

    • Let's dig into the details of what it takes to lead an arts program at a corps or divisional level group. We'll discuss communication, preparation, spiritual discipleship, creating content, and how to continually grow and develop your team and yourself. NOTE: WILL MEET DURING ELECTIVE AND CHORUS PERIODS.

  • Instrumental Leadership

    • Must be proficient on a brass or percussion instrument with an interest in learning how to lead a band or receive more indepth training. Should be 18 or older or have recommendation of your DMD.There will be two levels of this class. You will have an interview on your first day with the class instructor to determine which level you will be in. NOTE: WILL MEET DURING ELECTIVE AND CHORUS PERIODS.

  • Worship Team Leadership

    • Being a worship team leader is more than singing songs or playing an instrument. Anybody can do that! But inspiring a team to give their all, and creating a space that encourages a congregation to enter into communion with God is both a gift and a skill that requires honing and shaping. In this class we will discuss the logistical, musical, and spiritual aspects of being an excellent, yet humble worship team leader. NOTE: WILL MEET DURING ELECTIVE AND CHORUS PERIODS.