Music

Materials of Music I

This course introduces the materials of tonal music from rudiments to the basics of harmony. Minimal musical experience and reading ability are required. Open to all students, but priority will be given to full-time Basic Musicianship and Foundation for Music Therapy Studies (FMTS) students.

Basic Theory I

This course is a progressive introduction to the rudiments of music theory. No previous knowledge of music is required. Open to all students, but priority will be given to full-time Basic Musicianship students.

Basic Aural & Sight Singing Skills I

This course is a progressive introduction to aural, sight singing, and rhythm reading skills for students with no previous experience. Open to all students, but priority will be given to full-time Basic Musicianship students.

Aural & Sight Singing Skills I

This course is a progressive introduction to the aural, sight singing and rhythm reading skills required to hear and demonstrate simple diatonic melodies and rhythms. Minimal musical experience and reading ability are required. Open to all students, but priority will be given to full-time Basic Musicianship and Foundation for Music Therapy Studies (FMTS) students.

Introductory Class Piano I

This course is a progressive introduction to piano playing for students with no previous experience. It includes technique, keyboard harmony, sight reading, transposition, and the playing of appropriate repertoire.

Theory Of Tonal Music I

First part of a comprehensive study of the melodic, harmonic, rhythmic and formal elements of tonal music. Review of rudiments; study of basic diatonic chord progressions; analysis of small structural units.

Introduction to Composition I

Introduction to Composition I focuses on the fundamentals of composition. It is designed to enhance students’
understanding and development of compositional systems, processes and techniques through written exercises and assignments.

Contemporary Instrumental Improvisation I

This course deals with the study and application of the rhythmic and harmonic language of jazz and related contemporary music, with a focus on solo improvisation.

Through class participation, students will develop technical and aural ability through the study of the blues, modes and selected II-V-I progressions.

Students may participate on either their primary or secondary instrument. Drummers will play either a mallet instrument (vibraphone) or percussion in addition to drums.

As this course is designed for the beginner or novice jazz soloist, no previous experience in jazz improvisation is required.

Ear Training & Sight Singing I

This course develops aural and sight singing skills with a focus on the basic melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic elements of diatonic tonal music.

Class Piano I

An introductory keyboard course for students with little or no previous keyboard experience. The course includes development of basic finger technique through keyboard orientation, elementary harmony exercises, sight reading and repertoire.

History of Western Music I: Introduction

This course provides a foundation for further studies in the history of music. The nature of music and its role in culture and society are explored in a variety of contexts. The focus on western art music is extended to include jazz, popular, and world music. The course develops a vocabulary for writing about music as well as basic music listening and research skills. The ability to read musical notation is essential.

Listening in Context I

This course takes a wide stylistic and chronological approach to active listening, with an emphasis on Western art music from the Middle Ages to the Romantic period. Music will be discussed in relation to arts and culture, as well as to relevant aspects of history, geography, belief systems, politics, society, economics, and technology. Students will occasionally work with scores, but listening skills will be emphasized.

Concert Band I

Through rehearsals and performances, students will study ensemble skills such as intonation, blend, and technical facility. Emphasis will be placed on developing rhythmic accuracy and sight reading skills. In addition, the proper phrasing and interpretation of various styles of concert band music will be studied.

Chamber Ensemble I

This course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse on their own as well as receiving instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts.
Open to all BMus students.

Beginning Instrumental Ensemble I

Through the rehearsal and performance of appropriate music, this course will introduce the basic skills of ensemble playing, including balance, proper technique, phrasing, and dynamics. Special emphasis will be placed on technical development and reading skills.

MIDI Ensemble I

Designed primarily for students in the Music Technology Diploma Program, this course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together using MIDI and electronic based instruments under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse on their own as well as receiving instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts.

Jazz Ensemble I

Through rehearsals and performances, this course will cover jazz, rock, Latin and popular music. Emphasis will be placed on jazz improvisation and the interpretation of various styles of big band music. For players of trumpet, trombone, saxophone or rhythm section instruments.

Chorus I

A large mixed choir that rehearses and performs standard classical choral repertoire from all historical periods. Emphasis is placed on proper vocal technique, ensemble skills, and musical style. The group performs at least once per semester.

Beginning Choral Ensemble I

Through the performance of appropriate music, the student will learn the basic skills of ensemble singing, including vocal production, unison and part singing.

Chorale I

A select mixed choir that rehearses and performs standard classical choral repertoire from all historical periods. Emphasis is placed on proper vocal technique, ensemble skills, and musical style. The group performs at least once per semester.

Beginning Choral Ensemble I

Through the performance of appropriate music, this course will cover the basic skills of ensemble singing, including vocal production, unison and part singing.

Studio Instruction - Performance (1hr) I

For Performance students, private and group instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique. For Composition students, the development of the student’s compositional voice will be guided on an individual basis and in groups.

Private Lessons (Secondary) I

Students will receive individual instruction in voice, on an instrument, or in composition. Performance lessons include repertoire, technical requirements, sight reading, and other skills. In composition lessons, the development of the student’s skills will be guided on an individual basis.

Studio Instruction - General (1-hr) I

For students studying an instrument or voice: Private and group instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique.
For students studying composition: The development of the student’s compositional voice will be guided on an individual basis.

Studio Instruction - General (1/2-hr) I

For students studying an instrument or voice: Private and group instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique.
For students studying composition: The development of the student’s compositional voice will be guided on an individual basis.

Individual Lesson - Basic (1hr - piano) I

Private instruction on the interpretation and performance of intermediate piano repertoire and technique.

Individual Lesson - Basic (1/2 hr) I

Private instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique.

Keyboard Accompanying

The keyboard player who is accompanying a singer or solo instrumentalist is given instruction in ensemble rehearsal techniques. The course will foster the importance of communication and musical understanding between performers.

Introductory Class Piano I

A progressive study of learning to play the piano for students who possess no previous experience. The course includes technique, keyboard harmony, sight reading, transposition, and the playing of appropriate repertoire.

Keyboard Harmony I

In this course, the student will learn basic keyboard harmony skills including harmonization of melodies, figured bass, transposition, improvising, score reading and simple accompanying.

Class Brass

Students will receive instruction on the trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium and tuba, in preparation for effective teaching of instrumental music. Those interested in composition or simply wanting to expand their knowledge of brass instrument theory and playing techniques will also find this course useful.

Class Percussion

Students will receive instruction on snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, timpani, drum set, mallet and Latin American rhythm instruments in preparation for effective teaching of instrumental music. Maintenance, adjustment and notation of the above instruments will be covered.

Class Woodwinds I

Students will receive instruction on the flute and clarinet woodwind families of instruments in preparation for effective teaching of instrumental music. Those interested in composition or simply wanting to expand their knowledge of woodwind instrument theory and playing techniques will also find this course useful.

Class Voice I

This course covers the concepts and components of beginning singing, basic vocal anatomy and terminology. Through singing performance, students will gain an understanding of interpretation, musicianship and healthy vocal technique.

Audio Recording Techniques

Through lecture/demonstrations, lab and studio work, students will learn to record and mix audio in a project studio environment. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the underlying concepts and theory of digital audio recording. Students will also begin to work with a large format recording console in a professional recording studio. Using both hardware and Pro Tools software, students will produce several recorded tracks. Students will be given the opportunity to earn their Avid Pro Tools 101 certification at the end of the course.

Sequencing and Synthesis I

Through lecture/demonstrations and hands-on studio work, students will learn to produce music using sequencers and synthesizers. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the underlying concepts and theory of digital sequencing and synthesis. Using current music software and virtual instruments, students will produce several original works.

Professional Score Production

Through lecture/demonstrations and hands-on lab work students will create professional musical scores and parts. Topics include score and part formats, data entry, notated and graphic representations, proofing, playback, part extraction, instructions and diagrams, score aesthetics, publisher formats, and binding and presentation.

Studio Setup and Maintenance I

Through lectures, demonstrations and hands-on studio work, students learn concepts in designing, setting up and maintaining a project recording studio. Topics include room acoustics and treatment, equipment choice and installation, wiring, and basic maintenance.

Music Technology for Live Bands

Designed primarily for students in the Music Technology Diploma Program, this course provides an opportunity to learn about the communication, planning and technical skills required to support live bands in rehearsal and performance: safely setting up, running, troubleshooting and packing up equipment, preparing documentation of technical requirements and working with a live sound and backstage crew on a show.

Applied Popular Theory I

This course will introduce the student to a variety of concepts and practices, theoretical and applied, commonly found in many styles of popular music. The course will focus on popular music up to the mid-1960s. Exercises and assignments will include composing in a variety of styles and formats.

Fusion Band I

Designed primarily for students in the Music Technology Diploma Program, this course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together using MIDI and electronic instruments under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse on their own as well as receiving instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts.

Introduction to Music Technology

An introduction to the computer music experience. Through lecture/demonstrations and hands-on lab work students will learn the fundamental theories and techniques of contemporary music technology. Using industry standard Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software, students will learn the basics of digital music production, for composing and arranging in the project studio environment.

No prior experience with computers or music technology is assumed.

Percussion Ensemble I

Students will study and perform repertoire for percussion instruments of both definite and indefinite pitch. They will also study selected rhythmic systems of music cultures such as African, Brazilian and Cuban drumming. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Guitar Ensemble I

An ensemble class for guitarists who will rehearse and perform appropriate repertoire from two to four parts. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Popular Guitar and Voice Basics I

In this course, students will develop their ability to sing and play the guitar simultaneously. Emphasis will be on using healthy playing and vocal technique, developing musicianship skills, and building a collection of repertoire.

Percussion Ensemble I

Students will study and perform repertoire for percussion instruments of both definite and indefinite pitch. They will also study selected rhythmic systems of music cultures such as African, Brazilian and Cuban drumming. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Guitar Ensemble I

An ensemble class for guitarists who will rehearse and perform appropriate classical repertoire from two to four parts. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Materials of Music II

This course continues the study of the materials of tonal music. It includes comprehensive analysis of short pieces in a variety of classical and popular forms, as well as an introduction to aspects of song writing. Course content includes all components of the theory assessment for placement into MUSC 1110.

Basic Theory II

This course is a continuation of musical rudiments study with an introduction to harmony, form and the basics of song writing. Course content includes all components of the theory assessment for placement into MUSC 1110.

Basic Aural & Sight Singing Skills II

This course continues the development of aural, sight singing, and rhythm reading skills introduced in MUSC 1103.

Aural & Sight Singing Skills II

This course continues the development of aural, sight singing and rhythm reading skills introduced in MUSC 1104.

Introductory Class Piano II

This course further develops the introductory keyboard skills introduced in MUSC 1106. It includes technique, keyboard harmony, sight reading, transposition, and the playing of appropriate repertoire.

Theory of Tonal Music II

Continuation of the study of tonal harmony with emphasis on more complex diatonic chord progressions, tonicization and modulation. Analysis of binary and ternary forms.

Introduction to Composition II

Introduction to Composition II continues the material and objectives of MUSC 1113. The course is designed to further the development of students’ understanding of and facility in compositional systems, processes and techniques through written exercises and assignments.

Contemporary Instrumental Improvisation II

This course deals with the further study and application of the rhythmic and harmonic language of jazz and related contemporary music, with a focus on solo improvisation.

Through class participation, students will develop their technical and aural ability beyond the blues, modes and basic chord/scale theory to include 32 bar song form (standards).

Students may participate on either their primary or secondary instrument. Drummers will play either a mallet instrument (vibraphone) or percussion in addition to drums.

This course is the continuation of MUSC 1114 Contemporary Instrumental Improvisation I, and some limited experience in improvisation is expected.

Ear Training & Sight Singing II

This course provides further development of aural and sight singing skills with a focus on more complex melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic elements of diatonic tonal music.

Class Piano II

This course further develops the keyboard skills introduced in MUSC 1116. It includes more progressive technical material, chord progressions using basic diatonic chords in various keys, harmonization of simple melodies, sight reading and repertoire.

History of Western Music II: Classic/Romantic

This course explores western art music as cultural expression in Europe and the Americas from 1750 to 1900. Concepts and techniques of Classicism and Romanticism are studied in relation to selected works in representative genres. Critical thinking about music and active listening to music are emphasized. Competent research and writing skills are required.

Listening in Context II

Continuation of the development of skills for active listening to music, with emphasis on the elements of music as they appear in selected historical, geographical, and cultural contexts. Music will be discussed in relation to the arts, belief systems, politics, society, economics, and technology. This course will focus on Western art music from the rise of Modernism to present, the music of various world cultures, as well as popular music, including jazz, rock, film music and contemporary developments. Students will occasionally work with scores, but listening skills will be emphasized.

Concert Band II

Through rehearsals and performances, students will continue to study ensemble skills such as intonation, blend and technical facility. Emphasis will be placed on developing rhythmic accuracy and sight reading skills. In addition, the proper phrasing and interpretation of various styles of concert band music will be studied.

Chamber Ensemble II

This course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse on their own as well as receiving instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts. Open to all BMus students.

Beginning Instrumental Ensemble II

Through the rehearsal and performance of appropriate music, this course will develop the basic skills of ensemble playing, including balance, intonation, phrasing, and dynamics. Special emphasis will be placed on technical development and reading skills.

MIDI Ensemble II

Designed primarily for students in the Music Technology Diploma Program, this course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together using MIDI and electronic based instruments under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse on their own as well as receiving instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts.

Jazz Ensemble II

Through rehearsals and performances, this course will cover jazz, rock, Latin and popular music. Emphasis will be placed on jazz improvisation and the proper interpretation of various styles of big band music. For players of trumpet, trombone, saxophone or rhythm section instruments.

Chorus II

A large mixed choir that rehearses and performs standard classical choral repertoire from all historical periods. Emphasis is placed on proper vocal technique, ensemble skills, and musical style. The group performs at least once per semester.

Beginning Choral Ensemble II

Through the performance of appropriate music, the student will continue to learn the basic skills of ensemble singing, including more complex part singing, intonation and balance.

Chorale II

A select mixed choir that rehearses and performs standard classical choral repertoire from all historical periods. Emphasis is placed on proper vocal technique, ensemble skills, and musical style. The group performs at least once per semester.

Beginning Choral Ensemble II

Through the performance of appropriate music, this course will further develop the basic skills of ensemble singing introduced in MUSC 1145, including more complex part singing, intonation and balance.

Studio Instruction - Performance (1hr) II

For Performance students, private and group instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique. For Composition students, the development of the student’s compositional voice will be guided on an individual basis and in groups.

Private Lessons (Secondary) II

Students will receive individual instruction in voice, on an instrument, or in composition. Performance lessons include repertoire, technical requirements, sight reading, and other skills. In composition lessons, the development of the student’s skills will be guided on an individual basis.

Studio Instruction - General (1-hr) II

For students studying an instrument or voice: Private and group instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique.
For students studying composition: The development of the student’s compositional voice will be guided on an individual basis.

Studio Instruction - General (1/2-hr) II

For students studying an instrument or voice: Private and group instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique.
For students studying composition: The development of the student’s compositional voice will be guided on an individual basis.

Individual Lesson - Basic (1hr - piano) II

Private instruction on the interpretation and performance of intermediate piano repertoire and technique.

Individual Lesson – Basic (1/2hr) II

Private instruction on the interpretation and performance of repertoire and technique.

Keyboard Accompanying

The keyboard player who is accompanying a singer or solo instrumentalist is given further instruction in ensemble rehearsal techniques. The course will foster the importance of communication and musical understanding between performers.

Introductory Class Piano II

A continuing study of learning to play the piano for students who have completed MUSC 1160. The course includes technique, keyboard harmony, sight reading, transposition, and the playing of appropriate repertoire.

Keyboard Harmony II

A continuation in developing keyboard harmony skills including harmonization of melodies, realizing figured bass, transposition, improvising, score reading and simple accompanying.

Class Woodwinds II

Students will receive instruction on the saxophone, oboe and bassoon woodwind families of instruments in preparation for effective teaching of instrumental music. Those interested in composition or simply wanting to expand their knowledge of woodwind instrument theory and playing techniques will also find this course useful.

Class Voice II

This course is a continuation of Class Voice I. Students will continue to develop their understanding and application of vocal technique and musicianship through singing.

Advanced Audio Recording I

Through lecture/demonstrations and hands-on studio work, students will learn to record and mix audio in a large studio environment. Lab work will focus on Pro Tools software, studio work will focus on Solid State Logic recording consoles. Students will be given the opportunity to earn their Avid Pro Tools 110 certification at the end of the course.

Advanced Sound Applications

Through lecture/demonstrations and lab work, students will explore advanced techniques in synthesis and audio. Emphasis will be placed on ways in which audio and synthesis are combined in modern music production, along with more experimental uses of this technology. Students will produce a final project combining audio and MIDI techniques.

Music for Film and Video I

A course in practical film music composition, working with QuickTime movies in the Logic Pro sequencing environment. Through lecture, demonstrations, and assignments, students will learn the art of composing music for film, TV, and other visual media.

Studio Setup and Maintenance II

Through lecture/demonstrations and hands-on studio work, students will continue to learn the concepts necessary to design, set up and maintain a project recording studio. Topics covered will include room acoustics and treatment, equipment choice and installation, wiring and doing basic maintenance. An introduction to large studio issues will also be offered.

Applied Popular Theory II

This course furthers the student's understanding of the theory of popular music, and its practical application for the modern day musician. The student will be exposed to the central concepts and practices found in a wide variety of popular styles of music. The course will focus on popular music from the late 1960s to modern day. Exercises and assignments will include analysis and composition within selected styles.

Fusion Band II

Designed primarily for students in the Music Technology Diploma Program, this course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together using MIDI and electronic instruments under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse on their own as well as receiving instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts.

Introduction to Audio Recording

This course is an introduction to audio recording, critical listening skills, audio processing and signal flow. Students will learn and apply the fundamental theories and techniques of contemporary audio recording, editing and mixing.

Percussion Ensemble II

Students will study and perform repertoire for percussion instruments of both definite and indefinite pitch. They will also study selected rhythmic systems of music cultures such as African, Brazilian and Cuban drumming. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Guitar Ensemble II

An ensemble class for guitarists who will rehearse and perform appropriate repertoire from two to four parts. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Popular Guitar and Voice Basics II

This course provides opportunities for students to apply, integrate, and further build their guitar and voice skills in health care and child care settings. They will develop their self-awareness, and broaden their understanding of the Music Therapy field by singing and playing music publicly, engaging in group discussions, and reflecting individually.

Percussion Ensemble II

Students will study and perform repertoire for percussion instruments of both definite and indefinite pitch. They will also study selected rhythmic systems of music cultures such as African, Brazilian and Cuban drumming. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Guitar Ensemble II

An ensemble class for guitarists who will rehearse and perform appropriate classical repertoire from two to four parts. Emphasis is placed on the development of sight-reading ability, ensemble skills and musical style. The group will perform at least once per semester.

Introduction to Jazz Theory I

This course will introduce the student to the basic theory, concepts and practices of jazz music up to ca. 1945. The major musical trends that will be examined are: Dixieland, Swing, Blues, Tin Pan Alley and Broadway traditions.

Advanced Audio Recording II

Through lecture/demonstrations and hands-on studio work, students will explore advanced production skills in a large studio environment.

Sequencing and Synthesis II

Through lecture/demonstrations and lab work, students will continue to explore advanced techniques in synthesis and audio. Emphasis will be placed on ways in which audio and synthesis are combined in modern music production, along with more experimental uses of this technology. This course will further the exploration of advanced sequencing and production techniques introduced in Music 1271, including the use of Logic Pro plug-ins.

Music for Film and Video II

An advanced course in practical film music composition, working with QuickTime movies in the Logic Pro sequencing environment. Through lecture, demonstrations, and assignments, students will learn advanced techniques for composing music for film, TV, and other visual media.

Live Sound and Recording I

Students will learn to set up and operate live sound systems in a variety of small and medium-sized acoustic spaces, developing technical skills supported by relevant theory. They will also acquire competencies to set up basic sound systems, create appropriate mixes for a range of musical styles and applications, run sound-checks and concerts, communicate with musicians, trouble-shoot as required and maintain control of a mix in a live situation.

Fusion Band III

Designed primarily for students in the Music Technology Diploma Program, this course provides an opportunity for musicians to rehearse and perform together using MIDI and electronic instruments under the guidance of the music faculty. Students will be placed into ensembles of varying sizes and instrumentation, and will rehearse independently as well as with instruction. All ensembles will perform in department recitals and concerts.

Mixing, Mastering and Surround Sound

Mixing, mastering, and surround sound are essential concepts for contemporary sound engineers. Using state of the art lab and studio facilities, students will learn to put the finishing touches on their recording projects. Students will have the option of taking the Avid Pro Tools 210M exam, to earn Pro Tools Operator level.

Electronic Music Production

Electronic Music Production is an increasingly popular style of creating music. This course will explore techniques for drum programming, sound design, synthesis, sample-chopping & micro sampling, song arrangement, creating, mixing and exporting tracks, using Ableton Live software and appropriate hardware.

Music for Interactive Media

This is a course in the study and development of audio and audio techniques for interactive media. The course will address critical and practical analysis of current practices, especially with reference to industry needs.