Course Descriptions
Course Offerings
Basic Musicianship
Music Theory and Composition
Music Education
Music History and Literature
Applied Music
Piano Pedagogy
Voice
Organizations and Ensembles
"The Arts" Requirement
Basic Musicianship
MUS 14X - Colloquia in Music
This course will expose first-year music majors and minors to a variety of musical styles, forms and topics in musical leadership through attendance at performances and colloquia given by faculty and guest artists. Students will gain a framework upon which future musical study wil be based. No prerequisite. Offered each fall.
MUS 15X - Experiencing the Live Performance of Concert Repertoire
This course will expose music majors and minors to a variety of musical styles, forms, and artistic interpretations through attendance at a required number of performance. Through listening to performances and observing performers, students will develop their own personal style and strategies for use in preparation of their own musical presentations. No prerequisite. Offered each semester.
MUS 100A - Keyboard Basics
A course of instruction for those music majors whose keyboard preparation is insufficient to effectively interact in the first-year theory sequence without additional tutoring in keyboard skills. Is not part of basic degree requirements, no prerequisite. Offered each fall.
MUS 100B - Keyboard Basics
A course of instruction for those music majors whose keyboard preparation is insufficient to effectively interact in the first-year theory sequence without additional tutoring in keyboard skills. Is not part of basic degree requirements, no prerequisite. Offered each spring.
MUS 101 - Beginning Class Piano for Non-Music Majors
This course is taught in a classroom environment and is for non-music majors who have minimal keyboard background. Students will learn to play with both hands in a variety of keys. Students will also be taught to improvise, to harmonize, and to sight read on a basic level. Observation and participation in musical performances is expected. Offered occasionally.
MUS 103 - Music Theory I
Basic materials of music, scales, intervals, primary and secondary chords, elementary voice-leading, basic harmonic analysis, related aural and keyboard skills instruction is integrated with written work in a laboratory situation. Offered each fall.
MUS 104 - Music Theory II
Secondary dominants, more advanced voice-leading, harmonic analysis, elementary formal analysis, related aural and keyboard skills instruction is integrated with written work in a laboratory situation. Prerequisite: 103 or equivalent skill. Offered each spring.
MUS 201 - Survey of Music History I
Two semester introduction to the intellectual, aesthetic, and stylistic trends of Western music history and to the representative genres and composers associated with them. Familiarizes students with primary sources and teaches analytical techniques for articulating historical and stylistic observations in writing. Includes a substantial amount of required listening. Treats antiquity through late Baroque. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent skill. Offered each fall.
MUS 202 - Survey of Music History II
Two semester introduction to the intellectual, aesthetic, and stylistic trends of Western music history and to the representative genres and composers associated with them. Familiarizes students with primary sources and teaches analytical techniques for articulating historical and stylistic observations in writing. Includes a substantial amount of required listening. Spans the Classical period to the present. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent skill. Offered each spring.
MUS 203 - Music Theory III
Chromatic harmonies/ borrowed chords, advanced voice leading and part writing, formal analysis, aural skills instruction are integrated with written work. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent skill. Offered each fall.
MUS 204 - Music Theory IV
Twentieth century compositional/harmonic techniques, advanced formal analysis, aural skills instruction are integrated with written work. Prerequisite: 203. Offered each spring.
MUS 205 - Functional Piano I
A keyboard-oriented reinforcement of theoretical concepts with special attention to the development of sufficient keyboard technique to handle the demands of vocal and instrumental accompaniments, basic score reading, harmonization and improvisation. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent proficiency. Offered each fall.
MUS 206 - Functional Piano II
A keyboard-oriented reinforcement of theoretical concepts with special attention to the development of sufficient keyboard technique to handle the demands of vocal and instrumental accompaniments, basic score reading, harmonization and improvisation. Prerequisite: 205. Offered each spring.
MUS 207 - Keyboard Harmony I
Techniques of melodic harmonization, transposition, sightreading, realization of figured bass, improvisation, and other related skills. Designed specifically for music majors with keyboard as the major applied instrument. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent skill. Offered each fall.
MUS 208 - Keyboard Harmony II
Techniques of melodic harmonization, transposition, sight reading, realization of figured bass, improvisation, and other related skills. Designed specifically for music majors with keyboard as the major applied instrument. Prerequisite: 207. Offered each spring.
MUS 209 - Improvisation Workshop
Instrumentalists and vocalists will unlock their creativity as performers by learning to make music spontaneously. Attentive listening, musical interaction, and letting go of constricting inhibitions will be developed through exercises, discussions, and demonstrations, culminating in a public performance. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor; music majors/minors preferred. Offered occasionally.
MUS 397 - Internship in Music
Supervised experiential learning for students in music. A project/paper is required. Offered on a credit/no-credit basis; counts for degree, not major. Enrollment arranged in consultation with a supervising music faculty member and the Director of the School of Music. Unit value earned is determined by the number of hours worked. May be repeated for credit up to a total of 2 units. Prerequisites: open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Offered each semester, in May Term, and during the summer.
Music Theory and Composition
MUS 111 - Introduction to Music Composition
An introduction to writing original music and an overview of related areas such as notation, instrumentation and contemporary musical styles. Class sessions plus weekly individual lessons. Open to all students. Prerequisite: ability to read music, consent of instructor. Offered each fall.
MUS 112 - Composition I
Guided creative work in composition, emphasizing the development of a personal style and a clear connection between inner ear and final score. Includes weekly seminar class. For composition majors. Prerequisite: MUS 111. Offered each spring.
MUS 211 - Composition II
Includes weekly seminar class and continued creative work in composition. For composition majors. Prerequisite: 112 or consent of instructor. Offered each fall.
MUS 212 - Composition III
Includes weekly seminar class and continued creative work in composition. For composition majors. Prerequisite: 211 or consent of instructor. Offered each spring.
MUS 216 - Jazz Improvisation
Students will be introduced to the harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic elements of various styles of jazz and will learn the techniques for improvising in these styles. This course is intended for both instrumentalists and vocalists and will feature in-class playing and singing of improvisations. Also, transcribed improvisations will be analyzed. Prerequisites: MUS 103 and 104. Offered in alternate years.
MUS 301 - Tonal Counterpoint
Instruction in 18th century contrapuntal style/ techniques, including practical applications with cantus firmus, inventions and fugues. Prerequisite: 204 or consent of instructor. Offered every other spring.
MUS 302 - Advanced Analysis
A detailed study of the principal organizing factors and structural patterns found in large-scale musical works of the 18th to 20th centuries, including comparisons between the treatment of similar forms in different style periods. Prerequisite: 204. Offered each fall.
MUS 303 - Jazz Piano
This will be a study of jazz (e.g., categories of chords; chord voicings for piano, chord progressions, etc.) followed by a study of the melodic resources for jazz (i.e., scales and modes) and the interpretation of lead sheets. Essential piano arranging and improvisation techniques will be discussed. Prerequisites: MUS 100A, 100B, 103, and 104. Offered in alternate years or possibly every third consecutive year, Fall term.
MUS 305 - Jazz Theory, Harmony, and Arranging
This course will examine a large number of elements associated with jazz theory, harmony, and arranging, particularly as applied to ensemble music. Also, selected jazz ensemble arrangements will be analyzed, and students will create their own arrangements of preexisting compositions (expressed originally as lead sheets) for jazz ensemble. Prerequisites: MUS 103 and 104. Offered in alternate years, Spring term.
MUS 307 - Free Composition
Guided creative work in composition. Includes weekly seminar class. For non-composition majors with a strong musical background. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Offered each semester.
MUS 309 - Orchestration
Physical and sonic characteristics of orchestral instruments, individually and in combination. In-class demonstrations; performances of student assignments; analysis of orchestrational techniques in the works of important composers; final project in composing or arranging for orchestra. Prerequisite: 103 or consent of the instructor. Offered in alternate years.
MUS 311 - Composition IV
Includes weekly seminar class and continued creative work in composition. For composition majors. Prerequisite: 212 or consent of instructor. Offered each fall.
MUS 312 - Composition V
Includes weekly seminar class and continued creative work in composition. For composition majors. Prerequisite: 311 or consent of instructor. Offered each spring.
MUS 313 - Electroacoustic Music
History and literature of electronic and computer music. Techniques of sound production, modification, and recording, with an emphasis on creative compositional applications. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Offered in alternate years., fall.
MUS 411 - Composition VI
Includes weekly seminar class and continued creative work in composition. For composition majors. Prerequisite: 312 or consent of instructor. Offered each fall.
MUS 412 - Composition VII
Includes weekly seminar class and continued creative work in composition. For composition majors. Prerequisite: 411 or consent of instructor. Offered each spring.
Music Education
MUS 132 - Foundations and Principles of Teaching Music
Introduction to explore careers as music teachers; current music pedagogies; examination of educational theories and philosophies related to music; opportunities to observe and critique music teaching; simulated teaching experiences; assessments of the suitability of student personality and interest for teaching. Offered each spring.
MUS 219 - Introduction to Private Teaching
An introduction to the aspects of private teaching applicable to all instruments/voice. Topics include lesson "etiquette," communication with students and their parents, recruitment, recital and event planning, and other aspects of starting and running a private studio. Students will develop a teaching philosophy and studio handbook. Offered in alternate years, fall semester.
MUS 221 - String Techniques
A laboratory class in string instrument techniques and teaching materials and methods designed to familiarize students with the fingerings and idioms of the instruments. Attention is also given to the study of pedagogical strategies and arranging appropriate to the grade level. Offered each spring.
MUS 222A - Woodwind Techniques A
A laboratory class in woodwind instrument techniques and teaching materials and methods. Attention is also given to the study of pedagogical strategies and arranging appropriate to the grade level. Must be taken in sequence. BME students only, or consent of the instructor. Offered each fall.
MUS 222B - Woodwind Techniques B
A laboratory class in woodwind instrument techniques and teaching materials and methods. Attention is also given to the study of pedagogical strategies and arranging appropriate to the grade level. Must be taken in sequence. BME students only, or consent of the instructor. Offered each spring.
MUS 223 - Brass Techniques
A laboratory class in brass instrument techniques and teaching materials and methods. Attention is also given to the study of pedagogical strategies and arranging appropriate to the grade level. Offered each fall.
MUS 224 - Percussion Techniques
A laboratory class in percussion instrument techniques and teaching materials and methods. Attention is also given to the study of pedagogical strategies and arranging appropriate to the grade level. Offered each spring.
MUS 225 - Vocal Techniques
A laboratory class in vocal techniques and teaching materials and methods. Attention is also given to the study of pedagogical strategies and arranging appropriate to the grade level. Not recommended for first-year students; however, if first-year students strongly desire to take this course, then they must seek permission of the instructor. Offered each spring.
MUS 227 - Fundamentals of Conducting
Designed to assist the student in acquiring a mastery of the basic techniques of conducting. Includes the accurate and clear beating of all conducting patterns, together with the coordinate use of the left hand. Offered each semester.
MUS 232 - Elementary General Music Methods
This concept-focused course provides application of established methodologies and approaches (Orff, Kodly, Dalcroze, and Gordon) along with current research in constructing, implementing, and assessing music lessons for elementary-aged children. Peer teaching and field experiences in elementary general music classrooms are required. Prerequisites: MUS 132 with a C or higher and TEP acceptance. Offered each fall.
MUS 328 - Instrumental Conducting
Attention is focused on the refinement of fundamental conducting techniques. Kinesthetic, aural, and rehearsal techniques are applied to the successful conducting of an instrumental ensemble. Attention is also given to the study of arranging, orchestral bowing, and transpositions. Prerequisite: 227. Offered each spring.
MUS 329 - Choral Conducting
Basic beat patterns are coordinated with the specific demands of choral literature. Ear training and conducting exercises supplement instruction in manual technique. The study of choral performance includes warm-ups, physical preparation, posture, breath, tone, balance, diction, intonation, rhythm and more. Other topics include organization of choral groups, testing and classification of voices, the audition procedure, program building, arranging, score analysis and marking and rehearsal techniques. Prerequisite: 227. Offered each fall semester.
MUS 333A - Instrumental Music Methods
This course provides opportunities to develop research-based techniques and materials for teaching instrumental music in both established and less established ensemble settings while acquiring appropriate technology skills to support instruction. Peer teaching and field experiences in secondary instrumental music classrooms are required. Prerequisites: MUS 132 and 232 with a C or higher. Offered each fall.
MUS 333B - Choral Music Methods
This course is designed to develop research-based ensemble teaching strategies, and to develop lessons and curricular units relevant to performance skills and music literacy in the secondary choral music classroom. Peer teachings and field experiences in secondary choral music classrooms are required. Prerequisites: MUS 132 and 232 with a C or higher. Offered each spring.
MUS 339 - Marching Band Practicum
A laboratory class in which selected instrumental majors are largely responsible for the planning and execution of football half-time shows with the Marching Band. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Offered each fall.
MUS 427 - Practicum in Music Education
The application of knowledge and skills acquired in courses to a live teaching situation. Prerequisites: junior standing, successfully pass all portions of the B.M.E. upper division interview, and admittance to upper division status within the B.M.E. program. Offered each semester.
MUS 428 - Advanced Instrumental Conducting
Advanced rehearsal techniques involved in the performance of excellent orchestral and band literature; refinement of baton technique and careful attention to analysis and interpretation of instrumental scores. Students have the opportunity to conduct a lab ensemble. Prerequisite: MUS 328. Offered each fall.
MUS 429 - Advanced Choral Conducting
This course focuses on the refinement of manual technique, rehearsal procedures and aspects of interpretation (i.e., performance practice, stylistic understanding, and arranging). Larger choral/ orchestral works are discussed from the conductor's viewpoint. Prerequisite: MUS 329. Offered in alternate years during the spring semester.
MUS 430 - Practicum in Conducting
Application of acquired conducting skills through preparing and conducting works in concert performance. Prerequisites: MUS 227 and MUS 328 or 329 and consent of the instructor. Offered occasionally.
MUS 497A - Student Teaching In Music
A one-semester experience in both elementary and secondary settings under the guidance of certified personnel and the University supervisor, with a concurrent weekly on-campus seminar. Students are exempt from all other activities or requirements during the semester. Offered each semester.
Music History and Literature
MUS 164 - The Gourmet Listener
Designed for liberal arts students, this course is an introduction to the numerous genres of Western concert music. Emphasis will be placed on identifying different styles and forms of music. Features live performances. Offered each May term.
MUS 201 - Survey of Music History I
Two semester introduction to the intellectual, aesthetic, and stylistic trends of Western music history and to the representative genres and composers associated with them. Familiarizes students with primary sources and teaches analytical techniques for articulating historical and stylistic observations in writing. Includes a substantial amount of required listening. Treats antiquity through late Baroque. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent skill. Offered each fall.
MUS 202 - Survey of Music History II
Two semester introduction to the intellectual, aesthetic, and stylistic trends of Western music history and to the representative genres and composers associated with them. Familiarizes students with primary sources and teaches analytical techniques for articulating historical and stylistic observations in writing. Includes a substantial amount of required listening. Spans the Classical period to the present. Prerequisite: 104 or equivalent skill. Offered each spring.
MUS 245/345 - World Music
Cross-listed with ANTH 245/345. Students in this course will use an anthropological approach known as ethnomusicology to study the various ways in which people in several societies around the world create music in order to express themselves and their unique cultures. Students will be exposed to these musical traditions through readings, lectures, and films, as well as through experiential learning in workshops with international musicians and observing professional performers at live concerts throughout the term. Offered in alternate years.
MUS 250 - Special Topics
Dedicated to specific topics, periods, styles or ideas in music. May be repeated for credit if the topic is not duplicated. See current Program of Classes to determine if this course fulfills general education requirements. Offered occasionally.
MUS 264 - Jazz History
The origins, evolution and emergence of jazz as an art form. Lectures, readings, and listening to recorded and live performances illustrate various styles in the development of jazz. An emphasis is placed on individual styles important to the periods of jazz. Open to all students. Offered every other spring.
MUS 350 - Special Topics in Music
Intensive study in a selected topic in music. Topics vary from semester to semester. Open to all students. May be repeated for credit if the topic is not duplicated. See current Program of Classes to determine if this course fulfills general education requirements. Offered occasionally.
MUS 351 - History of Opera
A survey of opera from its origins to the present day. The study will explore the relationship between music and drama, the development of characterization, the theatrical and aesthetic conventions of operatic production and the interrelationship between the operatic art work and its parent culture. Prerequisite: junior standing or consent of instructor.
MUS 352 - Choral Literature
A survey of selected major choral compositions and composers of the past 500 years, with emphasis on the standard masterpieces, but also including lesser-known works of importance. Other topics include selection of quality literature, sources of literature and practical application of choral literature to various types of ensembles. Offered in alternate years during the spring semester.
MUS 353 - History of Musical Style I: Renaissance
Study of musical styles and historical context 1450-1600, culminating in the works of Palestrina and Victoria. Explores in greater depth the core repertory and composers covered in MUS 210 with emphasis on musical analysis and interdisciplinary perspectives. Substantial writing component and required listening. Prerequisite: MUS 202. Offered occasionally.
MUS 354 - History of Musical Style II: Baroque
Study of musical style in Europe from the Florentine camerata to the end of high-Baroque counterpoint. Emphasis on application of appropriate analytical techniques, interdisciplinary perspectives, performance practice and interpretation. Substantial written component, required listening. Prerequisite: MUS 202. Offered occasionally.
MUS 355 - History of Musical Style III: Classic
Study of the Classic period in Europe and its opera, symphonic, piano, and chamber repertories. Emphasis on application of appropriate analytical techniques, interdisciplinary perspectives, historical and cultural context, performance practice and interpretation. Substantial written component, required listening. Prerequisite: MUS 202. Offered occasionally.
MUS 356 - History of Musical Style IV: Romantic
Study of 19th century music in Europe and its opera, symphonic, piano, and chamber repertories. Emphasis on application of appropriate analytical techniques, interdisciplinary perspectives, historical and cultural context, performance practice and interpretation. Substantial written component, required listening. Prerequisite: MUS 202. Offered occasionally.
MUS 357 - History of Musical Style V: Post-Romanticism to WWII
Study of developments and innovations in musical styles during this volatile period. Emphasis on application techniques, interdisciplinary perspectives, and cultural contexts. Substantial written component, required listening. Prerequisite: MUS 202. Offered in alternate years, fall term.
MUS 358 - History of Music Style VI: Post-World War II to the Present
The expanding concert-music universe of the contemporary era. The modernist, neoclassic and postmodern aesthetics; the exploration of timbre, texture and intonation; the growth of electronic and computer music; the development of new forms of music theater; the profound effects of popular, jazz, and traditional musics. Substantial required writing and listening. Prerequisite: MUS 202. Offered in alternate years, spring term.
MUS 359 - Women in Popular Music
Cross listed as WGS 359. Women in Popular Music investigates popular music as created and performed by celebrated female artists. Contextual consideration of her story analyzes the values of her contemporary society - as she sings with the socially accepted role of victimized sexual doll-toy or as she advocates for the activist-feminist partnership in the home, or as she reconstructs for herself the independent, iconic, financial, musical "dynastress" of the stage! Prerequisite: Junior rank or consent of instructor. Offered each spring term.
MUS 360 - Keyboard Literature
A survey of the literature written for stringed keyboard instruments from the 16th century to the present, involving playing, listening, and analysis. Offered in alternate years.
MUS 361 - Keyboard Literature
A survey of the literature written for stringed keyboard instruments from the 16th century to the present, involving playing, listening, and analysis. Offered in alternate years.
MUS 370 - Special Topics in Music
Intensive study of a selected topic in music for music majors. Topics will vary from semester to semester. May be repeated for credit if the topic is not duplicated. Offered occasionally.
MUS 475 - Independent Study
Studies of selected topics in the areas of music history and literature, music education, performance practice, or sacred music. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: junior standing and consent of the instructor. Offered each semester.
Applied Music
MUS 100 - / 100X Minor Study
Instruction in the minor fields is designed to aid students in meeting the required minimum proficiencies for the various degree programs in the School of Music and to broaden their contacts with performance media beyond the applied major. Music majors electing minor lessons beyond those actually required for specific degree programs pay an additional fee for this instruction. See the current Course Catalog for price.Applied music lessons are open to students in other division of the University with the consent of the instructor and payment of special fees (see Course Catalog). Students will be assigned to teachers for one half-hour private lesson each week. Instruction is available in the following fields: Voice Keyboard Instruments (Piano, Organ, Harpsichord), Stringed Instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass), Woodwind Instruments (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone), Brass Instruments (French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba), and Percussion Instruments. Offered each semester.
MUS 171 - Freshman Applied B.A.
Instruction in the principal field of applied music is designed to prepare students to meet the performance requirements in the B.A. degree program in addition to providing a laboratory for the study of the literature of the art of music. Instruction is available in the following fields: Voice, Keyboard Instruments (Piano, Organ, Harpsichord), Stringed Instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass), Woodwind Instruments (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone), Brass Instruments (French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba), and Percussion Instruments. Offered each fall.
MUS 173 - Freshman Applied B.A.
Instruction in the principal field of applied music is designed to prepare students to meet the performance requirements in the B.A. degree program in addition to providing a laboratory for the study of the literature of the art of music. Instruction is available in the following fields: Voice, Keyboard Instruments (Piano, Organ, Harpsichord), Stringed Instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass), Woodwind Instruments (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone), Brass Instruments (French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba), and Percussion Instruments. Offered each spring.
MUS 181 - Freshman Applied Major
Instruction in the principal field of applied music is designed to prepare students to meet the performance requirements in the various degree programs in addition to providing a laboratory for the study of the literature of the art of music. Instruction is available in the following fields: Voice, Keyboard Instruments (Piano, Organ, Harpsichord), Stringed Instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass), Woodwind Instruments (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone), Brass Instruments (French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba), and Percussion Instruments. Offered each fall.
MUS 183 - Freshman Applied Major
Instruction in the principal field of applied music is designed to prepare students to meet the performance requirements in the various degree programs in addition to providing a laboratory for the study of the literature of the art of music. Instruction is available in the following fields: Voice, Keyboard Instruments (Piano, Organ, Harpsichord), Stringed Instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass), Woodwind Instruments (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone), Brass Instruments (French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba), and Percussion Instruments. Offered each spring.
MUS 271 - Sophomore Applied B.A.
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 171. Offered each fall.
MUS 273 - Sophomore Applied B.A.
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 171. Offered each spring.
MUS 281 - Sophomore Applied Concentration
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. Offered each fall
MUS 283 - Sophomore Applied Concentration
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. Offered each spring
MUS 291 - Sophomore Applied Major
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. For potential performance majors. Offered each fall.
MUS 293 - Sophomore Applied Major
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. For potential performance majors. Offered each spring.
MUS 300 - (X) Minor Study
A continuation of applied work in the minor field as described under 100. Prerequisite: four semesters of minor study or consent of instructor. Offered each semester.
MUS 371 - Junior Applied B.A.
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 171. Offered each fall.
MUS 373 - Junior Applied B.A.
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 171. Offered each spring.
MUS 280 - Junior Project in Contemporary Musicianship
A half-recital demonstrating proficiency in a range of the musical styles and ancillary areas included in the Contemporary Musicianship curriculum, along with professional-level publicity and online documentation. Offered each semester.
MUS 381 - Junior Applied Concentration
A continuation of applied work as described under 181 at the junior level. Offered each fall.
MUS 383 - Junior Applied Concentration
A continuation of applied work as described under 181 at the junior level. Offered each spring.
MUS 391 - Junior Applied Major
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. A public recital is required in the junior year. Offered each fall.
MUS 393 - Junior Applied Major
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. A public recital is required in the junior year. Offered each spring.
MUS 471 - Senior Applied B.A.
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 171. Offered each fall.
MUS 473 - Senior Applied B.A.
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 171. Offered each spring.
MUS 480 - Senior Project in Contemporary Musicianship
A full recital demonstrating proficiency in a range of the musical styled and ancillary areas included in the Contemporary Musicianship curriculum, along with professional-level publicity and online documentation. Offered every semester.
MUS 481 - Senior Applied Concentration
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. A public recital is required in the junior year. Offered each fall.
MUS 483 - Senior Applied Concentration
A continuation of applied work in the chosen field as described under 181. A public recital is required in the junior year. Offered each spring.
MUS 491 - Senior Applied Major
A continuation of applied work as described under 181. A public recital is required in the senior year. Offered each fall.
MUS 493 - Senior Applied Major
A continuation of applied work as described under 181. A public recital is required in the senior year. Offered each spring.
Piano Pedagogy
MUS 360 - Keyboard Literature
See listing under Music History and Literature. Offered every other fall.
MUS 361 - Keyboard Literature
See listing under Music History and Literature. Offered every other spring.
MUS 366 - Piano Pedagogy: Methodologies and Resources
Concepts and materials for teaching piano to pre-school children, and individual and group lessons to average-age beginners, adult beginners, and intermediate level students; survey of elementary method books, piano literature available to bridge the transition from method books to the standard advanced repertory, and study of the development of technique in the advancing pianist; curriculum and lesson planning concepts; introduction to computer-aided instruction in music theory and the use of other MIDI applications in the applied studio; includes components of observation and intern teaching in the Illinois Wesleyan piano preparatory program. Offered every other fall.
MUS 367 - Studies in Pedagogical Literature
Research and study of various philosophical schools and historical ideas in advanced piano pedagogy. Focus on the selection of appropriate literature to foster a logical sequence of musical and technical development in the advanced student, formulation of an annotated bibliography of source readings, and a study of the strengths and weaknesses of various editions as standard scores. Offered every other spring.
String Pedagogy
MUS 316 - String Pedagogy I
A study of the history and development of the significant Schools of Pedagogy and well-known pedagogues and the anatomical and physiological background to playing string instruments. Offered in alternate years, spring.
MUS 317 - String Pedagogy II
Private lesson teaching at the elementary stage: development of teaching strategies, materials, and skills needed to establish a firm foundation for beginning students of all ages (right-hand technique, left-hand technique, ear-training, etc.); repertoire for elementary students; viewing of excerpts from the Paul Rolland teaching films. Offered in alternate years, fall.
MUS 318 - String Pedagogy III
Private lesson teaching at the intermediate stage, repertoire and teaching materials for intermediate students, and remedial teaching techniques. Offered in alternate years, spring.
MUS 319 - String Pedagogy IV
Students will complete an approved research project resulting in a paper or public presentation. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: MUS 316, 317, and 318. Offered each semester.
MUS 320 - Private Teaching Pedagory Lab
Lesson observations and supervised teaching in the IWU String Preparatory Program, which has a long history of offering private lessons to pre-college-age students, or with approved private teachers. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: MUS 219 or consent of instructor. Offered each semester.
MUS 343 - String Literature
A survey of string solo and chamber music repertoire from the 17th century to the present, offering listening, playing, and analysis. Prerequisites: MUS 201 and 202. Offered in alternate years, fall.
Voice
MUS 38 - Opera Theatre Workshop
A laboratory course devoted to the analysis and preparation of solos and ensembles based on operatic/ musical drama literature chosen from opera seria to 20th century musical dramatic entertainments. Course instruction will include audition processes, stylistic performance practice, role research, musical coachings, stage movement, makeup application, and technical support systems. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Offered every other year.
MUS 39 - Opera Theatre Performance
A laboratory course devoted to the performance of operatic/ musical drama literature. Prerequisites: Completion of a successful audition and consent of instructor. Offered every semester.
MUS 185 - English and Italian Diction
A laboratory course in English and Italian diction for singers, utilizing the International Phonetic Alphabet. Offered in alternate, fall semesters.
MUS 195 - German and French Diction
A laboratory course in French and German diction for singers. Prerequisite: working knowledge of the International Phonetic Alphabet. Offered in alternate years, spring.
MUS 324 - Song Literature
A survey of Art Song Literature from the 18th century through the present day. Emphasis on song study, interpretation, performance practice and skill study in the art of programming a solo voice recital performance. Prerequisite: MUS 202 or consent of instructor. Offered in alternate years, fall semester.
MUS 325 - Vocal Pedagogy
A course designed to foster the development of a practical philosophy of singing and teaching. Prerequisite: MUS 225 Vocal Techniques. Offered each spring.
Organizations and Ensembles
The various ensembles listed below are open for participation by all students
in the University regardless of major. These require an entrance audition before
approval to register can be granted (e.g., Symphony Orchestra, Collegiate Choir, Jazz
Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Wind Ensemble).
The "X" listing indicates that the ensemble is taken for no credit. "X" courses
will not count toward the accumulation of units required for a non-music degree.
However, coursework will be evaluated and a grade recorded on the student's transcript.
A student may enroll in more than one ensemble for credit; a grade will be recorded
on his or her transcript and will be tabulated as part of his or her GPA. Students
are not allowed to “audit” ensembles. All ensemble participation is graded, and regular
attendance is mandatory.
MUS 21 - / 21X Illinois Wesleyan Symphony Orchestra
A Symphony Orchestra open by audition to all string, wind and percussion students of the University. The Orchestra performs the standard orchestral repertoire and presents many concerts each year. Offered each semester.
MUS 22 - / 22X Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble is comprised of the more experienced wind and percussion students at the University and performs the finest in wind and percussion literature. Besides performing many concerts at home, the Wind Ensemble also tours. Offered each semester.
MUS 23 - /23X Collegiate Choir
A mixed ensemble that perfects the finest sacred and secular choral literature of the past five centuries. Open to all students by audition. The choir presents numerous programs on the campus and on an annual Spring Choir Tour. Offered each semester.
MUS 24 - / 24X Symphonic Winds
The Symphonic Winds is one of two wind bands that rehearses and performs serious literature from the best of the band repertoire. The Symphonic Winds performs at least once per semester and is comprised of students from the University regardless of major. The ensemble is open, by successful audition or with permission of instructor, to all students. Offered each semester.
MUS 25X - Titan Band
An activity band that performs at home football and basketball games. Students must register for the season, which runs from late August through the first half of March. Open to all students in the University.
MUS 26 - / 26X University Choir
A mixed ensemble maintained for the study and performance of sacred and secular choral literature of different periods and styles. Performs at least three times per year. Open to all students by preliminary placement hearing. Offered each semester.
MUS 28 - / 28X Unlicensed Syncopation
A vocal ensemble of 10-14 voices that focuses on study and performance of jazz, as well as on other contemporary studio music genres from the 20th and 21st centuries, both a cappella and with rhythm section. The ensemble performs on- and off-campus. Open by audition to all students of the University. Offered each semester.
MUS 31 - / 31X Chamber Music: Strings, Brass, Woodwinds, Percussion, Voice, Piano Accompaniment, and Piano Ensemble
Ensembles of varying size and instrumentation which engage in the study and performance of chamber music. Offered as needed.
MUS 34 - / 34X Jazz Ensemble
Rehearsal, study and performance of all styles of music in the jazz idiom. Jazz improvisation is stressed in rehearsals and out of class assignments. Student arrangers and composers are encouraged to have their works performed. Open by audition to all students of the University. Offered each semester.
MUS 35 - / 35X Jazz Lab Band and Combos
A lab jazz band available to any campus student without audition. Secondary instruments are encouraged. The basics of improvisation, reading and jazz styles encourage involvement in jazz throughout the student's life.
MUS 37 - / 37X Guitar Ensemble
Performances of repertoire written for two or more guitars. Ensembles will be formed at the beginning of the semester and coached throughout. Offered each semester.
General Education requirement in “The Arts”
In addition to specific traditional music courses approved for credit in the General Education category “The Arts” (listed below), the School of Music offers students several additional ways in which they may fulfill this requirement. Students with an interest in pursuing applied study in voice, piano, or on a string, wind, or percussion instrument may choose from the following options:
Students interested in fulfilling General Education requirements in “The Arts” through participation in ensembles and/or applied music lessons may choose from among the following four options:
A. Four semesters of piano lessons (MUS 100) OR one semester of Beginning Class Piano for Non-Music Majors (MUS 101) plus two semesters of applied piano (MUS 100).
B. Four semester of applied voice (MUS 100) OR two semesters of applied voice (MUS 100) with concurrent enrollment in either University Choir (MUS 26) or Collegiate Choir (MUS 23).
C. Four semesters of classical guitar lessons (MUS 100) OR two semesters of applied classical guitar (MUS 100) with concurrent enrollment in Guitar Ensemble (MUS 37).
D. Two semesters of one of the following ensembles – Orchestra (MUS 21), Wind Ensemble (MUS 22), Symphonic Winds (MUS 24), Jazz Ensemble (MUS 34), or Jazz Lab Band (MUS 35) – with concurrent enrollment in the appropriate applied instrumental lessons (MUS 100).
Disclaimer: Participation in all the ensembles listed above, with exception of Jazz Lab Band, is by audition only. There is an additional charge for lessons for students who are not participating the Jennings Scholarship Program.
Class Options:
- MUS 164: Gourmet Listener
Designed for the liberal arts students, this course is an introduction to the numerous genres of Western concert music. Emphasis will be placed on identifying different styles and forms of music. Features live performances. Offered each May Term - MUS 264: Jazz History (also fulfills U.S. Diversity flag)
The origins, evolution, and emergence of jazz as an art form. Lectures, reading, and listening to recorded and live performances illustrate various styles in the development of jazz. An emphasis is placed on individual styles important to the periods of jazz. Open to all students. Offered each spring - MUS 350: Special Topics in Music
Intensive study in a selected topic in music. Topics vary from semester to semester. Open to all students. May be repeated for credit if the topic is not duplicated. See current Program of Classes to determine if this course fulfills general education requirements. Offered occasionally