Aural Skills III

A continuation of the study and development of listening and musicianship skills. This course will cover the applications of moveable-do solfege, fixed-do solfege, la-based minor, melodic dictation, rhythmic dictation, and sight singing. Prerequisite: 107.

Diction I

A study of the symbols of the International Phonetic Alphabet as used in Italian and German languages. Emphasis is placed on the sounds of these symbols and their application to appropriate vocal literature. Class experiences include readings, discussion, speaking, singing, group activities, and listening. Offered every fall semester.

Diction II

Continuation of the study of the symbols of the International Phonetic Alphabet as used in French and English languages. Emphasis is placed on the sounds of these symbols and their application to appropriate vocal literature. Class experiences include readings, discussion, speaking, singing, group activities, and listening. Offered every spring semester. Prerequisite: 237.

Musical Structures

Mathematics and music are deeply connected disciplines, with math providing the underlying structure for the physics of sound, musical theory, and composition. Since the time of the ancient Greeks, thinkers have used mathematical principles to analyze and create music. This course will explore the mathematical principles inherent in music via analysis of works from the Renaissance through the present day. Specifically, students will calculate intervals from the lowest sounding voice, qualify dissonances, employ Roman numerical analysis, explore the expansion of the harmonic language through chromatic alteration and chord extensions (7, 9, 11, 13), and explore atonal structures. This course fulfills the requirements for Foundations Quantitative Literacy. Prerequisite: MUSC 151. QL

Music Composition

This course explores the fundamentals of music through music composition. Students will learn how to compose a compelling melody, discover why some chords sound better than others, learn how to set text more effectively, and write better piano accompaniments. The course includes basic jazz harmony, how to read Lead Sheet, and lessons on music engraving using Dorico music writing software. Students will write an art song or pop song, a work for vocal ensemble, and a work for an instrumental ensemble. One assignment will be chosen for "workshopping" and performance at the end of the semester. Prerequisite: 151. QL

Conducting I

Development of basic conducting skills with emphasis on beat patterns, baton technique, conducting gestures, score preparation and musical styles.

Introduction to the Alexander Technique

A class which explores application of the principles employed by F.M. Alexander in finding easier use of self in activity. While performing artists have found it useful, this technique is also valuable in everyday activities. Activities that require motion are particularly suited to this work. May be repeated for credits. Graded CR/NC.

Special Topics

Courses on topics of interest to music students offered on the basis of need, interest, or timeliness. Prerequisite as determined by instructor. Restricted to students with freshman or sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit. For specific section description, click to the Section Details in VitNet.

Theory I

Fundamental melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic elements of music will be explored and developed. Specific content includes the study of melodic and rhythmic notation, meter, tonality/modality, intervals, chords and inversions, cadences, with attention to harmonic progression and melodic organization. Students will apply fundamental principles of melody, rhythm, and harmony through performance, analysis, and composition. The course will utilize Noteflight music writing software. Prerequisite: MUSC 100 or a minimum of 80% on the Music Fundamentals Proficiency Exam.

Theory II

Fundamental melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic elements learned in MUSC 151 are further developed. Specific content includes an introduction to form in popular and classical music, melodic analysis, non-chord tones, and voice leading/part writing, as well as an introduction to chromatic harmony and modulation via study of secondary dominant and leading tone chords. Students will apply these principles through performance, analysis, and composition. Prerequisite: 151.

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