The Piano Proficiency III course is the final package (of three) designed to provide developing musicians with basic keyboard competency. Specifically, students will develop piano technique and music theory through keyboard patterns including: three vocalises, black-key major and minor scales (hands together, 2 octaves) and chord progressions (inversions + ii chord). Sight-reading and repertoire will be at a higher level than that of Piano Proficiency II. Transposition of folk melodies will include an accompaniment more elaborate than blocked chords.
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.
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.
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.
Theory III is a continuation of the historical-analytical work of MUSC 152, focusing on study of chromatic harmony, form and analysis, and 20th century musical structures. Application of chromatically altered chords (Neapolitan, borrowed, and augmented sixth chords) is followed by a study of binary, ternary, rondo, variation, and sonata forms. In addition to the study of form and harmony, students will be introduced to jazz theory and atonal constructs of the 20th century.
A select treble show choir ensemble drawn from all major areas in the college community. Emphasis on performing literature from the pop, rock and Broadway repertoire. Combines voice, movement, and stage presence into one package. Opportunity to work with professional choreographers and to explore a wide variety of song styles and movement. Enrollment by audition. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit. AE
A select, small (12-18 voices) choral ensemble dedicated to performing classical, jazz, Broadway, and pop repertoire. Choreography and solo singing may be included in this versatile organization. Enrollment by audition. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit. AE
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.
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.
This course covers the basic materials in music including musical terms and symbols and how to read and write pitches, rhythms and scales. Emphasis is placed on developing aural and sight-singing skills. Class activities will include extensive work at the piano. Restricted to music theatre majors.