Music (MUSC)  

 

001—Music Fundamentals, 2 Cr.  

This course presents the rudiments of music: elements of notation, the staff, the clefs, scales, chromatic signs, intervals and their inversions, rhythms and rhythmic patterns, time and key signatures, and basic chords and chord structures. Required of MUSC 151 Music Theory I students who lack college-level proficiency in music. Passing the Music Fundamentals Proficiency Test with a grade of “C” or higher is a condition to being in good standing as a music major and is a prerequisite for MUSC 152 Theory II. Meets concurrently with 151. Determination by placement test. Restricted to music majors and minors only. Credits not applicable toward graduation.

 

101—Class Piano, 1 Cr. 

Piano instruction for the adult beginner designed to provide the student with basic piano skills. Students learn the fundamentals of music through keyboard patterns (including all major and minor penta-scales, triads, and major tetra-scales), creative improvisation of pentatonic melodies in appropriate styles, and the study of appropriate repertoire, all culminating in an end-of-the-semester recital.. May be repeated for credit.

 

103—Class Voice, 1 Cr. 

A study of basic singing techniques designed for the non-vocal music major. The class includes both individual and group instruction. There is the opportunity to explore different genres of singing with primary focus on classical and musical theatre repertoire. May be repeated one time for credit. 

 

105—Piano Proficiency I, 1 Cr.  

Keyboard skill development for music majors designed to provide the student with the skills needed to complete the required Piano Proficiency I Exam. Requirements for the course include the following patterns: all major and minor penta-scales, all major and minor arpeggios (one octave), all major and harmonic minor scales (one octave, hands separately), and all primary chord progressions (major and minor keys, RH root position chords). Other requirements include sight-reading at the elementary level, playing melodies by ear in any key, preparation of an elementary-level choral accompaniment and a two-part elementary choral piece (education majors only), and the study of appropriate repertoire. Students must pass the Piano Proficiency I Exam to obtain credit for the course. Graded CR/NC.

 

109—Music Appreciation, 3 Cr.  

Designed for the general student, the course aims to enhance the student’s understanding and enjoyment of music through a survey of Western and non-Western musical styles. Activities include: assigned readings, listening, interactive class discussions, guest performers, and video presentations. Students are required to give class presentations on assigned topics and attend a minimum of two concerts during the semester in which the class is taken.

 

116—Sight Singing Lab I, 1 Cr.  

This course will develop the ability to sight sing at an introductory level using solfege, Dalcroze eurhythmics, and a variety of other approaches. The course is designed to develop an aural foundation that complements MUSC 151. Graded CR/NC.

 

117—Sight Singing Lab II, 1 Cr.  

Strategies for reading music including solfege and aural skills developed in 116 will be utilized in reading patterns of more harmonic and rhythmic complexity. This course will deepen aural skills and provide strategies to further strengthen music reading skills. Prerequisite: 116. Graded CR/NC.

 

135—Women’s Chorale, 1 Cr.  

A women’s chorus for all students and faculty that sings a variety of choral literature, including Broadway, jazz, folk, pop, and classical. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit.

 

136—Platinum Edition, 1 Cr.  

A select show choir ensemble drawn from all major areas in the college community. Emphasis on performing literature from the pop 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. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. By audition only. May be repeated for credit.

 

137—Concert Choir, 1 Cr.  

A select 60-voice choral ensemble drawn from all major areas in the university. Literature from all musical eras is performed in two concerts each year in addition to a regional or national tour and every fourth year a tour of Europe. Chamber ensemble works such as madrigals and motets and opera and oratorio works with orchestra are studied over a four-year cycle. Admission by audition. Emphasis on excellence in musicianship and performance. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit.

 

139—9th Street Singers, 1 Cr.  

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. Restricted to students with freshman and sophomore standing. By audition only. May be repeated for credit.

 

151—Theory I, 3 Cr.  

Basic materials and structure of music including studies in notation, tonality, scales, intervals, transposition, chords and inversions, cadences, and melodic organization; application of above studied in analysis and creation of two- to four-part compositions. Sight singing and ear training correlated. Based on testing, some students may be required to take MUSC 001 concurrently.

 

152—Theory II, 3 Cr.  

A course in basic musicianship for the music major/minor, MUSC 152 is a continuation of the studies in Theory I. This course will include analysis, written assignments from a workbook, classroom drill and discussion, group and individual sight singing, and ear training. Prerequisite: 151.

 

200—Women in Music, 2 Cr. 

Women in Music is an overview of women as performers, composers, or sources of inspiration for works of music in the Western tradition, from earliest to contemporary artists. Influences in the lives of the musicians and their legacy will be examined. The class will include listening, research, performances, and discussion.

 

205—Piano Proficiency II, 1 Cr.  

Keyboard skill development for music majors designed to provide the student with the skills needed to complete the required Piano Proficiency II Exam. Requirements for the course include the following patterns: all major and minor penta-scales with chordal accompaniment, all major and minor arpeggios (one octave, hands together), all major and harmonic minor scales (one octave, hands together), and all primary chord progressions (major and minor keys, RH incorporates inversions for proper voice leading). Other requirements include sight-reading at the late elementary level, playing melodies by ear in any key with a chordal accompaniment, preparation of an intermediate-level choral accompaniment and a three-part choral piece (education majors only), and the study of appropriate repertoire. Students must pass the Piano Proficiency II Exam to obtain credit for the course. Prerequisites: MUSC 105, 151. Graded CR/NC.

 

206—Piano Proficiency III, 1 Cr.  

Keyboard skill development for music majors designed to provide the student with the skills needed to complete the required Piano Proficiency III Exam. Requirements for the course include the following patterns: selected vocalises, all major and harmonic minor scales (two octaves, hands together), and all primary chord progressions (major and minor keys; RH incorporates inversions for proper voice leading; insertion of supertonic). Other requirements include sight-reading at the intermediate level, playing melodies by ear in any key with an improvised accompaniment, preparation of an intermediate-level choral accompaniment and a four-part choral piece (education majors only), and the study of appropriate repertoire. Students must pass the Piano Proficiency III Exam to obtain credit for the course.  Prerequisite: MUSC 152, 205. Graded CR/NC.

 

207—Introduction to Music Technology, 2 Cr.  

This course will provide a basic overview understanding of how technology serves the field of music as a whole. Students will have the opportunity to work with technological developments applicable to their area of specialization. Specifically, students will receive a hands-on introduction to the following computer software: Finale (notation), Mastertracks Pro (sequencing), Band-in-a-Box (arranging), Norton Masterworks (interactive CD-Rom), Musique and Practica Musica (both music theory tutorials). Prerequisites: 105, 152.

 

237—Diction I, 2 Cr. 

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.

 

238—Diction II, 2 Cr.  

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. Prerequisite: 237.

 

251—Theory III, 3 Cr.  

A study of music theory built on the foundational tools gained in Theory I and II. Harmonic vocabulary is increased to include diatonic seventh chords, secondary dominant and leading tone chords, as well as modulation techniques. Musicianship is expanded through the study of modality, chant, melodic imitation, and the treatment of consonance/dissonance in 16th-century polyphony. Sight singing, analysis, composition, and use of FINALE and MacGAMUT software will be incorporated into the course. Prerequisites: 105, 152.

 

252—Theory IV, 3 Cr.  

A study of further developments in chromatic harmony, as well as an introduction to form and analysis.   Application of chromatically altered chords (Neapolitan, borrowed, and augmented sixth chords) is followed by a study of atonal constructs of the 20th century. In addition to the study of harmony, students will be introduced to binary, ternary, rondo, variation and sonata forms. Required course work includes analysis, aural skills training, sight singing, composition, and use of FINALE and MacGAMUT software. Prerequisite: 251.

 

284—Introduction to the Alexander Technique, 2 Cr.  

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 credit. Graded CR/NC.

 

300—Music for the Classroom Teacher, 2 Cr.  

This class provides the opportunity for future classroom teachers to develop basic understanding and skills in musical elements. Methods of using music in interdisciplinary settings and incorporating multicultural resources will be important components of the class. Teachers will learn how to help children communicate through personal expression, creative exploration, and action. Prerequisites: EDUC 150, 215.

 

303—Music in the Middle/Junior High School, 3 Cr. 

A class designed for the music education major. The study of teaching and directing techniques for the middle/junior high school learner, with emphasis on the physical, psychological, and emotional development of adolescents. Course will include: 1) general music; 2) choral music; 3) curriculum design; 4) the changing voice; 5) selecting and evaluating age-appropriate repertoire; 6) playing fretted instruments, folk instruments, rhythmic instruments, melody instruments, and recorders in order to employ them as teaching tools. All students in the class will be assigned a small ensemble to sing in or lead. Prerequisites: 365, 366, EDUC 150, 215; admission to the teacher education program (music education majors).

 

308—Piano Accompanying, 2 Cr.  

Study and development of the skills associated with piano accompanying and collaboration. Students are required to prepare and perform representative literature for piano and other instruments or voices from the sonata, concerto, oratorio, opera, song, and piano four-hand repertoires. Class activities include directed readings, score examination and analysis, textual analysis, listening, coaching, and performing. Prerequisite: MUPI-171.

 

327—Music History I, 3 Cr.  

A study of the history of Western music within the broad context of relevant historical, social, and artistic trends. Includes an introduction to music of selected non-Western cultures. Survey of the principal styles, composers, genres, and forms associated with music of the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Consideration of representative works from those periods through directed reading, score examination, analysis, listening, and performance. Prerequisite: 152, ENGL 104. Restricted to music majors and minors.

 

328—Music History II, 3 Cr.  

A survey of the principal composers, genres, and forms associated with music of the Classic, Romantic, and Contemporary periods. Consideration of representative works from those periods through directed reading, score examination, analysis, listening, and performance. Twentieth-century study includes an introduction to American jazz, blues, ragtime, and musical comedy. Exposure to available music research and reference materials in both printed and electronic formats. Prerequisite: 327, ENGL 104. Restricted to music majors and minors.

 

332—Survey of Song Literature, 2 Cr.  

A survey of vocal music from approximately 1600 to the present in Europe and the U.S. Emphasis will be placed on broadening the repertoire of the performer and teacher through a study of major song composers of the German, French, Italian, and English cultures. Class activities will focus on stylistic characteristics of this literature through a combination of lecture and directed listening. Prerequisites: 152, 237, 238, 327.

 

333—Keyboard Literature, 3 Cr.  

A survey of advanced literature for stringed keyboard instruments from the end of the 16th century to the present as it relates to both teaching and performing. Consideration of the principle historical eras, composers and genres of keyboard music. Includes a critical assessment of important stylistic and formal features of representative works through directed reading, score examination, listening, and performance. Prerequisite: 152.

 

335—Women’s Chorale, 1 Cr. 

A mixed chorus for all students and faculty that sings a variety of choral literature, including Broadway, jazz, folk, pop, and classical. Restricted to students with junior and senior standing. May be repeated for credit.

 

336—Platinum Edition, 1 Cr. 

A select show choir ensemble drawn from all major areas in the university community. Emphasis on performing literature from the pop 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. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. By audition only. May be repeated for credit.

 

337—Concert Choir, 1 Cr.  

A select 60-voice choral ensemble drawn from all major areas in the university. Literature from all musical eras is performed in two concerts each year in addition to a regional or national tour and every fourth year a tour of Europe. Chamber ensemble works such as madrigals and motets and opera and oratorio works with orchestra are studied over a four-year cycle. Admission by audition. Emphasis on excellence in musicianship and performance. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. May be repeated for credit. 

 

339—9th Street Singers, 1 Cr.  

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. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. By audition only. May be repeated for credit.

 

340—Music in the Elementary School, 3 Cr.  

A class designed for the music education major with emphasis on the development of children’s listening, performance, literacy, and creative-expressive skills. Students will learn how to: 1) design age appropriate lesson plans; 2) structure the classroom environment; 3) apply classic techniques of Orff, Kodaly, Dalcroze and other emerging pedagogies; 4) measure and grade musical progress; 5) teach through the multiple intelligences; 6) teach multicultural music; and 7) provide opportunity for aesthetic experiences. This course will help students discover the joy and intellectual challenges that come from sharing music with children. Prerequisites: 365, 366,  EDUC 150, 215,  admission to teacher education program (music education majors).

 

342—Choral Methods 9-12, 3 Cr. 

The study of teaching and directing techniques for the senior high school. Involves general music, choral music, repertoire, voicing, curriculum design, discipline, learning styles, teaching strategies, and philosophy. Emphasis on the total year’s program in perspective with performances and understanding the non-musical responsibilities of a high school teacher. The course also focuses on the development, application, and refinement of musical and interpersonal skills needed for teaching in a secondary setting. Students will be assigned a small ensemble experiences as part of the course. Offered every third semester. Prerequisites: 365, 366, EDUC 150, 215; admission to the teacher education program (music education majors).

 

348—Accompanying Practicum, 1 Cr.  

Practical application and further development of piano accompanying and collaboration skills. The course involves accompanying studio lessons and rehearsals, performing in studio class and music department forum, and individual coaching with the instructor. Students are required to accompany a voice half recital or full recital. Prerequisite: 308. May be repeated for credit.

 

353—Form and Analysis, 3 Cr.  

A study of the structural elements in music and their organization into small and large forms.  Students will learn to analyze and identify common musical forms found in vocal and instrumental works from various style periods. Class experiences include reading, discussion, analysis, listening, and performing. Offered every year. Prerequisites: 205, 252.

 

354—Congregational Repertoire for the Liturgical Year, 2 Cr.  

Criteria and sources used in selecting music for the assembly. Historical survey of hymnody. Examination of hymnals and other materials available. Specific repertoire recommendations for individual seasons, occasions, and rites of the Church. Practical application of skills needed to effectively lead an assembly.

 

355—Choral Repertoire for the Liturgical Year, 2 Cr.  

Historical survey of sacred choral music. Exploration of quality choral music which is appropriate in a liturgical context. Specific repertoire suggestions for the liturgical year covering a broad spectrum of styles, periods, and difficulty.

 

356—Organ Repertoire for the Liturgical Year, 2 Cr.  

Survey of quality organ compositions based on liturgical cantus firmi or having other explicitly liturgical connections. Specific repertoire suggestions for the liturgical year covering a broad spectrum of styles, periods, and difficulty.

 

365—Conducting I, 2 Cr.  

Development of basic conducting skills with emphasis on beat patterns, baton technique, conducting gestures, score preparation and musical styles. Prerequisite: 152.

 

366—Conducting II, 2 Cr.  

Advanced techniques for conducting school choral ensembles. Review and expand the manual techniques learned in Conducting I. Develop skills in score analysis, score reading, interpretation and rehearsal techniques. Sing in and lead small ensembles. Prerequisite: 365.

 

367—Chamber Ensemble for Pianists, 1 Cr. 

Study and performance of representative chamber works for piano and other instruments. Activities include survey of literature, style and interpretation, analysis, listening, individual coaching with the instructor, and performing. Prerequisite: 308.

 

382—Opera Production, 1 or 2 Cr. 

This course is for students who audition for and are cast in a major or minor role in a full-length opera production. Full opera productions rehearse three hours per night and five nights per week for a period of seven weeks. Students with a major role may register for two credits. Students with a minor role (or a chorus role with a significant amount of acting) may register for one credit. Full-length opera productions (as distinguished from one act operas) occur every other year. May be repeated for credit.

  

402—Harpsichord Accompanying and Performance Practice, 1 Cr.  

A practical introduction to harpsichord performance practice for the pianist. Students will survey the history and construction of the instrument, apply aspects of interpretation and technique, and explore the mysteries of tuning and temperament of the Baroque period. Students will be required to perform as soloist and/or accompanist and present research pertaining to an assigned style period. This hands-on course gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge of figured bass as part of the accompanying component in the course. Prerequisites: 206, 252.

 

420—Vocal Pedagogy, 3 Cr.  

A course presenting the study and critical analysis of many pedagogical approaches of the teaching of singing. For the advanced vocal/choral student, it is a research and discussion course with a major research project. The course includes observation, practice teaching, and studio business practices of private teaching. Students use the vocal lab for research using VoceVista software and other technology. The teaching of private voice lessons is a practicum experience for the student teacher/singer.

 

425—Student Teaching: Elementary, 5 Cr.  

Directed classroom observation and teaching in the elementary school; required for certification in Pre-K–12 and Choral 6–12. Prerequisite: 206; admission to the teacher education program; admission to student teaching; passing Praxis II score.

 

429—Student Teaching: Secondary, 5 Cr.  

Observation and teaching in middle school and high school; required for certification in Pre-K–12 and Choral Music 6–12. Prerequisite: 206; admission to the teacher education program; admission to student teaching; passing Praxis II score.

 

433—Piano Pedagogy, 3 Cr.  

A study of the art and science of teaching piano at the beginning and intermediate levels. Topics include teaching philosophy, learning styles and theories, individual and group instruction, teaching techniques, methods and materials, motivation and practice, technology, and the business aspects of creating and maintaining a private music studio. Class experiences include readings, discussion, presentations, observations, and practice teaching. Offered as needed.

 

453—Arranging, 2 Cr.  

The course is designed as a practical introduction to choral arranging with exposure to pertinent elements of orchestration/instrumentation. Students will explore the art of choral arranging through critical evaluation, study of copyright, research of suitable source material, as well as examination of voicing, range, transposition, balance, notation, and texture. The course features guest speakers (brass and woodwind specialists) and culminates with a forum performance of student arrangements. Students will use FINALE or SIBELIUS software for all arranging projects. Prerequisites: 205, 252.

 

465—Opera Literature, 2 Cr. 

Survey of the principle styles, composers, genres, and forms associated with opera from 1600 through the 21st century. Consideration of representative works from those periods through directed reading, score examination, analysis, listening, and performance. Prerequisites: 152, 237, 238, 327.

 

487—Experiential Learning: Sacred Music Internship, 2 Cr. 

Internship experience for sacred music minors. The internship includes membership in the Gallery Singers of the Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman for the fall and spring semesters. Credit for the experience must be sought prior to the occurrence, and a learning contract must be submitted before the end of the first week of the semester. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. Permission of department chair required. Graded CR/NC.



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