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.

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.

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

Theory IV is a continuation of the historical-analytical work of MUSC 251, focusing on study of chromatic harmony, as well as an introduction to form and analysis and 20th century compositional techniques. Specifically, application of chromatically altered chords (Neapolitan, borrowed, and augmented sixth chords) is followed by an introduction to form & analysis (a study of binary, ternary, rondo, variation and sonata forms). At the end of the semester, students will be introduced to atonal and serial music of the 20th century.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Piano Proficiency II course is the second of three levels designed to provide developing musicians with basic keyboard competency. Specifically, students will develop piano technique and music theory through keyboard patterns including: three vocalises, major and minor scales (two octaves, hands together, white keys only), and chord progressions (inversions + ii chord). Sight-reading and repertoire will be at a level higher than that of Piano Proficiency I. Transposition of folk melodies will include a left hand blocked-chord accompaniment.