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Course Descriptions

The School of Music provides a variety of courses ranging across many instrumental and vocal disciplines

Church Music

MUCH 216 - Music in the Christian Church (S-3b)
A historical, theological, and liturgical survey of music in the Christian Church, from its roots in the Jewish synagogue to contemporary trends in worship, with particular emphasis on hymnology. (Winter)

3 hours
MUCH 316 - Church Music Materials and Administration
The study of worship philosophies, denominational political hierarchies, liturgies, and the historic role of the minister of music in various denominations. (Fall, odd years) 
2 hours
MUCH 317 - Music and Worship in the Contemporary Church
The study of music and worship as currently practiced in various denominations, focusing on the interaction between traditional and contemporary worship trends and musical styles. The organization of ensembles and selection of appropriate music literature for performance is central to the course. Students are required to prepare service music for services of various denominations. (Winter, even years)
2 hours
MUCH 489 - Music and Worship Senior Project

The preparation and presentation/submission of a capstone event for the Bachelor of Science in Music (Music and Worship Emphasis). Content of the project may focus on performance, written research, or the combination of both, as they relate to music and worship. (Fall | Winter)
2 hours

Music Education

MUED 236 - String Methods and Techniques
The study of the stringed instruments, including methods and materials for class and private instruction. Observation of classroom and private instruction is required. (Winter, even years)

2 hours
MUED 246 - Brass Methods and Techniques
A study of tone production, performance techniques, embouchure, fingerings, practical pedagogic techniques, and simple repairs. A survey of literature for the instruments and evaluation of teaching methods. Observation of classroom and private instruction required. (Fall, even years)

2 hours
MUED 250 - Technology in Music Education (I-2c)
A course designed to help music students develop skills in the use of computers in music education. Students will become proficient in the use of MIDI and of music notation and audio editing programs. They will sample and learn to use computer programs for music administration and teaching K-12 music theory, history, appreciation, performance, literature, history and ear training. (Winter, even years)

2 hours
MUED 256 - Woodwind Methods and Techniques
A study of tone production, performance techniques, embouchure, fingerings, practical pedagogic techniques, and simple repairs. A survey of literature for the instruments and evaluation of teaching methods. Observation of classroom and private instruction is required. (Winter, odd years)

2 hours
MUED 266 - Percussion Methods and Techniques
The study of the percussion instruments, including methods and materials for class and private instruction. Observation of classroom and private instruction is required. (Fall, odd years)

2 hours
MUED 316 - Piano Pedagogy
Prerequisite(s): Two hours of MUPF 189 or equivalent.

Methods, materials, and procedures for private and class piano instruction; planning a complete program for pupils in various grade levels including technique, repertoire, and musicianship. Observation and teaching are required. (Fall, odd years)

2 hours
MUED 317 - Voice Pedagogy
Prerequisite(s): Two hours of MUPF 189 or equivalent and permission of instructor.

Methods, materials, and procedures for private and class voice instruction; testing and classification of voices; physiological and psychological problems of voice production and diction. Observation and teaching are required. (Winter, odd years)

2 hours
MUED 318 - Organ Pedagogy
Prerequisite(s): Two hours of MUPF 189 or equivalent.

Methods, materials, and procedures for instruction in organ; accompaniment of church services; registration of organ literature on various types of organs. Observation and teaching are required. (Fall, even years)

2 hours
MUED 331 - Music in the Elementary School
A study of music teaching-learning methods, materials, and strategies for K-8 students. Basic concepts of musical organization, musical skills, and literature for the classroom. The course will include a survey of age-appropriate choral and instrumental repertories. Observation of classroom teaching is required. (Fall, odd years)

3 hours
MUED 332 - Music in the Secondary School
A study of music teaching-learning methods, materials, and strategies for 9-12 students. Theories and practices in secondary school music, attention to music administration, discipline, curricular developments in music education, evaluation procedures appropriate to the music classroom. The course will include a survey of age-appropriate choral and instrumental repertories. (Winter, even years)

3 hours
MUED 439 - Pre-Student Teaching Seminar
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Teacher Education.

A seminar in which the student is oriented to student teaching, including curriculum, lesson planning, professional relationships, and other matters related to student teaching.

1 hour

Music History

MUHL 115 - Music in Western Culture (S-3b)
A course designed to acquaint students with the history of Western music from the Middle Ages through the 20th century. Topics will include major composers, styles, forms and genres studied within their cultural contexts. This course does not apply toward a major in music.

3 hours
MUHL 120 - Music in the United States (S-3b)
A study of the significant musical trends that have evolved during the four centuries of the nation's history. This course also examines the socio-historical contexts that have fostered differing musical traditions. Topics include folk and traditional music, art music, sacred music, popular music, and music for theater and film. (Winter)

3 hours
MUHL 218 - Musical Styles and Repertories (S-3b)
A global introduction to musical style and literature, designed for majors and minors, but open to all interested students. The majority of the course examines the history of Western art music from the Middle Ages to the present, yet substantial attention is given to American popular genres, and to the music of various non-Western cultures. (Fall)

3 hours
MUHL 320 - Music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance (W)
A survey of the important figures, trends, styles, and genres in Western Europe, beginning with musical thought and practice in ancient Greece and culminating in the High Renaissance of the 16th century. Ability to read music is strongly recommended. (Fall, odd years)

2 hours
MUHL 321 - Music of the Late Renaissance and Baroque Era (W)
Beginning with the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, the course traces the history of Western music to the mid-18th century with the principal composers, styles, and genres of the Baroque period. Ability to read music is strongly recommended. (Winter, even years)

2 hours
MUHL 322 - Classic and Romantic Music (W)
A study of the major composers, genres, and stylistic trends in Europe and the United States from the mid-18th century through the 19th century. Ability to read music is strongly recommended. (Fall, even years)

2 hours
MUHL 323 - Music of the Twentieth and Twenty-First Centuries (W)
The diversity of musical styles in the modern and postmodern eras taught from a global perspective, emphasizing the expanded musical vocabulary of western art music through its incorporation of popular and folk elements, and non-Western theories and techniques. Ability to read music is strongly recommended. (Winter, odd years)

2 hours
MUHL 465 - Topics in Music
Selected topics in music presented in a classroom setting. Subjects covered will determine how the class applies to the major. This course may be repeated for credit.

1-3 hours
MUHL 485 - Music Seminar
Prerequisite(s): Permission of Instructor.

A seminar focusing on a particular composer, style, genre, or issue within the history of music. This course may be repeated for credit.

2 hours

Music Theory

MUCT 107 - Basic Musicianship I
This course, designed to be taken concurrently with MUCT 111, is for prospective music majors and minors whose placement scores indicate a need of fundamental musical knowledge. Students will receive instruction in the elements of music (i.e. pitch and rhythmic notation, key and time signatures, major and minor scales, intervals and chords). Two class periods per week are required. (Fall)

1 hour
MUCT 108 - Basic Musicianship II
This course is to be taken concurrently with MUCT 112 and, like MUCT 107, is designed to assist students in the acquisition of fundamental musical knowledge. Students will continue the study of triads, seventh chords, and their application within the tonal system. The will also learn the basic principles of four-part voice leading and part writing. Two class periods per week are required. (Winter)
 
1 hour
MUCT 111 - Music Theory I
Prerequisite(s): Satisfactory score on placement examination.

A study of the elements that render music of all periods aurally and visually comprehensible, within simple forms and a variety of textures from one to four voices. Music Theory I may be repeated for credit only once. (Fall)

3 hours
MUCT 112 - Music Theory II
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 111, minimum grade of C-.

A study of the elements that render music of all periods aurally and visually comprehensible, within simple forms and a variety of textures from one to four voices. Music Theory II may be repeated for credit only once. (Winter)

3 hours
MUCT 121 - Aural Theory I
A laboratory for the development of keyboard and sight-singing skills related to the materials introduced in MUCT 111 and MUCT 112. Music majors must take this concurrently with MUCT 111 and MUCT 112. This is a computer-assisted course. (Fall)

1 hour
MUCT 122 - Aural Theory II
A laboratory for the development of keyboard and sight-singing skills related to the materials introduced in MUCT 111 and MUCT 112. Music majors must take this concurrently with MUCT 111 and MUCT 112. This is a computer-assisted course. (Winter)

1 hour
MUCT 211 - Music Theory III
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 111 - MUCT 112.

An expanded and intensified study of the structure of music as begun in MUCT 111 and MUCT 112. (Fall)

3 hours
MUCT 212 - Music Theory IV
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 111 - MUCT 112.

An expanded and intensified study of the structure of music as begun in MUCT 111 and MUCT 112. In MUCT 212, contemporary music is emphasized. (Winter)

3 hours
MUCT 221 - Aural Theory III
Keyboard and sight-singing applications of materials studied in MUCT 211 and MUCT 212. Music majors must take this concurrently with MUCT 211 and MUCT 212. This is a computer-assisted course. (Fall)

1 hour
MUCT 222 - Aural Theory IV
Keyboard and sight-singing applications of materials studied in MUCT 211 and MUCT 212. Music majors must take this concurrently with MUCT 211 and MUCT 212. This is a computer-assisted course. (Winter)

1 hour
MUCT 295 - Directed Study
Individual study open to music majors and other qualified students. Content to be arranged. Approval must be secured from the School of Music dean prior to registration. May be repeated up to a total of three hours. (Fall, Winter, Summer)

1-3 hours
MUCT 313 - Orchestration and Arranging
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 212 or permission of instructor.

The ranges, capabilities and limitations, and transpositions of orchestra and band instruments. Idiomatic scoring of short works for vocal and instrumental chamber groups, small orchestra, and band. Performance of exercises and analysis of scores is emphasized. (Fall, even years)

3 hours
MUCT 314 - Counterpoint
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 212 or permission of instructor.

A study of the concept and principles of counterpoint. Course components include: a species approach to counterpoint as evidenced in 16th-century vocal music; a harmony-based approach to the instrumental contrapuntal writing of the mature Baroque; and a representative sampling of counterpoint as seen in repertoire from the 19th and 20th centuries. Students directly interface with course material through analysis, composition, and performance. (Winter, odd years)

3 hours
MUCT 315 - Compositional Techniques
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 212 or permission of instructor.

An introduction to the process and experience of musical composition. Students will explore perceptions of repetition, variation, and contrast as elements in artistic construction. They will experiment with rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic aspects of musical gesture and their effects, particularly in small musical forms. (Fall, odd years)

3 hours
MUCT 413 - Analysis of Musical Forms
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 212 or permission of instructor.

An analytical study of musical structure from the smallest units of form to the more complex music of all historical periods. (Winter, even years)

1 hour
MUCT 495 - Directed Study
See MUCT 295 for course description

1-3 hours

Music Performance

MUPF 103 - Class Piano 1-4 (S-3c)
For music majors, a two-semester course sequence designed to develop basic piano skills, which include the playing of scales, chords, arpeggios, cadences, and simple melodies and hymns.

1 hour
MUPF 104 - Class Piano 1-4 (S-3c)
For music majors, a two-semester course sequence designed to develop basic piano skills, which include the playing of scales, chords, arpeggios, cadences, and simple melodies and hymns.

1 hour
MUPF 108 - Group Instruction (S-3c)
Class instruction in beginning-intermediate voice, beginning piano, or beginning classical guitar. The instruction emphasizes acquisition of basic techniques and solo performance. A minimum of four hours of practice and/or listening outside of class is required. May be repeated for credit.

1-2 hours
MUPF 118 - I Cantori (S-3c)
A carefully-balanced soprano, alto, tenor, and bass chamber choir comprised of students with advanced vocal potential and experience. In addition to their distinctive chamber choir experience, members of I Cantori form the leadership core for Bel Canto and Die Meistersinger. Performance opportunities include a variety of on-campus presentations and off-campus tours. Must be members of Bel Canto or Die Meistersinger. Membership commitment is expected for the entire academic year.

1 hour
MUPF 119 - Bel Canto (S-3c)
A choral ensemble for women with beginning through advanced levels of experience. Bel Canto functions independently and also with Die Meistersinger as a combined soprano, alto, tenor, and bass ensemble. Performance opportunities include a variety of on-campus presentations.

1 hour
MUPF 128 - Wind Symphony (S-3c)
A large touring ensemble of woodwind, brass, and percussion players performing a wide variety of Grade 4-6 (Advanced) wind literature, both sacred and secular. Membership commitment is expected for the entire academic year.

1 hour
MUPF 129 - Applied Music (S-3c)
Private instruction in voice, piano, organ, or orchestral instrument. One half-hour lesson and a minimum five hours practice per week are required for each hour of credit granted. May be repeated for credit. (Fall, Winter, Summer)

1-2 hours
MUPF 138 - Symphony Orchestra (S-3c)
A large touring ensemble that performs standard orchestral works from the Classical, Romantic, and Modern periods. Membership commitment is expected for the entire academic year.

1 hour
MUPF 158 - Die Meistersinger Male Chorus (S-3c)
A choral ensemble for men with beginning through advanced levels of experience. Die Meistersinger functions independently and also with Bel Canto as a combined soprano, alto, tenor, and bass ensemble. Performance opportunities include a variety of on-campus presentations.

1 hour
MUPF 178 - Instrumental Ensemble Experience (S-3c)
A course designed to provide credit for chamber ensembles or, in the case of keyboard majors, significant accompanying experience.

1 hour
MUPF 188 - Vocal Ensemble Experience (S-3c)
A course designed to provide credit for participants in major choral works, musical productions, and other school-sponsored vocal activities. This course does not fulfill the music ensemble requirement for music majors.

1 hour
MUPF 189 - Concentration (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): Performance examination for freshman standing.

For music majors and minors. Private instruction in voice, piano, organ, or orchestral instrument. One half-hour lesson and a minimum five hours of practice per week are required for each hour of credit granted. Private lessons for voice majors and minors include attendance at a weekly voice performance class. All students must perform on at least one Music General Recital and complete a Jury Examination at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit. (Fall, Winter, Summer)

1-2 hours
MUPF 225 - Singers' Diction I (S-3c)
An introduction to the study of Italian, German, French, and English pronunciation, using the International Phonetic Alphabet. (Fall, odd years)

2 hours
MUPF 226 - Singers' Diction II (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): MUPF 225 or permission of instructor.

The advanced study of Italian, German, French, and English pronunciation, using the International Phonetic Alphabet. (Winter, even years)

2 hours
MUPF 273 - Basic Conducting (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): MUCT 111

The development of basic conducting skills, focusing on beat patterns, expressive gestures, score preparation, and rehearsal techniques.

1 hour
MUPF 279 - Service Playing (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): Two hours MUPF 189 (organ) or permission of instructor.

The development of skills requisite to playing both liturgical and non-liturgical services, including hymn playing, choral and solo accompanying, conducting from the console, improvisation and modulation, and selection of appropriate preludes, offertories, and postludes. Performance experience required. May be repeated for credit.

1 hour
MUPF 289 - Accompanying (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): Two hours MUPF 189 (piano) or permission of instructor.

The development of skills requisite to accompanying solo, choral, congregational, and worship service performance. Performance experience required. May be repeated for credit.

1 hour
MUPF 308 - Group Voice Instruction (S-3c)
Intermediate to advanced voice. The instruction will emphasize voice techniques through vocalised and solo performance (both in class and for recitals). May be repeated for credit.

1-2 hours
MUPF 318 - I Cantori (S-3c)
See MUPF 118 for course description.

1 hour
MUPF 319 - Bel Canto (S-3c)
See MUPF 119 for course description.

1 hour
MUPF 328 - Wind Symphony (S-3c)
See MUPF 128 for course description.

1 hour
MUPF 329 - Applied Music (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): Two hours of MUPF 129 or permission of instructor.

Private instruction in voice, piano, organ, or orchestral instrument. One half-hour lesson and a minimum of five hours' practice per week are required for each hour of credit granted. May be repeated for credit. (Fall, Winter, Summer)

1-2 hours
MUPF 334 - Chamber Music (S-3c)
Study and performance of chamber literature for various combinations of strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion from the earliest examples to works of the 20th century. May be repeated for credit.

1 hour
MUPF 338 - Symphony Orchestra (S-3c)
See MUPF 138 for course description.

1 hour
MUPF 344 - Instrumental Literature (S-3c)
Study and performance of solo literature for strings, brass, woodwinds, or percussion from the earliest examples to works of the 20th century.

2 hours
MUPF 358 - Die Meistersinger Male Chorus (S-3c)
See MUPF 158 for course description

1 hour
MUPF 373 - Choral Conducting (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): MUPF 273

The art of communicating with and through a choral ensemble based on the development of clear and expressive conducting gestures. Study of the unique processes of individual and ensemble vocal development: breath management, phonation, resonation, and articulation. Score analysis, repertoire selection, performance practice, program building, and administration. (Fall, even years)

2 hours
MUPF 374 - Instrumental Conducting (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): MUPF 273

The study of band and orchestral scores, covering elements of style, form, and interpretation. Emphasis on instrument transpositions and intonation challenges. Development of baton technique through conducting instrumental ensembles. (Winter, odd years)

2 hours
MUPF 378 - Instrumental Ensemble Experience (S-3c)
See MUPF 178 for course description.

1 hour
MUPF 388 - Vocal Ensemble Experience (S-3c)
See MUPF 188 for course description.

1 hour
MUPF 389 - Concentration (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): Junior Standing as Music Major or approval of music faculty.

For music majors and minors. Private instruction in voice, piano, organ, or orchestral instrument. One half-hour lesson and a minimum of five hours' practice per week are required for each hour of credit granted. Private lessons for voice majors and minors include attendance at a weekly voice performance class. All students must perform at least one Music General Recital and complete a Jury Examination at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit. (Fall, Winter, Summer)

1-2 hours
MUPF 489 - Senior Recital (S-3c)
Prerequisite(s): Permission of music faculty.

This capstone course represents the preparation and performance of a senior recital in the music major's area of concentration and is required of all students in the general, performance, and music education tracks. Course requirements include 12 one-hour lessons with a recital document and/or program notes as appropriate to the content of the recital. A faculty audition of the recital is required at least three weeks in advance of the recital date. All requirements for this course must be met within the semester for which the student is registered.

2 hours