Music
Department Head: Dr. Daniel B. Stevens
Department of Music, Office 1020
Telephone: (662) 325-3070
Fax: (662) 325-0250
http://music.msstate.edu/
Mailing Address:
Department of Music
PO Box 6240
Mississippi State, MS 39762
University Bands
Ms. Elva Kaye Lance, Director of Bands
Telephone: (662) 325-2713
http://msuband.msstate.edu
University Choirs
Dr. Phillip Stockton, Interim Director of Choral Activities
Telephone: (662) 325-7801
http://www.statesings.com/
University Philharmonia Orchestra
Dr. Courtney Grant, Coordinator
Telephone: (662) 325-3070
Mission
The mission of the Department of Music at Mississippi State University is to contribute to the development of broadly acculturated citizens in our state and region through enhanced musical understanding and enriching musical experiences, providing access and opportunity to our diverse population through programs of teaching, research, and service.
About the Department
In the Fall of 2022 the department moved into a $21 million state-of-the-art facility. The 37,000 square foot facility at 124 Hardy Road includes classrooms, a choral rehearsal hall, faculty offices, sound-proof practice rooms, recording studio, lecture/recital hall, student lounge, and administrative suite to complement the Famous Maroon Band facilities. The Department of Music is part of the College of Education and is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Bachelor of Music Education
The Bachelor of Music Education is a 124-126 hour professional degree program (depending on concentration) that leads to licensure to teach music in the State of Mississippi. The Department of Music offers four concentrations of the BME: Guitar, Instrumental, Keyboard and Vocal.
The Instrumental concentration qualifies the student for a Music Instrumental (K-12) teaching license. The Vocal, Keyboard, and Guitar concentrations qualifies the student for a Music Choral (K-12) teaching license.
The Vocal concentration qualifies the student for a K-12 Choral Music teaching license, allowing graduates to teach General, Instrumental, and Choral music in all grades in the state of Mississippi.
Bachelor of Music Performance
The Bachelor of Music Performance is a 120-hour professional degree program that prepares students to work independently towards performance at the highest possible level; possess knowledge of applicable solo and ensemble literature; and to gain experience with the fundamentals of music pedagogy. the Department of Music offers four concentrations of the Bachelor of Music Performance; Guitar, Instrumental, Keyboard, and Vocal.
Bachelor of Arts in Music
The Department of Music offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music degree in a liberal arts tradition of music study. This degree is designed to provide foundation coursework to apply to a variety of interdisciplinary careers including music, in preparation for graduate study, or for self-improvement.
For suggested course sequence for all degrees and concentrations, visit the Department of Music website: http://www.music.msstate.edu/academics/
Students are required to earn a "C" or better in all required (non-elective) Applied Music (MUA), Music (MU), and Music Education (MUE) courses.
Auditions
All potential music majors and minors are required to audition for appropriate faculty in order to determine their preparedness to enter the program, participate in ensembles, and determine eligibility for a scholarship or service award.
Although alternate dates are available, the preferred audition date for music majors and minors in all areas is the third Saturday in February. Other audition dates are available by contacting the applied faculty of your area of concentration, the department office (662) 325-3070, or the major ensemble offices.(Choir (662) 325-3490; Band (662) 325-2713; Orchestra (662) 325-3070)
Transfer Information
After successful admission to the University, and in addition to the music major audition, transfer students are required to complete a music theory and aural skills entrance exam to determine preparedness for upper division study. For more information see the Department of Music website at http://www.music.msstate.edu/students/transfers/ or call 662-325-3070.
Music Minor
The Department of Music offers MSU students the opportunity to complete a Minor in Music. The Music Minor is a comprehensive set of courses designed to increase student musicianship and knowledge. Students must audition/ interview and be accepted as a music minor before the minor may be declared. Acceptance in any given studio area is on a space available basis. The requirements for the music minor cannot be completed after graduating from MSU.
There are two tracks in the Minor of Music:
1. A general Minor in Music that offers the first two semesters of the Major in Music: Music Theory, Ear Training, Piano, Applied Study, Ensembles and a Fine Arts Music Topics course.
2. A Minor in Music and Culture which is intended for students with an interest in non-Western music, especially the music of Africa and the African Diaspora. This minor features an interdisciplinary approach to exploring music and supports MSU's vision of diversity and global involvement
For information and required courses, visit the Department of Music website: http://www.music.msstate.edu/academics/minorinmusic/
BA in Music
General Education Requirements
| English Composition | ||
| EN 1103 | English Composition I | 3 |
| or EN 1104 | Expanded English Composition I | |
| EN 1113 | English Composition II | 3 |
| or EN 1173 | Accelerated Composition II | |
| Creative Discovery | ||
| MU 3013 | Survey of Western Music History I | 3 |
| Humanities | ||
| History Elective - A&S core | 3 | |
| Literature Elective - A&S core | 3 | |
| Social/Behavioral Science | ||
| See A&S core | 6 | |
| Quantitative Reasoning | ||
| MA 1213 | Math in Your World 5 | 3 |
| Natural Sciences | ||
| Biological Sciences w/lab 1 | 3-4 | |
| Physical Sciences w/lab 1 | 3-4 | |
| Natural Science Elective 2 | 3-4 | |
College Requirements & Major Core
| Additional College Requirements | ||
| Foreign Languages | ||
| Foreign Language I | 3 | |
| Foreign Language II | 3 | |
| Foreign Language III | 3 | |
| Additional Humanities | ||
| Philosophy Elective - see A&S core | 3 | |
| Humanities Electives - Must be from 2 areas - EN, HI, PHI or REL | 6 | |
| Met in Major Core | 3 | |
| Additional Social Sciences | ||
| See A&S electives | 9 | |
| Met in Major Core | 3 | |
| Oral Communication Requirement | ||
| CO 1003 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| Major Core | ||
| MU 1101 | Communicating About Music | 1 |
| MU 1213 | Music Theory I | 3 |
| MU 1321 | Ear Training I | 1 |
| MU 1413 | Music Theory II | 3 |
| MU 1521 | Ear Training II | 1 |
| MU 2012 | World Music | 2 |
| MU 2613 | Music Theory III | 3 |
| MU 2721 | Ear Training III | 1 |
| MU 2813 | Music Theory IV | 3 |
| MU 2921 | Ear Training IV | 1 |
| MU 3023 | Survey of Western Music History II | 3 |
| MU 3412 | Conducting | 2 |
| MU 2111 & MU 2121 & MU 3111 & MU 3121 | Group Piano I and Group Piano 2 and Group Piano 3 and Group Piano 4 | 4 |
| or MU 3112 & MU 3122 | Functional Skills for Piano Majors 1 and Functional Skills for Piano Majors 2 | |
| Writing Requirement | ||
| EDF 3413 | Writing for Thinking (See advisor for other approved courses.) 3 | 3 |
| Applied Study | ||
| 6 semesters of study at 2 hours per semester: | ||
2 semesters of 1000-level courses | ||
2 semesters of 2000-level courses | ||
2 semesters of 3000-level courses must be completed on the same instrument | ||
| At least 1 semester of 2000-level and 2 semesters of 3000-level work must be completed at MSU. | ||
| Ensembles | ||
| 4 semesters of ensembles must be completed at MSU, two of which must be the designated major ensembles. | ||
| Other Requirements | ||
| Piano Proficiency Exam | ||
| Upper Division Proficiency Exam | ||
| MU 1010 | Recital Hour (must be enrolled 8 semesters) | 0 |
| Recital or Project | ||
| Music Electives | ||
| Music Electives | 6-9 | |
| Met in College Core | 6 | |
| Total Hours 4 | 122 | |
- 1
See A&S Core.
- 2
Any Natural Science from the Arts and Sciences core can apply. Consult advisor.
- 3
Any Arts and Sciences approved writing course can apply. Consult advisor.
- 4
At least 31 hours of upper division (3000 level or higher) hours are required.
- 5
Any course covered in the A&S core would count for these three hours if a student enters MSU with credit already.
Minor in Music and Culture
The minor in Music and Culture is intended for students with an interest in non-Western music, especially the music of Africa and the African Diaspora. The program offers students from any major, the opportunity to study the ways in which human cultural diversity is represented through music. The minor features an interdisciplinary approach to exploring music and supports MSU's vision of diversity and global involvement. The minor is distinct from other existing degrees in that it offers an anthropological approach that does not rely heavily on music performance skills.
| Required Courses | 6 | |
| Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | ||
| World Music | ||
| Contemporary Dance | ||
| Electives | 12 | |
| Choose at least two Non-Western Music and Culture electives | ||
| African American Music | ||
| Music of Africa | ||
| Music of Latin America | ||
| Native American Music | ||
| Choose up to two Western Music and Culture electives | ||
| History and Appreciation of American Music | ||
| The History of Rock and Roll | ||
| The History of Jazz | ||
| Introduction to Music in Film | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
General Minor in Music
The General Minor in Music is a comprehensive set of courses designed to increase student musicianship and knowledge. Students must audition and be accepted as a music minor before it can be declared. Acceptance in any given studio area is on a space available basis. The requirements for the music minor can not be completed after graduating from MSU.
| Music History | 2-3 | |
| Choose from the following: | ||
| African American Music | ||
| History and Appreciation of Music | ||
| History and Appreciation of American Music | ||
| The History of Rock and Roll | ||
| The History of Jazz | ||
| Music of Africa | ||
| Introduction to Music in Film | ||
| Music of the Beatles | ||
| World Music | ||
| Music of Latin America | ||
| Women in Music | ||
| Survey of Western Music History I | ||
| Music Theory and Aural Skills | ||
| MU 1213 | Music Theory I | 3 |
| MU 1321 | Ear Training I | 1 |
| MU 1413 | Music Theory II | 3 |
| MU 1521 | Ear Training II | 1 |
| Class Piano | ||
| MU 2111 & MU 2121 | Group Piano I and Group Piano 2 | 2 |
| or MU 3112 | Functional Skills for Piano Majors 1 | |
| Applied Study | 4 | |
| Two semesters of study (2 credit hours each semester); must be completed on the same instrument | ||
| Ensembles | 2 | |
| Two semesters of major or minor ensembles | ||
| Recital Hour | ||
| MU 1010 | Recital Hour (must be taken for 2 semesters) | 1 |
| Total Hours | 18-19 | |
To earn a Minor in Music from Mississippi State University, all of the coursework listed above must be completed at Mississippi State University, Starkville Campus, with a grade of C or better. The requirements for any music minor cannot be completed after graduating from MSU.
Courses
MU 1001 First Year Seminar: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. First-year seminars explore a diverse arrary of topics that provide students with an opportunity to learn about a specific discipline from skilled faculty members
MU 1003 Fundamentals of Music Theory: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Development of skills for music reading, writing, listening and analyzing. Topics will include pitch, rhythm, meter, scales and basic harmony
MU 1010 Recital Hour: 1 hour.
Minimum one (1) hour weekly. Performance and critique experiences in applied music. Required for music (BA) and music education (BME) majors. May be repeated for credit
MU 1101 Communicating About Music: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: Music major, C or better in MU 1213 and EN 1103). One hour lecture. Development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills for effective communication in music contexts
MU 1103 African American Music: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. A study of African musical and cultural traditions with focus on the impact of these traditions on the development and advancement of African American Music. (Same as AAS 1103)
MU 1111 Piano Class: 1 hour.
Two hours laboratory. Beginning piano for non-music majors
MU 1113 History and Appreciation of Music: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Historical development of music and the composers of the different eras; individual investigation of related special topics; individual and directed listening to music examples
MU 1123 History and Appreciation of American Music: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Historical development of music and composers of the United States; individual investigation of related American music special topics; individual and directed listening to musical examples
MU 1133 The History of Rock and Roll: 3 hours.
Three-hour lecture. History of the development of Rock and Roll from the early 1950’s to the present, including early Rock and Roll, the British invasion, and 21st century current trends; the course examines the symbiotic relationship between music and society
MU 1143 The History of Jazz: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. History of Jazz musical genres. Follows the timeline of Jazz from its multi-cultural origins to its emergence as a uniquely American musical form. Describes the development of different periods of Jazz history, representative personalities and the role of Jazz in society and culture
MU 1153 Music of Africa: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An introduction to the diverse musical traditions of Africa. The course includes the study of the relationship between music and history by addressing issues of geography, colonialism, globalization, gender, politics and religion
MU 1163 Introduction to Music in Film: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. A survey of music in motion picture media, the roles it has played from the silent to contemporary eras, and the cultures and people that produced it
MU 1173 Music of the Beatles: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EN 1103 or EN 1163). Three credit hours. A survey of the music of the Beatles focused on its structure, lyrics, social influence, and cultural significance, with emphasis on writing skill development
MU 1213 Music Theory I: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music or Music Education major or permission of the instructor). Three hours lecture. Fundamental concepts of notation of key signatures, intervals, scales, chords, and clefs. Principles of Common-Practice Period Functional Harmony. Co-requisite: MU 1321 or permission of instructor
MU 1242 Diction I: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Two hours lecture. Introduces students to the sounds of English, Italian, and Latin using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Correct singing pronunciation of these languages in classical vocal works will be the focus of the course
MU 1252 Diction II: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Two hours lecture. Introduces students to the sounds of German and French using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Correct singing pronunciation of these languages in classical vocal works will be the focus of the course
MU 1321 Ear Training I: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: Music or Music Education major or permission of the instructor). Two hours laboratory. Aural identification, singing and dictation of major and minor scales, diatonic melodies, isolated harmonies, simple intervals and rhythms. Co-requisite: MU 1213 or permission of instructor
MU 1401 Recreational Interactive Drumming: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. Students will play percussion instruments and experience rhythm, groove, ensemble, creativity, and improvisation. Recreational interactive drumming celebrates diversity as everyone who participates has something to offer the circle
MU 1411 Group Piano for Non-Major 1: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. Beginner piano. Course material develops piano skills, sight reading, technical skills, improvisation, repertoire pieces, pop songs and ensemble playing
MU 1413 Music Theory II: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: C or better in MU 1213, Music or Music Education Major or permission of the instructor). Three hours lecture. Further elements of harmony, including seventh-chords, non-chord tones, chromatic vocabulary. Small forms. Co-requisite: MU 1521 or permission of instructor
MU 1421 Group Piano for Non-Majors 2: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite MU 1411 or permission of instructor). One hour lecture. Intermediate piano. Course material develops intermediate piano skills, sight reading, technical skills, improvisation, repertoire pieces, pop songs and ensemble playing
MU 1521 Ear Training II: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: C or better in MU 1321, Music or Music Education major or permission of the instructor). Two hours laboratory. Aural identification, singing and dictation of diatonic melodies, triads, simple intervals and rhythms. Co-requisite: MU 1413 or permission of instructor
MU 1553 Computer Skills for Musicians: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only). Three hours lecture. Survey course focused on basic computer literacy for musicians, including an introduction to software for notation, creation, editing, and publishing of music, and development of skills needed for the creation of a professional web presence
MU 2011 Third Year Woodwind Ensembles: 1 hour.
(Audition Required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant woodwind literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2012 World Music: 2 hours.
Two hours lecture. A survey of the non-Western musics and music cultures of the world. The course will serve as an introduction to the discipline of ethnomusicology, the study of music in the context of culture
MU 2023 Music of Latin America: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An introduction to the diverse musical traditions of Latin America. The course includes the study of the relationship between music and history by addressing issues of geography, colonialism, globalization, gender, politics and religion
MU 2111 Group Piano I: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, or permission of instructor). Two hours studio. Beginner piano. Course material develops functional piano skills (e.g., sight reading, technical exercises, chord progressions, improvisation, repertoire pieces, ensemble playing)
MU 2121 Group Piano 2: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, or permission of instructor, Grade of C or better in MU 2111). Two hours studio. Course material develops functional piano skills (e.g., sight reading, technical exercises, chord progressions, improvisation, repertoire pieces, ensemble playing)
MU 2142 Song Literature: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Two hours lecture. An overview of song literature covering many musical periods and languages including: German Lieder, French melodies, American and British art songs, and Italian songs
MU 2152 Vocal Pedagogy: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Two hours lecture. Comprehensive overview of the anatomy and physiology of the human voice, vocal health, and pedagogical ethics. Contains a practicum as students teach voice lessons and receive feedback
MU 2173 Women in Music: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites EN 1103 or EN 1163). Three hours lecture. Survey of music from the middle ages to present focusing on music commissioned, written, or performed by women and the evolution of the rights of women as pertains to the music industry with an emphasis on writing skill development
MU 2183 Survey of Country Music: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EN 1103 or EN 1163). Three hours lecture. A survey of country music beginning with the 20th century to current music. Course will also explore country music’s impact on society and culture in the United States
MU 2281 Guitar Chamber Music: 1 hour.
(Prerequisites: Passed audition, or permission of instructor). Two hours studio. The study and performance of chamber and concert music for the guitar
MU 2411 Guitar Ensemble: 1 hour.
(Audition required) One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of guitar ensemble literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2511 Marching Band: 1 hour.
(Audition Required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant marching band literature. May be repeated for credit. (Fall semester only)
MU 2521 Steel Drum Ensemble: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. Exploration of performance techniques, repertoire, and cultural history of Trinidadian steel drums. No audition required. May be repeated for credit
MU 2531 Concert Band: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant concert band literature. May be repeated for credit. (Spring semester only)
MU 2551 Percussion Ensemble: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant percussion literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2561 Symphonic Band: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant symphonic band literature. May be repeated for credit. (Spring semester only)
MU 2571 Wind Ensemble: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. Study, rehearsal and performance of select literature from the wind band repertory. May be repeated for credit
MU 2573 Microphone Techniques: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: MU 1553; or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Fundamentals of the physics of sound, analog to digital transduction, microphone design and types, stereo imaging, immersive environments, and hands-on experience with recording all instrument families using a comprehensive collection of microphones
MU 2611 Concert Choir: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant choral literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2613 Music Theory III: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: C or better in MU 1413).Three hours lecture. Chromatic vocabulary, including augmented sixth chords, Neapolitans and modulation, Late Romantic and early 20th Century innovations such as extended tertian chords and substitution chords. Co-requisite: MU 2721 or consent of instructor
MU 2631 Starkville Community Choir: 1 hour.
(Audution required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant choral literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2661 String Chamber Music: 1 hour.
(Pre-requisite: audition or permission of instructor.) One hour lecture. Study, rehearsal and performance of select repertoire of string chamber music. Emphasis on development of basic musicianship in a small ensemble setting through technical exercises and literature. Students will receive 60 minutes of instruction per credit hour
MU 2681 Opera Workshop: 1 hour.
One hour lecture. Course acquaints the voice student with the basics of stagecraft, movement, and acting skills. Course provides the student with the opportunity to study, develop, and improve their dramatic skills outside of the voice studio. May be repeated for credit
MU 2721 Ear Training III: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: C or better in MU 1521) Two hours laboratory. Aural identification, singing and dictation of diatonic melodies with chromatic inflection, seventh chords and rhythms. Co-requisite: MU 2613 or consent of instructor
MU 2731 Cantare: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: Audition Required or Permission of Instructor). Two hours studio. The study, rehearsal and performance of a variety of SATB choral music of many styles, contexts and cultures. May be repeated for credit
MU 2741 OPUS: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: Audition Required or Permission of Instructor). Two hours studio. The study and performance of a variety of Tenor/Bass choral music of many styles, contexts and cultures. May be repeated for credit more than once
MU 2751 Schola Cantorum: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: Audition Required or Permission of Instructor). Two hours studio. The study and performance of a variety of SSAA (treble) choral music of many styles, contexts and cultures. May be repeated for credit more than once
MU 2813 Music Theory IV: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: C or higher in MU 2613 and MU 2721, or equivalents; Co-requisite MU 2921 unless already passed with C or better.) Three hours lecture. Advanced harmony and musical structure; mastery developed through readings, exercises, examinations, and creative projects
MU 2851 Brass Ensembles: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant brass literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2881 Trombone Troupe: 1 hour.
One hour studio. The study and performance of chamber and concert music for the trombone ensemble. (Repeatable ten times)
MU 2911 Jazz Ensemble: 1 hour.
(Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of significant jazz ensemble literature. May be repeated for credit
MU 2921 Ear Training IV: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: C or better in MU 2721; co-requisite: MU 2831 or consent of instructor). Two hours laboratory. Aural identification, singing and dictation of modes, artificial scales, non-triadic chords, modulating melodies , compound intervals
MU 2951 Philharmonia: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: audition required.) Two rehearsals per week. Study, rehearsal and performance of orchestral repertory with a focus on literature for chamber orchestra. May be repeated for credit
MU 2981 Symphony Orchestra: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: audition or permission of instructor). Two hours studio. Study, rehearsal and performance of select repertoire of orchestral music. This ensemble endeavors to develop playing and listening skills, both individually and as an ensemble
MU 2990 Special Topics in Music: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
MU 3013 Survey of Western Music History I: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. A survey of western music history from Antiquity through the Baroque Period (up to ca. 1750 A.D./C.E.). This course serves as the first in a 2-course music history sequence required for music majors
MU 3023 Survey of Western Music History II: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: MU 3013 or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. A survey of western music history from the Classical Period through the present (from ca. 1750 A.D./C.E.). This is the second in a 2-course music history sequence
MU 3053 Music of Latin America: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An introduction to the diverse musical traditions of Latin America. The course includes the study of the relationship between music and history by addressing issues of geography, colonialism, globalization, gender, politics and religion
MU 3103 Native American Music: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An introduction to the diverse musical traditions of Native America. The course includes study of role and meaning of “tradition” in Native American music, selected tribal musical styles, and historical context which influenced tribal music and dance
MU 3111 Group Piano 3: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, or permission of instructor, Grade of C or better in MU 2121). Two hours studio. Intermediate piano. Course material develops functional piano skills and prepares students for the piano proficiency exam (PPE) during the final examination period
MU 3112 Functional Skills for Piano Majors 1: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major in the Keyboard Concentration, or by permission of instructor). Four hours studio. Functional keyboard skills for music majors who read and play intermediate to advanced-level repertoire. Develops functional piano skills (e.g., sight-reading, technique, score reading, transposition, chord progressions, improvisation, repertoire)
MU 3121 Group Piano 4: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, or permission of instructor, Grade of C or better in MU 3131). Two hours studio. Course material develops functional piano skills (e.g., sight reading, technical exercises, score reading, instrumental transposition, chord progressions, improvisation, repertoire pieces, ensemble playing)
MU 3122 Functional Skills for Piano Majors 2: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: Grade of C or above in MU 3112 or equivalent, or by permission of instructor.) Four hours studio. Functional Keyboard skills for music majors who read and play intermediate to advanced-level repertoire. Develops functional piano skills (e.g., sight-reading, technique, score reading, transposition, chord progressions, improvisation, repertoire)
MU 3123 Creative Arts for Elementary and Middle Levels: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Admission to Teacher Education) Three hours lecture. An exploration of musical and artistic elements utilizing a variety of multicultural music, dance, drama and aesthetic visual. (Same as EDE 3443)
MU 3133 Brass Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Study of solo, chamber, wind band, and orchestral brass literature from the Baroque to the 21st-century. Emphasis on student’s primary instrument with an overview of literature for all brass
MU 3143 History of Jazz: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. History of Jazz musical genres. Follows the timeline of Jazz from its multi-cultural origins to its emergence as a uniquely American musical form. Describes the development of different periods of Jazz history, representative personalities and the role of Jazz in society and culture
MU 3153 Music of Africa: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An introduction to the diverse musical traditions of Africa. The course includes the study of the relationship between music and history by addressing issues of geography, colonialism, globalization, gender, politics and religion
MU 3173 Women in Music: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites EN 1103 or EN 1163). Three hours lecture. A survey of music from the middle ages to present focusing on music commissioned, written, or performed by women and the evolution of women’s rights as it pertains to the music industry with an emphasis on writing skill development
MU 3183 History of Rock and Roll: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. History of the development of Rock and Roll from the early 1950’s to the present, including early Rock and Roll, the British invasion, and 21st century current trends; the course examines the symbiotic relationship between music and society
MU 3193 American Music: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Historical development of music and composers of the United States; individual investigation of related American music special topics; individual and directed listening to musical examples
MU 3201 Collaborative Piano Ensemble: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: late intermediate to early advanced piano skills. Audition required). One to five rehearsals per week. The study and performance of vocal/piano and instrumental piano repertoire. May be repeated for credit
MU 3233 Guitar Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, passed UDPE, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Detailed study of guitar performance literature from the solo, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire
MU 3273 Music of the Beatles: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EN 1103 or EN 1163). Three hours lecture. A survey of the music of the Beatles focused on its structure, lyrics, social influence, and cultural significance, with emphasis on writing skill development
MU 3333 Orchestration: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: C or higher in MU 2813 and MU 2921, or equivalents, plus fully-passed Music Theory Upper Division Proficiency Examination.) Three hours lecture. Study of instruments and orchestration techniques; mastery through readings, exercises, examinations, presentations, and creative projects
MU 3411 Functional Piano Skills for Vocal Majors: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major in the Vocal Concentration and passed UDPE, or permission of instructor). Two hours studio. Intermediate piano. Course material develops functional piano skills for pre-service vocal music education teachers (e.g., technical exercises, sight reading, vocalise, vocal accompaniments, and vocal score reading)
MU 3412 Conducting: 2 hours.
Two hours lecture. The elements of conducting, baton technique, and interpretation
MU 3433 Piano Literature: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Repertoire, curriculum building, in a chronological and historical organization for teachers. Includes learning repertoire for teaching beginning, intermediate, and advanced piano. Recommended for all students in the keyboard concentration. Requires music reading and some knowledge of history
MU 3442 Advanced Conducting: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: MU 3412 and MU 3111 [or equivalent credit]). One hour lecture. Two hours laboratory. Continuation of MU 3412 with emphasis on interpretation of significant instrumental and choral literature
MU 3533 Percussion Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, passed UDPE, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Detailed study of percussion performance literature from the solo, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire
MU 3543 Music Business and Ethics: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Comprehensive overview of the music industry, focusing on the intersection of business practices and ethical considerations. Exploration of structure and dynamics, including management, marketing, distribution, and revenue streams, while critically examining ethical issues related to intellectual property, artist rights, cultural appropriation, and diversity
MU 3553 Audio Production 1: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: MU 1553; or instructor permission). Three hours lecture. Introduces techniques for creating sessions, recording/importing audio, editing clips, navigating sessions, arranging media on tracks, apply basic processing and mixing techniques to finalize an audio production. With MU 3563, prepares students for Pro Tools Operator certification
MU 3563 Audio Production 2: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: MU 3553; or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Building recording sessions designed for commercial purposes and improving the results of recording, editing, and mixing efforts. With MU 3553, prepares students for Pro Tools Operator certification
MU 3633 String Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Detailed study of string performance literature from the solo, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire
MU 3681 Opera Production: 1 hour.
(Audition required, co-requisite MUA 1050, 2050, or 3050 concurrently with Opera Production). One hour studio. Students will practice acting, singing, stagecraft, and movement, as well as learning to collaborate with their peers. Musical and staging rehearsals will culminate in performances of opera production. May be repeated for credit
MU 3761 State Singers: 1 hour.
(Prerequisite: Audition Required or Permission of Instructor). Two hours studio. The study and performance of a variety of SATB choral music of many styles, contexts and cultures, including masterworks. May be repeated for credit more than once
MU 3833 Woodwind Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission by instructor). Three hours lecture. The study of solo, chamber, orchestral woodwind literature and method books from the Baroque to the 21st century. Emphasis is on students’ primary instrument
MU 3933 Survey of Choral Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, MU 3412). Three hours lecture. A survey of choral music from the Medieval Period to modern compositions
MU 4000 Directed Individual Study in Music: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
MU 4133 Brass Pedagogy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Study of brass instruments with emphasis on pedagogical and performance skills. Topics include fundamentals of brass playing, studio organization, working in a professional environment, and the history of brass instruments
MU 4313 Form and Analysis: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: C or higher in MU 2813 and MU 2921, or equivalents, plus fully-passed Music Theory Upper Division Proficiency Examination.) Three hours lecture. A survey of forms in music literature, with emphasis on harmonic structure and analytical techniques
MU 4322 Band Arranging: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: Passing scores on both written and aural portions of the Music Theory Upper Division exam.) Two hours lecture. Study of idiomatic writing for instrumental ensembles, including marching, concert, and jazz bands
MU 4433 Introduction to Piano Pedagogy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Methods, materials, curriculum building, and philosophical bases for teaching beginning piano. Required of all students in the keyboard concentration
MU 4533 Percussion Pedagogy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: BMP, BME, or BA Music Major, passed UDPE, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Detailed study of percussion teaching techniques and selected pedagogical solo and ensemble repertoire
MU 4633 String Pedagogy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Detailed study of string teaching techniques and selected pedagogical solo and ensemble repertoire
MU 4733 Piano Performance Practice: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, passed MU 3333, MU 3433, and MUA 3012). Three hours lecture. A historical study of how music was performed in the composer’s time from earlier to later periods
MU 4833 Woodwind Pedagogy: 3 hours.
(Pre-requisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Study of woodwind instruments with emphasis on pedagogical and performance skills. Topics include fundamentals of woodwind playing, studio organization, working in a professional environment, and the history of woodwind instruments
MU 4933 Survey of Symphonic Literature: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, MU 3023, or permission of instructor) Three hours lecture. Survey of literature of the symphony genre, in the Western Classical Music tradition, from earliest discernible 17th-century appearances through the present day
MU 4951 Senior Performance Recital: 1 hour.
(Prerequisites: Music Performance majors (BMP) only and Passed UDPE. Corequisite: 4000 level MUA). Two hours studio. Full recital in a university recital setting. The student prepares the recital pieces in their applied lessons, through rehearsal with an accompanist and/or other contributing musicians
MU 4990 Special Topics in Music: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
MU 6733 Piano Performance Practice: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Music majors (BA, BME, BMP) only, passed MU 3333, MU 3433, and MUA 3012). Three hours lecture. A historical study of how music was performed in the composer’s time from earlier to later periods
MU 6990 Special Topics in Music: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
MU 7000 Directed Individual Study in Music: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
MU 8013 Seminar in Music History Research: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Admission to MME Degree Program.) Three hours graduate seminar. Develops knowledge and skills necessary to conduct advanced research in subjects relating to music history
MU 8023 Seminar in Music Theory: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Admission to MME Degree Program). Three hours seminar. Advanced study of music theory concepts, pedagogy, and creative applications
MU 8402 Advanced Instrumental Arranging: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: Admission to MME degree program; or permission of instructor). Two hours lecture. Advanced scoring practice in arranging music for concert, marching, jazz bands, and small instrumental ensembles
MU 8412 World Drumming: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: Admission to MME Degree Program). Two hours lecture. An introduction to drum techniques, traditional rhythms, performance practices, ensemble organization, and musical concepts of selected world drumming traditions
MU 8422 Keyboard Skills for Music Educators: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: Admission to MME Degree Program). Two hours lecture. Group piano course designed to help music educators improve keyboard skills for playing parts and accompaniments, singing and playing, playing from lead sheets, improvisation, and sight playing
MU 8482 Wind Band Literature: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: admission to the MME degree program). Two hours lecture. The study of the literature and history of the concert band (Renaissance to present era)
MU 8990 Special Topics in Music: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
MU 9000 Research in Music: 1-13 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged