Music courses
MUS101 - Music Fundamentals
(2 credits) This course provides training in basic musical skills including concepts of pitch, rhythm and time signatures, scales and key signatures, intervals, triads and seventh chords and rules for part writing. It also provides an introduction to aural skills and to understanding Christian approaches to music and music-making.
Note: Includes 1 1/2 hours of lab per week. Does not count toward a music major or minor.
MUS111 - Music Theory I
(2 credits) This course will teach the fundamentals necessary for performing, composing/arranging, teaching, directing, writing about, and recording/producing music. Related topics such as music history, performance practice and music technology are also explored and an in-depth study is made of the Christian perspective on music and music-making. Prerequisite for 111: MUS101 or passing score on diagnostic placement exam.
Note: Includes 1 1/2 hours of lab per week.
MUS112 - Music Theory II
(2 credits) This course will teach the fundamentals necessary for performing, composing/arranging, teaching, directing, writing about, and recording/producing music. Related topics such as music history, performance practice and music technology are also explored and an in-depth study is made of the Christian perspective on music and music-making. Prerequisite for 111: MUS101 or passing score on diagnostic placement exam.
Note: Includes 1 1/2 hours of lab per week.
MUS113AE - Exploring Music
(3 credits) (NWCore option under Aesthetic Experience) The student will survey the role of both music and musician in relation to the intellectual, religious and social conditions of the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary periods. Through listening and by examination of the elements and forms of music, the student will study the nature of the creative process in the context of a Christian perspective.
MUS115AE - Music of the Church
(3 credits) (NWCore option under Aesthetic Experience) This course provides an introduction to the fascinating and frustrating
history of how Christians have used, created, manipulated, or avoided music in their worship of God. Although each of us comes from our own denominational, geographical, and cultural backgrounds, we will seek to understand the whole historical sweep of Christian church music, as well as our own place in that history.
MUS116 - Jazz Exploration and Understanding
(3 credits, non-yearly, consult department) This course will explore the development, history and music of jazz from its roots to today. Students will learn how culture has affected its development and how it has impacted and changed culture. Students will look closely at the music and those who have been leaders in its development. This multimedia course will focus on an aural and a historical understanding of the nature of the creative process in jazz within the context of a Christian perspective.
MUS130 - Piano Class (Beginners I)
(1 credit) This class is designed for students with limited experience in piano. Beginning class is for the student with no piano background or very little prior instruction. Intermediate class is for the student who reads melodic lines and has some previous keyboard experience. Advanced class is for the student who has had a few years of keyboard instruction and wishes to broaden repertoire. Placement in appropriate level is by permission of instructor.
MUS131 - Piano Class (Beginners II)
(1 credit) This class is designed for students with limited experience in piano. Beginning class is for the student with no piano background or very little prior instruction. Intermediate class is for the student who reads melodic lines and has some previous keyboard experience. Advanced class is for the student who has had a few years of keyboard instruction and wishes to broaden repertoire. Placement in appropriate level is by permission of instructor.
MUS132 - Piano Class (Intermediate I)
(1 credit) This class is designed for students with limited experience in piano. Beginning class is for the student with no piano background or very little prior instruction. Intermediate class is for the student who reads melodic lines and has some previous keyboard experience. Advanced class is for the student who has had a few years of keyboard instruction and wishes to broaden repertoire. Placement in appropriate level is by permission of instructor.
MUS133 - Piano Class (Intermediate II)
(1 credit) This class is designed for students with limited experience in piano. Beginning class is for the student with no piano background or very little prior instruction. Intermediate class is for the student who reads melodic lines and has some previous keyboard experience. Advanced class is for the student who has had a few years of keyboard instruction and wishes to broaden repertoire. Placement in appropriate level is by permission of instructor.
Note: May be repeated.
MUS164 - Heritage Singers
(1/4 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one term in either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS168 - Percussion Ensemble
(1/4 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one term in either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS170 - A cappella Choir
(1/2 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one semester in either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS175 - Women's Choir
(1/4 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one semester either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS176 - Orchestra
(1/4 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one semester either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS177 - Jazz Band
(1/4 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one term in either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS179 - Percussion Class
(1 credit, non-yearly, consult department) This class is designed for non-majors and for majors who desire class instruction in areas of secondary emphasis. The classes deal with ensemble literature, technical development and sight-reading.
Note: This class may be repeated.
MUS180 - Symphonic Band
(1/2 credit) Membership in each ensemble is by auditions held in the fall during the first week of classes.
Note: Ensembles may be repeated. Chamber Ensembles may be taken in lieu of private instruction for one term in either the junior or senior year to meet scholarship requirements.
MUS181 - Voice Class
(1 credit) This class is designed for the beginning singer and addresses the processes and mechanics of singing such as posture, breathing, tone production and diction. A rudimentary knowledge of note reading is expected.
Note: This class may be repeated and must be taken prior to private voice instruction.
MUS189 - Brass Class
(1 credit, non-yearly, consult department) This class is designed for non-majors and for majors who desire class instruction in areas of secondary emphasis. The classes deal with ensemble literature, technical development and sight-reading.
Note: This class may be repeated.
MUS211 - Music Theory III
(4 credits) This course will teach the fundamentals necessary for performing, composing/arranging, teaching, directing, writing about, and recording/producing music. Related topics such as music history, performance practice and music technology are also explored and an in- depth study is made of the Christian perspective on music and music-making.
Note: Includes 1 1/2 hours of lab per week.
MUS212 - Music Theory IV
(4 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course will teach the fundamentals necessary for performing, composing/arranging, teaching, directing, writing about, and recording/producing music. Related topics such as music history, performance practice and music technology are also explored and an in- depth study is made of the Christian perspective on music and music-making.
Note: Includes 1 1/2 hours of lab per week.
MUS214 - Piano Pedagogy and Literature
(2 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course is designed to prepare students for studio teaching by introducing the fundamental principles of private teaching, knowledge of methods, and materials suitable for pre-school and elementary school level students as well as to provide a broad understanding and perspective on piano teaching through teaching beginning students and observing professional teaching.
MUS216 - Survey of Piano Literature
(1 credit, alternate years, consult department) This course is a survey of selected composers and keyboard compositions since 1750. Elements of musical style, keyboard writing, favored genres, and performance practice will be included in the discussions. Reading and listening assignments will supplement the in- class lectures. Prerequisite: MUS251.
MUS217 - Vocal Pedagogy
(2 credits; alternate years, consult department) Vocal Pedagogy is a course designed for music education and vocal majors who expect to teach applied voice in an educational setting or a private studio. The course deals with the vocal processes, the anatomy and physiology of the vocal tract, and practical application of this knowledge to successfully train students to sing in a free and healthy manner. This course is required for all Secondary Vocal Education and Instrumental Education majors. Prerequisite: MUS261 or permission of instructor.
MUS218 - Vocal Diction
(2 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course is designed to acquaint the student with the singer's pronunciation of English, French, German, Italian and Latin, using the standard International Phonetic Alphabet. Prerequisite: applied voice or permission of instructor.
MUS220 - Survey of Vocal Literature
(1 credit, alternate years, consult department) A survey of solo vocal literature from 1585 to the present. This course provides students with repertoire lists suitable for teaching studio and for high school solo vocal contests. Prerequisite: MUS261.
MUS222 - Survey of Organ Literature
(1 credit, alternate years, consult department) This course is a survey of organ literature suitable for use in churches and future teaching purposes. Students interested in organ pedagogy are advised to take MUS214.
MUS224 - Methods of Teaching Brass Instruments
(1 credit; alternate years, consult department) This course is required for students who have selected a career concentration in instrumental music education. Students will acquire a basic playing facility for at least two instruments in each generic category. The course will familiarize students with concepts and procedures that will enable them to teach wind, percussion, and string instruments to students at the elementary and secondary levels.
MUS225 - Methods of Teaching Woodwind Instruments
(1 credit; alternate years, consult department) This course is required for students who have selected a career concentration in instrumental music education. Students will acquire a basic playing facility for at least two instruments in each generic category. The course will familiarize students with concepts and procedures that will enable them to teach wind, percussion, and string instruments to students at the elementary and secondary levels.
MUS226 - Methods of Teaching Percussion Instruments
(1 credit; alternate years, consult department) This course is required for students who have selected a career concentration in instrumental music education. Students will acquire a basic playing facility for at least two instruments in each generic category. The course will familiarize students with concepts and procedures that will enable them to teach wind, percussion, and string instruments to students at the elementary and secondary levels.
MUS227 - Methods of Teaching String Instruments
(1 credit; alternate years, consult department) This course is required for students who have selected a career concentration in instrumental music education. Students will acquire a basic playing facility for at least two instruments in each generic category. The course will familiarize students with concepts and procedures that will enable them to teach wind, percussion, and string instruments to students at the elementary and secondary levels.
MUS228 - Chamber Ensemble
(1/2 credit)
MUS228A - Chamber Ensemble
MUS228B - Chamber Ensemble: Brass
MUS228C - Chamber Ensemble: Strings
MUS230 - Song of the Church
(2 credits, alternate year, consult department) This course is a study of the development and use of music for worship, with emphasis on music for congregational singing. Metrical psalms, Lutheran Chorales, English hymns, Global song, Taize chants, contemporary worship songs, and Emerging offerings will all be surveyed. Students will also become familiar with the craft of writing and choosing good texts and good tunes for congregation song.
MUS231 - Church Music Administration
(1 credit, alternate years, consult department) An examination of several areas of organizational structure for a church setting. Students will gain knowledge in order to work effectively in a Christian community, while exercising a servant model of leadership. Prerequisite: MUS115.
MUS232 - Music Technology
This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of some of the most common technologies in music, both digital and analog. The course is theoretical as well as practical. Hands-on experience and training will comprise a significant element in the class. Midi, digital technology, computers and analog sound amplification comprise broad subjects covered. Students will gain understanding and experience in each of these areas.Prerequisite: MUS111 or permission of instructor.(2 credits, alternate years, consult department)
MUS233 - The Practice of Music Ministry
(3 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course covers several interconnected practical aspects of music ministry, built upon an articulate and sound personal philosophy of arts in worship. This course explores leadership skills necessary for working with volunteers, providing pastoral care for team members, preparing for and leading rehearsals, and handling budgets and copyright issues. Students will practice planning, leading, and then evaluating worship services. The course includes methods of teaching and coaching the various instruments (including singers) used in music worship bands, with an introduction to the technical aspects of each instrument and the roles these instruments play within a properly functioning band.
Cross-Referenced: Cross-referenced in theatre.
MUS235 - Integrating Music for Elementary Classroom Teachers
(1 credit) This course is designed to equip elementary majors with methods and materials for incorporating music in their educational curriculum. Prerequisite: EDU326.
Note: KIN338 is an acceptable substitute for those seeking an elementary education major and birth through grade three inclusive settings endorsement. Does not count toward a music major or minor.
MUS243 - String Bass Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS245 - Classical Guitar Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS246 - Music Ministry Guitar Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS247 - Harp Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS250 - Aural Skills Lessons
(0.5-1 credit)
MUS251 - Piano Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS252 - Lead Sheet Piano Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: MUS133 or MUS251.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS253 - Organ Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS255 - Piano Ensemble
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS257 - Oboe Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS261 - Voice Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS265 - Percussion Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS267 - Tuba Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS271 - Violin Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS273 - Cello Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS277 - Viola Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS281 - Trumpet Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS283 - Trombone Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS285 - French Horn Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS287 - Baritone Horn Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS291 - Clarinet Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS293 - Saxophone Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS295 - Flute Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS297 - Bassoon Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS301 - Basic Conducting
(2 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course is designed to assist students in developing a basic conducting technique. Skills are taught which enable the student to direct vocal and instrumental groups. Included in the course are studies in transposition, clef reading and score preparation. Prerequisite: MUS112.
MUS302 - Advanced Conducting
(2 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course is designed to further develop the student's basic conducting skills. The student will learn how to interpret stylistically the intentions of a composer and how to rehearse effectively. Compositions for band, choir and orchestra are studied. Included in the course are studies in score preparation, clef reading, transposition, rehearsal techniques, and error detection. Prerequisite: MUS301.
MUS307 - Teaching Elementary Music
(2 credits, alternate years, consult department) This course is designed to prepare students who are music majors or minors for teaching in the elementary school. Students, who anticipate becoming specialists, will learn how to teach music to children through traditional methods, as well as through innovations of leading European and American educators. Students will learn how to establish curriculum's for music education that utilize learning strategies encompassed by the conceptual approach. State INTASC Standards, as well as National Music Standards, will be reviewed and applied. Four areas of musical study will be emphasized: historical, philosophical, content and methodology. Students will do guided practice in class teaching assignments. Prerequisite: MUS112.
MUS310 - Secondary Music Methods
(4 credits; alternate years, consult department) This course deals primarily with philosophy, techniques, literature and materials used in teaching instrumental and vocal music at the secondary levels. Activities include the study of educational music philosophy, organization of various music ensembles, discussion of rehearsal procedures, classroom environment, and professional responsibilities. The class will understand criteria for evaluating quality music and will learn how to select level-appropriate literature.
MUS312 - Counterpoint
(2 credits, alternate years, consult department) The study of species counterpoint and 18th century fugues. Prerequisite: MUS211.
Note: This course is strongly recommended for all students anticipating graduate school.
MUS317WI - History of Music I
(4 credits; alternate years, consult department) (Writing intensive) Music history courses present a summary of the chronological development of music in western civilization. Music from Antiquity through the late 18th century is covered. Prerequisite: MUS112, junior class standing or permission of instructor.
MUS318AE - History of Music II
(4 credits; alternate years, consult department) (NWCore option under Aesthetic Experience) Music history courses present a summary of the chronological development of music in western civilization. Music from the late 18th century through the present is covered. Prerequisite: MUS112, junior class standing or permission of instructor.
MUS320CC - World Musics
(3 credits, alternate years, consult department) (NWCore option under Cross-Cultural Engagement) Music is an integral part of every culture. By studying the music of other cultures, including the way music relates to faith, power, societal structure, and daily life, students will be able to better understand, love, and treat people from other cultures with justice. This class will give students tools from the field of ethnomusicology to engage with the music of the world's people through listening, observing, researching and music-making.
MUS325 - Recital
(1 credit) This course is to be taken along with one credit of applied instruction during the semester in which the degree recital is given. The student will be required to select music of representative styles and periods, research and write program notes, pass the pre-recital jury one month prior to the recital, and give the public performance. Prerequisite: junior class standing or after four terms of applied study.
Note: Minimum recital length is 30 minutes for music education majors and 60 minutes for music performance majors. Course may be repeated.
MUS334 - Composition Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction is offered in keyboard, voice, brass, woodwind, percussion and string performance. Prerequisite: MUS112 or permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS335 - Private Conducting Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction is offered in keyboard, voice, brass, woodwind, percussion and string performance.
Prerequisite: MUS302.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS337 - Choral/Instrumental Arranging Lessons
(1-2 credits) Private instruction is offered in keyboard, voice, brass, woodwind, percussion and string performance.
Prerequisite: MUS112 or permission of instructor.
Note: Lessons are 30 minutes in length. Lessons are offered every term and may be repeated. MUS252, Lead Sheet Piano does not count toward class or private instruction in piano requirement for majors or minors. An advanced student may elect to take an hour lesson each week in his/her major area of performance. Practice and repertoire requirements are doubled.
MUS398 - Directed Study
MUS417 - Internship
(4 credits may apply toward the Arts Administration minor) Prerequisite: MUS212.
MUS420 - Chamber Opera
(1/2 credit, non- yearly, consult department) The study of a selected chamber opera (operas) scene(s) from all periods. The course will involve rehearsal and performance. Students will present their product in the context of recitals or performances. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
