I -- M U S I C E N S E M B L E S
All students may participate in a variety of choral and instrumental music ensembles. Music majors and minors must fulfill the ensemble requirement in their designated programs. Initial placement in an ensemble is determined by means of an interview or audition with the ensemble conductor; chamber ensembles are formed when sufficient interest warrants. Successful participation in a music ensemble may earn one credit each semester toward the maximum allowed in the student’s degree program. Please contact the ensemble conductor for further information.
Instrumental Ensembles
Music 173 - Handbell Choir, Trudy Faber
Music 177 - Chamber Orchestra, Staff
Music 179 - Symphonic Band, Staff
Choral and Vocal Ensembles
Music 185 - Wittenberg Choir, Donald Busarow
Music 187 - Wittenberg Singers, Carol Todd
Chamber Ensembles
Music 191 Flute Ensemble, Lori Akins
II -- G E N E R A L M U S I C C O U R S E S
The student may enroll in the following General Music courses to satisfy 1) the requirements of the General Education Program (usually applicable to Fine, Performing, and Literary Arts or Western Historical Perspectives or Non-Western Cultures: please check the Schedule of Classes for precise designations); 2) certain requirements in the music major or minor; or 3) the desire for elective credit. The courses are leveled in accord with the guidelines given below, which serve as prerequisites.
Courses at the A “100” level -- Generally open to all students. Such courses assume no particular familiarity with music and tend to emphasize a substantial number of listening experiences.
Courses at the A “200” level -- The ability to read music and some experience in listening to music are recommended. Most courses at this level are writing-intensive and presume the successful completion of English 101.
Courses at the A “300” level -- Because standard college-level music texts may be used, the ability to read music is required. Students should have the ability to read critically from musical scores and literary sources of the period. Junior standing is recommended.
Music 100A Fundamentals of Music: Studio
4 Credits
Chen, Peng
A course surveying the practical fundamentals of music, taught at instruments in the electronic keyboard laboratory. Reading and written assignments are de-emphasized -- the focus is on actively learning musical concepts, such as score reading, melody, harmony, and improvisation at the keyboard. Students will also be exposed to the margins of music and technology through such mediums as MIDI. Designed for those with little or no piano experience, the course has no prerequisites, but students must be willing to devote daily practice time to the mastering of cumulative skills. There will be a few written quizzes, but most of the examinations will consist of short exercises and performances at the keyboard. $5 Charge for headphone use.
Music 101A Elementary Music Theory
4 Credits
Busarow, Donald
A course designed for the non-major who wants to learn about basic music theory including scales, intervals, triads, keys, counterpoint, harmony, and analysis. A rudimentary ability to read music is helpful. The course includes extensive daily written and aural skills work, including sight-singing, performing rhythms, and dictation. Evaluation is by graded homework, written tests administered regularly throughout the course, and a final exam. By the end of the semester the successful student should have sufficient knowledge of the fundamentals of music to support additional music course work.
Music 102A Basic Music Theory & Skills
4 Credits
Kazez, Daniel
This course is designed to help students analyze and compose music using Western conventions developed over the past thousand years. Both classical and popular music styles are studied. Proficiency in music reading is expected and required for this class. Students without the ability to read music should not register for this course. Grading is based on homework, tests, and a term project.
Music 110A Understanding Music
4 Credits
Siek, Stephen
A basic introductory course designed to explore some of the great works of musical art. The materials of music, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and texture are examined in their historical contexts from the Medieval period to the present. Various forms of musical expression such as the fugue, sonata form, and theme and variations are also surveyed. Listening to a wide variety of music and attendance at concerts is required. The text is Music Listening Today by Charles Hoffer (Third Edition, Thomson/Schirmer).
Music 110A Understanding Music
4 Credits
Staff
A basic introductory course emphasizing aural perceptual skills and designed to enable the student to appreciate some of the great works of musical art. Explores the materials of music, i.e., melody, harmony, rhythm, tone color, form and mediums of expression. Surveys the basic style periods of music. Required outside listening to a wide variety of music and attendance at selected, appropriate live performances. Assessment is by regular testing throughout the course, and a functional final exam.
III -- A P P L I E D M U S I C L E S S O N S
Music 121 - 146 -- Applied Music Lessons
1 to 2 Credits
Staff
Applied music lessons are available for all students regardless of major. Please consult the Schedule for a complete list of offerings.
Music 321 - 346 - Advanced Applied Music Lessons
1 to 2 Credits
Staff
Students may take advanced applied lessons only after passing an examination in the applied area.
Enrollment and scheduling - Initial enrollment and teacher assignment can be arranged by contacting the chairperson of the Department of Music in Krieg Hall. At the time of the first lesson, the student’s level and course of study will be determined. In Applied Organ, Piano, and Voice, it may be necessary for students to audition in order to ascertain the suitability of applied study and to arrange for teacher assignment. If the student does not read music, enrollment in Music 100 (Fundamentals of Music: A Studio Course) may be recommended in order to establish enough background so that the student can practice independently and in a profitable manner. Because applied lessons are individually scheduled, it is necessary for continuing students to file copies of their proposed schedules with the departmental office before registering with the Registrar’s Office each semester lessons are taken.
Credit - Normally, weekly private lessons during the fifteen-week semester are 30 minutes in length and earn one credit. The expected time for practice is at least one hour a day. Should desire and program permit, it is possible to enroll for a 60-minute lesson every week and earn two credits. The expectations for practice time increase proportionately. The grade earned will be figured into the cumulative grade-point-average of the student.
Fees - During the 2007-2008 academic year, the fee for private applied music lessons is $300 for each credit taken. The applied music fee is usually waived if the lessons are part of the requirements for a major or a minor in music. Generally, for the minor, only one credit is waived each semester.
Practice rooms - Every student who is registered for applied music lessons may reserve suitable practice space of Krieg Hall. Since most practice rooms are always kept locked, a key deposit is required of those students who use them. Please consult the departmental office in order to obtain a key and to schedule practice rooms and rehearsal space. NOTE: Only students who are involved in the programs of the Department of Music, i.e., applied lessons or ensembles, may use a practice room.
Lockers - Lockers with combination locks for the storage of music and musical instruments are available in Krieg Hall and may be reserved by contacting the office of the Department of Music, Krieg 301B. Liability coverage is the responsibility of the student.
IV -- I N T E N S I V E M U S I C C O U R S E S
The following intensive courses in music are open to all students with the permission of the instructor; they are primarily designed for the music major. Further information about the courses may be obtained from the departmental office.
Music 199 - Music Practicum
0 Credit
Staff
Monitors attendance and participation by the music major at concert and recital events, at special workshops and clinics. Includes attending or participating in a monthly student recital. Required of all majors every semester.
Music 207H American Music, 1620-1900
4 Credits
Siek, Stephen
The course surveys, through written and recorded examples, the most important collections and musical compositions that characterized the cultural climate of the New World from Colonial times through the nineteenth century. Musical materials associated with the Pilgrims, the Puritans, the Federalist era, and the Civil War are examined, as well as the music of African-Americans, early American theater, and specific composers such as William Billings and Stephen Foster. The course emphasizes a strong historical-sociological thrust, and it is hoped that the musical content will serve to promote a greater understanding of America’s early history. The course features some visual material, such as films and slides. The text is Music in the New World by Charles Hamm. (Norton, 1983.) Writing intensive.
Music 221 Advanced Keyboard Skills and Improvisation
2 Credits
Durrenberger, Christopher
Prerequisite: Music 120 or permission.
A course designed to further develop basic keyboard skills needed by music majors. Advanced levels of theory, keyboard technique harmonization and improvisation will be covered. Taught in the electronic keyboard lab. Every year.
Music 234 String Instruments
1 Credit
Stamguts, Candice
A study of the fundamentals of violin, viola, cello, and bass performance and pedagogy; as well as the constantly changing literature for these instruments - solo, chamber, and orchestral music. Grading is based on understanding of necessary terms and concepts, and on performance skills acquired in the course.
Music 257 Intermediate Music Theory II
2 Credits
Busarow, Donald
Prerequisite: Music 155 & Music 156.
Since this course resumes study after a three-month recess, the first week is spent reviewing all four-part writing principles of the Common Practice Period, beginning with secondary dominants, the last area studied in Music 155. The text used is Walter Piston’s Harmony, fifth edition (continued from Music 155). The course then proceeds with studies in musical texture, diminished seventh chords, non-dominant sevenths, dominant ninths, elevenths, and thirteenths, augmented sixths, Neapolitans, and other chromatic chords. A final project consists of an original composition based upon a text selected by the student, an original melody and four-part harmonization incorporating as much of the harmonic vocabulary available to the student following completion of this course.
Music 258 Intermediate Music Skills II
2 Credits
Kazez, Daniel
Prerequisite: Music 155 & Music 156 or equivalent, or by examination.
Includes two related components: (1) Singing: Students learn to sing pitch patterns and rhythm patterns, in order to facilitate their playing, singing, conducting, composing, and studying of music. Significant and regular outside practice is required. Grading is based on in-class performance. (2) Ear Training: Students learn to notate pitch patterns and rhythm patterns presented aurally. Students learn to write down music they hear or create. Grading is based on dictation exams.
Music 301H 1W History of Western Music to 1750
4 Credits
Faber, Trudy
Prerequisite: English 101E
A study of the important musical developments from early Greek music, through the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods, and of the composers whose creativity brought new ideas to fruition. Topics include: chant and early polyphony, Ars Antiqua and Ars Nova, the development of the Franco- Netherlands style, music of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, Italian monody, opera and opera-related forms, instrumental music of the Baroque and especially the music of Bach, Vivaldi, and Handel. Although the course format is generally lecture/discussion/listening, there will also be videos and live performances on organ and harpsichord. Required for music majors. Writing intensive.
Music 450 - Form and Analysis
4 Credits
Staff
Comprehensive study of analytical techniques designed to give the student the tools for understanding the compositional processes of a wide spectrum in music. Prerequisite: Music 257 or permission of instructor. Alternate years.
MUSI 464 - Choral Music in the School
3 credits
Wendel, Joyce
Prerequisite: Music 165 and Education 103 or 104.
Study of materials and methods for teaching music in junior, middle and senior high schools with emphasis upon classroom courses such as music history, music theory, etc., as well as the study of vocal problems and techniques of the changing voice and its application to junior and senior high school choral groups. Includes exploratory teaching in the public school. This course satisfies requirements for a teaching licensure in the area of music. Alternate years.
Music 466 Marching Band Techniques
1 Credit
Staff
Practical course dealing with the organization, planning, and design requisite for performances given by the marching band. Includes the use of computer software especially designed for charting these performances. Prerequisites: Music 165, 231, 232, and 233.
Music 490 - Independent Study
2 to 12 Credits
Staff
Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
Individual project as arranged by the student with the supervising professor and the Department Chair. May be writing intensive.
Music 491 – Internship
2 to 4 Credits
Staff
Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
Supervised learning-work experience at various on- or off-campus sites generally taken the senior year. Usually involves a written report, a journal, or other assignments.
Music 495 / W - Senior Recital/Paper
2 Credits
Staff
Prerequisite: At least three terms of advanced study in the primary area of applied music, senior standing, concurrent registration in the area of advanced applied study, and permission of the department Chair.
Presentation of a full-length recital in the primary area of applied music study. A challenging program to be determined in consultation with the applied music teacher. Designed as a culmination of preceding studies. A written paper of moderate length and relating to some aspect of the program is also required. Required of Bachelor of Music degree students. An oral examination, reviewing and assessing the student’s previous work in all areas of the music major, concludes the course. Students qualified to pursue departmental honors will register for Music 496 with permission of the department chair. Writing intensive.
Music 496 / W - Senior Recital & Paper with Honors
2 Credits
Staff
Prerequisite: At least three terms of advanced study in the primary area of applied music, senior standing, and concurrent registration in the area of advanced applied study and permission of the department chair.
Presentation of a full-length recital in the primary area of applied music study. A challenging program to be determined in consultation with the applied music teacher. Designed as a culmination of preceding studies. A written paper of moderate length and relating to some aspect of the program is also required. Required of Bachelor of Music degree students. An oral examination, reviewing and assessing the student’s previous work in all areas of the music major, concludes the course. Writing intensive.
Music 497 - Senior Portfolio Review
0 Credit
Staff
Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
Presentation of selected classwork and related materials and resources and the demonstration of musical skills and competencies in an oral examination format before a committee of three faculty members. Required of the major in music education. The review and examination should occur at the beginning of the senior year and at least one full semester prior to the student taking Education 495: Student Teaching.
Music 498 / W - Senior Project
2 Credits
Staff
Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
Full-scale investigation of a selected topic or a production of a creative project. Usually presented in a written form. The project is juried by a committee of three faculty members. Both the project and the committee should be determined by the end of the student’s junior year and in consultation with the academic adviser and the department chair. An oral examination, reviewing and assessing the student’s previous work in all areas of the music major, concludes the course. Students qualified to pursue departmental honors will register for Music 499 with permission of the department chair. Writing intensive.
Music 499/ W -Senior Project with Honors
2 Credits
Staff
Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
Full-scale investigation of a selected topic or a production of a creative project. Usually presented in a written form. The project is juried by a committee of three faculty members. Both the project and the committee should be determined by the end of the student’s junior year and in consultation with the academic adviser and the department chair. An oral examination, reviewing and assessing the student’s previous work in all areas of the music major, concludes the course. Writing intensive.
WittSem 100L – Pop Music Around the World: Local Flavor vs. Global Domination
4 credits
Kazez, Daniel
The cultural distinctiveness of non-Western countries is evident to all the senses. We note this in food, clothing, and music, to name but a few elements of culture. Will this distinctiveness decline as the United States increasingly “exports” its culture to non-Western countries? In this Witt Sem, we will examine (1)the extent to which the popular music of various non-Western countries has maintained its local flavor, and (2)how and why the music of the West has entered the popular music styles of these countries. The ability to read music is required. We will examine printed music (sheet music), listen to recorded music, and study the soundtracks of non-Western feature films. The course will, in large part, consist of learning how to research, collect, and present information.
WittSem 100L – TBA
4 credits
Siek, Stephen