In the first two years of study for the major in music, all students take the same lower-division course work, which typically includes two years of music theory and musicianship, one year each of music history and applied music study, and ensemble performance. In their third and fourth years, students choose upper-division courses along one of the three specialty tracks, concluding their studies with a required senior project. Our three undergraduate tracks are: (1) Composition, (2) History, Theory, and Ethnomusicology, and (3) Performance.
demonstrate mastery of the rudiments and grammar of music and music notation, including completed compositions in tonal and non-tonal idioms (MUS 6 and 7, with MUS 2, 16, and 17),
show knowledge of the chronology and repertoire of western classical music from the beginnings of staff notation to the present (MUS 24, 124),
demonstrate reading, writing, and research skills associated with the study of music (MUS 121, 122, 123),
exercise critical thinking and apply it to original research, composition, or performance (MUS 195)
be able to perform music individually and in ensembles (MUS 131, 140-155)
understand and appreciate the diversity and interrelation of varied forms of music making (MUS 123 and electives including 105, 106, 107, 115, 116, 117, 126, 129)
Assessment: The Undergraduate Committee of the Department of Music reviews student work each year which may include composition portfolios, performance juries, and paper presentations. The most notable review is the capstone Senior Project (MUS 195) to assure that the major is meeting its goals.
