General Information:
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
Students completing the music major will:
- acquire an understanding of the development of Western music through all the historical eras, be able to recognize major musical styles, composers, and representative works, and utilize specialized theoretical and aural skills to effectively comprehend and analyze musical compositions from all historic periods (Academic);
- develop practical musicianship skills through aural training, keyboard curricula, private vocal/instrumental lessons, and specialized theory courses to support a professional career in music and foster a life-long pursuit of music-making (Vocational);
- be formed in their Christian faith through disciplined practice and preparation for public performance, utilizing their God-given musical gifts to create and perform for His glory and the edification of those who listen (Christian);
- cultivate an appreciation, respect, and love for their country through preparation and public performance of musical presentations with patriotic themes (Patriotic);
- engage with their community by performing in recitals, large ensemble concerts, musicals, worship services, and other concerts on and off campus; appreciating their role as creative artists and interpreters of musical compositions from all corners of the world (Cultural).
Notes:
Class Piano: The student will be placed in the appropriate class piano course based on his/her entering skill level and will continue through the course sequence until Class Piano IV. Students will receive credit for any Class Piano courses they test out of.
Applied Music (Private Lesson) Information and Requirements (MUA): Private lessons in woodwinds, brass, percussion, piano, organ, voice, strings, and guitar are available to all students. These lessons may be repeated for credit. Beginning students are encouraged to enroll in class instruction (piano, voice, and/or guitar). Departmental permission is required for students who request private lessons; auditions may also be required by the instructor. Students who enroll in private lessons must register at the 100/200 level unless otherwise specified by the instructor. Students who wish to enroll for 300/400 level lessons must have prior approval of a faculty jury.
Students majoring in music, music theory/composition, or instrumental music education are required to declare a major applied instrument (or voice). Declaration must be made at or before the passing of Sophomore proficiency or completion of 45 credit hours. Students majoring in music ministry, vocal performance, or vocal music education must study applied voice, and students majoring in piano must study applied piano.
Courses in Ensembles (MUE): Ensembles are open to all qualified students in the College and may be repeated for credit. Freshmen and Sophomores enroll in the 100 level courses. Juniors and Seniors enroll in 300 level courses. MUE credits may be used to satisfy G.E. requirements. Five of the ensembles are designated major performing ensembles: Concert Band, Chapel Choir, Chorale, Jazz Band and Orchestra.
Sophomore Proficiency: The Sophomore Proficiency is an assessment of the student’s ability to fulfill the music major at a level of competence deemed feasible for success. The assessment is completed by faculty conference during the semester the student takes MUS 213 - Music Theory II. Areas of proficiency considered are theory, piano, aural skills, and applied areas of study. Students who do not pass the proficiency will be asked to address areas of deficiency or to change majors.
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