Courses

Students in the Asbury College of Liberal Arts may earn a Music major for the Bachelor of Arts degree through the School of Music. The Music (CLA) major is not available to School of Music students, including those in the dual degree program. Students in the College of Liberal Arts who are majoring in disciplines other than music may complete a minor in either applied music or instrumental jazz studies. The completion of a successful audition is required before a student can be certified as a minor. School of Music students may complete the minor in instrumental jazz studies.

Course Catalog

Requirements for a major

Music (CLA)

Music (CLA)(Fall 2015)

Requirements for a minor

Jazz Studies

Music

Music Creation and Technology (Non-Music Majors) (Fall 2023)

Musical Theatre (CLA Theatre Majors)

Musical Theatre (Other CLA Majors)

Courses in School of Music

Music Theory and Musicianship I

Music Theory and Musicianship I builds foundational skills for collegiate music study. Students discover broadly applicable musical concepts in the domains of pitch relationships, rhythm, timbre, and form, and build fluency with those concepts through skill-building activities. These activities include composition, improvisation, performance, transcription, sight-reading, aural identification, music analysis, music technology applications, and writing. This course also builds keyboard and vocal skills: concepts will be drilled at the piano, vocally (using moveable Do solfege), and on students' primary instruments, if different. Concepts and activities will be situated within current discourses in music studies.

Music Theory & Musicianship II

Building on Music Theory and Musicianship I, Music Theory and Musicianship II expands students' knowledge of and fluency with fundamental concepts for collegiate music study. Students continue discovering applicable musical concepts in the domains of pitch relationships, rhythm, timbre, and form, and building fluency with those concepts through skill-building activities. These activities include composition, improvisation, performance, transcription, sight-reading, aural identification, music analysis, music technology applications, and writing. This course also builds keyboard and vocal skills: concepts will be drilled at the piano, vocally (using moveable Do solfege), and on students' primary instruments, if different. Concepts and activities will be situated within current discourses in music studies. This course is required for BMA and BA students. Prerequisites: Musicianship I or permission of instructor based on placement exam results.

Music and the Related Arts

Music and the Related Arts provides a theoretical and practical introduction to interdisciplinary work that integrates music with a range of other fine and performing arts disciplines. Students spend the first half of the semester learning about the intersection of music and other artistic disciplines, cross-disciplinary aesthetic and practical considerations, and models for interdisciplinary/collaborative creative process, as well as experiencing and analyzing a range of existing interdisciplinary works. In the second half of the semester, students will create and present their own interdisciplinary projects in small groups. This course will feature guest speakers from other Creative School departments and offer opportunities for off-campus field trips to experience interdisciplinary work in Indianapolis and surrounding counties. This course is open to all DePauw students (prerequisite: MUS 100 or MUS 140), and is required for the BMA in music.

Building Musical Lives and Communities

Building Musical Lives and Communities introduces skills, knowledge and mindsets that help musical artists develop careers, and allows students to put these into practice by collaboratively developing and producing a musical project. Using case studies of artists with diverse career paths as models, students refine their understanding of their own strengths, aspirations, and artistic mission, and develop digital materials to communicate that identity. In groups of individuals with overlapping missions, students develop, fund, and produce musical projects that thoughtfully engage a community outside of the class, building practical arts management skills such as grant-writing, contracting, and budgeting experientially. Class activities are contextualized and shaped by discussions of current equity, labor, policy, and advocacy issues that affect the arts.

Senior Performance/Creation Recital Capstone

For MUS 454, Senior Performance/Creation Recital Capstone, students will enroll for two semesters (.5 credit each) with their applied teacher in the fall and spring of their senior year (with a 60-minute performance recital or a public presentation of original creative work of appropriate scope in the spring semester), or the previous spring of their junior year and fall of Senior year (if they wish to have a 60-minute recital or a public presentation of creative work in the fall Semester.) They can pursue this Capstone in their primary instrument or composition.

Courses in Music (Other)

Concert Attendance

Music majors are required to attend recitals and concerts programmed by the School of Music every semester in residence.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Thinking, Listening, Creating with Music

A basic course that enables the non-music major to understand the manner in which the elements of music are constructed and combined in order to form a coherent musical expression. Not open to students in the School of Music.

Courses in Music History & Literature

Exploring Music in History and Culture

This course is open to all students who wish to develop a deeper love and understanding of music. The course introduces concepts and terms of music studies and teaches the skills to listen more deeply and to write and speak fluently about music. The course explores some of the historical and cultural factors that have influenced musical creation and performance and the roles that music has played in social life past and present. No previous musical experience or ability to read music notation is required. No prerequisites.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Introduction to Music Theory for Non-Majors

An introduction to the basic structures, terminology, and analysis methods for tonal music including scales, harmony, form, and simple composition.

Introduction to Music Theory and Musicianship

Introduction to Music Theory and Musicianship builds foundational skills for collegiate music study. Students discover broadly applicable musical concepts in the domains of pitch relationships, rhythm, timbre, and form, and build fluency with those concepts through skill-building activities, composition, improvisation, performance, transcription, aural identification, music analysis, music technology applications, and writing. Students will also discuss and reflect on current areas of discourse in music studies. This course is required for first-year School of Music students unless their placement exam indicates they should enter the Theory/Musicianship sequence with Theory I and Musicianship I.

Courses in Music (Other)

Introduction to Music Technology

The goal of this course is to provide students with a solid practical knowledge of music technology and its applications to music composition, performance and production. Through lecture, discussion, hands-on experience and projects, students develop basic proficiency in tools and methods used to create, perform and share music in the digital domain.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Theory I

The first of four core courses in music theory. Students will study the over-arching theory of tonality and structural phenomena, starting the habits of students to think analytically about music. Lead sheet labels, Roman Numerals, and functional bass theory will be introduced.

Theory II

The second of four core courses in music theory. Students will continue studying the over-arching theory of tonality and structural phenomena. Roman Numeral and functional bass analysis will be explained in greater detail, along with structural phenomena that form the building blocks of form.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Technology in Music Education

The goal of this course is to provide music education students with a solid practical knowledge of music technologies, in the context of music pedagogy. Through lecture, discussion, hands-on experience and projects, students will explore the tools and methods used for digital music composition, performance and production, through the lens of music instruction.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Musicianship I

The first of four core courses that develop aural and performance skills. Sight singing (movable Do solfege), melodic and harmonic dictation, improvisation, and keyboard skills are covered.

Musicianship II

The second of four core courses that develop aural and performance skills. Sight singing (movable Do solfege), melodic and harmonic dictation, improvisation, and keyboard skills are covered.

Courses in 21st Century Music

Musicking (was Understanding Music)

The idea of musicking conceives of music as a process rather than an object. It encompasses all activity involved in and surrounding music, including but not limited to performing, improvising, composing, listening, responding, dancing, teaching, engaging with music theory and history, and attending and producing musical events. MUS 130, a team-taught class, explores selected dimensions of musicking from multiple perspectives. Students rotate through modules that offer a foundational framework of the following skills: artistic creation, the exercise of individual and collaborative creativity in developing an artistic voice; critical thinking, the intellectual skills of curiosity, rational thought, analysis, and problem solving; and, everyday advocacy, the habits of mind for making meaningful connections between our audiences and our art and effectively advocating for what we value.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Introduction to Music Education

Introduces the student to the music teaching profession. Emphasis is placed upon teacher-student relationships, role of the music teacher in schools and the individual examination and refinement of personal attitudes and skills needed to become an effective music teacher. Field experiences are required for all students. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Foundations of Music Education

A study of major points of view in contemporary American education and those knowledge bases that influence educational decisions. Survey of the historical, sociological, philosophical and psychological factors and functions of music in general education as they relate to principles and practices in education today. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Courses in Dance

Beginning Ballet I

Designed for the student who has had no previous dance training. Basic concepts and terminology will be considered as will aspects of history and appreciation.

Beginning Ballet II

A continuation of MUS 171.

Intermediate Ballet I

A continuation of MUS 172.

Intermediate Ballet II

A continuation of MUS 173.

Beginning Jazz Dance I

Designed for the student who has had no previous dance training. Basic jazz technique and terminology will be addressed. Students will gain body control and awareness through class performance.

Beginning Jazz Dance II

Continuation of MUS 175

Intermediate Jazz Dance I

Intermediate Jazz Dance II

A continuation of MUS 177.

Ballroom Dancing

An introduction to the history and practice of ballroom dancing.

Beginning Tap

This course is the study of tap dance technique from the basic rhythms and time steps to creating and performing tap routines. Emphasis on individual and group performance.

Courses in Music (Other)

Off-Campus Extended Studies Course

An off-campus course offered during the Winter or May term that includes on-campus preparation. May be offered for .5 course credits or as a co-curricular (0 credit). Counts toward satisfying the Extended Studies requirement.

On-Campus Extended Studies Course

An on-campus course offered during the Winter or May term. May be offered for .5 course credits or as a co-curricular (0 credit). Counts toward satisfying the Extended Studies requirement.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Foundations of Music Education

A study of major points of view in contemporary American education and those knowledge bases that influence educational decisions. Survey of the historical, sociological, philosophical and psychological factors and functions of music in general education as they relate to principles and practices in education today. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Italian Diction for Singers

A theoretical and practical consideration of pronunciation principles for singers of the Italian repertoire. Applicable to voice majors and their degrees in the School of Music.

German Diction for Singers

A theoretical and practical consideration of pronunciation principles for singers of the German repertoire. Applicable to voice majors and their degrees in the School of Music. Prerequisites: MUS 191 and MUS 194.

French Diction for Singers

A theoretical and practical consideration of pronunciation principles for singers of the French repertoire. Applicable to voice majors and their degrees in the School of Music. Prerequisites: MUS 191 and MUS 194.

English Diction for Singers

A theoretical and practical consideration of pronunciation principles for singers of the English repertoire. Applicable to voice majors and their degrees in the School of Music.

Courses in Music (Other)

First-Year Seminar

A seminar focused on a theme in the study of music. Open only to first-year students.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Theory III

The third of four core courses in music theory. Students will be introduced to specific forms, voice-leading, harmonic language, and rhythmic language in Common-Practice, jazz, contemporary classical, pop/rock, and musical theater styles.

Theory IV

The fourth of four core courses in music theory. Students will explore more advanced topics in form, harmonic language, orchestration, and rhythmic language in Common-Practice, contemporary classical, jazz, popular, and Indonesian Gamelan styles.

Musicianship III

The third of four core courses that develop aural and performance skills. Sight singing (movable Do solfege), melodic and harmonic dictation, improvisation, and keyboard skills are covered.

Musicianship IV

The fourth of four courses that develop aural and performance skills. Sight singing (movable Do solfege), melodic and harmonic dictation, improvisation, and keyboard skills are covered.

Courses in Music History & Literature

Jazz History

A consideration of jazz history from its beginnings to the present day. Students will develop an awareness of important periods, major performers and composers, trends, influences, stylistic features, terminology, and related materials. This course is appropriate for liberal arts students.

Miles and 'Trane

This course examines the life and works of Miles Davis and John Coltrane, two of the most influential musicians in the world. For more than 45 years, from 1945 when he first made his mark on the jazz scene until his death in 1991, Miles Davis has been in the front rank of American music. His music has defined jazz for three different generations of listeners. John Coltrane was a key figure in jazz history, a pioneer in world music, and an intensely emotional force. The immense force of Coltrane's music has inspired poetry, sculpture and modern dance. This course is appropriate for liberal arts students.

Survey of Wind Literature

An introduction to the vast array of literature available to the band and wind ensemble from a historical perspective. Students develop both aural and score knowledge of the variety of styles of wind music (from the Middle Ages through the 20th century) and an understanding of the development of wind composition.

Courses in 21st Century Music

State of the Art

State of the Art gives students a thorough overview of the challenges and opportunities facing professional musicians and music organizations in the current marketplace. Starting with an exploration of high-profile contemporary situations, the course then examines the economics of professional classical music, using NEA arts participation data and various articles and online resources as texts. As the course moves to an exploration of successful arts organizations, small ensembles, and individual performers, students develop case studies of successful current musical enterprises.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Percussion Techniques

Study and practice of the standard range of percussion instruments. Students are taught using method books designed for elementary, middle and secondary schools, and they learn to employ appropriate pedagogical techniques for group instruction in school settings. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

String Techniques

Study and practice of each of the following string instruments: violin, viola, cello and bass. Students are taught using method books designed for elementary, middle and secondary schools, and they learn to employ appropriate pedagogical techniques for group instruction in school settings. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Brass Techniques

Study and practice of each of the following brass instruments: trumpet, French horn, trombone, and euphonium/tuba. Students are taught using method books designed for elementary, middle and secondary schools, and they learn to employ appropriate pedagogical techniques for group instruction in school settings. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Woodwind Techniques

Study and practice of each of the following woodwind instruments: flute, clarinet and saxophone. Students are taught using method books designed for elementary, middle and secondary schools, and they learn to employ appropriate pedagogical techniques for group instruction in school settings. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Instrumental/Choral Music Education Lab

This course provides an environment in which future music educators learn to rehearse and arrange for middle school and high school instrumental and choral ensembles. Students enroll in the course three spring semesters and gradually assume teaching responsibilities. By the conclusion of their third semester, students will: apply their pedagogical knowledge in the sequencing of lesson/rehearsal materials, select appropriate methods and literature for school ensembles, employ appropriate rehearsal techniques, refine their personal communicative teaching skills, hone their performance skills on secondary instruments, and assess student progress. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Music in Early Childhood

Detailed consideration of the music programs in nursery schools, preschools, and kindergarten; topics include the nature of early musical responses, learning objectives, experience levels within the programs, methods of teaching, and materials. Observation of music teaching and participation in music teaching are included in the coursework.

Music for Students with Diverse Needs

Introduction to student diversity with an emphasis on providing music instruction to P-12 students with diverse needs. In this music teacher education course, pre-service music teachers will develop skills in planning developmentally and culturally appropriate music lessons and in structuring experiences to facilitate participation and learning by all students. Course content includes overviews of student diversity, special education, and multicultural education; examination of the challenges that issues of diversity pose to the learning process; study of legislation, procedures, and current practice; application of appropriate instructional and assessment strategies; and, provision of reasonable accommodations. Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions essential for teaching music to a wide variety of learners. Field experience is required.

Courses in Music History & Literature

History of Western Music I

European art music from the ancient Greeks to the end of the Classical Era (ca. 1800). The course places the stylistic development of important genres and forms of Western art music into a spectrum of musical, social and economic contexts. The analysis of historically important works will consider how music has been experienced by composers, performers, patrons and audiences.

History of Western Music II

This course provides a historical survey of music in Europe and the United States from 1800 to the present day, exploring some of the many genres and styles circulating during these transformative centuries. Considering each work and composer as a case study indicative of broader trends, the course delves into the historical contexts, philosophical and literary underpinnings, and social dynamics of this music.

Courses in Music Ensemble

University Symphony Orchestra

Large Instrumental Ensemble

MUS 272 Large Instrumental Ensemble is a unique course in which students may be exposed to three different instrumental formats within a semester (DePauw University Orchestra, DePauw University Band, and Jazz Ensemble) through a .5-credit rotation system (MUS 272A) established for the semester. Students may also elect to participate in a .25-credit ensemble for the semester: 272B (University Orchestra), 272C (University Band), or 272D (Jazz Ensemble). An audition is required.

University Band

University Chorus

Vox Animae

This SA chamber vocal ensemble is open to any student at DePauw regardless of major, but requires an audition to participate. In rigorous rehearsals, students learn repertoire of every level and of different eras, genres, and cultures, which facilitates the development of skills necessary in becoming an advanced choral singer and musician. A semester typically includes several joint performances with other choirs and ensembles of the Institute of Music. This group also serves as a musical ambassador of the university for special occasions on and off campus.
If a student wants to receive .5 credit (e. g. to fulfill a music degree requirement), they enroll in MUS276A. This choice includes the three 50 min. rehearsals per week plus an additional mandatory weekly two-hour rehearsal with Festival Choir (DePauw's non-auditioned SATB community choir). If a student only wants to receive .25 credit, they enroll in MUS276B, which only includes the three 50-min rehearsals per week.

Chamber Singers

This SATB chamber vocal ensemble is open to any student at DePauw regardless of major, but requires an audition to participate. In rigorous rehearsals, students learn repertoire of every level and of different eras, genres, and cultures, which facilitates the development of skills necessary in becoming an advanced choral singer and musician. A semester typically includes several joint performances with other choirs and ensembles of the Institute of Music. This group also serves as a musical ambassador of the university for special occasions on and off campus.
If a student wants to receive .5 credit (e. g. to fulfill a music degree requirement), they enroll in MUS277A. This choice includes the three 50 min. rehearsals per week plus an additional mandatory weekly two-hour rehearsal with Festival Choir (DePauw's non-auditioned SATB community choir). If a student only wants to receive .25 credit, they enroll in MUS277B, which only includes the three 50-min rehearsals per week.

Jazz Ensemble

Courses in Music (Other)

Topics in Music Technology

Students will further develop proficiency in music technologies and their applications to music composition, performance and production, by exploring a range of topical subjects that may include: computer-based recording, engineering and production strategies for live and recorded sound; live-sound support, recording and production; contemporary electroacoustic music composition; acoustics and sound design; contemporary digital songwriting, production and distribution; cultural contexts of popular music; music for film. Prerequisites: MUS110 or consent of instructor.

Courses in Music Ensemble

Music for the Stage

This course is designed to give students the skills required to sing effectively on stage through the study of a variety of vocal repertoire for the stage, including, but not limited to, opera and musical theatre.

Performing Opera

This course is a performance-based course that offers practical experience in the preparation and performance of appropriate selections from the operatic repertoire. It is designed to provide a basic understanding of role preparation with a focus on stagecraft and musical preparation.

Performing Musical Theatre

This course is a performance-based course that offers practical experience in the preparation and performance of appropriate selections from the musical theatre repertoire. It is designed to provide a basic understanding of role preparation with a focus on stagecraft and musical preparation.

Asbury String Quartet

Based on an audition, selected students will be assigned to a specific named chamber ensemble. Students will rehearse as a group independently and under the tutelage of a chamber music coach. Ensembles will perform on and off campus representing the School of Music.

Chamber Music

A. General Chamber Music; B. Brass Chamber Ensemble; C. Clarinet Ensemble; D. Piano Trio; E. Bass Ensemble; F. Flute Choir; H. Horn Ensemble; I. Improvised Chamber Music; J. Jazz Combos; K. Keyboard; N. Piano Ensemble; P. Percussion Ensemble; Q. String Chamber Music; R. Trumpet Ensemble; S. Saxophone Ensemble; T. Trombone Choir; V. Vocal Chamber Music; W. Woodwind Chamber Ensemble; X. Cello Ensemble; Z. Baroque Chamber Music.

Courses in Music (Other)

Musicology Topics

Introductory explorations of topics in music history (encompassing art, popular, and folk musics) approached through musicological and interdisciplinary lenses and addressing historical change over time. The topic may address a specific composer, group, movement, era, or genre, or a particular theme or issue in music history. Promotes skills in historical thinking, interpretation, awareness of social/cultural influences on music, writing, and critical thinking. May be offered as a W. No prerequisites.

Internship in Music Business

An experiential course for those students who are completing an internship with an agency or organization not usually included in University programs. A detailed written project proposal must be approved by the supervising faculty member and the Dean of the School of Music.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Advanced Keyboard Skills

This class involves the development of harmonization and transposition skills. Realization of figured bass and open score reading are included as well.

Composition

The general goals of this course are: to nurture the student's compositional creativity and craft; to refine the student's ability to express compositional ideas through notation and other media; to broaden the student's exposure to contemporary music and compositional techniques; to improve the student's aural skills, focusing in particular on the perception of events and processes at work in contemporary music; to develop the student's ability to write effectively for individual instruments and voices, and groups of instruments and voices; to improve the student's ability to write and speak articulately about her or his music; and to deepen the student's understanding of herself or himself as an artist. May be taken up to four times for credit.

Orchestration

Modern band and orchestral instrumentation. Arrangements for string, woodwind, brass and percussion combinations and orchestrations of composition by classical, romantic and modern composers.

Courses in 21st Century Music

Career Development

Career Development introduces skills, knowledge and mindsets that help musical artists develop their own career path in the current music marketplace. Through case studies of diverse musicians and their unique careers, students gain an understanding of artistic, institutional, and social issues that professional musicians consider as they navigate the field. Using these case studies as models, students refine their understanding of their own personal strengths, aspirations, and artistic mission, and develop a portfolio of materials that communicate their story/brand to audiences using various digital media. Students also learn about practical elements of self-managing a music career, such as contracts, household budgeting, and tax preparation for musicians.

Courses in Music History & Literature

Solo Vocal Literature I

A consideration of the development of Italian and German art song from its origins to the present.

Solo Vocal Literature II

A consideration of the development of French Melodie and British and American art song from its origins to the present.

Courses in 21st Century Music

Music Entrepreneurship

A project-based introduction to the attitudes, skills and habits needed for musicians entering the marketplace to create their own opportunities rather than (or in addition to) seeking employment from existing musical organizations. Topics include entrepreneurial mindset; authentic motivation; portfolio/project-based career models; importance of marketplace distinction; networking and relationship building; developing a personal (or group) following; promotional writing (biographies, press releases, etc.); traditional and electronic marketing, including social media and video; funding models; and basics of personal finance.

Courses in Music History & Literature

Symphonic Literature

An investigation of the significant symphonic literature of the 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.

Organ Design and Repertoire

An investigation of the organ as an instrument, its history and development, its mechanical and tonal design and its repertoire through the various stylistic periods. Practical work in registration is included.

The Organ in the Church Service

Techniques of service playing in both liturgical and non-liturgical services, anthem accompanying, improvisation in the church service and repertoire for church use.

Keyboard Literature I

A consideration of keyboard literature from its origins to the present.

Keyboard Literature II

A consideration of keyboard literature from its origins to the present.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Elementary General Music: Methods, Materials and Curricula

Methods and materials suitable for teaching music in the elementary school. General survey of elementary music curricula. Includes critical analysis of texts and literature relevant to the elementary music program. Incorporates theories of learning; curriculum development, organization and evaluation; and, teaching strategies, techniques, and best practices. Observation of music teaching and participation in music teaching are included in the coursework. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Secondary Vocal Music: Methods, Materials and Curricula

Methods and materials appropriate for teaching vocal music at the middle and high school levels. General survey of middle and high school curricula and study of philosophical bases of curriculum design. Includes an analysis of texts, literature and representative materials outlining related responsibilities of the vocal music teacher. Provides detailed consideration of organization, development, maintenance and evaluation of comprehensive choral programs in secondary schools. Observation of music teaching and participation in music teaching are included in the coursework. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Elementary and Secondary Instrumental Music: Methods, Materials and Curricula

Methods of teaching instrumental music in the elementary and secondary schools, including an analysis of texts and literature for concert band, jazz band, orchestra and small ensembles, and representative material outlining related responsibilities of the instrumental music teacher. Observation of music teaching and participation in music teaching are included in the coursework. Applicable only to degrees in the School of Music.

Secondary General Music: Methods, Materials and Curricula

Introduction to teaching general music in the secondary schools. Examination of the objectives, organization and operation of a secondary general music program. Study of teaching materials, curricula, instructional methods and assessment practices appropriate for adolescent learners. Observation of and participation in music teaching are included in the coursework.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Conducting I

Baton technique, simple and complex rhythms, specific problems from symphonic literature, score reading and practical experience in conducting.

Conducting II

A. Instrumental: Advanced baton techniques and specific problems related to instrumental conducting with practical experiences in conducting. B. Choral: Advanced conducting techniques related specifically to choral music.

Courses in 21st Century Music

21CM Topics

Investigations of specialized, current approaches to music creation, presentation, and dissemination. These courses complement other courses offered in the 21CM curriculum.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Jazz Theory

This course will focus on understanding jazz structures by analyzing the various elements of harmony, chord and scale functions as they relate to the jazz forms and songs that have developed throughout its history and are being employed today.

Jazz Improvisation

This course is a fundamental study of jazz improvisation. Students will develop a primary awareness of techniques, style, rhythm, nomenclature, ear training and improvisational exercises. Students will examine standard and basic tune vehicles including blues, modality, II V I progressions and the ballad.

Courses in Music History & Literature

Advanced Musicology Topics

In-depth investigations of focused topics in music history (encompassing art, popular, and folk musics), approached through musicological and interdisciplinary lenses. The topic may address a specific composer, group, movement, era, or genre, or a particular theme or issue in the discourse. Promotes skills in historical thinking, interpretation and analysis, research, scholarly reading, writing and/or speaking, and critical thinking. This course is primarily for music majors who have completed MUS 140 and 141, but others with a background in music may be eligible with consent of the instructor.

Topics

Investigation of specialized topics in areas such as music history, literature, theory, musical cultures and performance issues. Recent offerings have included History of Broadway Musicals, Jazz Styles and Analysis, and Psychology of Music.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Piano Teaching Methods and Materials

A study of elementary and advanced piano playing procedures, including technique, interpretation and methods for both class and individual instruction.

Piano Teaching Methods and Materials

A continuation of MUS 397.

Pedagogy

Brass, harp, organ, percussion, string, vocal and woodwind. A study of the methods, materials and techniques relevant to the teaching of beginning, intermediate and advanced students in individual lessons and class contexts.

Courses in Music (Other)

Independent Study Projects

Independent investigations under the direction of a music faculty member. A research paper or performance subject to review by three members of the music faculty is required. A detailed written project proposal must be approved by the supervising faculty member and the Dean of the School of Music. The course may be repeated for credit with different topics.

Courses in 21st Century Music

Practicum

A workshop-format course in which students, individually or in small groups, conceive, develop, and execute a project or projects involving 21CM skill areas such as creative programming and presentation, alternative venues, marketing and promotion, audience development, and community engagement. As the capstone course of the core 21CM curriculum, Practicum asks students to think broadly about the professional music field through a variety of critical lenses, and to synthesize 21CM concepts and skills through action and reflection. May be repeated for credit.

Making Music in Communities

Through experiential learning, students learn how to work collaboratively, within and across organizations, to develop and produce musical projects. Over the course of the semester, students will build small-group collaborative organizations and develop, fund, and produce a musical project that meaningfully engages a community (broadly defined) outside the School of Music. Alongside their projects, students will deepen their understanding of inter-related equity, labor, policy, and advocacy matters in the arts through discussion and written responses, culminating in a final assignment in which students reflectively and creatively articulate their vision for the field of music and their role in relation to it.

Courses in Music (Other)

Senior Seminar

The Senior Seminar in Music is the capstone experience for students earning the BMA degree or the BA degree with a music major. Capstone projects involve researching and writing a substantial original thesis paper on a topic of the student's choosing and formally presenting that research.

Courses in Music Education & Diction

Student Teaching in Music

A 14-week, full-time teaching experience in an approved music department of a school district. Student teachers are under the supervision of a cooperating teacher and at least one university supervisor. This course is required for state licensure, is typically offered spring semester, and may not be taken pass/fail. Students must concurrently enroll in MUS 452, Senior Seminar for Music Educators.

Senior Seminar for Music Educators

Professional examination of principles of classroom management, legal rights and responsibilities, certification, accountability, and current issues in education. Practical problems faced in the profession will be addressed. An emphasis is placed upon the examination and refinement of personal attitudes, dispositions, and teaching skills. Students will participate in a final exhibition that involves a formal presentation of their personal growth and competence as well as the unit of study that was developed and delivered and an analysis of the corresponding student assessment data. This course is typically offered spring semester and may not be taken pass/fail. Students must concurrently enroll in MUS 451, Student Teaching in Music.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Advanced Jazz Improvisation

A continuation of the materials and skill developments begun in MUS 380. The emphasis is on the practical application of jazz theory.

Jazz Arranging

Study and practice of arranging techniques for jazz ensembles.

Courses in Applied Music

Beginning Class Piano (CLA)

Open only to students with very limited or no prior experience in the study of piano.

Class Piano I

Open only to students with very limited or no prior experience in the study of piano.

Class Piano II

A continuation of MUS 901.

Class Piano III

A continuation of MUS 901-902.

Class Piano IV

A continuation of MUS 903.

Beginning Class Voice

This course teaches vocal fundamentals in a group format through the study of the physiology and acoustics of the human singing voice. Classical and non-classical styles are studied.

Beginning Folk Guitar I

Open only to students with very limited or no prior experience in the study of guitar.

Beginning Folk Guitar II

A continuation of MUS 907.

Individual Applied Lessons

First-year and sophomore music students earn one-half course credit, and juniors and seniors earn one course credit, for weekly 60-minute lessons on their primary instrument. Music majors do not pay fees for private lessons on their primary instrument or required applied piano classes. Additional fees are charged for individual applied lessons on a secondary instrument (.25 credit for weekly 30-minute lessons or .5 credit for weekly 60-minute lessons) and other applied music classes that are not required for the students' degree. Students pay additional fees for piano accompanists. Permission of the instructor is required for liberal arts students to enroll in applied lessons. All CLA students who have not studied applied voice previously at DPU must contact the Voice Area Coordinator to schedule and complete an audition before registering for applied voice lessons. Degree-seeking students may not take applied music courses on an audit basis.

Individual applied lessons are offered in the following areas: BAS String Bass; BASJ Jazz Bass; BSN Bassoon; CLO Cello; CLR Clarinet; EUP Euphonium; FLT Flute; GUI Folk Guitar; GUIJ Jazz Guitar; HCD Harpsichord; HRN Horn; HRP Harp; JPNJ Jazz Piano; OBO Oboe; ORG Organ; PNO Piano; PRC Percussion; SAX Saxophone; TBA Tuba; TBN Trombone; TPT Trumpet; VLA Viola; VLN Violin; VOC Voice.

Courses in Music (CLA)

Improvisation

Improvisation is a course that studies the performance practice of improvisation. Students will learn basic forms, melodic formulae, theoretical principles, compositions, etc. found in music that utilizes improvisation as a core concept. The ability to perform on an instrument or voice is required. Prerequisite MUS140, MUS141 or consent of instructor.

Putnam County Festival Choir

This community choir at DePauw is open to both students as well as community members (e. g. staff/faculty/residents of Greencastle, Putnam County and beyond) who meet in weekly two-hour rehearsals during each semester. The choir therefore is designed to bring together a diverse group of people through shared musical experiences. No audition or music reading skills are needed to join, the desire to sing together in a group is enough.

Courses in Music Ensemble

Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band provides playing experiences for College of Liberal Arts majors, and School of Music majors who want to improve their technique and skills on secondary woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. The mission of the Symphonic Band is to create maximum enjoyment with limited performance demands for students who wish to continue to perform in a large ensemble as part of their collegiate educational experience. Auditions are not required for participation. However, they are held for optional chair placements and part assignments.

Courses in Music Theory & Musicianship

Composition (formerly MUS 320)

Music composition is the art of organizing sounds in time and space. Every musician has the capacity to compose. The goals of this course are: to nurture your compositional creativity and craft; to refine your ability to express compositional ideas through notation and other media; to broaden your exposure to contemporary music and compositional techniques; to improve your aural and music analysis skills, focusing in particular on the perception of events and processes at work in contemporary music; to give you models for and experiential knowledge of a range of compositional processes and workflows; to develop your ability to write effectively for individual instruments and voices, as well as groups of instruments and voices; to improve your ability to write and speak articulately about your music; and to deepen your understanding of yourself as an artist. Prerequisite: MUS 141.

Orchestration and Film Scoring (formerly MUS 323)

The Orchestration and Film Scoring course consists of current techniques to equip students with the understanding of instruments and their grouping in order to score for a theoretical ensemble and as video and film underscoring. This course introduces the four instrument families (string, woodwind, brass, and percussion) and covers ranges, proper groupings per family, playing techniques, adding layers, and includes a final project.

Courses in Music (Other)

Digital Musicianship Through Technology

Students will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of working with music in the digital domain, including applications in composition, performance and production. Students will also develop further develop proficiency in specific applications related to computer-based recording; engineering and production for live and recorded sound; contemporary electroacoustic music composition; acoustics and sound design; digital songwriting, production and distribution. Prerequisites: None, requires consent of instructor.

Topics in Music

Investigation of special topics in music.

Courses in Applied Music

Elective Recital (30-minute)

This course is taken in conjunction with a student's applied lessons during the semester in which a 30-minute elective recital will be presented in a public setting. Students will work with their applied professor to prepare a 30-minute recital consisting of the repertoire required by the instrumental/vocal area. Students will also be responsible for creating a recital program and working to develop and engage an audience for the public event.

Courses in Music (Other)

Junior Recital

This is the first of two courses required to complete the music performance degree (Bachelor of Music). This course is taken in conjunction with a student's applied lessons during the semester in which the junior recital will be presented in a public setting. Students will work with their applied professor to prepare a 30-minute recital consisting of repertoire required by the instrumental/vocal area. Students will also be responsible for creating a recital program and working to develop and engage an audience for the public event.

Courses in Applied Music

Elective Recital (60-minute)

This course is taken in conjunction with a student's applied lessons during the semester in which a 60-minute elective recital will be presented in a public setting. Students will work with their applied professor to prepare a 60-minute recital consisting of the repertoire required by the instrumental/vocal area. Students will also be responsible for creating a recital program and working to develop and engage an audience for the public event.

Courses in Music Ensemble

Senior Recital

This is the second of two courses required to complete the music performance degree (Bachelor of Music). This course is taken in conjunction with a student's applied lessons during the semester in which the senior recital will be presented in a public setting. Students will work with their applied professor to prepare a 60-minute recital consisting of the repertoire required by the instrumental/vocal area. Students will also be responsible for creating a recital program and developing and engaging an audience for the event.

Courses in Applied Music

Applied Jazz