Music Courses
MUSC - Music Courses
MUSC-103: Basic Keyboarding (Credits: 2)
This is a keyboard proficiency, pre-theory course designed strictly for music majors and minors with little or no piano background-the pre-requisite for MUSC 171. This course satisfies the Piano Proficiency Requirement for music majors and minors.
MUSC-104: Fundamentals of Music Theory (Credits: 2)
This course is an introduction to music notation and theory for music majors and minors with little or no background in this area. Required for those incoming first-year students who are directed into this course via a music theory diagnostic test administered prior to the beginning of their first semester.
MUSC-121: Piano Class (Credits: 2)
This course is an introduction to the piano for students with little or no background in piano. Basic keyboard-related skills and knowledge, and very basic concepts of music theory are covered. This course satisfies the Piano Proficiency Requirement for music majors and minors.
MUSC-122: Guitar Class (Credits: 2)
This course is an introduction to the guitar as a classical instrument. It is designed for both novices and those who have experience playing non-classical styles on the guitar. For beginners who wish to take private classical guitar lessons, it is a pre-requisite. Classical technique and standard notation are integral components to the course.
MUSC-171: Music Theory I (Credits: 3)
This is an introduction to the fundamentals of music theory for music majors and minors, featuring the study of melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic elements of music (within the Western tonal system). Prerequisite: MUSC 108 or piano proficiency documented through other means. Co-requisite: MUSC 181.
MUSC-181: Aural Skills I (Credits: 2)
This course is a lab experience designed to challenge students to improve their basic musical skills in the areas of rhythm, sight-singing, intervallic and harmonic ear training, and fluency in rhythmic and melodic dictation. These skills are essential if music is to be learned efficiently and accurately, and if it is to be performed competently.
MUSC-191: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-192: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-207: World Music, World Perspectives (Credits: 3)
This course is a selective survey of the music of the indigenous and migrant populations of Africa, India, China, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, the Middle East, Central and South America, and North America. In this course we will examine the ways that music functions within these cultures. We will examine the music itself, the people who make it, the instruments they use, and the complex ideas, behaviors, and processes that are involved in the production of this music. (WCore: EWRLD)
MUSC-211SC: Gillmor Summer Chamber Music Camp (Credits: 2)
The Summer Chamber Music Camp at Westminster is made possible by the Florence J. Gillmor Foundation, which underwrites full scholarships for participants. It is an instrumental counterpart to the SummerSong Camp for singers. Two college credits available for qualifying (rising) high school juniors and seniors upon completion of week-long camp in which they learn chamber ensemble rehearsal techniques and new repertoire, preparing them for entry into Westminster's music program upon matriculation.
MUSC-212SC: Summersong (Credits: 2)
The Westminster voice program is thrilled to announce the SummerSong music festival for young singers and pianists. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Florence J. Gillmor Foundation, 25 high school-age students will receive a full scholarship for a week-long immersion in the art of singing, which covers all tuition, fees, food (lunch and snacks provided every day) and the camp t-shirt. Activities include private voice lessons and coaching, master classes, workshops, acting classes, rehearsals, (optional) evening activities and a final showcase recital.
MUSC-225: Jazz Improvisation (Credits: 3)
This course will cover basic concepts of jazz improvisation for instrumentalists and vocalists from theoretical and stylistic perspectives. Students will utilize these concepts in class on their instruments and also learn about similarities between jazz improvisation and improvisation in other musical genres.
MUSC-271: Music Theory II (Credits: 3)
This is a continuation of the study of diatonic music theory, featuring the study of functional harmony, music analysis, and four-part writing. Composition will be heavily integrated.
MUSC-281: Aural Skills II (Credits: 2)
This course is a continuation of Aural Skills I, designed to develop proficiency in singing prepared melodies, melodies at sight, rhythmic patterns, and in accurately notating rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation.
MUSC-291: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-292: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-300: Special Topics in Music (Credits: 1 to 3)
Significant topics are explored in any of the many sub-disciplines of music. Examples of such courses include: Songwriting, Conducting, Beethoven's Nine Symphonies, The English Madrigal Style and Performance. Prerequisites will vary with course content.
MUSC-301: Choral Conducting (Credits: 2)
In this course, students will learn techniques necessary for the successful conducting of a choir. Conducting (i.e. metrical) patterns, cuing, non-verbal communication of musical interpretation, score analysis, the relationship between conductor and musicians, and rehearsal techniques will be covered in detail. Course activities--inside and outside class--will include required reading, assigned listening, conducting practice, video-taped practice, live performance, and both peer and instructor evaluations.
MUSC-302: Instrumental Conducting (Credits: 2)
In this course, students will learn techniques necessary for the successful conducting of instrumental ensembles such as concert bands and chamber orchestras. Baton patterns, cuing, non-verbal communication of musical interpretation, score analysis, the relationship between conductor and musicians, and rehearsal techniques will be covered in detail. Course activities--inside and outside class--will include required reading, assigned listening, baton practice, video-taped practice, live performance, and both peer and instructor evaluations.
MUSC-303: Vocal Pedagogy (Credits: 2)
This class will include a thorough study of the physiological, acoustical and scientific aspects of vocal production; the establishing of a standard for bel canto (beautiful singing); and an exploration of what bel canto means in practical terms. All the essential aspects of good teaching will be studied and discussed in a variety of ways, including students being required to teach other students-both privately and in a group setting.
MUSC-311: English and Italian Diction for Singers (Credits: 2)
This is a fundamental course designed to help student singers acquire knowledge and understanding of the International Phonetic Alphabet, the correct pronunciation of English and Italian consonants and vowels, the diction rules for singing classical music in these two languages, and translation skills involving both.
MUSC-312: French and Geman Diction for Singers (Credits: 2)
This course builds on the skills gained in MUSC 201 (English and Italian Diction for Singers), using knowledge of IPA to acquaint student singers with the correct pronunciation of French and German consonants and vowels, the diction rules for singing classical music in these two languages, and translation skills involving both.
MUSC-315: Westminster Community Choir (Credits: 1 to 3)
Enrollment is open to all Westminster students, faculty, and staff. This group typically performs twice a semester on campus, and explores sacred and secular repertoire in a variety of classical, traditional, folk, and popular styles. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit given beginning with third semester. Placement audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-320: Vocal Literature Survey (Credits: 2)
This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the wealth of vocal literature that comprises the standard repertoire of the classical canon. Through historical and stylistic analysis, students will be exposed to most important compositions in the genres of opera, oratorio, and art song, a vast repertoire spanning more than four centuries and multiple nations. Study will be combined with performance as part of the coursework.
MUSC-325: Westminster Jazz Ensemble (Credits: 1 to 4)
This ensemble is actively trained in the art of jazz improvisation and typically performs at least once a semester. Students may participate in this ensemble with instruments of their choice; the instrumental make-up of the group changes from semester to semester, depending on the instruments students bring. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit given beginning with third semester. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-331: Collaborative Piano I (Credits: 2)
This course provides instruction in the art of accompanying singers, learning specific techniques to support and enhance the musical and vocal needs of singers. Other topics of the class include an in-depth study of significant composers and literature for voice and piano from Italian art songs, Schubert's Lieder to Debussy's mlodie, sight-reading, and musical theatre piano accompaniment. Pianists will perform and work with singers throughout the semester.
MUSC-332: Collaborative Piano II (Credits: 2)
This course provides a guided framework for pianists to learn the art of playing with instrumentalists ranging from violinists to brass players. Other topics include repertoire exploration of landmark pieces from the 18th century to the present day where the piano plays an equal role with another instrument. Pianists will perform and work with instrumentalists and faculty throughout the semester.
MUSC-335: Westminster Chamber Orchestra (Credits: 1 to 3)
This ensemble is designed especially for string, woodwind, and brass players. A spectrum of classical styles is typically covered in the course of a year, but most repertoire is taken from the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit earned beginning with third semester. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-340: Music Composition (Credits: 3)
Creating music is a reflection of one's musical thinking and is an essential and important aspect of a healthy musical ecosystem. This course helps to improve students' musical creativity through creation of original music and thorough study of existing works and techniques used to compose music in concert, jazz, and popular styles. Students will also develop their own approach to the "create - critique - revise" cycle by presenting their own work to peers and faculty and learning how to integrate external criticism into their own creative process. In addition to regular presentation of their own work, students will be encouraged to present analyses of existing works n class and will produce analytical papers describing salient musical characteristics of important compositions from the repertoire. A thorough understanding of basic classical or jazz theory is required for enrollment in this course as well as a mastery of music fundamentals.
MUSC-341: Piano Literature I (Credits: 2)
This course provides an in-depth examination of solo keyboard music from the era of the clavichord and harpsichord to the evolution of the fortepiano and the modern piano. Listening, analysis, and some performing of the great keyboard works written during the late Renaissance through Beethoven.
MUSC-342: Piano Literature II (Credits: 2)
This course provides an in-depth examination of the solo piano works written from Schubert to the present day.
MUSC-343: Piano Pedagogy (Credits: 2)
This course is designed to explore various methodologies and best practices on how to teach piano. Interactive workshops for students will include: learning how to teach child and adult students at the beginner and intermediate level, how to set up a private teaching studio, and small research projects examining various popular method books.
MUSC-345: Westminster Chamber Singers (Credits: 1 to 4)
This is Westminster's elite choir, generally made up of 20-24 trained singers. It typically appears in concert on campus twice a semester, but also performs extensively off campus, sometimes on tour in and out of state. A variety of classical, traditional, and folk styles are explored. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit given beginning with third semester. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-365: Westminster Opera Studio (Credits: 1 to 4)
This course takes students through the entire process of learning a role for an opera, musical or operetta -- from operetta -- from casting and preparation to rehearsal and performance, culminating in a fully staged performance. Course work includes daily improvisations, movement and actin exercises, analysis of performances, discussions of expectations and demands at the professional level, and cultivation of singer-specific rehearsal and performance techniques. Successful collaboration is a major factor in the final performance. Previous vocal training ideal. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit earned beginning with third semester. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-371: Music Theory III (Credits: 3)
This course is a continuation of Music Theory II and involves the study of harmonic procedures of the 18th and 19th centuries, with topics including secondary functions, chromatic harmony, and formal structures. Some composition involved. Intended for music majors or highly motivated music minors.
MUSC-372: Music History I (Credits: 3)
This is the first semester of a three-semester, upper-division music history sequence for majors and minors covering the period from antiquity to about 1750. The course involves reading, writing and a close look at a large volume of repertoire through thoughtful listening and score analysis.
MUSC-373: Music History II (Credits: 3)
This is the second semester of a three-semester, upper-division music history sequence for majors and minors covering the period from approximately 1750 to 1890. The course involves reading, writing and a close look at a large volume of repertoire through thoughtful listening and score analysis.
MUSC-374: Music History III (Credits: 3)
This is the final semester of a three-semester, upper-division music history sequence for majors and minors covering the period from about 1890 to the present day. The course involves reading, writing and a close look at a large volume of repertoire through thoughtful listening and score analysis.
MUSC-375: Westminster Percussion Ensemble (Credits: 1 to 4)
This class provides an opportunity to investigate rhythm and a wide variety of interesting percussion instruments and tone colors in the social setting of a performing ensemble. At least one performance will be given on campus every semester, involving everyone in the class. Beginners and more experienced players are welcome. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit earned beginning with third semester. No audition required at this time.
MUSC-380: Form and Analysis (Credits: 3)
A key component to the understanding of musical composition is the ability to accurately describe the forms of individual movements. This course will delve into the formal construction of works within the Western classical tradition--from simple binary forms to complex sonata forms. This course will not only help students understand the details of compositional planning in the works of the great composers, but will also guide them in coming up with formal plans for their own compositions.
MUSC-381: Aural Skills III (Credits: 2)
This course is a continuation of Aural Skills II, designed to develop proficiency in singing more complex prepared melodies, melodies at sight, rhythmic patterns, and in accurately notating rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation.
MUSC-382: Counterpoint (Credits: 3)
This course is designed to teach students the intricate compositional craft of composing polyphonic music in both modal (16th century) and tonal (18th century) styles. Students will familiarize themselves with representative works by composers such as Palestrina, Lassus, Vicotria, J.S. Bach, Handel, and later composers. They will examine the works to gain an understanding of the conventions of the contrapuntal style. They will learn species counterpoint and later write modal and tonal polyphonic pieces such as a two-part invention and fugue.
MUSC-385: Westminster Chamber Players (Credits: 1 to 2)
This class provides Westminster music students-music majors, minors, and otherwise--with an opportunity to join a small group of musicians (2-10 players) in studying and performing great music written specifically for small groups with one player per part. Class time will take the form of the professor coaching each group separately with all groups present. May be repeated for credit. Upper-division credit earned beginning with third semester. Audition required. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-391: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-392: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-401: Directed Studies (Credits: 1 to 4)
A tutorial-based course used only for student- initiated proposals for intensive individual study of topics not otherwise offered in the Music Program. Requires consent of instructor and school dean. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-410: Audio Production and Music Business (Credits: 3)
This hands-on course will cover many of the core principles of audio production and music business. Production topics include: acoustics, recording, DAWs, DSP, virtual instruments, notations software mixing, mastering, distribution of audio, MIDI programming, and microphone technique. Music Business topics include: contract negotiation, marketing for musicians, business plans, an overview of how to make money in the industry in different roles, and paths to profitability within the music industry.
MUSC-411: Electronic Music (Credits: 3)
This course will cover the history, theory, analysis, and technique of electronic music while focusing on the creation of original student compositions. Students are required to complete two original concert music electronic compositions and a public performance of one of these compositions will be given as a class at the end of the semester. In addition to working on compositions, students will be asked to read articles or textbook chapters as well as listen to different musical works utilizing electronics in some fashion. Classroom time will be divided between student composition updates, lectures, hands-on lab work, and discussions of the reading and listening. There will be a number of in-class projects throughout the semester as well as an analytical paper describing salient musical attributes of a fixed-media electronic composition. Techniques used in this course will be directly transferrable to composing commercial music, music production, improvisation, and concert music composition. A basic understanding of classical or jazz theory is required for enrollment int his course as well as a mastery of music fundamentals. In addition, a passing grade in Music Technology I is required.
MUSC-412: Music for Media and Live Sound (Credits: 3)
This course covers the following music technology topics: synthesis and sound design; music for media including film, TV, radio broadcast, websites, dance, theater, and video games; field recording; studio design and acoustics; live sound reinforcement and system design; and live performance of electronic music.
MUSC-415: Arranging, Instrumentation, & Orchestrat (Credits: 3)
This course serves as an introduction to arranging, instrumentation, and orchestration. Through practical, project-based assignments, close study of existing works, and targeted readings, students will learn how to arrange and orchestrate original or existing music for small and large popular, jazz, and concert ensembles. In addition, individual instruments will be studied to ensure that student's arrangements and orchestrations are effective as well as playable. Students will be required to complete a number of short projects throughout the semester, arrange and orchestrate one larger project, and write an analytical essay describing effective arranging and orchestration techniques in an existing musical composition. A thorough understanding of basic classical or jazz theory is required for enrollment in this course as well as master of music fundamentals.
MUSC-420: Senior Recital (Credits: 2)
This is the capstone project for music performance minors, a 30-45-minute solo recital to be given on campus in the recital hall during the final semester of private lessons or a semester following the final semester of lessons. This credit hour will be earned in the same manner as that of private lessons, but with the specific goal of a performance determining the nature and intensity of training. (WCore: SC)
MUSC-421: Senior Project (Credits: 2)
This is the capstone course for music majors who are completing the Bachelor of Arts degree without a performance emphasis. This project can address any number of subjects--musical or connected to music in at least one major way--and it may take any number of different forms, though both subject and form must be worked out and agreed upon by the student and at least one music faculty member. (WCore: SC)
MUSC-440: Internship (Credits: 1 to 8)
Offers students the opportunity to integrate classroom knowledge with practical experience. Students will be graded on assigned coursework and evaluation by their site supervisor. Prerequisites: 60 college credits completed (for transfer students at least 15 hours competed at Westminster or permission of instructor), minimum 2.5 GPA, and consent of faculty advisor and Career Center internship coordinator. Interns will work for 42 hours per each registered credit. This course is repeatable for credit. Some majors limit how many internship credits may count towards the major, consult your faculty advisor. REGISTRATION NOTE: Registration for internships is initiated through the Career Center website and is finalized upon completion of required paperwork and approvals. More info: 801-832-2590 https://westminstercollege.edu/student-life/career -center/internships.html
MUSC-471: Music Theory IV (Credits: 3)
This course is a continuation of Music Theory Ill, with a focus on extended tonal harmony and an introduction to post-tonal harmony and compositional and analytical techniques. Intended for music majors or highly motivated music minors.
MUSC-481: Aural Skills IV (Credits: 2)
This course is a continuation of Aural Skills Ill, designed to develop proficiency in singing increasingly chromatic prepared melodies, melodies at sight, complex rhythmic patterns, and in accurately notating rhythmic, melodic, contrapuntal, and harmonic dictation.
MUSC-491: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.
MUSC-492: Private Lessons (Credits: 1 to 2)
A student may enroll for one half-hour or one hour-long private lesson each week for a semester, and receive one or two credit hours respectively. MUSC 191 indicates the first semester of study on a particular instrument; MUSC 192, the second semester of study on that same instrument; 291, the third semester; and so forth, up to MUSC 492, which indicates the eighth semester of study, or the equivalent of the final semester of a four-year course of lessons, on one instrument. Registration requires a special application form which may be obtained only in the office of the department chair. A $150 fee is required for each credit hour. Music majors and minors are exempt from fees for lessons taken on their primary instrument. Enrollment is open to Westminster College students only. This course is repeatable for credit.