School of Music Courses
School of Music Courses
MUS 6010
Lessons
3 credits
One hour per week of individual performance instruction at an advanced level.
MUS 6011
Master Class
1 credit
Weekly performance class for the purpose of refining performance skills. Included are in-class performance and critique, as well as specialized studies related to the particular concentration of study.
MUS 6070
Composition Lessons
3 credits
One hour per week of composition lessons at an advanced level.
MUS 6071
Composition Seminar
1 credit
This seminar will include presentations by guests, faculty and student composers on a variety of topics.
MUS 6080
Recital
1 credit
Performance project by the student with permission from the area of study and the Associate Dean of the School of Music. It may include specific requirements as dictated by the studio teacher. Graded Pass/Fail.
MUS 6081
Orchestral Conducting Lessons
3 credits
One hour per week lesson of orchestral conducting at an advanced level.
MUS 6082
Orchestral Conducting Seminar
1 credit
Weekly performance class for the purpose of refining performance skills. Course will also engage in issues of instrumental techniques and score reading.
MUS 6083
Recital Presentation
1 credit
Students prepare and perform a recital/lecture program.
MUS 6084
Major Opera Role
1 credit
Students prepare and perform a major opera role.
MUS 6088
Independent Study
1 to 4 credits
Independent study in the form of performance, composition, or research under the supervision of a member of the faculty. The number of credits and grading mode (standard letter grade or pass/fail) will vary according to the nature and scope of the project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and approval of the Associate Dean of the School of Music.
MUS 6089
Professional Internship
1 to 4 credits
A work experience occurring in some aspect or area of the music industry for which a student earns elective credit. The number of credits varies according to the nature and scope of the internship. Graded Pass/Fail. Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Associate Dean of the School of Music in consultation with appropriate faculty.
MUS 6098
Special Topics in Music
1 to 3 credits
The School of Music offers a variety of courses on topics of special interest. The school makes every attempt to respond to both faculty and student interest in the formulation and scheduling of such courses. The number of hours and units will vary according to the nature and scope of the project.
MUS 6100
Ensemble Placeholder
1 to 3 credits
MUS 6110
Orchestra
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works from the symphonic literature, including opera and dance. Performances on- and off-campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6111
Orchestra (Supplemental Registration)
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works from the symphonic literature, including opera and dance. Performances on-and off-campus. This course corresponds to MUS 6110: Orchestra. Its use is appropriate when a student is assigned to more than one ensemble in a given semester. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6120
Wind Ensemble
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works for wind ensemble, Performances on- and off-campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6121
Wind Ensemble (Supplemental Registration)
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works for wind ensemble. Performances on-and off-campus. This course corresponds to MUS 6120: Wind Ensemble. Its use is appropriate when a student is assigned to more than one ensemble in a given semester. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6130
Jazz Ensemble
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of works for jazz ensemble using arrangements and improvisation. Performances on- and off-campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with studio teacher.
MUS 6131
Jazz Ensemble (Supplemental Registration)
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works for jazz ensemble using arrangements and improvisation. Performances on- and off- campus. This course corresponds to MUS 6130: Jazz Ensemble. Its use is appropriate when a student is assigned to more than one ensemble in a given semester. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by the ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6140
Contemporary Music Ensemble
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of contemporary music. Instrumental and/or vocal combinations vary from piece to piece. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6141
Contemporary Music Ensemble (Supplemental Registration)
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of contemporary music. Instrumental and/or vocal combinations vary from piece to piece. This course corresponds to MUS 6140: Contemporary Music Ensemble. Its use is appropriate when a student is assigned to more than one ensemble in a given semester. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6150
Guitar Ensemble
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of works for more than one guitar or guitar with other instruments. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment with approval of studio teacher.
MUS 6160
Large Ensembles for Brass
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works for Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Contemporary Music Ensemble. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6170
Large Ensembles for Winds
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works for Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Contemporary Music Ensemble. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by ensemble director in consultation with the studio teacher.
MUS 6180
Chamber Ensemble
1 credit
Duets, trios, quartets, quintets and small mixed ensembles as assigned by the studio teacher. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment with approval of studio teacher.
MUS 6181
Chamber Ensemble (Supplemental Registration)
1 credit
Duets, trios, quartets, quintets and small mixed ensembles as assigned by the studio teacher. This course corresponds to MUS 6180: Chamber Ensemble. Its use is appropriate when a student is assigned to more than one ensemble in a given semester. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment with approval of studio teacher.
MUS 6220
Trombone Choir
1 credit
This course is designed to complement the student's weekly trombone lessons, to strengthen ensemble skills, and to build good teamwork skills within the discipline. Emphasis is placed on sight reading. Performances on- and off-campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment.
MUS 6230
Percussion Ensemble
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of a wide variety of contemporary percussion music. Performances on- and off-campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment.
MUS 6233
Ensembles for Percussion
1 credit
Preparation and public performance of representative works from the symphonic, wind ensemble, and new music repertoire. Performance on- and off-campus with the Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and the Contemporary Music Ensemble. Prerequisite(s): Audition/assignment by the percussion teacher.
MUS 6235
Percussion Pedagogy I
1 credit
In-depth study of the psychological, physical and creative aspects of teaching percussion. Survey of important percussion methods, materials and repertoire.
MUS 6236
Percussion Pedagogy II
1 credit
In-depth study of the psychological, physical and creative aspects of teaching percussion. Survey of important percussion methods, materials and repertoire.
MUS 6240
Support Skills for Collaborative Pianists
1 credit
Practical training in collaborative piano including the following topics: quick study skills, the piano as orchestra, keyboard skills, and professional issues.
MUS 6280
Chrysalis Chamber Music Institute Ensemble
1 to 2 credits
Intensive, regular chamber music rehearsal and weekly, one-hour coaching with Chrysalis Chamber Music Institute faculty and guests. Groups typically range from duos to quintets. Assignments made by the Institute faculty. The number of credits earned determined by the Institute Director (or designee) with approval of the Dean of the School of Music (or designee) and based upon such factors as scope of repertoire, amount to be covered, the number and types of performances to be presented, and whether or not the group will be mentoring a younger chamber ensemble. Prerequisite(s): Permission of Institute faculty.
MUS 6281
Chrysalis Chamber Music Institute Seminar
1 credit
A seminar course taught by the Chrysalis Chamber Music Institute faculty and guests on topics such as rehearsal techniques, repertoire, interpersonal relations within a chamber ensemble, professional ethics, and preparing for festivals, competitions, and engagements. Prerequisite(s): Permission of Institute faculty; Corequisite(s): Enrollment in MUS 6280.
MUS 6282
Chrysalis Chamber Music Institute Project
1 to 3 credits
A significant project of sufficient scope that serves as the capstone for the work accomplished throughout the student's participation in the Chrysalis Chamber Music Institute. Devised by students and approved by Institute faculty, projects are collaborative among Institute students and potentially include such activities as engaging in a recording project, commissioning and premiering a new work, or creating and executing engagement activities with outside organizations. Under the mentorship of Institute faculty and guests, including weekly chamber ensemble coachings, students plan, create, rehearse, and execute the project. The number of credits earned is determined by the Institute Director (or designee) with approval of the Dean of the School of Music (or designee) and based upon the scope of the project. Prerequisite(s): MUS 6281.
MUS 6340
Symphonic Repertoire: Violin
1 credit
An advanced study of the orchestral repertoire for violin with emphasis on style and technical problems.
MUS 6350
Symphonic Repertoire: Viola
1 credit
An advanced study of the orchestral repertoire for viola with emphasis on style and technical problems.
MUS 6360
Symphonic Repertoire: Violoncello
1 credit
An advanced study of the orchestral repertoire for violoncello with emphasis on style and technical problems.
MUS 6370
Symphonic Repertoire: Double Bass
1 credit
An advanced study of the orchestral repertoire for double bass with emphasis on style and technical problems.
MUS 6441
Organ History and Literature I
2 credits
This course presents principles of organ design and construction as well as the history of the development of the organ. Through a broad survey of the literature written for the organ and the contexts for which it was written, this course examines compositions from the Robertsbridge Codes (1325) to Bach, placing particular emphasis upon the relationship of the repertoire to the instruments for which it was written. Student-led research and performance projects aim to connect aspects of performance practice with particular instruments tied to specific bodies of repertoire.
MUS 6442
Organ History and Literature II
2 credits
As the second semester of a year-long sequence, this course continues to provide a broad survey of the literature written for the organ, examining compositions from the Classical Era to the present day, and placing particular emphasis upon the relationship of the repertoire to the instruments for which it was written. As in the first semester, student-led research and performance projects aim to connect aspects of performance practice with particular instruments tied to specific bodies of repertoire.
MUS 6443
Sacred Music Skills I
2 credits
The two-course Sacred Music Skills sequence develops skills necessary to become a successful church musician. This first course focuses primarily on hymnody - both the historical context and the performance of various styles - and on liturgy music of various traditions. Improvisation is an integral part of this course.
MUS 6444
Sacred Music Skills II
2 credits
This second semester of the year-long Sacred Music Skills sequence continues the development of playing-related skills by studying choral accompaniments, Psalm accompaniments, and transposition. Additional units survey conducting from the console, rehearsal techniques, the Liturgical Year, and church music administration.
MUS 6445
Instrumental Literature: Collaborative Pianists I
1 credit
A survey for pianist and instrumental partner, including sonatas, short pieces, and concertos. Open to students in partnering areas.
MUS 6446
Instrumental Literature: Collaborative Pianists II
1 credit
A survey for pianist and instrumental partner, including sonatas, short pieces, and concertos. Open to students in partnering areas.
MUS 6447
Vocal Literature: Collaborative Pianists I
1 credit
A survey for pianist and vocal partner, including song, oratorio, and operatic literature. Open to students in voice.
MUS 6448
Vocal Literature: Collaborative Pianists II
1 credit
A survey for pianist and vocal partner, including song, oratorio, and operatic literature. Open to students in voice.
MUS 6460
Fletcher Institute Workshop
2 credits
This course involves preparation and public performance of opera scenes, with emphasis on movement, acting, character development, and exposure to a variety of operatic and musical theatre roles.
MUS 6461
Diction I
1 credit
Introduction to Italian, German, French phonetics, mastery of international phonetic alphabet as it applies to Italian, German and French. The study of principles of diction, phonetics and sound production as applied to singing in Italian, German and French.
MUS 6462
Diction II
1 credit
Introduction to Italian, German, French phonetics, mastery of international phonetic alphabet as it applies to Italian, German and French. The study of principles of diction, phonetics and sound production as applied to singing in Italian, German and French.
MUS 6481
Guitar History and Literature Projects I
1 credit
Survey of literature for guitar and lute from Renaissance through Contemporary periods, social history and physical development of the guitar. Transcriptions of early tablatures. Study of contemporary notation and techniques. Participation in MUS 3481.
MUS 6482
Guitar History and Literature Projects II
1 credit
Survey of literature for guitar and lute from Renaissance through Contemporary periods, social history and physical development of the guitar. Transcriptions of early tablatures. Study of contemporary notation and techniques. Participation in MUS 3482.
MUS 6483
Guitar Pedagogy Projects I
2 credits
This course is an in-depth study of the psychological, physical, and creative aspects of teaching the guitar. Topics include: studying the components of developing skill playing the guitar; ways in which the teacher facilitates this growth; careful sequencing of technical and musical tasks within a method; and designing detailed lesson and course plans.
MUS 6484
Guitar Pedagogy Projects II
2 credits
The second semester of this year-long sequence continues in-depth study of the psychological, physical, and creative aspects of teaching the guitar. Topics include: continued consideration of important teaching strategies; working with younger students and groups; supervised in-class teaching and outside observation; and additional guitar-specific career development and teaching scenario projects.
MUS 6533
Afro-Cuban Drumming: The Rhythmic Roots of American Popular Music
1 credit
This course explores the music and history of West African drumming through hands-on experience. Students learn to play djembe, dunun, shekere, iron bell, and their New World descendants: the conga drum, bongo, claves, maracas, and agogo bells. Class meetings take place in a drum circle ensemble setting. Over the last several decades the hourglass-shaped djembe has become the most popular hand drum in the world and is now used cross-culturally in many styles of popular music. Hand drums are also used in community drum circles and team building programs taught by interactive drumming facilitators. Class instruction involves playing hand percussion instruments in drum circles with the instructor. Analysis of audio and video recordings of African folk music, jazz, blues, rock, and Latin American music tracing roots to African drumming is also included. The traditional method of teaching hand drumming is through oral instruction and group repetition. Because of this pedagogical approach, music reading is not a prerequisite and the class is open to all UNCSA students. Enrollment is limited in part by the number of instruments available.
MUS 6542
Quick-Study Examination
1 credit
A course leading to a juried performance of a previously unstudied work prepared for performance within seven days without coaching. A student will be given two chances to pass this exam before the degree can be granted.
MUS 6621
Graduate Review: Ear Training
1 credit
A review of fundamental aural skills including sight singing, ear training and dictation.
MUS 6660
Fletcher Institute Language Enrichment
1 credit
Enrichment and practical application of Italian, German and French through conversation, literature and poetry with emphasis on the historical, cultural and artistic aspects of each language as it relates to opera. Graded pass/fail.
MUS 6664
Stage Makeup for Singers
1 credit
An introduction to stage makeup with an emphasis placed on the needs of the operatic singer. Graduate students will have a special project assigned by the instructor.
MUS 6665
Research Topics in Opera Studies I
2 credits
A new opera studies research topic is offered each year. The topics offered engage issues of history, analysis, performance practice and interpretation as appropriate.
MUS 6666
Research Topics in Opera Studies II
2 credits
A new opera studies research topic is offered each year. The topics offered engage issues of history, analysis, performance practice and interpretation as appropriate.
MUS 6670
Music Theory and Composition Pedagogy
1 credit
Students attend undergraduate theory and composition classes as assigned by the teacher. Meetings are scheduled to discuss strategies for teaching basic compositional and theoretical concepts. Assignments may include teaching projects in the undergraduate curriculum under the observation of the theory/composition faculty.
MUS 6691
Research Topics in Musicology I
2 credits
A new musicology research topic is offered each year. The topics offered also engage issues of analysis, performance practice and interpretation as appropriate.
MUS 6692
Research Topics in Musicology II
2 credits
A new musicology research topic is offered each year. The topics offered also engage issues of analysis, performance practice and interpretation as appropriate.
MUS 6693
Graduate Review: Theory
1 credit
A review of music theory from the Common Practice to 20th and 21st century theory and analysis.
MUS 6712
Graduate Review: History
1 credit
A review of Western music history from ancient Greece to the 21st century.
MUS 6791
Research Topics in Analysis I
2 credits
A new analysis research topic is offered each year. The topics offered also engage issues of history, performance practice and interpretation as appropriate.
MUS 6792
Research Topics in Analysis II
2 credits
A new analysis research topic is offered each year. The topics offered also engage issues of history, performance practice and interpretation as appropriate.
MUS 6883
Composition Thesis Defense
1 credit
An oral presentation before a faculty jury on an original composition.
MUS 6888
Music Technology Research Project
1 credit
A supervised research project in the use of new technology in creating music.
MUS 6891
Career Strategies: Portfolio
2 credits
A seminar on career path perspectives and developing materials for a professional portfolio. Topics including resumes, cover letters, printed program writing, royalties, copyrights and intellectual properties.
MUS 6892
Career Strategies: Auditions
2 credits
A seminar/workshop on taking successful professional orchestra auditions. The course includes topics on the application process, preparation, audition and etiquette, contracts and contract negotiations.
MUS 6893
Career Strategies: Entrepreneurship
2 credits
A seminar/workshop on working as a musician in the free enterprise market and creating a promotional website. The course includes topics on agencies, grant writing, networking, financial issues and taxes, contracting other musicians, promotional website design and creation.
MUS 6894
Career Strategies: Recording
2 credits
A seminar/workshop on creating recordings for commercial release. Course topics include acoustics, microphones, digital audio editing and signal processing, mastering a compact disc recording, marketing and distribution.
MUS 6895
Library and Internet Research
2 credits
Introduction to the tools of bibliographic research including new technology, fair use of published material and copyright law, proper form in writing, annotating and presenting information on musical subjects.
MUS 8010
Lessons
3 credits
One hour per week of individual performance instruction at an advanced level.
MUS 8011
Master Class
1 credit
Weekly performance class for the purpose of refining performance skills. Included are in-class performance and critique, as well as specialized studies related to the particular concentration of study.
MUS 8460
Fletcher Institute Workshop
2 credits
This course involves preparation and public performance of opera scenes by Fletcher Opera Institute fellows, including emphasis on movement, acting, character development, and exposure to a variety of operatic and musical theatre roles.
MUS 8869
Fletcher Opera Institute Project
4 credits
An advanced course of study in all aspects of opera performance. The project will include participation in two productions each year, workshops, master classes, coaching sessions, performances and tours.
MUS 8899
Professional Artist Certificate Project
4 credits
A significant project devoted to the performance of a specialized repertoire or area of artistic interest that will bridge the student's entry into his/her professional career.