Alma College - Music Requirements
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11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
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<|Λ|>
Music (MUS)
Professors Messing, Nichols and R. Riley; Assistant Professors Gross and Zerbe;
Instructors Burdick, Melendez, K. Riley and Walker; Artist in Residence Patterson.
The Music Department at Alma provides a curriculum designed to meet the needs of a broad range of students.
The faculty and resources of the Department are committed equally to the following: 1) providing courses and
curricula for music majors so that they will acquire the necessary foundation to pursue graduate study, teaching,
performing or music-related fields; 2) strengthening students' musical skills by expanding proficiency in technique,
heightening interpretive insight, and facilitating the understanding of pedagogical tools and methods; 3) providing
courses designed to introduce non-music majors to a range of musical topics; 4) being an artistic presence within
the Alma College community and beyond by providing opportunities for students, faculty, and community to share
the experience of musical performance.
Alma's Music Department, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, offers three degree
options: Bachelor of Music in Performance, Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Bachelor of Arts with a
Major in Music.
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Thirty-six credits which must include MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, 201 or 214 or 215, 211, 212, 443, 444, 445
and 500. MUS 500 is a senior project and may take the form of a recital, research paper or other Departmentapproved project. Students who elect to perform a recital must enroll in 300-level lessons in the same term.
Requests for MUS 500 projects must be received by the end of the year preceding graduation. Students are
strongly advised to continue their study of voice or an instrument through studio lessons and ensembles.
Bachelor of Music in Music Education
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
1/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Seventy-six credits including MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, 116, 201 or 214 and 215, 211, 212, 237, 337, 344,
431, 443, 444, 445, seven credits of Ensembles, and 14 credits of Applied Lessons on one instrument. Students
with a vocal emphasis must complete MUS 132, 133 and 138, and one term of an instrumental ensemble or
instrumental pedagogy course with Departmental permission. Students with an instrumental emphasis must
complete MUS 133, 134, 135, 136, and 137. One term of a choral ensemble may be substituted for MUS 133
with Departmental permission. All candidates must complete MUS 116 (piano proficiency) by the end of the fall
term of the junior year.
Education courses required: PSY 121, EDC 200, 201, 220, 320, 330, 346, 348, 353, 445n or 445o, 490,
491.
Bachelor of Music in Performance
Eighty-eight credits including MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, 116, 201 or 214 and 215, 211, 212, 237, 337, 443,
444, 445, 500, eight credits of Ensembles, 28 credits of Applied Lessons on one instrument or voice and 8 credits
of elective coursework subject to Department approval. MUS 500 must be a recital.
Minor Requirements
Twenty-four credits including MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, and 120; two credits from MUS 201, 211, 212,
214, 215, 237, 337, 443, 444 or 445; and six credits of applied lessons on one instrument or voice.
Four credits from MUS, with the exception of practicum or independent study courses,
count towards the Distributive Requirements in the Humanities.
MUS 111.
Comprehensive Musicianship I
4 credits
Introduction to language of music and rudiments of rhythmic, melodic, harmonic and formal organization. Emphasis
on fundamentals of scale formation, major and minor keys, and simple chord types. Ear training through sight
singing and computer assisted instruction, including melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictation. (Offered every year)
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
2/14
11/10/2010
MUS 111a.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Aural Skills I
2 credits
Develops aural skills through a range of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic exercises. Introduces solfege syllables.
Should be taken concurrently with MUS 111. (Offered every year)
MUS 112.
Comprehensive Musicianship II
4 credits
MUS 111
Continuation of study of musical language. Emphasis on harmonic progression, seventh chords, modulation and
exploration of small-scale forms in music. (Offered every year)
MUS 112a.
Aural Skills II
2 credits
MUS 111a
Continuation of Aural Skills I. Should be taken concurrently with MUS 112. (Offered every year)
MUS 114-115.
Class Piano
2 credits each
Designed for students with little or no piano background. Explores basic methodology of keyboard technique,
sight-reading and repertoire building. Especially recommended for Music Education majors. MUS 115 is a
continuation of MUS 114. (Offered every year)
MUS 116.
Piano Proficiency
2 credits
MUS 115 or Permission
Performing with fluency and at the appropriate tempo, chord progressions, scales, accompaniments, realizations
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
3/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
and repertoire. (Offered every year)
MUS 117-118.
Class Voice
2 credits each
Permission for 118
Basic principles of singing for the student with little or no previous training. (Offered every year)
MUS 120.
Survey of Music Literature
4 credits
Introductory survey of major musical works representative of the styles and genres of the important periods of
musical development. Extensive listening. (Offered every other year)
MUS 132.
Vocal Pedagogy
1 credit
Introduction to the physiology of the vocal mechanism. Development of fundamental techniques used in private
voice instruction, including vocal exercises used to establish and promote vocal health, literature for young singers,
and the teaching of voice lessons. (Offered every other year)
MUS 133.
Group Vocal Techniques
1 credit
Development of pedagogical skills for the ensemble director, including vowel unification and voice matching to
enhance choral tone. Emphasis on functional knowledge of the voice in ensemble for education majors with either
instrumental or choral specialization. Students are required to work with one of the Glee Clubs. (Offered every
other year)
MUS 134.
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
Woodwind Pedagogy
4/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
1 credit
Principles of tone production, fingering and embouchure for flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon (or saxophone).
Specialization on the instrument of the student's choice. (Offered every other year)
MUS 135.
Brass Pedagogy
1 credit
Principles of tone production, fingering and embouchure for trumpet, French horn, trombone and tuba.
Specialization on the instrument of the student's choice. (Offered every other year)
MUS 136.
String Pedagogy
1 credit
Principles of musicianship on the violin, viola, cello and double bass. Designed for music education students.
Emphasis on elementary string teaching methods and large group ensemble techniques necessary for school
orchestral directing. (Offered every other year)
MUS 137.
Percussion Pedagogy
1 credit
Principles of playing percussion instruments with emphasis on snare drum, mallet keyboard instruments and timpani.
(Offered every other year)
MUS 138.
Choral Pedagogy
2 credits
2 terms MUS 151, 157 or 158
Principles of voice production, sight reading and singing. Emphasis on the selection of choral literature particularly
with regard to developing voice. (Offered every other year)
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
5/14
11/10/2010
MUS 140.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Introduction to Non-Western Music
4 credits
An introductory survey of the traditional music of non-Western countries. Examines the role of music as ritual,
aesthetic experience, and mode of communication in diverse cultures. No music background necessary.
Ensembles
Applies to: MUS 150-159 and 351.
Ensembles are open to all students who audition and receive permission from the instructor prior to registration.
No more than eight credits of participation in all ensembles combined may be applied toward degree requirements.
All ensembles are offered every year.
MUS 150.
Accompanying
1 credit
MUS 151.
Alma Choir
1 credit
MUS 152.
Alma Symphony Orchestra
1 credit
MUS 153.
Kiltie Band
1 credit
MUS 154.
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
Scottish Arts
6/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
1 credit
MUS 155.
Percussion Ensemble
1 credit
MUS 156.
Jazz Ensemble
1 credit
MUS 157.
Women's Glee Club
1 credit
MUS 158.
Men's Glee Club
1 credit
MUS 159.
Chamber Music
1 credit
MUS 180.
Topics in Music
2-4 credits
Selected topics in music. May be taken more than once if topics differ. Only two registrations count toward Music
Major.
Performance Courses
Applies to: MUS 190A-Z, 191/*391, 192/*392, 193/*393, 194/*394, 195/*395, 196/*396,
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
7/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
196A, 197/*397, and 198/*398. (Offered every year)
Private lesson offerings are open to both majors and non-majors who complete an audition and receive
permission to register. Practice room and private instruction fee for the 2009-10 academic year is $200 per term
for a weekly half-hour lesson (all MUS 190-198 courses). Fees are charged when students register.
The 300-level (391-398) represents upper level performance skill and experience and requires Departmental
approval. Candidates for the Bachelor of Music in Performance are advised to enroll at the 300-level by the
second semester of the first year. Only 300-level students may elect four hours of credit. The Department will
consider all candidates for the Bachelor of Music in Performance for 300-level suitability at the end of the first term
of study. Students may request 300-level status no earlier than the Winter Term of the first year. Fees are waived
for 300-level students. Juried lessons are offered every term.
MUS 191-*391.
Strings
2-4 credits each term
A-Violin; B-Viola; C-Violoncello; D-Double Bass; Y-Guitar
MUS 192-*392.
Woodwinds
2-4 credits each term
E-Flute; F-Oboe; G-Clarinet; H-Bassoon; I-Saxophone; P-Bagpipes
MUS 193-*393.
Brass
2-4 credits each term
J-Trumpet; K-Horn; L-Trombone; M-Euphonium; N-Tuba
MUS 194-*394.
Percussion
2-4 credits each term
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
8/14
11/10/2010
MUS 195-*395.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Voice
2-4 credits each term
MUS 196-*396.
Piano
2-4 credits each term
MUS 197A-*397A.
Organ
2-4 credits each term
MUS 197B-*397B.
Harpsichord
2-4 credits each term
MUS 198.
Composition
2 credits
$100
MUS 111 and Permission
Applied composition provides individual lessons in both the craft and creative process of composing for acoustic
instruments. Completed projects that develop original musical ideas for various instrumental and vocal ensembles
will be required.
MUS *201.
Music and Sound for Digital Media
4 credits
Examines theoretical and technical elements of digital sound and music, including sound design and synthesis, sound
editing, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) sequencing, studio recording techniques, digital signal
processing, computer-based music publishing, sound effect and narration tracks for video and the role of sound in
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
9/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
interactive development. Emphasis on sound in digital media projects with layers of media data in formats such as
the World Wide Web, Power Point presentations, Flash, QuickTime™ CD-ROM and DVD. (Offered every
year)
MUS *211.
Comprehensive Musicianship III
4 credits
MUS 112
Continuation in the study of harmonic usage and musical form with presentation and analysis of advanced chromatic
materials; organizing principles present in the fugue, sonata, variation and rondo forms. (Offered every year)
MUS *212.
Comprehensive Musicianship IV
4 credits
MUS 211
Discussion and examination of the expanded tonal resources and compositional devices of late 19th- through early
21st-century music. (Offered every other year)
MUS 214.
MIDI Composition and Arranging
2 credits
Applications of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) for recording, scoring and musical production. Covers
basic MIDI sequencing, recording, production and arranging techniques. Students complete short compositional
exercises using technology to explore MIDI formats and compositional procedures. (Offered every year)
MUS 215.
Music and Computers
2 credits
Overview of the impact of computers and technology in the music professions. Topics include design of recording
studio and lab environments, MIDI technology, fundamentals of audio technology, multimedia applications and
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
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Alma College | Music (MUS)
using sound/music on the Web. (Offered every year)
MUS 225.
Orchestration and Arranging
2 credits
MUS 112
Provides a practical, in-depth examination of acoustic instruments, and explores methods of scoring, transcribing
and arranging for a variety of instrumental ensembles. Includes a final orchestration project created using Finale or
Sibelius software that will be played by the Alma College band or orchestra.
MUS *237.
Conducting and Score Reading
2 credits
MUS 112
Art of conducting, rehearsal techniques and procedures, score reading, problems of interpretation, organization and
activities of choral and instrumental groups. (Offered every year)
MUS *250.
Musical Theatre Techniques
4 credits
The staging of and participation in the performance of a work for the musical theatre — including acting, singing
and movement — which is presented at the end of the term. Course may be repeated once for credit.
MUS *337.
Advanced Conducting
2 credits
Continuation of MUS 237. Emphasis on advanced analytical, interpretive, and technical conducting skills, as well
as practical aspects of successfully leading instrumental and choral ensembles. (Offered every year)
MUS *340.
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
Piano and Chamber Music Literature
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11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
4 credits
Students attend the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival. A survey of keyboard and chamber music literature
ranging from the classical to jazz repertoire. Analysis and study of works appropriate to class participants as well
as critical listening, and theoretical-historical study. (Offered every other year)
MUS *344.
Elementary School Music
4 credits
EDC 201 and 200; Music Major or Minor or Training; TEP
Examination of methods and materials in music. Required of Music Majors who wish to be certified to teach music
at elementary and secondary levels. Open also to Education students with music background. (Offered every other
year)
MUS *350.
Opera Workshop
1-4 credits
Basic techniques of operatic performance: role preparation, body movement related to music, acting, and
techniques. May be repeated for up to a total of 4 credits.
MUS *351.
Alma College Choir
1 credit
(Offered every year)
MUS *380.
Topics in Music
2-4 credits
Selected topics in music. May be taken more than once if topics differ. Only two registrations count toward a
Music Major. (Offered every year)
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
12/14
11/10/2010
MUS *398.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Advanced Composition
4 credits
MUS 112 and Permission
Individual lessons are provided in both the craft and creative process of composing for acoustic instruments. This
advanced course focuses on completing large-scale projects that develop original musical ideas for various
instrumental and vocal ensembles.
MUS *399.
Independent Study
2-4 credits
Permission
MUS *431.
General Methods of Music Education
4 credits
Permission
Principles of group process teaching and classroom management. Accompaniment skills in piano and recorder,
rehearsal techniques, teaching basic instrumental and vocal skills in grades 5-12 and a pedagogical overview of the
human voice and standard band and orchestral instruments including tone production, practical ranges and related
functions in an ensemble. (Offered every other year)
MUS *443.
Music History I
4 credits
MUS 112
Antiquity, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. (Offered every other year)
MUS *444.
Music History II
4 credits
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
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11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
MUS 112
Baroque and classical music. (Offered every year)
MUS *445.
Music History III
4 credits
MUS 112
Music of the 19th and 20th centuries, including relationships between the popular, folk and art music traditions of
the United States and other non-Western European cultures. (Offered every year)
MUS *499.
Independent Study
2-4 credits
Permission
MUS *500.
Graduation Recital or Senior Thesis
2 credits
Permission
Satisfies the Department's comprehensive evaluation requirement.
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
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Alma College | Music (MUS)
search
<|Λ|>
Music (MUS)
Professors Messing, Nichols and R. Riley; Assistant Professors Gross and Zerbe;
Instructors Burdick, Melendez, K. Riley and Walker; Artist in Residence Patterson.
The Music Department at Alma provides a curriculum designed to meet the needs of a broad range of students.
The faculty and resources of the Department are committed equally to the following: 1) providing courses and
curricula for music majors so that they will acquire the necessary foundation to pursue graduate study, teaching,
performing or music-related fields; 2) strengthening students' musical skills by expanding proficiency in technique,
heightening interpretive insight, and facilitating the understanding of pedagogical tools and methods; 3) providing
courses designed to introduce non-music majors to a range of musical topics; 4) being an artistic presence within
the Alma College community and beyond by providing opportunities for students, faculty, and community to share
the experience of musical performance.
Alma's Music Department, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, offers three degree
options: Bachelor of Music in Performance, Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Bachelor of Arts with a
Major in Music.
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Thirty-six credits which must include MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, 201 or 214 or 215, 211, 212, 443, 444, 445
and 500. MUS 500 is a senior project and may take the form of a recital, research paper or other Departmentapproved project. Students who elect to perform a recital must enroll in 300-level lessons in the same term.
Requests for MUS 500 projects must be received by the end of the year preceding graduation. Students are
strongly advised to continue their study of voice or an instrument through studio lessons and ensembles.
Bachelor of Music in Music Education
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
1/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Seventy-six credits including MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, 116, 201 or 214 and 215, 211, 212, 237, 337, 344,
431, 443, 444, 445, seven credits of Ensembles, and 14 credits of Applied Lessons on one instrument. Students
with a vocal emphasis must complete MUS 132, 133 and 138, and one term of an instrumental ensemble or
instrumental pedagogy course with Departmental permission. Students with an instrumental emphasis must
complete MUS 133, 134, 135, 136, and 137. One term of a choral ensemble may be substituted for MUS 133
with Departmental permission. All candidates must complete MUS 116 (piano proficiency) by the end of the fall
term of the junior year.
Education courses required: PSY 121, EDC 200, 201, 220, 320, 330, 346, 348, 353, 445n or 445o, 490,
491.
Bachelor of Music in Performance
Eighty-eight credits including MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, 116, 201 or 214 and 215, 211, 212, 237, 337, 443,
444, 445, 500, eight credits of Ensembles, 28 credits of Applied Lessons on one instrument or voice and 8 credits
of elective coursework subject to Department approval. MUS 500 must be a recital.
Minor Requirements
Twenty-four credits including MUS 111, 111a, 112, 112a, and 120; two credits from MUS 201, 211, 212,
214, 215, 237, 337, 443, 444 or 445; and six credits of applied lessons on one instrument or voice.
Four credits from MUS, with the exception of practicum or independent study courses,
count towards the Distributive Requirements in the Humanities.
MUS 111.
Comprehensive Musicianship I
4 credits
Introduction to language of music and rudiments of rhythmic, melodic, harmonic and formal organization. Emphasis
on fundamentals of scale formation, major and minor keys, and simple chord types. Ear training through sight
singing and computer assisted instruction, including melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictation. (Offered every year)
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
2/14
11/10/2010
MUS 111a.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Aural Skills I
2 credits
Develops aural skills through a range of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic exercises. Introduces solfege syllables.
Should be taken concurrently with MUS 111. (Offered every year)
MUS 112.
Comprehensive Musicianship II
4 credits
MUS 111
Continuation of study of musical language. Emphasis on harmonic progression, seventh chords, modulation and
exploration of small-scale forms in music. (Offered every year)
MUS 112a.
Aural Skills II
2 credits
MUS 111a
Continuation of Aural Skills I. Should be taken concurrently with MUS 112. (Offered every year)
MUS 114-115.
Class Piano
2 credits each
Designed for students with little or no piano background. Explores basic methodology of keyboard technique,
sight-reading and repertoire building. Especially recommended for Music Education majors. MUS 115 is a
continuation of MUS 114. (Offered every year)
MUS 116.
Piano Proficiency
2 credits
MUS 115 or Permission
Performing with fluency and at the appropriate tempo, chord progressions, scales, accompaniments, realizations
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
3/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
and repertoire. (Offered every year)
MUS 117-118.
Class Voice
2 credits each
Permission for 118
Basic principles of singing for the student with little or no previous training. (Offered every year)
MUS 120.
Survey of Music Literature
4 credits
Introductory survey of major musical works representative of the styles and genres of the important periods of
musical development. Extensive listening. (Offered every other year)
MUS 132.
Vocal Pedagogy
1 credit
Introduction to the physiology of the vocal mechanism. Development of fundamental techniques used in private
voice instruction, including vocal exercises used to establish and promote vocal health, literature for young singers,
and the teaching of voice lessons. (Offered every other year)
MUS 133.
Group Vocal Techniques
1 credit
Development of pedagogical skills for the ensemble director, including vowel unification and voice matching to
enhance choral tone. Emphasis on functional knowledge of the voice in ensemble for education majors with either
instrumental or choral specialization. Students are required to work with one of the Glee Clubs. (Offered every
other year)
MUS 134.
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
Woodwind Pedagogy
4/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
1 credit
Principles of tone production, fingering and embouchure for flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon (or saxophone).
Specialization on the instrument of the student's choice. (Offered every other year)
MUS 135.
Brass Pedagogy
1 credit
Principles of tone production, fingering and embouchure for trumpet, French horn, trombone and tuba.
Specialization on the instrument of the student's choice. (Offered every other year)
MUS 136.
String Pedagogy
1 credit
Principles of musicianship on the violin, viola, cello and double bass. Designed for music education students.
Emphasis on elementary string teaching methods and large group ensemble techniques necessary for school
orchestral directing. (Offered every other year)
MUS 137.
Percussion Pedagogy
1 credit
Principles of playing percussion instruments with emphasis on snare drum, mallet keyboard instruments and timpani.
(Offered every other year)
MUS 138.
Choral Pedagogy
2 credits
2 terms MUS 151, 157 or 158
Principles of voice production, sight reading and singing. Emphasis on the selection of choral literature particularly
with regard to developing voice. (Offered every other year)
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
5/14
11/10/2010
MUS 140.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Introduction to Non-Western Music
4 credits
An introductory survey of the traditional music of non-Western countries. Examines the role of music as ritual,
aesthetic experience, and mode of communication in diverse cultures. No music background necessary.
Ensembles
Applies to: MUS 150-159 and 351.
Ensembles are open to all students who audition and receive permission from the instructor prior to registration.
No more than eight credits of participation in all ensembles combined may be applied toward degree requirements.
All ensembles are offered every year.
MUS 150.
Accompanying
1 credit
MUS 151.
Alma Choir
1 credit
MUS 152.
Alma Symphony Orchestra
1 credit
MUS 153.
Kiltie Band
1 credit
MUS 154.
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
Scottish Arts
6/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
1 credit
MUS 155.
Percussion Ensemble
1 credit
MUS 156.
Jazz Ensemble
1 credit
MUS 157.
Women's Glee Club
1 credit
MUS 158.
Men's Glee Club
1 credit
MUS 159.
Chamber Music
1 credit
MUS 180.
Topics in Music
2-4 credits
Selected topics in music. May be taken more than once if topics differ. Only two registrations count toward Music
Major.
Performance Courses
Applies to: MUS 190A-Z, 191/*391, 192/*392, 193/*393, 194/*394, 195/*395, 196/*396,
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
7/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
196A, 197/*397, and 198/*398. (Offered every year)
Private lesson offerings are open to both majors and non-majors who complete an audition and receive
permission to register. Practice room and private instruction fee for the 2009-10 academic year is $200 per term
for a weekly half-hour lesson (all MUS 190-198 courses). Fees are charged when students register.
The 300-level (391-398) represents upper level performance skill and experience and requires Departmental
approval. Candidates for the Bachelor of Music in Performance are advised to enroll at the 300-level by the
second semester of the first year. Only 300-level students may elect four hours of credit. The Department will
consider all candidates for the Bachelor of Music in Performance for 300-level suitability at the end of the first term
of study. Students may request 300-level status no earlier than the Winter Term of the first year. Fees are waived
for 300-level students. Juried lessons are offered every term.
MUS 191-*391.
Strings
2-4 credits each term
A-Violin; B-Viola; C-Violoncello; D-Double Bass; Y-Guitar
MUS 192-*392.
Woodwinds
2-4 credits each term
E-Flute; F-Oboe; G-Clarinet; H-Bassoon; I-Saxophone; P-Bagpipes
MUS 193-*393.
Brass
2-4 credits each term
J-Trumpet; K-Horn; L-Trombone; M-Euphonium; N-Tuba
MUS 194-*394.
Percussion
2-4 credits each term
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
8/14
11/10/2010
MUS 195-*395.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Voice
2-4 credits each term
MUS 196-*396.
Piano
2-4 credits each term
MUS 197A-*397A.
Organ
2-4 credits each term
MUS 197B-*397B.
Harpsichord
2-4 credits each term
MUS 198.
Composition
2 credits
$100
MUS 111 and Permission
Applied composition provides individual lessons in both the craft and creative process of composing for acoustic
instruments. Completed projects that develop original musical ideas for various instrumental and vocal ensembles
will be required.
MUS *201.
Music and Sound for Digital Media
4 credits
Examines theoretical and technical elements of digital sound and music, including sound design and synthesis, sound
editing, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) sequencing, studio recording techniques, digital signal
processing, computer-based music publishing, sound effect and narration tracks for video and the role of sound in
alma.edu/content/catalog/3-dept.php?…
9/14
11/10/2010
Alma College | Music (MUS)
interactive development. Emphasis on sound in digital media projects with layers of media data in formats such as
the World Wide Web, Power Point presentations, Flash, QuickTime™ CD-ROM and DVD. (Offered every
year)
MUS *211.
Comprehensive Musicianship III
4 credits
MUS 112
Continuation in the study of harmonic usage and musical form with presentation and analysis of advanced chromatic
materials; organizing principles present in the fugue, sonata, variation and rondo forms. (Offered every year)
MUS *212.
Comprehensive Musicianship IV
4 credits
MUS 211
Discussion and examination of the expanded tonal resources and compositional devices of late 19th- through early
21st-century music. (Offered every other year)
MUS 214.
MIDI Composition and Arranging
2 credits
Applications of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) for recording, scoring and musical production. Covers
basic MIDI sequencing, recording, production and arranging techniques. Students complete short compositional
exercises using technology to explore MIDI formats and compositional procedures. (Offered every year)
MUS 215.
Music and Computers
2 credits
Overview of the impact of computers and technology in the music professions. Topics include design of recording
studio and lab environments, MIDI technology, fundamentals of audio technology, multimedia applications and
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using sound/music on the Web. (Offered every year)
MUS 225.
Orchestration and Arranging
2 credits
MUS 112
Provides a practical, in-depth examination of acoustic instruments, and explores methods of scoring, transcribing
and arranging for a variety of instrumental ensembles. Includes a final orchestration project created using Finale or
Sibelius software that will be played by the Alma College band or orchestra.
MUS *237.
Conducting and Score Reading
2 credits
MUS 112
Art of conducting, rehearsal techniques and procedures, score reading, problems of interpretation, organization and
activities of choral and instrumental groups. (Offered every year)
MUS *250.
Musical Theatre Techniques
4 credits
The staging of and participation in the performance of a work for the musical theatre — including acting, singing
and movement — which is presented at the end of the term. Course may be repeated once for credit.
MUS *337.
Advanced Conducting
2 credits
Continuation of MUS 237. Emphasis on advanced analytical, interpretive, and technical conducting skills, as well
as practical aspects of successfully leading instrumental and choral ensembles. (Offered every year)
MUS *340.
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Piano and Chamber Music Literature
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4 credits
Students attend the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival. A survey of keyboard and chamber music literature
ranging from the classical to jazz repertoire. Analysis and study of works appropriate to class participants as well
as critical listening, and theoretical-historical study. (Offered every other year)
MUS *344.
Elementary School Music
4 credits
EDC 201 and 200; Music Major or Minor or Training; TEP
Examination of methods and materials in music. Required of Music Majors who wish to be certified to teach music
at elementary and secondary levels. Open also to Education students with music background. (Offered every other
year)
MUS *350.
Opera Workshop
1-4 credits
Basic techniques of operatic performance: role preparation, body movement related to music, acting, and
techniques. May be repeated for up to a total of 4 credits.
MUS *351.
Alma College Choir
1 credit
(Offered every year)
MUS *380.
Topics in Music
2-4 credits
Selected topics in music. May be taken more than once if topics differ. Only two registrations count toward a
Music Major. (Offered every year)
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MUS *398.
Alma College | Music (MUS)
Advanced Composition
4 credits
MUS 112 and Permission
Individual lessons are provided in both the craft and creative process of composing for acoustic instruments. This
advanced course focuses on completing large-scale projects that develop original musical ideas for various
instrumental and vocal ensembles.
MUS *399.
Independent Study
2-4 credits
Permission
MUS *431.
General Methods of Music Education
4 credits
Permission
Principles of group process teaching and classroom management. Accompaniment skills in piano and recorder,
rehearsal techniques, teaching basic instrumental and vocal skills in grades 5-12 and a pedagogical overview of the
human voice and standard band and orchestral instruments including tone production, practical ranges and related
functions in an ensemble. (Offered every other year)
MUS *443.
Music History I
4 credits
MUS 112
Antiquity, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. (Offered every other year)
MUS *444.
Music History II
4 credits
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MUS 112
Baroque and classical music. (Offered every year)
MUS *445.
Music History III
4 credits
MUS 112
Music of the 19th and 20th centuries, including relationships between the popular, folk and art music traditions of
the United States and other non-Western European cultures. (Offered every year)
MUS *499.
Independent Study
2-4 credits
Permission
MUS *500.
Graduation Recital or Senior Thesis
2 credits
Permission
Satisfies the Department's comprehensive evaluation requirement.
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