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Course Descriptions
All music students select a theory section (which meets the first two weeks) and a music topics class (which meets the second two weeks).
| ID # | Course Title | Instructor(s) |
| MT-01 | If...You Are New to Theory: Introduction to Theory This course will focus on rhythmic/melodic dictation, sight-reading, terminology, and notation. Students who have not taken a course in theory should sign up for this option. |
Michelle Gulick or Eric Ruple |
| MT-02 | If...You Want More Theory: Theory II This class will build on previous knowledge of the circle of fifths, key signatures, and intervals in relationship to larger musical forms. We will discuss tonality, chord quality, cadences, solfege, and other topics. |
Sarah Tomasewski or Dwayne Wasson |
| MT-03 | If...You Want to Compose: Theory III & Composition We will explore compositional techniques that will be used in creation of class and individual compositions. Understanding of chords, intervals, and clefs (treble, bass, and alto/tenor) will be needed. |
Wishart Bell or Bryan Hooten |
| MR-01 | Listen! If...You Know What’s Good for You How does the ear perceive sound? How does the music to which we listen affect us? Why do people choose the music to which they listen? In this course, we will explore this topics and more. Listening and class discussion will be major components of this class. Bring along your favorite musical selections to share with the class as we delve into the topic of music preference. |
Dwayne Wasson |
| MR-02 | If...I Could Turn Back Time: A History of Musical Styles Ever wonder about the definition of a sackbut? Who were the Schubertiads? Which composer was so handsome that women fainted at his feet? This course will examine music in the context in which it was written through listening examples, graphic representation, and group activities. Discover the people behind the compositions and the stylistic characteristics that define the music of the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern periods. |
Sarah Tomasewski |
| MR-03 | If...Murder, Mayhem, and Madness were Set to Music: Opera The thrilling art form that encompasses all deprivation. Find the passion in this exciting musical form by examining the giants of performance and composition, the history, period movement, and costuming; exploring the highs and lows of instrumental and vocal technique; and listening/viewing selected scenes. What could be more fun than lust, deception, and death? |
Michelle Gulick |
| MR-04 | Conducting 101: The Power of the Hand We will learn and practice conducting patterns and basic interpretive gestures needed for effective ensemble conducting. Bring your instrument and your voice for practical applications of these techniques. |
Wishart Bell |
| MR-05 | Twos and Threes This course will explore the sounds of Latin America, focusing on the music of Cuba, Puerto Rico and Brazil as well as their African origins. Students will listen to and participate in performances of Salsa, Bossa Nova, Tropicalia, Samba, Son and others. The interlocking rhythmic possibilities of this music will globalize the students' perception of all music. |
Bryan Hooten |
| MR-06 | If...Modern Music Made Any Sense Ever wonder what 20th (and 21st) century music was all about? Does “serious” modern music have to sound so, strange…bad…incomprehensible? If we only had a clue! If you are bold enough, or curious enough, then you are welcome to join. We will explore some of the landmarks of the 20th century, where it all began (not in 1900, by the way), and where it's all headed. You will love it, if… |
Eric Ruple |