Music Theory (MUTH)

A conceptual explanation of basic music vocabulary and sound resources–rhythm, meter, modes, scales, clefs, intervals, notation, acoustics–with musical examples. It is strongly recommended that students without prior music theory experience take this course before attempting MUTH 101 or MUTH 191.

Harmonic and melodic dictation. Sight-singing, rhythm reading, keyboard applications, basic conducting, and beginning improvisation techniques. Students without prior music theory experience are strongly encouraged to take MUTH 100 before attempting this course.

Material and structural elements of tonal music, including music fundamentals (scales, intervals, and chords); major-minor tonality; harmonic symbols; cadences; embellishing tones; voice leading; harmonic function; and analytical strategies. Students without prior music theory experience are strongly encouraged to take MUTH 100 before attempting this course.

Prerequisite: MUTH 101. Continued harmonic and melodic dictation. Sight-singing, keyboard applications, basic conducting, beginning improvisation techniques.

Prerequisite: MUTH 191. Chromatic Music Theory of the 18th and 19th Centuries. Harmonic syntax and structure including altered chords, mixed modes, advanced tonality and modulation, small forms.

Prerequisite: MUTH 201. Development and application of aural and written skills pertaining to modern era. Includes continuations of sight-singing, dictation, keyboard, conducting, and improvisation techniques.

Prerequisite: MUTH 191. Introduction to the principles of counterpoint as exemplified in the music of the Renaissance. Introduction to larger musical forms.

Prerequisite: MUTH 291. A study of techniques of instrumental scoring considered historically and creatively. Project required.

Prerequisite: MUTH 101, MUTH 291. Contemporary music theory. Theoretical developments and analytical techniques of the 20th and early 21st centuries.

Studies of a topic in Music Theory.

Prerequisite: MUTH 291, MUTH 201. A practicum developing skills in composing, arranging, and adapting music to meet the needs abilities of a variety of ensembles, and with regard to music copyright laws.

Individual study is under the direction of a Music Department faculty member. Details may be obtained from the chair. Project required. By permission of the department.

Individual study is under the direction of a Music Department faculty member. Details may be obtained from the chair. Project required. By permission of the department.

Supervised off-campus experiences, developed in consultation with the Department of Music and the off-campus agency. By permission only.