Music
Mission Statement: The Department of Music engages the intellect at multiple levels through the theory of music on its own terms, the history of written music, the practice and performance of music, the anthropology of music around the world, and the technology of music analog and digital.
If a student is unsure about his preparation for a given course, he should consult a member of the music faculty. In general, the following courses are designed for the student with little or no musical background:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUS-101 | Music in Society: A History | 1 |
| MUS-102 | World Music | 1 |
| MUS-104 | Topics in Music | 0.5 |
| MUS-107 | Basic Theory and Notation | 1 |
MUS-101 Music in Society: A History introduces students to musical concepts, styles, and forms and enables listeners to become more sophisticated and articulate.
MUS-102 World Music is an introduction to world music apart from the European written classical traditions.
MUS-104 Topics in Music is a ½-credit special-topics course open to all students; previous topics have included Bach, Jazz, and African American Music.
MUS-107 Basic Theory and Notation introduces students to the rudiments of music (rhythm, scales, keys, triads), and assumes no prior experience with reading music; it also prepares students for the music theory sequence (MUS-201 Music Theory I, MUS-301 Music Theory II, MUS-302 Music Theory III).
Intermediate courses include the following:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUS-201 | Music Theory I | 1 |
| MUS-202 | Instruments & Culture | 1 |
| MUS-204 | Topics in Music | 1 |
| MUS-205 | European Music Before 1750 | 1 |
| MUS-206 | European Music Since 1750 | 1 |
| MUS-221 | Intro to Electronic Music | 1 |
| MUS-222 | Electronic Music History & Lit | 1 |
| MUS-223 | Digital Sound Synthesis | 1 |
| MUS-224 | Global Perspec Music Cultures & Identity | 1 |
| MUS-260 | Intermediate Applied Music I (no Credit) | 0 |
MUS-201 Music Theory I (Theory I) assumes and requires that a student already has the minimum background provided by MUS-107 Basic Theory and Notation, or other prior experience as assessed by the instructor.
MUS-205 European Music Before 1750 and MUS-206 European Music Since 1750 focus on the historical periods of the European written classical music traditions, and assume a higher level of interest.
MUS-202 Instruments & Culture provides an introduction to a variety of world-music instrumental types as constructed and used in various cultures.
MUS-204 Topics in Music is a 1-credit special-topics course open to all students; previous topics have included U.S. American music, electronic music history and literature, computer-driven algorithmic composition, music in East Asian cultures, and music computer programming.
MUS-221 Intro to Electronic Music fosters creativity through work in electronic media, and is restricted to sophomores and above.
MUS-222 Electronic Music History & Lit focuses on the history of electronic music.
MUS-223 Digital Sound Synthesis teaches basic sound synthesis and design through computer programming.
MUS-224 Global Perspec Music Cultures & Identity focuses on the ethnography of music in a variety of world cultures, and assumes a higher level of interest.
MUS-260 Intermediate Applied Music I (no Credit) provides intermediate private instruction on an instrument (or voice), and presumes a background of study and performance on that instrument and the ability to read music.
The advanced student is served by the following:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUS-287 | Independent Study | 0.5-1 |
| MUS-288 | Independent Study | 0.5-1 |
| MUS-297 | Electronic Music Projects | 0.5 |
| MUS-298 | Electronic Music Projects | 0.5 |
| MUS-301 | Music Theory II | 1 |
| MUS-302 | Music Theory III | 1 |
| MUS-304 | Special Topics in Music | 1 |
| MUS-360 | Intermediate Applied Music II | 0 |
| MUS-387 | Indep Study in Composition | 0.5-1 |
| MUS-388 | Independent Study in Composition | 0.5-1 |
| MUS-401 | Senior Seminar | 1 |
| MUS-460 | Advanced Applied Music ( No Credit) | 0 |
MUS-301 Music Theory II and MUS-302 Music Theory III require the background of MUS-201 Music Theory I.
MUS-304 Special Topics in Music is a special topics seminar created especially for senior music majors, and may serve as a senior capstone in joint enrollment with students in MUS-204 Topics in Music.
MUS-360 Intermediate Applied Music II and MUS-460 Advanced Applied Music ( No Credit) provide private instruction on an instrument or voice for students who have studied at the college level in MUS-260 Intermediate Applied Music I (no Credit)
In MUS-287 Independent Study and MUS-288 Independent Study the individual student pursues a special topic in depth.
MUS-297 Electronic Music Projects and MUS-298 Electronic Music Projects require MUS-221 Intro to Electronic Music, and are for independent or group projects in electronic music.
Advanced music students who have completed the music theory sequence may take MUS-387 Indep Study in Composition or MUS-388 Independent Study in Composition.
MUS-401 Senior Seminar is a capstone course for senior music majors, though MUS-304 Special Topics in Music may be substituted for it.
Music students participating in the New York Arts Program, a semester-long internship program in New York, apprentice themselves to professional musicians or arts managers. The Institute of European Studies in Vienna broadens and strengthens some music majors, particularly in vocal and instrumental instruction. A program in the humanities at the Newberry Library in Chicago offers opportunities to students of musicology.
Music Lessons
The Department offers lessons in piano, voice, guitar, percussion, bass, or any standard band, orchestral, or jazz instrument. Instruction is given by professional artists who teach at Wabash one or two days per week. Wabash students pay for lessons on a per-semester basis. Students who enroll in lessons must pay a $300 fee assessed through the Business Office. Students receive twelve lessons each semester, thus receiving 24 lessons in a full academic year.
Music Lessons for No Credit
Music lessons are offered non-credit to students (typically non-majors and non-minors) who wish to learn an instrument or study with a teacher. Students will be registered in MUS-160. No grade will be reported to the Registrar, but students will receive a CR on their transcript. If the student drops lessons after the 3rd arranged lesson, he will be charged for the course, but the course will not appear on his transcript.
Music Lessons for Credit
Music lessons are offered for credit to students (typically majors and minors) as an Independent Study. The student will receive 0.5 credits for two sequential semesters of lessons. The student will be registered in MUS-X87 (no credit) and MUS-X88 (Credit). Specific course numbers (187, 287, 387, etc.) will reflect the student’s level and progression. MUS-X87 it will appear on the transcript with a grade of CR; MUS-X88 will appear as a standard grade. The student will complete and submit an Independent Study form to the Registrar’s office.
The expected semester sequence for music lessons is Fall-Spring, but with the permission of the Music Department, a student may begin a year of lessons in the Spring semester and complete them in the Fall. Students taking lessons for credit are expected to perform in the department recital and successfully complete a jury at the end of the semester.
Performance Ensembles
Participation in a performance ensemble may be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis. Students are expected to participate in ensembles for a full year. There are no grades assigned for non-credit participation, so it does not compute in the student’s GPA; non-credit participation is noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is graded, and therefore does compute in the student’s GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of four years (2 credits) of for-credit participation, total, regardless of which ensemble(s) are involved. For ensembles that have been approved for Literature/Fine Arts distribution, a total of two years (1 credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of the distribution requirement. Ensemble participation is required for majors and minors. There is no maximum for non-credit participation; students may participate freely as their own schedules allow. Students do not register for participation in any ensemble at the time of course registration, but initiate participation with the ensemble director or the Fine Arts Center Academic Administrative Coordinator at the beginning of the academic year.
Music Theory
The Music Theory sequence is designed to develop an understanding of the rich grammar and syntax of common-practice functional tonality. This objective is approached through listening, analysis, and writing. Aural skills (the ability to perceive and reconstruct/represent musical events) and basic musicianship skills (sight-singing and basic keyboard performance) will be stressed throughout the course alongside analysis and conception, as any real understanding of music is inconceivable without such abilities. Each theory course requires weekly musicianship meetings in addition to the three weekly class sessions.
The three-semester sequence is required of, but not limited to, music majors. All students wishing to enroll in Theory I must either successfully complete MUS-107 Basic Theory and Notation (Fundamentals of Music) or pass an exam to place them out of MUS-107 Basic Theory and Notation. Since the theory sequence is offered in a rotating schedule, starting over every third semester, interested students are encouraged to take the exam (and, if deemed necessary, MUS-107 Basic Theory and Notation) early in their academic careers in order to be prepared when Theory I comes around in the rotation.
Student Learning Goals
Systemic Engagement (Theoretical Analysis): Develop and apply theoretical knowledge and skills to deductively and inductively analyze linear and simultaneous aspects of diatonic, chromatic and nontonal music at a systemic level of cognitive awareness.
Research and Documentary Engagement (Historical Analysis): Develop and apply analytical, research and writing skills and historical knowledge to study, critically analyze, and appreciate music literature within discrete historical contexts.
Human and Material Engagement (Cultural and Physical Analysis): Develop global awareness of music in the diversity of human cultural and material systems and instrument types, to establish through their observation more complex modes of social and cultural identification.
Practical Engagement (Aptitude and Skill Development): 1) Develop and apply aural perception, phonatory awareness, and graphic recognition and realization of music; 2) Gain and develop individual solo performance skills; 3) Exercise and develop collective ensemble performance skills.
Comprehensive Engagement (Disciplinary Analysis): Develop comprehensive awareness of connections between theoretical, historical, cultural, and practical aspects of music.
Requirements for the Major
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Music Theory Sequence | ||
| MUS-201 | Music Theory I | 1 |
| MUS-301 | Music Theory II | 1 |
| MUS-302 | Music Theory III | 1 |
| Musicology Sequence | ||
| MUS-205 | European Music Before 1750 | 1 |
| MUS-206 | European Music Since 1750 | 1 |
| MUS-224 | Global Perspec Music Cultures & Identity | 1 |
| Ensemble Performance | ||
| Two full years (four semesters) of participation in one of the following ensembles: 1 | 1 | |
| Brass Ensemble | ||
or MUS-152 | Chamber Orchestra | |
or MUS-153 | Glee Club | |
or MUS-155 | Jazz Ensemble | |
or MUS-156 | Wamidan World Music Ensemble | |
| Elective | ||
| One elective credit in Music | 1 | |
| Capstone | ||
| MUS-401 | Senior Seminar | 1 |
| or MUS-304 | Special Topics in Music | |
| Total Credits | 9 | |
- 1
The requirement to participate in ensembles must be met by enrolling for two full years in the same for-credit ensemble (MUS-151 Brass Ensemble, MUS-152 Chamber Orchestra, MUS-153 Glee Club, MUS-155 Jazz Ensemble, or MUS-156 Wamidan World Music Ensemble). Students receive ½ credit for each full year of for-credit ensemble participation. Majors must also complete a Senior Project in music.
Music majors are strongly encouraged to take courses in the following areas in fulfillment of their distribution coursework: Art History, Language Studies (Classical and Modern), Literature (and Culture), Philosophy (especially aesthetics), Psychology (especially perception), and General Physics (especially physics of sound).
For Senior Comprehensives, majors must pass a written departmental examination which draws upon a broad knowledge and understanding of music history, theory, formal analysis, and musicianship. Majors must also pass a one-hour oral examination as part of the comprehensive examinations.
Requirements for the Minor
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Ensemble 1 | ||
| MUS-151 | Brass Ensemble | 0.5 |
| or MUS-152 | Chamber Orchestra | |
| or MUS-153 | Glee Club | |
| or MUS-155 | Jazz Ensemble | |
| or MUS-156 | Wamidan World Music Ensemble | |
| Music Theory | ||
| MUS-201 | Music Theory I | 1 |
| Select one from the following: | 1 | |
| Musicology | ||
| European Music Before 1750 | ||
| European Music Since 1750 | ||
| Global Perspec Music Cultures & Identity | ||
| Electives | ||
| Any Music electives, other than MUS-107 | 2.5 | |
| Total Credits | 5 | |
- 1
The requirement to participate in ensembles must be met by enrolling for the full year in a for-credit ensemble (MUS-151 Brass Ensemble, MUS-152 Chamber Orchestra, MUS-153 Glee Club, MUS-155 Jazz Ensemble, or MUS-156 Wamidan World Music Ensemble). Students receive ½ credit for each full year of for-credit ensemble study.
MUS-051 Brass Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-052 Chamber Orchestra
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-053 Glee Club
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-054 Jazz Improv Combo
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-055 Jazz Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-056 Wamidan World Music Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-057 Woodwind Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-101 Music in Society: A History
Appreciation for the history of music and the art
of educated listening for students with little or
no formal training. The class covers works from
the major style periods of European classical
music, as well as some examples from non-Western
traditions, both as examples of their genres, and
as expressions of the societies that produce
them. Students may attend Music Department
concerts and review them. This course is open to
all students, is suitable for fulfilling
distribution requirements, but it does not count
for the minor.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-102 World Music
An introduction to the various world musical
cultures and practices found outside the Western
Classical Art tradition. The course gives an
overview of music genres, instrumental types and
resources, forms, and styles that originate from
selected world music traditions in sub-Saharan
Africa, Arabic Africa, Middle East, Near East,
North America, South/Latin America, and the
Caribbean region. Musical practices are studied
in terms of structure, performance, aesthetic
values, cross-cultural contacts, contextual
function, and significance. Coursework includes
weekly reading and listening assignments, musical
demonstrations, and hands-on experience, as well
as the acquisition and development of listening
skills. This course is open to all students, is
suitable for fulfilling distribution
requirements, and is typically offered in the fall
semester.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-104 Topics in Music
A class for all students, regardless of
background. Previous topics have included the
history of jazz, the symphony, music of Duke
Ellington, music of J.S. Bach, music of
Beethoven, and music and technology. Suitable for
fulfilling distribution requirements. This course
does not count toward the major. Please refer to
the Registrar's page for course description.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-107 Basic Theory and Notation
This course introduces students to the basic
components of heard and notated music, and how to
read music. Topics include rhythm, pulse, pitch,
meter, notation, the piano keyboard, intervals,
scales, key signatures, triads, cadences, chord
progressions, composing and harmonizing simple
melodies, and elementary ear-training. The goals
of this course are to provide the student with an
understanding of written notation, along with
basic skills that promote further music study,
performance, and composition. It is open to all
students and is suitable for fulfilling
distribution requirements, but it does not count
toward the major or minor.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-151 Brass Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-152 Chamber Orchestra
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-153 Glee Club
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-154 Jazz Improvisation Combo
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-155 Jazz Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-156 Wamidan World Music Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-157 Woodwind Ensemble
Participation in a given performance ensemble may
be either on a non-credit or a for-credit basis.
Students are expected to participate in ensembles
for a full year. There are no grades assigned for
non-credit participation, so it does not compute
in the student's GPA; non-credit participation is
noted on transcripts. For-credit participation is
graded, and therefore does compute in the
student's GPA. Students are allowed a maximum of
four years (2 credits) of for-credit
participation, total, regardless of which
ensemble(s) are involved. A total of two years (1
credit) may be applied to the fulfillment of
distribution requirements. Ensemble participation
is required for majors and minors as detailed
above. There is no maximum for non-credit
participation; students may participate freely as
their own schedules allow. Students do not
register for participation in any ensemble at the
time of course registration, but initiate
participation with the ensemble director or the
Fine Arts Center Academic Coordinator at the
beginning of the academic year.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5
MUS-160 Beginning Applied Music
This course is for beginning students who have
never studied voice or the particular instrument
before. Students focus on the basic technical
aspects of singing or playing, and are expected to
focus on a variety of repertoire. MUS-160 is a no
credit course. $300 Course Fee in addition to
normal tuition charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-107 or departmental exam, or instructor permission
Corequisites: MUS-107 or departmental exam, or instructor permission
Credits: 0
MUS-161 Beginning Applied Music
This course is for beginning music students
seeking credit for their second semester of
lessons in voice or a particular instrument.
Students focus on the basic technical aspects of
singing or playing, and are expected to focus on a
variety of repertoire. Students are required to
perform in at least one student recital during the
academic year. This does not count toward the
major or minor. Beginning students seeking credit
for their second semester of music lessons must
complete a full year of instruction to receive ½
credit. Requires course Fee in addition to normal
tuition charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-107 or department placement exam, and MUS-160, or
instructor permnission.
Credits: 0.5
MUS-201 Music Theory I
This course begins with a review of intervals and
triads, followed by an examination of tonal music
(consonance and dissonance; functional tonality;
meter and tonal rhythm). From this study of
functional tonal harmony in both its simultaneous
and linear aspects, students move on to examine
the notion of form, including: general melodic
characteristics; tonality and harmonic
implication in melody; tendency tones; melodic
cadences; motives; phrases and periods; structure
and embellishment in melody.
Prerequisites: MUS-107 or permission of instructor, MUS-201L
Corequisites: MUS-201L
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-202 Instruments & Culture
An introduction to world-music instrumental
cultures with an emphasis on organology. A wide
selection of traditional instruments will provide
a basis for the study of cultural, scientific,
and artistic aspects of instrumental music.
Specific cultures are illuminated by the
examination of aesthetic principles valued by
each tradition, the role of musical instruments
in culture, the theory of each tradition, and the
visual representation of the instrument as both a
sound and an art object. The course culminates in
a final project. For this project, students may
choose to write a term paper, give a class paper
presentation, perform on a traditional
instrument, or design and build an instrument by
constructing a replica of an existing instrument,
modifying a traditional instrument, or creating a
totally new musical instrument design. It is open
to all students, is suitable for fulfilling
distribution requirements, and is offered in the
spring semester.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
MUS-204 Topics in Music
A class for all students, regardless of
background. Previous topics have included U.S.
American music, electronic music history and
literature, computer-driven algorithmic
composition, music in East Asian cultures, music
computer programing, and fundamentals for
singers. This course is suitable for fulfilling
distribution requirements.Refer to the Course
Descriptions document on the Registrar's webpage
for topics and descriptions of current offerings.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-205 European Music Before 1750
The rise of European art music from religious and
folk traditions; Gregorian chant and early
polyphonic genres; the growth of polyphony in
mass, motet, and madrigal; early instrumental
music; European genres of the 17th and 18th
centuries: opera, oratorio, cantata, concerto,
suite, sonata, keyboard music. Some emphasis on
the music of J.S. Bach.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-206 European Music Since 1750
A study of the evolution of European classical
musical styles and genres from the mid-18th
century to the present. The course focuses on
Classical composers (Haydn, Mozart, and
Beethoven) who transformed musical style in
sonata, symphony, concerto, chamber music, opera,
and sacred music; major Romantic works and
significant styles ranging from Schubert to
Mahler; developments in European art music during
the 20th century with emphasis on increasingly
diverse cultural/aesthetic concerns and
compositional techniques, as well as experimental
departures from European tradition after 1945.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-221 Intro to Electronic Music
In this course students create electronic music
and/or sonic art in the Electronic Music Studio.
A background in music is not required, though it
may inform the work of some students. Each
student learns how electronic music is made with
digital applications, creates a series of
electronic music projects, and considers what
function, meaning and value such sonic objects
have. Topics introduced include the Music
Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), digital
sequencing, audio editing, signal processing,
musical acoustics, sound synthesis,
spatialization, computer music mixing and
production, aesthetics, psychology and reception
of sonic art, and composition of electronic
media. Students are expected to spend six hours a
week outside class working on their projects in
the Electronic Music Studio. This course is
offered in the fall semester.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
MUS-222 Electronic Music History & Lit
A survey of the history and literature of
electronic music, providing thorough treatment of
the relevant history behind the marriage of
technology and music that has led to the state of
electronic music today. Beginning with the early
history of electronic music before 1945, the
course outlines key composers, inventions, and
concepts, ranging from Edgard Varèse to Brian Eno?
musique concrète to turntablism? and compositional
techniques used in both analog and digital
synthesis.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
MUS-223 Digital Sound Synthesis
This course teaches digital sound design for
electronic music. Using the visual programing
language Max/MSP as a basis for both theory and
practice, it covers concepts and techniques for
basic sound synthesis, processing and sampling,
music-related programing, additive and vector
synthesis, noise generators, filters and
subtractive synthesis, virtual synthesizer
programing? control signals, and programing
techniques for the objectoriented programing
environment. These concepts and practices are
applied to the composition of electronic music.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
MUS-224 Global Perspec Music Cultures & Identity
This course is designed to develop awareness and
analytical appreciation of global musical
diversity found within a variety world cultures.
It covers the origin of Ethnomusicology as a
sub-discipline, the classification of
instruments, the musical and contextual roles
instruments play in various cultures, tonal
systems in use, and polyphonic and polyrhythmic
textures as commonly applied. Course objectives
are met through analysis and discussion of texts,
audio recordings, and ethnographic fieldwork
videos.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-260 Intermediate Applied Music I (no Credit)
This course is for intermediate students with two
semesters of experience in music lessons at Wabash
in voice or a particular instrument. Students are
expected to have previous experience on the
instrument (or voice) and show basic proficiency
in reading music. Students progress beyond purely
technical aspects of singing or playing. They are
expected to master a variety of repertoire and
understand historical, cultural, analytic, and
stylistic aspects of works studied in applied
instruction. MUS-260 is a no credit course. $300
Course Fee in addition to normal tuition charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-161, or two semesters of MUS-160.
Credits: 0
MUS-261 Intermediate Applied Music I (credit)
This course is for intermediate students seeking
credit for their fourth semester of music lessons
at Wabash in voice or a particular instrument.
Students are expected to have previous experience
on the instrument or voice, and show basic
proficiency in reading music. Students progress
beyond purely technical aspects of singing or
playing. They are expected to master a variety of
repertoire and understand historical, cultural,
analytic, and stylistic aspects of works studied
in applied instruction. Students are required to
perform in at least one student recital during the
academic year. This course is suitable for
fulfilling distribution requirements. It is
required for the major and minor. Students seeking
credit for their fourth semester of music lessons
must complete a full year of instruction (MUS-260
and MUS-261) to receive ½ credit. $150 Course Fee
in addition to normal tuition charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-260
Credits: 0.5
MUS-287 Independent Study
Individual research projects. The manner of study
will be determined by the student in consultation
with the instructor. Students must receive
written approval of their project proposal from a
department Chair before registering for the
course.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-288 Independent Study
Individual research projects. The manner of study
will be determined by the student in consultation
with the instructor. Students must receive
written approval of their project proposal from a
department Chair before registering for the
course.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-297 Electronic Music Projects
This course provides individual applied
instruction in the composition of electronic
music projects. Students will individually create
studio-based fixed-media compositions and/or
develop digital applications for live-processed
indivifual or collaborative performance projects.
In all cases, students will be required to
present their work in public performance.
Prerequisites: MUS-221
Credits: 0.5
MUS-298 Electronic Music Projects
This course provides individual applied
instruction in the composition of electronic
music projects. Students will individually create
studio-based fixed-media compositions and/or
develop digital applications for live-processed
indivifual or collaborative performance projects.
In all cases, students will be required to
present their work in public performance.
Prerequisites: MUS-221
Credits: 0.5
MUS-301 Music Theory II
This course is a continuation of elements of
music theory acquired in MUS 201. Students will
learn intermediate elements of harmony such as
non-chord tones, diatonic and secondary chord
functions, modulation, chromatic voice leading,
and basic principles of musical form.
Prerequisites: MUS-201, Take MUS-301L
Corequisites: MUS-301L
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-302 Music Theory III
This course is a continuation of elements of
music theory acquired in MUS 301. Students will
finish study of chromatic harmony; learn tonal
harmony of the late nineteenth century; 20th
century music theory; and classical sonata form.
This is the third course of the three-course
music theory sequence.
Prerequisites: MUS-301
Corequisites: MUS-302L
Credit: 1
Distribution: Literature/Fine Arts
MUS-304 Special Topics in Music
This is a dual-level course, Senior Music Majors
register as MUS 304; students who are NOT Senior
Music Majors register as MUS 204. This is a
topical course. In addition to completing the
reading assignment required of all students in
the course, Senior Music Majors will read
additional scholarly sources to be discussed,
attend regular additional meetings with the
instructor, and write a substantial research
paper. This course will be offered every
Fall.Refer to the Course Descriptions document on
the Registrar's webpage for Topics and
Descriptions of current offerings.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
MUS-313 Special Topics
This is an advanced topics course, which changes
from year to year. Previous topics have included
Conducting, American Music, Choral Literature,
and Major Figures of Jazz. This course may be
repeated for credit when a different topic is
offered. Refer to the Course Descriptions document
on the Registrar's webpage for topics and
descriptions of current offerings.
Prerequisites: MUS-201
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-360 Intermediate Applied Music II
This course is a continuation of Intermediate
Applied Music I. MUS-360 is a no credit course.
$300 Course Fee in addition to normal tuition
charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-261 or two semesters of MUS-260
Credits: 0
MUS-361 Intermediate Applied Music II (credit)
This course is a continuation of Intermediate
Applied Music I, and is for intermediate students
seeking credit for their sixth semester of music
lessons at Wabash in voice or a particular
instrument. Students are required to perform in at
least one student recital during the academic
year. This course is suitable for fulfilling
distribution requirements unless a student has
already completed MUS-261. This course is required
for the major. Students seeking credit for their
sixth semester of music lessons must complete a
full year of instruction (MUS-360 and MUS-361) to
receive ½ credit. $150 Course Fee in addition to
normal tuition charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-360
Credits: 0.5
MUS-387 Indep Study in Composition
This course gives advanced students an
opportunity to engage in deep analysis and
compositional exploration. Students enrolling for
a full-course credit will be given listening
assignments and will be asked to analyze music
related to their analysis or composition
projects. This course number is for fall semester
independent study in composition. Individual
research projects. The manner of study will be
determined by the student in consultation with the
instructor. Students must receive written
approval of their project proposal from a
department Chair before registering for the
course.
Prerequisites: MUS-302
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-388 Independent Study in Composition
This course gives advanced students an
opportunity to engage in generative analysis and
compositional exploration. Students enrolling for
a full-course credit will be given listening
assignments and will be asked to analyze music
related to their analysis or composition
projects. This course number is for spring
semester independent study in composition.
Individual research projects. The manner of study
will be determined by the student in consultation
with the instructor. Students must receive
written approval of their project proposal from a
department Chair before registering for the
course.
Prerequisites: MUS-302
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-401 Senior Seminar
This is the capstone course for music majors
emphasizing connections between theory, history,
and practice. Through an in-depth study of three
seminal masterpieces (e.g., the Bach B Minor
Mass, the Mozart Jupiter Symphony, Schoenberg's
Pierrot Lunaire or the Messiaen Quartet for the
End of Time), this seminar considers the
interrelations of theoretical analysis,
historical and stylistic awareness, performance
practice, and reception. Required of all music
majors. It is offered in the fall semester.
Prerequisites: none
Credit: 1
MUS-460 Advanced Applied Music ( No Credit)
This course is for students who have
completed MUS-361 or two semesters of MUS-360 and
arecontinuing out of personal interest. MUS-460 is
a no credit course.
Prerequisites: MUS-361, or two semesters of MUS-360
Credits: 0
MUS-461 Advanced Applied Music (credit)
This course is for advanced students seeking
credit for their eighth semester of music lessons
at Wabash in voice or a particular instrument, who
have completed MUS-460 and are either preparing a
solo recital in fulfillment of the requirement for
majors to complete a senior project, or are
continuing out of personal interest. For-credit
students are tested and graded at the end of each
semester; final grades are assigned after the
completion of the full year of study. Students are
required to perform a solo recital during the
spring semester. This course does not count toward
the major. Students seeking credit for their
eighth semester of music lessons must complete a
full year of instruction (MUS-460 and MUS-461) to
receive ½ credit. $150 Course Fee in addition to
normal tuition charges.
Prerequisites: MUS-460
Credits: 0.5
MUS-487 Independent Study
Individual research projects. The manner of study
will be determined by the student in consultation
with the instructor. Students must receive
written approval of their project proposal from a
department Chair before registering for the
course.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5-1
MUS-488 Independent Study
Individual research projects. The manner of study
will be determined by the student in consultation
with the instructor. Students must receive
written approval of their project proposal from a
department Chair before registering for the
course.
Prerequisites: none
Credits: 0.5-1