The following course descriptions are from the Clarke University 2012-2013 Academic Catalog.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS: MUSIC
MUSC 100 RECITAL CLASS 0 hours
Studio and departmental seminar for discussion of issues relative to musical study and performance. Provides opportunities for solo performance, practice and evaluation prior to public recitals and concerts.
MUSC 101 THEORY REVIEW 0 hours
Review of the elements of music: staff, clefs, key signatures, scales, intervals and chords, meter and rhythm, and musical forms. Keyboard applications. For potential music majors. Placement by examination.
MUSC 105 CHORUS 1 hour
Reading and study of choral literature from all style periods. Rehearsal and preparation for public concerts and special events. This course is designated as a "hands-on" fine arts division general education course. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 106 WIND ENSEMBLE 1 hour
Reading and study of instrumental literature concentrating on 20th-century and American composers. Rehearsal and preparation for public concerts and special events. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 111 CLASS VOICE 1 hour
For instrumental music and music education majors, drama students and others who want to acquire basic vocal skills. Normally limited to two semesters. Additional fee.
MUSC 112 CLASS PIANO 1 hour
Keyboard techniques for beginning pianists. For non-music majors. Additional fee.
MUSC 113 KEYBOARD SKILLS 1 hour
Development of keyboard skills necessary to meet the keyboard proficiency requirement for all music majors. Includes preparation, sight-reading and improvisation. For music majors only.
MUSC 119 CLASS GUITAR 1 hour
Guitar techniques for beginning guitarists. Additional fee.
MUSC 121 MUSIC FUNDAMENTALS 3 hours
Introduction to the elements of music: staff, clefs, key signatures, scales, intervals, meter and rhythm, chords and musical forms. Keyboard applications. Introductory course for non-music majors.
MUSC 124 ART OF LISTENING 3 hours
How to listen to Western art music. Includes some popular music and music of other cultures. Study of representative compositions, styles, forms. This course is designated as a fine arts division general education course.
MUSC 126 MUSIC IN WORLD CULTURES 3 hours
An introduction to several of the world’s music traditions, including ways of listening to, understanding and appreciating music and examining its role in society. This course is designated as a fine arts division general education course and is also an approved diversity studies course.
MUSC 131 APPLIED STUDIES: VOICE 1 hour
Basic study of vocal technique through vocalises and song literature from different style periods. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 132 APPLIED STUDIES: KEYBOARD 1 hour
Basic studies in piano or organ techniques and literature from different style periods. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 134 APPLIED STUDIES: STRINGS 1 hour
Basic studies in string techniques and literature. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 135 APPLIED STUDIES: WOODWINDS 1 hour
Basic studies in woodwind techniques and literature. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 136 APPLIED STUDIES: BRASS 1 hour
Basic studies in brass techniques and literature. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 137 APPLIED STUDIES: PERCUSSION 1 hour
Basic studies in percussion techniques and literature. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 138 COMPOSITION I 1 hour
Study of compositional methods and applications of electronic music equipment and software. Includes analysis and writing of smaller forms for piano, voice and other instruments. For the first semester, first-year music major with an emphasis in composition and music education majors, or for the non-music major with the permission of the instructor.
MUSC 139 APPLIED STUDIES: GUITAR 1 hour
Basic studies in guitar techniques and literature. For first-year music or music education majors in their major performance area, for music and music education majors in a minor performance area or for the non-music major. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: Audition.
MUSC 141 DICTION 1 hour
A concise reference guide to the International Phonetic Alphabet used in the transcription and the pronunciation of Western European languages for singers. For music majors.
MUSC 161 MUSIC THEORY I 2 hours
Introduction to the theoretic concepts of music in the common practice period. Diatonic, melodic and harmonic organization; beginning part-writing techniques and analysis. Keyboard applications. Co-requisite: MUSC 162.
MUSC 162 SIGHT-SINGING/EAR TRAINING I 1 hour
Basic diatonic melodies and harmonies. Rhythmic syncopation and subdivision of the beat. Co-requisite: MUSC 161 Music Theory I.
MUSC 171 HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF MUSIC I 3 hours
An introductory survey of major composers and literature from all style periods of Western music and selected non-Western musical genres. For music majors and minors. Ordinarily taken during first semester of the first year.
MUSC 205 TOUR 1-2 hours
Project requirements and credit to be determined by instructor and department chair.
MUSC 208 OPERA WORKSHOP 1 hour
Analysis and performance of roles for the lyric stage. Prerequisite: MUSC 131 or audition.
MUSC 225 MUSIC IN THE UNITED STATES 3 hours
A survey of folk, popular and classical music from the colonial period to contemporary times. This course is designated as a fine arts division general education course.
MUSC 227 THEATER MUSIC 3 hours
A survey of theater music highlighting musicals and opera. Extensive use of videos and recordings with emphasis on listening. This course is designated as a fine arts division general education course. Open to all students.
MUSC 231 VOICE (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of vocal technique and artistry through the study of vocalises and song literature from different style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 131.
MUSC 232 KEYBOARD (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of techniques necessary for the artistic performance of piano or organ works from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 132.
MUSC 234 STRINGS (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for stringed instruments. Study and performance of string literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 134.
MUSC 235 WOODWINDS (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for woodwind instruments. Study and performance of woodwind literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 135.
MUSC 236 BRASS (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for brass instruments. Study and performance of brass literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 136.
MUSC 237 PERCUSSION (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for percussion instruments. Study and performance of percussion literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 137.
MUSC 238 COMPOSITION (Major) 1-2 hours
Analysis and writing of smaller forms for piano, voice and/or other instruments. The student will complete either one work for acoustic instruments and one work in the electronic medium or two works for acoustic instruments. Focuses on the general principles of writing for a variety of instruments and texture types necessary for all composition and music education students. Prerequisite: MUSC 138 or instructor approval.
MUSC 239 GUITAR (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for the classical guitar. Study and performance of guitar literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Prerequisite: MUSC 139.
MUSC 241 INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES: VOICE AND GUITAR 2 hours
Includes techniques for basic vocal production and good singing as well as for playing and teaching guitar. The course also examines their uses and function in music literature. Required for music education major.
MUSC 244 INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES: STRINGS AND WOODWINDS 2 hours
Techniques for playing and teaching stringed and woodwind instruments. Their uses and function in music literature. Required for music education major. Additional fee.
MUSC 246 INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES: BRASS AND PERCUSSION 2 hours
Techniques for playing and teaching brass and percussion instruments. Their uses and function in music literature. Required for music education major. Additional fee.
MUSC 261 MUSIC THEORY II 2 hours
Continuation of the study of music in the common practice period. Advanced part-writing techniques, seventh chords, modulation, secondary dominants and analysis. Keyboard applications. Prerequisites: MUSC 161/162. Co-requisite: MUSC 262.
MUSC 262 SIGHT-SINGING/EAR TRAINING II 1 hour
More difficult diatonic melodies and harmonies. Rhythmic syncopation and subdivision of the beat. Prerequisites: MUSC 161/162. Co-requisite: MUSC 261.
MUSC 271 HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF MUSIC II 3 hours
A survey of Western art music in the United States from colonial times to present, including music of Native American, African American, Hispanic American and other influential non-Western cultures. Prerequisite: MUSC 171 or consent.
MUSC 280 SPECIAL TOPICS CV
Concentrated courses or workshops in special areas of music. Offered as needed.
MUSC 290 INDEPENDENT STUDY CV
Independently pursued study or project under the direction of an instructor. Proposal and credits to be arranged in consultation with department chairperson.
MUSC 295 INTERNSHIP/CO-OP ED CV
Professional development. Arranged through career services office and music department. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing, minimum 2.0 average, faculty sponsor.
MUSC 305 CHORUS 1 hour
Reading and study of choral literature from all style periods. Rehearsal and preparation for public concerts and special events. Students are expected to demonstrate a high level of technical skill, artistic expression and critical leadership within the ensemble resulting from their previous experience in music courses, lessons and/or ensembles. Prerequisites: MUSC 105, MUSC 131 and/or consent.
MUSC 306 ADVANCED CHAMBER ENSEMBLE 1 hour
Reading and study of instrumental literature from all style periods. Rehearsal and preparation for public concerts and special events. Students are expected to demonstrate a high level of technical skill, artistic expression,and leadership within the ensemble resulting from their previous experience in music courses, lessons and/or ensembles. Prerequisites: MUSC 106, private lessons (MUSC 134, MUSC 135, MUSC 136, MUSC 137, or MUSC 139), and/or consent.
MUSC 307 ADVANCED VOCAL ENSEMBLE 1 hour
Advanced reading and study of choral literature of varied styles. Rehearsal and preparation for public concerts and special events. Members are expected to demonstrate a high level of technical skill and artistic expression within the ensemble. Prerequisite: Audition. Co-requisite: MUSC 105 or MUSC 305.
MUSC 315 ART OF ACCOMPANYING 1 hour
The development of technical and stylistic techniques for the accompanist. Repertoire includes solo vocal, solo instrumental and choral literature. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing and consent.
MUSC 331 VOICE (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced vocal technique and artistry through the study of vocalises and song literature from different style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Ordinarily taken during junior and senior years. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 231.
MUSC 332 KEYBOARD (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced techniques necessary for the artistic performance of piano or organ works from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Ordinarily taken during junior and senior years. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 232.
MUSC 334 STRINGS (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for string instruments. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 234.
MUSC 335 WOODWINDS (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for woodwind instruments. Study and performance of woodwind literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Ordinarily taken during junior and senior years. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 235.
MUSC 336 BRASS (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for brass instruments. Study and performance of brass literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Ordinarily taken during junior and senior years. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 236.
MUSC 337 PERCUSSION (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for percussion instruments. Study and performance of percussion literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Ordinarily taken during junior and senior years. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 237.
MUSC 338 COMPOSITION (Major) 1-2 hours
Analysis and writing of larger forms for piano, voice and/or other instruments. The student will complete either one work for acoustic instruments and one work in the electronic medium or two works for acoustic instruments. Focuses on the general principles of writing for a variety of instruments and texture types necessary for all composition and music education students. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 238.
MUSC 339 GUITAR (Major) 1-2 hours
Development of advanced techniques necessary for the artistic performance of literature written for the classical guitar. Study and performance of guitar literature from various style periods. Private instruction. Additional fee. Ordinarily taken during junior and senior years. Prerequisites: Departmental acceptance and MUSC 239.
MUSC 348 TEACHING ELEMENTARY MUSIC 2 hours
Goals, content, materials and teaching strategies for planning and implementing music experiences in the elementary music classroom. Contemporary methods and pedagogical principles of music curriculum and instruction are included. Offered for music majors and minors. Prerequisites: Admission to teacher education, and MUSC 171/271, MUSC 161/162, MUSC 261/262, or consent.
MUSC 351/EDUC 351 SPECIAL SECONDARY CURRICULUM AND METHODS: MUSIC 2 hours
Study of current developments, teaching and production strategies, materials, and media relevant to the teaching of music at the secondary level. Prerequisites: Admission to teacher education, and MUSC 361/362, MUSC 371, or consent.
MUSC 355 CONDUCTING I 2 hours
Principles and methods for teaching choral and instrumental groups. Selection and interpretation of music literature. Conducting techniques. Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent.
MUSC 356 CONDUCTING II 2 hours
Continued study of conducting and rehearsal techniques for teaching choral and instrumental groups. Advanced conducting techniques, score study and performance practice techniques from various style periods. Prerequisite: MUSC 355 or consent.
MUSC 361 MUSIC THEORY III 2 hours
Study and analysis of the music in late common practice period. Chromaticism, altered chords, advanced modulation. Keyboard applications. Prerequisites: MUSC 261/262. Co-requisite: MUSC 362.
MUSC 362 SIGHT-SINGING/EAR TRAINING III 1 hour
Chromaticism, modulation to closely-related keys. Continuation of rhythmic skill development. Prerequisites: MUSC 261/262. Co-requisite: MUSC 361.
MUSC 365 COUNTERPOINT 2 hours
Techniques used in the combination of two or more independent parts. Listening, analysis, composition. Prerequisites: MUSC 361/362.
MUSC 367 ORCHESTRATION AND ARRANGING 2 hours
Study of the technical capacity, timbre and effective range of instruments and their use in combination. Scoring for instrumental and vocal groups. Prerequisites: MUSC 361/362.
MUSC 371 HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF MUSIC III 3 hours
A survey of Western art music from antiquity through the early Baroque era. Prerequisites: MUSC 361/362, MUSC 271 or consent.
MUSC 395 INTERNSHIP/CO-OP ED CV
Professional development. Arranged through career services office and music department. Prerequisites: Junior standing, 2.5 GPA, faculty sponsor.
MUSC 456 CURRENT TRENDS IN MUSIC EDUCATION CV 2-3 hours
Conceptual and experiential study of selected contemporary theories and methods in music education. Prerequisite: MUSC 348 or consent.
MUSC 461 MUSC THEORY IV 2 hours
Study and analysis of late-Romantic, Impressionistic and 20th-century music. Keyboard applications including improvisation and composition. Prerequisites: MUSC 361/362. Co-requisite: MUSC 462.
MUSC 462 SIGHT-SINGING/EAR TRAINING IV 1 hour
More difficult chromaticism and modulation. Continuation of rhythmic and improvisatory skill development. Prerequisite: MUSC 361/362. Co-requisite: MUSC 461.
MUSC 471 HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF MUSIC IV 3 hours
A survey of Western art music from the late Baroque era to the present. Includes the influence of world music and culture on Western art music. Prerequisite: MUSC 461/462, and MUSC 371 or consent.
MUSC 480 SPECIAL TOPICS CV
Concentrated courses or workshops in special areas of music. Offered as needed. Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent.
MUSC 490 INDEPENDENT STUDY CV
Independently pursued study or project under the direction of an instructor. Proposal and credits to be arranged in consultation with department chair. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
MUSC 499 CAPSTONE: MUSIC 3 hours
This course provides a focal point for and closure to liberal arts education within the context of the major discipline. It focuses on topics specific to music and expands to include a breadth of knowledge and synthesis of ideas and skills. Interdisciplinary integration of knowledge and research is emphasized. Both general education and departmental outcomes are integral to course assessment. Prerequisites: MUSC 461/462 and MUSC 471, senior standing, music majors only, with a minimum of 42 hours general education hours completed.