Music
- Department Office: FA 207
- Phone Number: 507-537-7103
- Website: https://www.smsu.edu/academics/programs/music/
The Music Program seeks to create an environment conducive to the development of musical understanding and appreciation, creativity, utilization of technology and artistic performance. Specific objectives are to achieve personal and professional growth through the development of artistic sensitivity in the music-making; to contribute to the understanding and development of aesthetic insight to empower individuals for discovering and achieving personal improvement; to develop a cross-fertilization of musical styles and world music through research, scholarship, performance, creative expression and utilization of technology; to prepare professionally competent musicians; and to provide the musical knowledge, skill, and experience for those who wish to build a teaching career in music.
The department offers extra-curricular and co-curricular activities which are open to all students regardless of their major. All prospective students wishing to declare a major in music must successfully complete and pass an audition which will include the performance of a prepared piece representative of the student’s current musical and technical skills; scales (and/or rudiments for percussionists); sight reading; basic ear training; a music theory diagnostic; and an interview with the music faculty.
The SMSU Music Program is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music. For further information and advising recommendations refer to the Music Program Student/Faculty Handbook available in the Music Program Office.
Music degree candidates must receive a grade of “C” or better in all music courses in order for those courses to count toward graduation. Furthermore, all music majors must maintain a 2.7 GPA in order to graduate.
Note: Students must complete a minimum of 120 credits in order to graduate with a Bachelor's degree.
Deals in a historical and cultural context with Western music, helping the student become an intelligent and perceptive listener to the various modes of musical expression of the past and present.
This course explores the music of the worlds people. Emphasis is on non-Western traditions. American musical cultures will be explored through Native and African American traditions. Students will examine the various sounds, patterns, and structures of music from around the globe. World cultures will be explored in terms of belief systems about the significance of music, contexts for using music, activities involving music, and the aesthetics of music. Students will experience various repertoires, styles, and genres of music and consider the effects of the media on globalization of music culture.
The study of the history of American classical and vernacular music, starting from pure rural strains of diverse cultural groups, and then mixing and branching out in new directions, developing into complex urban forms. It will include: folk, country and western, blues, gospel, barber shop, jazz, rock, musical theater, band, classical, and other American traditions.
This course allows students to explore the history, development, and cultural influence of popular music, musicians, and the music industry. Particular emphasis is placed on: the relationship between popular music of the past 90 years and the cultures from which it came including the social, economic, and political forces that have influenced it; the evolution and roots of American popular music; and the study of music, musicians, and the popular styles of the past 90 years and those of greatest interest to the individual student.
Students will learn the art of public musical performance and develop their knowledge of various musical genres, styles, and repertoire. Students will discuss issues in musical performance and attend lectures by experienced performers/educators.
Private trumpet instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private horn instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private trombone instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private euphonium instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private tuba instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private Flute instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private oboe instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private clarinet instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private bassoon instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
: Private saxophone instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private percussion instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Study basic guitar techniques and develop skills that will satisfy the requirement for teacher certification in the public schools. To provide a recreational subject for the general student body.
Private violin instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private viola instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private cello instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private bass instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private guitar instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private voice instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
To set minimum standards of piano competency for students earning the minor in music or the BA in Music Degree with Emphases in Music in the Liberal Arts or Management.
Private piano instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private organ instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private Harpsichord instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private harp instruction. For non-music majors and minors as well as for majors and minors studying a secondary performance area. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
The development of exceptional aural skills is essential for all music majors. Skills such as melodic and harmonic dictation, error detection, and sight singing along with written theory skills developed in other theory courses create a strong foundation for individuals seeking careers in any musical field. This course serves as a corequisite to MUS 172, Music Theory I and must be taken in the same semester
A careful study of the common practice of composers from the late 17th century through the 20th century. This knowledge is indispensable to all musicians, whether they are performers, conductors, composers, or teachers of music. This course serves as a co-requisite to MUS 170, Foundations of Aural Theory, and must be taken in the same semester.
Musicianship training in keyboard, sight singing, and ear training. 171 to be taken concurrently with 172.
Group instruction in piano specifically designed for those students with little previous background. Enrollment is limited with preference given to music majors and minors completing piano requirements.
A careful study of the common practice of composers from the late 17th century through the 19th century. This knowledge is indispensable to all musicians, whether they are performers, conductors, composers, or teachers of music.
Musicianship training in keyboard, sight singing, and ear training. To be taken concurrently with MUS 174.
Group instruction in piano specifically designed for those students with little previous background. Enrollment is limited with preference given to music majors and minors completing piano requirements.
The Special Topics course is designed for one-time offerings of content in the form of classes or workshops. Special topics must be approved by the faculty association through the curriculum process. Credits are determined based on the amount of meeting/work time for students.
Private trumpet instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private horn instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private trombone instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private euphonium instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private tuba instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private flute instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private oboe instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private clarinet instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private bassoon instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private saxophone instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private percussion instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private violin instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private viola instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private cello instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private bass instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private guitar instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private voice instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
To set minimum standards of piano competency for students earning the BA in Music with an emphasis in Instrumental Performance, Vocal Performance, Piano Performance and Pedagogy, or Theory/Composition, or the BS in Music Education-Instrumental or Vocal.
Private piano instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private organ instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private harpsichord instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private harp instruction at the freshman and sophomore level. For music majors and minors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
A careful study of the common practice of composers from the late 17th century through the 20th century. This knowledge is indispensable to all musicians, whether they are performers, conductors, composers, or teachers of music.
Musicianship training in keyboard, sight singing, and ear training. To be taken concurrently with MUS 272.
Group instruction in piano specifically designed for those students with little previous background. Enrollment is limited with preference given to music majors and minors completing piano requirements.
The detailed study of compositional devises, formal structures, and theoretical constructs used by composers of the 20th Century. Emphasis is placed on recognizing a variety of techniques used in actual compositions and recognition of the unique musical sounds created through these procedures.
The detailed study of compositional devises, formal structures, and theoretical constructs used by composers of the 20th Century. Emphasis is placed on recognizing a variety of techniques used in actual compositions and recognition of the unique musical sounds created through these procedures. To be taken concurrently with MUS 274.
Group instruction in piano specifically designed for those students with little previous background. Enrollment is limited with preference given to music majors and minors completing piano requirements
A study of more advanced topics in music not normally provided as part of the curriculum.
The purpose of the Junior Proficiency Exam is to ensure an appropriate level of performance proficiency and content knowledge for the primary performance area of all music majors. Music students with a primary applied area of voice are expected to complete MUS 300 during their third or fourth semester of lower division applied study. Students will have no more than three opportunities to pass their Junior Proficiency. Students must continue to take applied lessons until the Junior Proficiency has been passed. All students must be enrolled in the appropriate lower division applied lesson course during the semester of their Junior Proficiency.
The purpose of the Junior Proficiency Exam is to ensure an appropriate level of performance proficiency and content knowledge for the primary performance area of all music majors. Students with an applied area of a woodwind, brass, string, or percussion instrument are expected to complete MUS 301 during their third or fourth semester of lower division applied study. Students will have no more than three opportunities to pass their Junior Proficiency. Students must continue to take applied lessons until the Junior Proficiency has been passed. All students must be enrolled in the appropriate lower division applied lesson course during the semester of their Junior Proficiency
The purpose of the Junior Proficiency Exam is to ensure an appropriate level of performance proficiency and content knowledge for the primary performance area of all music majors. Composition majors are expected to have completed at least two semesters of Applied Composition and/or Applied Counterpoint prior to taking MUS 302. Students will have no more than three opportunities to pass their Junior Proficiency. Students must continue to take applied lessons until the Junior Proficiency has been passed. All students must be enrolled in the appropriate applied composition or counterpoint lesson course during the semester of their Junior Proficiency. Successful completion of MUS 302 is a prerequisite for MUS 498: Senior Composition Recital.
The purpose of the Junior Proficiency Exam is to ensure an appropriate level of performance proficiency and content knowledge for the primary performance area of all music majors. Music students with a keyboard instrument as their primary applied area re expected to complete MUS 303 during their third or fourth semester of applied study. Students will have no more than three opportunities to pass their Junior Proficiency. Students must continue to take applied lessons until the Junior Proficiency has been passed. All students must be enrolled in the appropriate lower division applied lesson course during the semester of their Junior Proficiency.
This course teaches basic performance skills on one instrument from each of the four instrument families (woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion) and addresses pedagogical methods and materials used in teaching these instruments to students. This course includes performance assessments, material reviews, and teaching assignments designed to prepare educators and performers for the teaching field.
Private trumpet instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 211. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private horn instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 212. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private trombone instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 213. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private euphonium instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 214. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private tuba instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 215. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
The course is designed to survey pedagogical materials, history, methods of instruction, basic concepts of brass performance, and other relevant topics related to brass instruments. Students study trumpet, trombone, horn, euphonium, and tuba.
Private flute instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 221. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private oboe instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 222. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private clarinet instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 223. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private bassoon instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 224. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private saxophone instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 225. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
This course is a hands-on applied lesson in Jazz improvisation. Students will learn the basics of jazz improvisation through listening as well as performing on their instrument. Students will be introduced to various methods and technologies currently in use in jazz and jazz education. An outgrowth of this applied lesson can be performance of small group jazz in the SMSU Jazz Combo.
This course is designed to survey pedagogical materials, history, methods of instruction, and basic concepts of woodwind instruments. Students study flute, oboe, bassoon, saxophone and clarinet.
This course is designed to study the pedagogical and performance techniques of orchestral and band percussion instruments, pedagogical materials, and other topics related to percussion instruments.
Private percussion instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 231. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
This ensemble performs at all home basketball games and various tournament/post-season games. Membership is open to any University student. A scholarship is available for members of this group.
Students with an interest in performance of Big Band jazz are encouraged to participate in this ensemble. Various jazz styles will be studied, to include: swing, latin, ballad, jazz-rock, and blues. Membership is open, through audition, to any University student. Auditions are held during the first week of class each fall.
The Symphonic Chamber Winds is an auditioned ensemble consisting of 10 to 20 musicians (on woodwinds, brass, percussion, and occasional strings). The ensemble performs music of all historical periods and cultural origins written for chamber ensembles of 4 to 16 musicians. Music is assigned in a flexible format with one person per part and musicians performing independently on one or more instruments.
Open to all students, faculty, and other interested orchestral players.
The Concert Band is a one night a week performance ensemble open to all SMSU students regardless of major as well as interested community members. Music selected will include pieces of varying styles and difficulty levels.
Private violin instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 241. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private viola instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 242. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private cello instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 243. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private bass instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 244. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
This course is designed to survey pedagogical materials, history, methods of instruction, basic concepts of string performance, and other relevant topics related to string instruments. Students will study violin, viola, cello, and bass.
Private guitar instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 249. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Private voice instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 251. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
The study and performance of choral literature for soprano and alto voices (Alta Voce) as well as for tenor and bass voices (SMSU Glee Club). Open to all students by audition.
Performance of choral literature of all periods, voices, and nationalities. Open to all students by audition. Concurrent enrollment in MUS 352 (Vocal Ensemble) required.
Open to a selected group of students for performance of operatic literature, study of scores, acting, actual presentation of literature.
Private piano instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 261. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private organ instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 262. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private harpsichord instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 263. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health.
Private harp instruction at the junior and senior level. A continuation of MUS 265. For music majors. Emphasis on the development of technique and the exploration of appropriate literature, as well as background information necessary for crafting compelling performance and issues related to performers health
Basic concepts in choral and instrumental conducting, including: score reading, score interpretation, comprehensive musicianship, rehearsal techniques, and programming.
The detailed study of form and analysis brings together the various skills and techniques learned in previous study of music theory, performance, history, and other Liberal Education Program courses. These skills and techniques show the student how to study music from the inside out and facilitate a more sophisticated level of musical and critical thinking.
Applied lessons in composing melodic structure and the combination of melodic line in two, three, and four voices in 16th or 18th century styles.
Individualized instruction in the art of composition. Students will compose short works for traditional instruments and/or voices while exploring techniques and materials of modern music.
A study of ranges and capabilities of individual instruments of the orchestra, band and other instrumental ensembles. Advanced study of techniques in choral and instrumental arranging.
A course designed as an elective for non-music majors interested in acquiring the language of music and various ideas expressed throughout the history of music.
Studies of musical development from early music through the music of the Baroque period. Emphasis is placed on music literature and understanding how the development of music related directly to social, cultural, and political forces.
A study of music from the classical period to the present. Emphasis is placed on music literature and understanding how the development/composition of music related directly to social, cultural, and political forces.
A study in methods and materials of music and techniques and principles of musical education in the elementary grades. Content includes a study of the fundamentals of music with applications for the elementary classroom. The course is designed for Elementary Education majors, non-music majors.
Methods, materials organization, and procedures for teaching general music classes and other related musical organizations in the school, grades K-6. For Music Majors.
This course will look at methods for teaching classroom music in middle school and high school situations as well as commonly scheduled ensembles at these levels including choir, show choir, jazz choir, concert band, marching band, and jazz ensemble. Emphasis is placed on learning teaching strategies as well as area related skills associated with each ensemble.
On the recommendation of the applied instructor, a junior student with an applied emphasis in voice will be permitted to perform a full or half recital. A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval at the jury examination or at least ten weeks prior to the recital date. Concurrent enrollment in 300-level applied study is required.
On the recommendation of the applied instructor, a junior student with an applied emphasis on a wind or percussion instrument will be permitted to perform a full or half recital. A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval at the jury examination or at least ten weeks prior to the recital date. Concurrent enrollment in 300-level applied study is required.
On the recommendation of the applied instructor, a junior student will be permitted to perform a full or half recital. A recital proposal must be presented to the Music faculty for approval at the jury examination or at least ten weeks prior to the recital date. Concurrent enrollment in 300-level applied study is required.
This course builds on the skills learned in MUS 308, Instrumental Methods. Students will learn basic performance skills on additional instruments from each of the four instrument families (woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion) and examine more advanced pedagogical methods for teaching these instruments and materials used in teaching students at a more advanced level. This course includes performance assessments, material reviews, and teaching assignments designed to prepare educators and performers for the teaching field.
An examination of fundamental principles of vocal instruction including the structure and operation of the vocal mechanism, systematic building of vocal technique, diagnostic and corrective techniques, instructional strategies, and the adolescent changing voice. Course requires students to teach vocal instructions to others.
Proper pronunciation, enunciation, articulation, and projection of English, Latin, Italian, German, French, and Spanish texts and to study the representative vocal music literature in each language.
Historical overview of literature for choral ensembles and solo singers with emphasis on the performance styles and interpretive problems of the choral conductor and/or singer.
Techniques, literature, and materials relating to first piano lessons for beginners through intermediate levels. Students will be encouraged to make full use of resources in the University Library.
How to organize and maintain a piano laboratory studio, and the techniques, literature, and materials for teaching piano students in groups will be explored.
The history and development of keyboard music will be explored. Stress will be placed upon becoming acquainted with the different styles of music literature and problems of interpretation and performance.
For piano teachers, offered one week in the summer. Methods, techniques and performance.
The Topical Seminar course is designed for one-time offerings of content in the form of classes or workshops. Special topics must be approved by the faculty association through the curriculum process. Credits are determined based on the amount of meeting/work time for students.
Travel with one or more of the SMSU Music Ensembles
Applied Choral Conducting builds on the skills introduced and developed in MUS 366, Conducting including: physical conducting skills, score preparation, interpretation, and rehearsal techniques.
Applied instrumental conducting builds on the skills developed in MUS 366 including: physical conducting skills, score preparation, interpretation, and rehearsal techniques.
Students will participate in the choral track, instrumental track, or the choral & instrumental track of the Minnesota Area Conducting Workshop; attend the peer review and discussion sessions of the workshop; and complete other assignments in preparation for and summary of the workshop. Preparatory and summary work will be assigned and completed electronically.
This course is an overview of literature for bands including: artistic and educational evaluation of music from all levels of difficulty; examination of resources available for the selection of literature; key composers and compositions of the standard repertoire; principles of programming for ensembles; and processes in the commissioning new works.
A requirement for students who are pursuing both a B.S. in Instrumental Music Education and a B.S. in Vocal Music Education. A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval at least ten weeks prior to the recital date and a recital jury must be passed at least six weeks prior to the recital date. This course must be taken concurrently with MUS 351 and an appropriate 300-level applied instrumental lesson.
The purpose of Independent Study is to allow students time to research and complete major projects required for graduation. In this way, Independent Study may serve as a capstone course for some music degrees. Project proposals must be accepted by the students advisor prior to registering for Independent Study.
A requirement for B.S. students in Vocal Music Education and B.A. students in Vocal Performance. A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval and audition at least ten weeks prior to the recital date and a recital jury must be passed at least 6 weeks prior to the recital date. The student will be concurrently registered for both Senior Vocal Recital and MUS 351.
A requirement for B.S. students in Instrumental Music Education and B.A. students in Instrumental Performance (with an applied emphasis on a wind or percussion instrument). A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval at least ten weeks prior to the recital date and a recital jury must be passed at least 6 weeks prior to the recital date. This course must be taken concurrently with applied lessons on the primary instrument.
A requirement for B.A. students majoring in composition. A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval and audition at least ten weeks prior to the recital date and a recital jury must be passed at least 6 weeks prior to the recital date. The student will be concurrently registered for applied lessons in composition and/or counterpoint.
A requirement B.A. students in Instrumental Performance (with an applied emphasis on a keyboard instrument) or in Piano Performance and Pedagogy. A recital proposal must be presented to the music faculty for approval at least ten weeks prior to the recital date and a recital jury must be passed at least 6 weeks prior to the recital date. This course must be taken concurrently with applied lessons on the primary instrument.
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Travel with one or more of the SMSU Music Ensembles
This course is designed to teach students the fundamentals of music management. In particular, this course aims to assist public school music instructors in organization and promotional activities. Students will receive a diverse educational environment including lecture, small group activities, field trips, guest lectures, and hands-on projects. For graduate credit, students will submit a final research project on an approved topic. This course will include, but is not limited to, the following topics: event planning, event and program promotion, program public relations, administrative duties, the process of administration (management), managing music and related arts organizations, leadership and group dynamics, financial management of budget and fundraising, contracts for musicians and facilities, and festivals/tours.
Students will participate in the choral track, instrumental track, or the choral & instrumental track of the Minnesota Area Conducting Workshop; attend the peer review and discussion sessions of the workshop; and complete other assignments in preparation for and summary of the workshop. Preparatory and summary work will be assigned and completed electronically. Prerequisite: Any college level conducting class.
This course studies music teaching in the public schools and the historical, philosophical, sociological and psychological issues affecting how music is taught. There will be a block on music curriculum development. Reviews current research on music education.