Academic courses address the historical development of music, relations between music and cultural contexts, and the specific concepts and materials of music. The department offers opportunities for study in Western European art music, computer music, jazz, popular music, African music, and other traditions of world music. In addition to private lessons, instructors coach small ensembles and teach specialized courses such as jazz improvisation, West and Central African performance, and vocal chamber music. The performance faculty contributes significantly to the cultural life of the University, performing frequently in faculty recitals and as principals in the orchestra. Usually there are about fifty music majors.
Many students combine a major in music with a major or minor in another department.
This course requires fluency in music notation. For instance, students involved with classical music must demonstrate basic performance and sightreading ability on keyboard. To satisfy this requirement, students pass a brief performance test. Although the major can be completed in two years, students are strongly encouraged to complete MUSI 305, MUSI 311, and at least one course in critical and comparative studies by the end of their second year. Students planning to take MUSI 332 and 431 should normally begin their study of theory in the first or second year.