Music
Lisa McDermott, Tweet Hall of Music 245
507-786-3180
mcderm6@stolaf.edu
wp.stolaf.edu/music
The St. Olaf Music Department creates inspiring musical experiences grounded in an inclusive liberal arts environment, challenging students to excel artistically and engage globally for lives within and beyond the professional music world.
The Music Department offers extensive opportunities to explore, practice, and celebrate the musician’s art with an ongoing commitment to a distinctive ensemble program, excellent individualized instruction, and a comprehensive undergraduate music curriculum. We honor St. Olaf’s rich heritage spanning more than a century of international artistry and scholarship and will continue to cultivate a spirit of exploration and innovation, seeking and celebrating the transcendent and transforming power of music.
Degrees Offered
The Music Department offers Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Music (B.M.) degrees, which are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. St. Olaf students may also pursue the Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music double-degree option.
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music
This is a liberal arts degree, with approximately one-third of the course work in music. The B.A. music major may lead to a wide range of career options in music and related fields such as performance, broadcasting, multimedia, arts administration, advertising, education, arts journalism, music librarianship, or music therapy. Students may choose a general music major or may elect an emphasis in composition, musicology, or theory.
Intended Learning Outcomes for the Major (B.A.)
Bachelor of Music Degree
This is a professional music degree with approximately two-thirds of the course work in music. Students may elect one of five majors:
1. Bachelor of Music in Performance
Graduates often continue with work in performance, preparing for careers as performers and teachers. This major also serves as good preparation for graduate studies in fields like music therapy. Piano and organ performance majors may also pursue an emphasis in collaborative keyboard performance.
Intended Learning Outcomes for the Major
2. Bachelor of Music in Church Music
Graduates generally continue their studies in graduate school or move directly into parishes as church musicians. Careers in conducting, college teaching, or the ministry are also served by this major. Church Music-Organ majors may also pursue an emphasis in collaborative keyboard.
Intended Learning Outcomes for the Major
3. Bachelor of Music in Composition
Graduates generally continue their studies in graduate school, eventually moving toward careers in film music and other media, teaching, or conducting.
Intended Learning Outcomes for the Major
4. Bachelor of Music in Music Education
This professional degree prepares graduates for a career in teaching immediately after graduation. Graduate study is an option as well.
Intended Learning Outcomes for the Major
5. Bachelor of Music with Elective Studies
Substantively integrated with professional music studies, students propose and complete an individualized program of study in a second discipline. Admission to this individualized degree program is by a competitive proposal process. Graduates pursue professional careers in music with substantive connections to an additional arts area, business, science, language and culture, or other sphere of expertise.
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music Double-Degree Program
This program engages students in professional study in music and study in the liberal arts, leading to both the Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees. Students pursuing the double-degree option may choose from five Bachelor of Music graduation majors (church music, composition, elective studies, music education, or performance) and any of the Bachelor of Arts graduation majors except music. Students must meet the application requirements for both the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music degree programs. This program typically takes five years to complete. Students pursing this option should consult their advisor as early as possible. See worksheet for more information.
Admission to the Music Major
Students generally apply for entrance into the music major before enrolling but may also apply during the first year of studies at St. Olaf. A complete application for any music major (B.A. or B.M.) requires an audition on the principal instrument/voice, and screenings to test basic music knowledge and skills. Current St. Olaf students should contact the Music Department office by October 1 of their first year for more information. More information for prospective majors.
Admissions to Teacher Education Programs
Entrance applications for B.M. music education programs are most often processed in the sophomore year. Interested students must be already-admitted music majors and are classified as B.A. general music majors until accepted into a teacher education degree program. More information.
Continuance
All students in B.M. and teacher education programs are reviewed for continuance. B.M. performance, church music, composition, and elective studies students are generally reviewed at the end of the third semester in the program. Teacher education students are generally reviewed in the fall semester of their junior year. A continuance review includes a juried recital performance, a review of music and overall academic progress, and a possible interview/conference. A student not approved for continuance in any program is no longer in that program. More information.
Keyboard Proficiency
All music majors must demonstrate keyboard proficiency at a level specified for the major/instrument, and it is recommended that students complete proficiency by the end of the sophomore year. Students may demonstrate proficiency through successful completion of piano classes, or by examination. More information.
Music Ensembles
All full-time students are eligible to audition for membership in any of these musical ensembles. Participation in these ensembles fulfills ensemble graduation requirements for music majors.
Vocal Ensembles
St. Olaf Choir, Chapel Choir, St. Olaf Cantorei, Chamber Singers, Manitou Singers, Viking Chorus
Instrumental Ensembles
St. Olaf Band, Norseman Band, St. Olaf Orchestra, St. Olaf Philharmonia, Collegium Musicum, Jazz Ensembles, Handbell Choirs
Additional opportunities for ensemble performance include Collegiate Chorale, Horn Club, Percussion Ensemble, Trombone Choir, Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble, and Lars Skjervheim Spelemannslag (Norwegian Hardanger Fiddle group). Participation in these ensembles does not fulfill graduation requirements for music majors.
Distinction
The Music Department does not offer departmental distinction. Students may be eligible for membership in Pi Kappa Lambda, the music honor society.
Requirements that apply to all B.A. and B.M. music majors:
Admission to the Music Major
See Music Admissions and Scholarship Information
- application
- principal-instrument/voice audition repertoire
- music knowledge and keyboard skills screening
S/U Policy: No required course in the major can be taken S/U.
Music majors who study off-campus may petition the chair of the department for approval of a maximum of two (2) courses, plus performance studies. Independent study or research may count as one of these courses.
Bachelor of Arts Degree
B.A. General Music Major
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Chromatic Musicianship and Form | ||
| Post-Tonal Musicianship | ||
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 3 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives | 3 | |
| Performance Studies | ||
| 6 semesters (0.25 each); 4 in the same instrument/voice. | 1.5 | |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| 4 semesters | ||
| Required Performances 2 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 3 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Total Credits | 10 | |
- 1
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level II, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162 See Keyboard Proficiency Requirements.
- 2
- 3
See music handbook.
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.A. with Composition Emphasis
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
Additional Admissions Requirements
- complete application
- consult and register with composition faculty by end of junior year, preferably earlier
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 223 | Composition I | 1 |
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 1 additional course from Level II or Level III music electives | 1 | |
| Performance Studies | 1.5 | |
| 6 semesters (0.25 each); 4 in the same instrument/voice | ||
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| 4 semesters | ||
| Required Performances 2 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf student recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 3 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Total Credits | 10 | |
- 1
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level II, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162. See Keyboard Proficiency Requirements
- 2
- 3
See music handbook.
Composition Emphasis Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 225 | Music in the Electronic Medium | 1 |
| MUSIC 324 | Composition II: Orchestration | 1 |
| MUSPF 326 Composition Lesson: 4 semesters (0.25 each) | 1 | |
| Required Performances | ||
| 2 composition performances, at least 1 in junior or senior year | ||
| Portfolio | ||
| With approval of the composition faculty, the student submits a portfolio of at least 3 compositions previously submitted for Level III composition courses to the Music Office by May 1 of the senior year. | ||
| Total Credits | 3 | |
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.A. with Musicology Emphasis
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
Additional Admissions Requirements
- complete application
- consult and register with a music history faculty member by end of junior year, preferably earlier
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 2 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 2 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| Select 1 course from 240-level musicology electives | ||
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 340-level) | 2 | |
| Select 1 additional course from Level II or Level III music electives | 1 | |
| Performance Studies | ||
| 6 semesters (0.25 each); 4 in the same instrument/voice. | 1.5 | |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| 4 semesters | ||
| Required Performances 3 | ||
| Two solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 4 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Total Credits | 9 | |
- 1
- 2
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level II, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162
- 3
- 4
See music handbook.
Emphasis in Musicology Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Selection one of the following: | 1 | |
| Counterpoint | ||
| Analysis of Tonal Music | ||
| Analysis of Post-Tonal Music | ||
| Two additional 340-level musicology courses | 2 | |
| Required Portfolio: | ||
| With approval of the musicology faculty, the student submits a portfolio of at least 3 papers previously submitted for Level III musicology courses to the Music Office by May 1 of the senior year. One of these must be revised with faculty supervision to demonstrate the student's best work in musiciology. | ||
| Total Credits | 3 | |
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.A. with Theory Emphasis
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
Additional Admissions Requirements
- complete application
- consult and register with theory faculty by end of junior year, preferably earlier
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 2 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives | 2 | |
| Performance Studies Lessons | 1.5 | |
| 6 semesters (0.25 each); 4 in the same instrument/voice | ||
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| 4 semesters in an official ensemble | ||
| Required Performances 2 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 3 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Total Credits | 10 | |
- 1
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level II, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162; see Keyboard Proficiency Requirements
- 2
- 3
See music handbook.
Theory Emphasis Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 312 | Counterpoint | 1 |
| MUSIC 313 | Analysis of Tonal Music | 1 |
| MUSIC 314 | Analysis of Post-Tonal Music | 1 |
| Required Portfolio | ||
| With approval of the theory faculty, the student submits a portfolio of at least 3 papers previously submitted for Level III theory courses to the Music Office by May 1 of the senior year. One of these must be revised with faculty supervision to demonstrate the student's best work in music analysis. | ||
| Total Credits | 3 | |
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
Requirements that apply to all B.A. and B.M. music majors:
Admission to the Music Major
See Music Admissions and Scholarship Information
- application
- principal-instrument/voice audition repertoire
- music knowledge and keyboard skills screening
S/U Policy: No required course in the major can be taken S/U.
Music majors who study off-campus may petition the chair of the department for approval of a maximum of two (2) courses, plus performance studies. Independent study or research may count as one of these courses.
Bachelor of Music Degree
B.M. in Performance
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
Additional Entrance Requirements
See Music Major Entrance Information
- academic/music review, possible interview/conference
Program Continuance
See Music Major Continuance Information
- generally during third semester in the program
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the BM Performance program
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for all B.M. degrees 2 | ||
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 2 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives (can include secondary performance studies) | 2 | |
| Performance Studies | 6 | |
| Once accepted into the B.M. Performance program, students must register for a minimum of 6 semesters of 1.0 credit lessons (4 at Level I, subsequent at Level II) | ||
| Required Performances 3 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital (may include Entrance and Continuance) | ||
| Entrance examination | ||
| Continuance examination | ||
| Junior half recital | ||
| Senior full recital | ||
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official ensemble | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 4 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| S/U Policy | ||
| No required course in the major can be taken S/U | ||
| Total Credits | 15.5 | |
- 1
See the OLE Core requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 2
See the general graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
- 4
See music handbook.
Additional Requirements for Emphasis in Voice
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 262 | Piano Class IV (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 263 | Lyric Diction I (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 264 | Lyric Diction II (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 281 | Vocal Solo Literature I (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 282 | Vocal Solo Literature II (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 291 | Vocal Development and Pedagogy | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 292 | Vocal Pedagogy II | 0.25 |
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Advanced Acting For The Lyric Stage | ||
| Opera Creation Residency in the Schools: Civic Engagement | ||
| Opera Workshop | ||
| Select 0.50 additional course from Level II or Level III music electives (can include secondary performance studies). Please see note below regarding the possibility of 1.50 credits being required. 1 | 0.50 | |
| Required world languages: | ||
| Students are required to do two semesters of either French or German (or proficiency exam) plus two semesters of a second world language (or proficiency exam) | ||
| Total Credits | 4 | |
- 1
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 4, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, MUSIC 261, and MUSIC 262; however, the student would then be required to add 1.00 credits to the major for a total of 1.50 additional music electives.
Additional Requirements for Emphasis in Strings
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 275 | Instrumental Chamber Music (0.25) (2 semesters at 0.25 each) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 295 | String Literature and Pedagogy (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Select 2.25 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives (can include secondary performance studies). Please see note below regarding the possibility of 3.00 credits being required. | 2.25 | |
| Total Credits | 4 | |
- 1
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 3, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, and MUSIC 261; however, the student would then be required to add 0.75 credits to the major for a total of 3.00 additional music electives.
Additional Requirements for Emphasis in Piano
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 270 | Advanced Keyboard Skills (minimum grade of B-) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 283 | Piano Literature (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 293 | Keyboard Pedagogy (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Select 2.75 additional courses from Level II or Level II music electives (can include secondary performance studies) | 2.75 | |
| Total Credits | 4 | |
Additional Requirements for Emphasis in Winds, Brass, Percussion
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 1 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 275 | Instrumental Chamber Music (0.25) (2 semesters) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 298 | Independent Study (Pedagogy and Literature) | 1 |
| Select 1.75 additional courses from Level II or Level II music electives (can include secondary performance studies). Please see note below regarding the possibility of 2.50 credits being required. 1 | 1.75 | |
| Total Credits | 4 | |
- 1
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 3, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, and MUSIC 261; however, the student would then be required to add 0.75 credits to the major for a total of 2.50 additional music electives.
Additional Requirements for Emphasis in Organ
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 270 | Advanced Keyboard Skills (minimum grade of B-) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 293 | Keyboard Pedagogy (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 298 | Independent Study (Organ Literature) | 1 |
| Select 2.25 additional courses from Level II or Level II music electives (can include secondary performance studies) | 2.25 | |
| Total Credits | 4 | |
Additional requirements for Emphasis in Collaborative Keyboard
This emphasis can be added only to a B.M. Performance major with an emphasis in either organ or piano.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 275 | Instrumental Chamber Music (0.25) (2 semesters) | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 281 | Vocal Solo Literature I (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 282 | Vocal Solo Literature II (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSPF 106 Performance Studies: Collaborative Keyboard | 1.0 | |
| Select 1.0 credit from the following: | 1 | |
| Choral Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Instrumental Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Lyric Diction I (0.25) | ||
| Lyric Diction II (0.25) | ||
| Advanced Acting For The Lyric Stage | ||
| Opera Creation Residency in the Schools: Civic Engagement | ||
| Opera Workshop | ||
| Instrumental Chamber Music (0.25) (additional semesters) | ||
MUSPF 106 Additional semester of collaborative keyboard performance study | ||
| Total Credits | 3 | |
* By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.M. in Church Music
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
B.M. in Church Music - with Choral Emphasis
Special Entrance Requirements
See Music Major Entrance Information
Students must already be enrolled at the college and may apply for entrance in first year, spring semester.
Entrance requirements:
- complete application (due October 15, March 15)
- vocal audition in a student recital
- academic/music review, possible interview/conference
Program Continuance
See Music Major Continuance Information
- generally during Junior year, fall semester
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the B.M. Church Music program
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degrees 2 | ||
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 235 | Music in Christian Worship | 1 |
| MUSIC 236 | Church Music Practicum | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 252 | Choral Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 262 | Piano Class IV (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 263 | Lyric Diction I (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 264 | Lyric Diction II (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 287 | Choral Literature I (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 291 | Vocal Development and Pedagogy | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 292 | Vocal Pedagogy II | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 354 | Advanced Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Select 2 courses from Level III electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 2 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives | 2 | |
| EDUC 355 | Teaching of Music in the Elementary School | 1 |
| Voice Performance Studies Lessons | ||
| 6 semesters (0.50 credit following admission to the major) | 3 | |
| Keyboard Performance Studies Lessons | ||
| 5 semesters in addition to MUSIC 262 (any combination of 0.25-credit piano lessons, organ lessons, or piano classes: MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, MUSIC 261) | 1.25 | |
| Required Performances 3 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital (may include Entrance/Continuance) | ||
| Entrance examination | ||
| Continuance examination | ||
| Junior or Senior Half Voice Recital | ||
| MUSPF 330 Capstone Performance Project/Conducting Lessons | .5 | |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official choral ensemble | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 4 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Total Credits | 19.5 | |
- 1
- 2
See the general graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
- 4
See music handbook.
B.M. in Church Music - with Emphasis in Organ
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Special Entrance Requirements
See Music Major Entrance Information
Students may apply/audition and enroll at the time of matriculation, or they may apply during their first year to enter program.
Students already enrolled at St. Olaf:
- complete application (due October 15, March 15)
- organ audition in a student recital
- academic/music review, possible interview/conference
Program Continuance
See See Music Major Continuance Information
- generally during third semester in the program
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the BM Church Music program
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree 2 | ||
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 235 | Music in Christian Worship | 1 |
| MUSIC 236 | Church Music Practicum | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 252 | Choral Conducting (0.50) | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 270 | Advanced Keyboard Skills (minimum grade of B-) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 290 | Fundamentals of Vocal Development for Instrumentalists | 0.5 |
| Select one of the following: | 0.5 | |
| Instrumental Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Advanced Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 3 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives | 3 | |
| MUSPF 128 Organ Performance Studies | 4 | |
| MUSPF 228 Organ Performance Studies | 2 | |
Once accepted into the B.M. in Church Music program, students must register for a minimum of 6 semesters of 1.0 credit organ lessons (4 at Level I, subsequent at Level II) | ||
| MUSPF 152 Voice Performance Studies: 1 semester | .25 | |
| Required Performances 3 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital (may include Entrance and Continuance) | ||
| Entrance examination | ||
| Continuance examination | ||
| Junior Half Recital | ||
| Senior Full Recital | ||
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official choral ensemble | ||
| Required Recital Attendance: 4 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Total Credits | 20 | |
- 1
See the OLE Core requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 2
See the general graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
- 4
See music handbook.
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.M. in Composition
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
Additional Entrance Requirements
- apply during first or second year of study at St. Olaf, and after completion of one composition course
- composition portfolio, interview with composition faculty
See Music Major Entrance Information
Program Continuance
- generally during third semester in the program
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the BM Composition program
See Music Major Continuance Information
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core requirements for all B.M. degrees 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for all B.M. degrees 2 | ||
| Core courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 166 | Brass Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 167 | Percussion Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 168 | String Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 169 | Woodwind Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 223 | Composition I | 1 |
| MUSIC 225 | Music in the Electronic Medium | 1 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 262 | Piano Class IV (0.25) (minimum grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 314 | Analysis of Post-Tonal Music | 1 |
| MUSIC 324 | Composition II: Orchestration | 1 |
| MUSPF 326 Composition Lesson (4 semesters) (0.25 each) | 1 | |
| Select one of: | 0.5 | |
| Choral Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Instrumental Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 3 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives | 3 | |
| PHYS 252 | Musical Acoustics | 1 |
| Performance Studies | ||
| 6 semesters (0.25 each); 4 in the same instrument/voice | 1.5 | |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official ensemble | ||
| Required Performances 4 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 5 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Continuance examination must be completed before senior recital | ||
| Required Portfolio | ||
| With approval of the composition faculty, the student submits a portfolio of at least 3 compositions previously submitted for Level III composition courses to the music office by May 1 of the senior year | ||
| Senior recital of original works | ||
| Total Credits | 20.5 | |
- 1
See the OLE Core requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 2
See the General Education requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 4, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, 162, 261, and MUSIC 262; see Keyboard Proficiency Requirements
- 4
- 5
See music handbook.
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.M. in Music Education
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
B.M. in Music Education - Instrumental
Please see Overview of St. Olaf's Teacher Education Program and General Requirements and Procedures
Additional Entrance Requirements
See Music Major Entrance Information
In sophomore year, spring semester:
- complete application (due October 15, March 15): BM Music Education
- full academic review
- recital performance on principal instrument/voice
Program Continuance
See Music Major Continuance Information
- generally in junior year, second semester
- juried recital performance, academic review, possible interview/conference
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the Teacher Education Program
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core requirements for all B.M. degrees 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for all B.M. degrees 2 | ||
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (with grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (with grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 165 | Guitar Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 166 | Brass Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 167 | Percussion Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 168 | String Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 169 | Woodwind Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 221 | Instrumental Literature and Arranging | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 253 | Instrumental Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (with grade of B-) 4 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 290 | Fundamentals of Vocal Development for Instrumentalists | 0.50 |
| Select one of the following: | 0.50 | |
| Choral Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Advanced Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 1 additional course from Level II or Level III music electives | 1 | |
| Performance Studies | 2.5 | |
| 6 semesters. Prior to entrance into the B.M. Music Education program, lessons on licensure instrument will be 0.25 credits; following entrance, typically spring of sophomore year, lessons will be 0.50 credits. | ||
| EDUC 355 | Teaching of Music in the Elementary School | 1 |
| EDUC 356 | Teaching of Music in the Middle and High School (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 359 | Teaching of Instrumental Music (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official instrumental ensemble | ||
| 1 semester in an official choral ensemble | ||
| Required Performances 5 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| 2 chamber music performances | ||
| Senior Half Recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 6 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Education Courses | ||
| Required elective in Art, Theater, or Lyric Theater | 1 | |
| EDUC 231 | Understanding Substance Abuse (0 credit) | 0 |
| EDUC 272 | Counseling and Communication in Schools (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 291 | Instructional Technology (0 credit) | 0 |
| EDUC 295 | Foundations of Education | 1 |
| EDUC 330 | Planning, Instruction, and Assessment | 1 |
| EDUC 374 | Reading in the Content Area (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 375 | Differentiated Instruction for Exceptional Learners (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Required Elective Education Course: Select One of the Following: | 1 | |
| Urban Schools and Communities (study away) | ||
| Multicultural Education in Hawaii: Seminar and Practicum (study away) | ||
| Urban Education Practicum and Seminar (study away) | ||
| Professional Semester Education Courses | ||
| EDUC 381 | Senior Seminar (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 382 | Human Relations (0 Cr) | 0 |
| EDUC 385 | Issues in Education (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 389 | Student Teaching (3.0) | 3 |
| Total Credits | 26.5 | |
- 1
See the OLE Core requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 2
See the general graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 2, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162
- 4
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 3, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, and MUSIC 261
- 5
- 6
See music handbook.
B.M. in Music Education - Vocal
Please see Overview of St. Olaf's Teacher Education Program and General Requirements and Procedures
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Additional Entrance Requirements
See Music Major Entrance Information
In sophomore year, spring semester:
- complete application (due October 15, March 15): B.M. Music Education
- full academic review
- recital performance on principal instrument/voice
Program Continuance
See Music Major Continuance Information
- generally in junior year, second semester
- juried recital performance, academic review, possible interview/conference
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the Teacher Education Program
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for all B.M. degrees 2 | ||
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (with a grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (with a grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 165 | Guitar Techniques (0.25) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 252 | Choral Conducting (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Select one of the following: | 0.50 | |
| Instrumental Conducting (0.50) | ||
| Advanced Conducting (0.50) | ||
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (with a grade of B-) 4 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 262 | Piano Class IV (0.25) (with a grade of B-) | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 287 | Choral Literature I (0.50) | 0.50 |
| MUSIC 291 | Vocal Development and Pedagogy | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 292 | Vocal Pedagogy II | 0.25 |
| Select 2 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 2 | |
| Select 1.75 additional courses from Level II or Level III music electives | 1.75 | |
| Performance Studies | 2.5 | |
| 6 semesters. Prior to entrance into the BM Music Education program, voice lessons will be 0.25 credits; following entrance, typically spring of sophomore year, lessons will be 0.50 credits. | ||
| EDUC 355 | Teaching of Music in the Elementary School | 1 |
| EDUC 356 | Teaching of Music in the Middle and High School (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 358 | Teaching of Vocal Music in the Secondary School (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official choral ensemble | ||
| Required Performances 5 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| 2 vocal chamber music performances | ||
| Senior Half Recital | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 6 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester on campus, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Professional Education | ||
| Required elective in Art, Theater, or Lyric Theater | 1 | |
| EDUC 231 | Understanding Substance Abuse (0 credit) | 0 |
| EDUC 291 | Instructional Technology (0 credit) | 0 |
| EDUC 295 | Foundations of Education | 1 |
| EDUC 330 | Planning, Instruction, and Assessment | 1 |
| EDUC 374 | Reading in the Content Area (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 375 | Differentiated Instruction for Exceptional Learners (0.50) | 0.50 |
| Required Elective Education Course: Select One of the Following: | 1 | |
| Urban Schools and Communities (study away) | ||
| Multicultural Education in Hawaii: Seminar and Practicum (study away) | ||
| Urban Education Practicum and Seminar (study away) | ||
| Professional Semester Education Courses | ||
| EDUC 381 | Senior Seminar (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 382 | Human Relations (0 Cr) | 0 |
| EDUC 385 | Issues in Education (0.50) | 0.50 |
| EDUC 389 | Student Teaching (3.0) | 3 |
| Total Credits | 26 | |
- 1
See the OLE Core requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 2
See the general graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 2, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162
- 4
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level 3, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, and MUSIC 261
- 5
- 6
See music handbook.
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
B.M. with Elective Studies
Music Department Degree Information and Worksheets
Requirements for the Major
Additional Entrance Requirements
Music Major Entrance Information
- applicants must be already-enrolled music majors (BA or BM) and may apply as early as first year, spring semester; application packets available in the music office (CHM 101) (due October 15, March 15)
- identify music and elective studies advisors
- application portfolio, including explanation of intended integration between music and the area of elective studies, list of proposed elective courses and other learning experiences, draft proposal for synthesis project
- performance audition
- academic review, interview
Program Continuance
Music Major Continuance Information
- at the end of third semester in the program, not later than Junior year, spring semester
- students not approved for continuance are no longer in the BM Elective Studies program
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| OLE Core Requirements for the Bachelor of Music Degree 1 | ||
| General graduation requirements for all B.M. degrees 2 | ||
| Core Music Courses | ||
| MUSIC 114 | Musicianship: Tonality | 1 |
| MUSIC 141 | Introduction to Musicology | 1 |
| MUSIC 161 | Piano Class I (0.25) (with a grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 162 | Piano Class II (0.25) (with a grade of B-) 3 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 212 | Chromatic Musicianship and Form | 1 |
| MUSIC 214 | Post-Tonal Musicianship | 1 |
| MUSIC 237 | Local and Global Musicking | 1 |
| MUSIC 251 | Conducting (0.50) | 0.5 |
| MUSIC 261 | Piano Class III (0.25) (with a grade of B-) 4 | 0.25 |
| MUSIC 298 | Independent Study (Synthesis Project: Capstone project that combines Music with the second discipline) | 1 |
| Select 3 courses from Level III music electives, including at least one upper-level musicology elective (MUSIC 34x) | 3 | |
| Select 5 additional courses from Level II and Level III music electives | 5 | |
| Performance Studies Lessons | ||
| 6 semesters (0.25 credit prior to admission into BM Elective Studies and 0.5 credit after admission, with a minimum of 4 semesters of 0.5 credit lessons) | 2.5 | |
| Official Ensemble Participation | ||
| Every semester in an official ensemble | ||
| Required Performances 5 | ||
| 2 solo performances on a St. Olaf Student Recital | ||
| Required Application Process | ||
Entrance examination as outlined in the catalog | ||
Continuance examination as outlined in the catalog | ||
| Required Recital Attendance 6 | ||
| 10 recitals per semester, with a minimum of 60 | ||
| Electives in secondary field of study | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 23.75 | |
- 1
See the OLE Core requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 2
See the general graduation requirements for the Bachelor of Music degree.
- 3
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level III, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161 and MUSIC 162
- 4
By successfully completing Keyboard Proficiency Exam Level III, a student is exempt from MUSIC 161, MUSIC 162, and MUSIC 261.
- 5
- 6
See music handbook.
*By completing this major, the student also satisfies the OLE Core Writing in the Major requirement.
Music Performance Studies
Music performance studies provide a direct opportunity to think and speak the language of music. Lessons integrate aspects of music's cultural and historical contexts, its theoretical properties, and the physical and psychological facets of performance. All music performance studies courses are repeatable up to a total of eight times (ten times if a student is pursuing the double-degree option).
Variable credit private lessons are available in bassoon, clarinet, collaborative piano, composition, cornet, euphonium, flute, English horn, French horn, Hardanger fiddle, harp, harpsichord, oboe, organ, percussion, piano, jazz piano, saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, viola, violin, violoncello, and voice. Lessons are catalogued as level I and level II Music Performance Studies (MUSPF) courses, and course numbers are referenced in the St. Olaf class and lab schedule.
Music performance studies are offered at three credit levels:
- 0.25 credit: weekly half-hour lessons, daily minimum one-hour practice expectation
- 0.50 credit: weekly one-hour lessons, daily minimum two-hour practice expectation
- 1.00 credit: weekly one-hour lessons, daily minimum three-hour practice expectation
Registration for all applied music lessons is processed through the Music Office (HOM 245). Elective private study for non-music majors (0.25 credit) is available on a space-available basis to students demonstrating sufficient skill level gained through prior study.
All Bachelor of Arts Music students and all Bachelor of Music majors receive a lesson scholarship for principal instrument/voice study.
For all elective and secondary instrument/voice performance studies, students are assessed a fee of $635 per 0.25 credit. Fees will be refunded only if a student drops the course by the 6th day of classes each semester. No refund is given thereafter.
Enrolled students are expected to participate in studio classes, attend music department-approved events, and fulfill performance-related requirements as detailed by individual instructors. An individual performance jury is required each semester.
To perform solo on any official recital, students must be concurrently enrolled in lessons on the performing instrument/voice.
Music Courses
MUSIC 112: Introduction to Musicianship
First-semester music majors begin formal musicianship studies. Students perform basic melodies and rhythms at sight, and notate dictations of basic rhythms, melodies and harmonic progressions. Students also analyze and compose Western tonal music employing the rubrics of rhythm and meter, pitch, intervals, scales, tertian chords, inversions, harmonic progression, and SATB voice leading. Offered annually in the fall semester. Does not count toward B.A. music major or any B.M. music major.
Prerequisite: concurrent registration in MUSIC 161 is strongly encouraged.
MUSIC 114: Musicianship: Tonality
First-semester music majors begin formal musicianship studies. Students perform rhythms and melodies at sight. Students also analyze and compose Western tonal music that employs non-dominant seventh chords, applied chords, sequences, modulations, and small forms. These topics are closely integrated into melodic and harmonic dictations. Class meets four times weekly. Offered annually.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 112. Concurrent registration in MUSIC 162 is strongly encouraged.
MUSIC 130: The Music Spectrum
Designed for students with little or no background in music, this hands-on course presents the fundamental materials of music through creative keyboard experiences, music listening, music reading, and aural and visual analysis. Students gain a basic introduction to the piano and to music notation and music theory. Offered during January Term. Does not count toward B.A. music major or any B.M. music major.
MUSIC 134: Rock Music: Style and Context
This course explores the history and evolution of rock music from rhythm and blues through the present. In addition to covering stylistic trends and significant artists, emphasis is placed on the analysis of rock styles and on the social contexts in which rock music has been and continues to be performed and received. No formal training in music is necessary. Offered during summer. Does not count toward B.A. music major or any B.M. music major.
MUSIC 135: Race in 20th Century Music
This course examines how race influences 20th century music. Students study a representative body of music from both popular and art music traditions, learn the basic elements of music and critical listening skills. Offered annually. Does not count toward B.A. music major or any B.M. music major.
MUSIC 141: Introduction to Musicology
This course introduces students to the study of music in cultural and historical perspective. Students explore a broad array of classical and vernacular traditions from throughout the world with the goal of formulating and answering questions about music's nature and about its use by people in diverse times and places. Students also develop essential skills for thinking and writing critically about music-related subjects. Counts toward BA music major and all BM majors. Offered every fall and spring semester.
MUSIC 148: Contemporary Styles Voice Class
Contemporary Styles Voice Class is open to all students regardless of music background and will focus on singing techniques utilized in contemporary music. Students will develop healthy techniques for breathing and vocalizing in the three core singing techniques used in all contemporary genres: belt, mix, and legit. Students will choose their own repertoire from any style, including but not limited to: pop, jazz, rock, blues, country, R&B, gospel, contemporary music theater, hip hop, etc. Offered annually in the spring. Counts toward musical theater concentration.
MUSIC 161: Piano Class I (0.25)
For music majors with little or no prior keyboard experience, this course introduces basic keyboard patterns and technical foundations, applied music theory, harmonization and transposition, and playing by ear. Development of sight playing skill is a central focus. Class sessions include reading, ensemble playing, performance, skill development and drill, and structured improvisation. Offered annually in the fall semester. Concurrent registration in MUSIC 112 is strongly encouraged.
Prerequisite: declared music major.
MUSIC 162: Piano Class II (0.25)
In this continuation of MUSIC 161, students further develop their reading fluency and technical skill, and work with more advanced harmonic idioms. Class activities include harmonization and transposition, score reading, performance, by-ear playing, and improvisation. A grade of B- or higher satisfies Piano Proficiency Level 2 requirements. Offered annually in the spring semester. Concurrent registration in MUSIC 114 is strongly encouraged.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 161, completion of Piano Proficiency Level 1, or audition placement.
MUSIC 164: Voice Class (0.25)
Through group instruction, students encounter the fundamentals of singing and an introduction to song literature. In-class performance is required. May be repeated once. Offered each semester.
MUSIC 165: Guitar Techniques (0.25)
Students learn the basics of guitar playing as well as how to teach guitar classes. Course topics include: learning to play guitar at a basic level; tuning and maintaining a guitar; common performance issues and possible solutions; best practices for teaching class guitar; materials, methods and assessments for teaching guitar classes; the guitar as a tool for composition; technology for teaching, learning or composing for guitar. Required for BM music education majors. Others may register if space allows. Offered annually in fall semester.
Prerequisite: declared music education major.
MUSIC 166: Brass Techniques (0.25)
Students learn basic performance practice on core instruments in each instrument family. Additional topics include: common performance issues and their possible solution; Best Practices in teaching and learning core instruments of the family; and technology for teaching, learning, or composing for instruments as appropriate. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: declared music education or composition major or permission of the instructor.
MUSIC 167: Percussion Techniques (0.25)
Students learn basic performance practice on core instruments in each instrument family. Additional topics include: common performance issues and their possible solution; Best Practices in teaching and learning core instruments of the family; and technology for teaching, learning, or composing for instruments as appropriate. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite:declared music education or composition major or permission of the instructor.
MUSIC 168: String Techniques (0.25)
Students learn basic performance practice on core instruments in each instrument family. Additional topics include: common performance issues and their possible solution; Best Practices in teaching and learning core instruments of the family; and technology for teaching, learning, or composing for instruments as appropriate. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: declared music education or composition major or permission of the instructor.
MUSIC 169: Woodwind Techniques (0.25)
Students learn basic performance practice on core instruments in each instrument family. Additional topics include: common performance issues and their possible solution; Best Practices in teaching and learning core instruments of the family; and technology for teaching, learning, or composing for instruments as appropriate. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: declared music education or composition major or permission of the instructor.
MUSIC 170: Introduction to Kodály Pedagogy (0.25)
This course introduces students to philosophical, methodological, and pedagogical principles developed by 20th-century composer and ethnomusicologist Zoltán Kodály. Students actively engage in aural skills training, movement, instrumental, and creative work. In-depth readings and discussions of historical foundations of the Kodály-inspired movement challenge students to critically examine its Euro-centric roots and subsequent connections to 21st-century topics in music. This course is open to music majors and non-majors. Offered periodically.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 112 or MUSIC 114 or permission of the instructor.
MUSIC 212: Chromatic Musicianship and Form
Second-semester music majors continue formal musicianship studies. Students perform advanced rhythms and increasingly chromatic melodies at sight. Students analyze and compose Western tonal music that employs modal mixture, Neapolitan chords, augmented-sixth chords, and remote modulations, all of which are closely integrated into melodic and harmonic dictations. Students analyze the principle movement-length forms. Class meets four times weekly. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114.
MUSIC 214: Post-Tonal Musicianship
Music majors continue formal musicianship studies. Students analyze and compose Western art music in styles from 1875 to the present, including late-nineteenth-century chromaticism, serialism and set theory, impressionism and neoclassicism, and blues and jazz styles. Performance and dictation studies follow these topics closely, including an introduction to jazz improvisation. Class meets four times weekly. Offered annually.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114.
MUSIC 221: Instrumental Literature and Arranging
The music found in rehearsal folders plays a pivotal role in shaping the curricular focus of a school band or orchestra. This class helps students develop skills in assessing, selecting, and creating high-quality music literature appropriate for instructing instrumental ensembles in elementary and secondary schools. A comprehensive review of recommended published repertoire culminates in programming projects. Additionally, students acquire the technical craft and artistic sensibilities needed to create successful arrangements for instrumental ensembles. Counts toward BA music major and all BM majors. Required for BM music instrumental education majors. Offered alternate years in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114.
MUSIC 223: Composition I
Students are introduced to a number of compositional techniques and apply them in creating original works of music and hearing them performed. Participants listen to important 20th- and 21st-century compositions, and discuss current trends in music, the changing role of the composer in society, and practical composition issues. Offered each semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114, or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 225: Music in the Electronic Medium
This course is a hands-on study of the science, aesthetics, history and current practices of electronic music. Creative projects include work with MIDI synthesizers and sequencers, as well as digital sampling and software synthesis. Offered alternate years during January Term. Also counts toward media studies concentration.
Prerequisite: sophomore standing or above.
MUSIC 226: Coding Music
Most music encountered today is either processed by computer or created entirely digitally. This course provides an introduction to the creation of computer music using programming languages and emphasizing object-oriented programming. Students develop skills in abstract and quantitative reasoning in a musical context. They develop their ability to recognize and employ musical patterns and structures in creating new pieces of music. Topics include digital synthesis, timbral design, live coding, and intonation. Offered alternate years.
Prerequisite: a basic knowledge of musical theory or notation is helpful but not necessary.
MUSIC 227: Practicing for Musical Success
The musical product is an artistic expression; acquiring the skills necessary to make good music depends on the performer's analytical thinking and good time management - also, at times, imagination. This performance-based course will help students develop good practice management skills, working with several strategies and techniques that may enable them to better discern and achieve their musical objectives. Offered periodically during January Term.
Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
MUSIC 229: Jazz Improvisation (0.50)
Students learn to create improvised solos based on standard jazz practice from different historical eras. To internalize the styles of jazz masters from different time periods, participants transcribe recorded jazz solos by ear and perform them in class. Students gain appreciation of and experience with different harmonic and scalar conceptions through performing and analyzing selected jazz solos. Open to instrumentalists and vocalists. Offered annually in the spring semester.
MUSIC 230: African American Song Literature
This course invites students into a relationship with song literature by African American composers. Students will examine this genre through the lens of social movements that shaped and impacted musical development despite under-representation in the canon. Additionally, students will focus on Black identity and aesthetics while analyzing poetry and researching historical and living composer narratives. This course's primary goal is to prepare students to advocate and perform these works for 21st-century audiences. Offered alternate years in the spring. Also counts toward the race and ethnic studies concentration.
MUSIC 231: History of Jazz
This course presents a study of the historical development of jazz, from its roots in blues and ragtime at the "beginning" of the 20th century to the present, focusing on its principal forms and styles, its role in American culture, and contributions of major artists. Offered periodically. Also counts toward race and ethnic studies major and Africa and the African Diaspora and race and ethnic studies concentrations.
MUSIC 234: Perspectives on Flamenco in Seville, Granada and Madrid (study abroad)
Flamenco is the collective protest of an oppressed people, a melting pot of musical influences, an oral tradition, a folkloric art, a fine art, and one of Spain's major cultural practices, globalized and marketed to the world as an expression of national identity. In this course, students study the history, theory, and practice of flamenco music in the region that produced it - Andalusia. Students also visit Madrid, exploring Spain's capital city and examining flamenco's influence on popular and classical music. Counts towards the music major. Offered periodically during January term.
Prerequisite: sophomore standing.
MUSIC 235: Music in Christian Worship
Students study the musical history of hymnody and its relationship to the history of the church. In addition, this course explores the Biblical Psalms and their use in worship of the church and includes references to their musical settings in Gregorian chant, Anglican chant, responsorial settings, and choral music. Offered alternate years during January Term.
Prerequisite: declared music major.
MUSIC 236: Church Music Practicum
Students develop skills and study materials essential to planning and leading worship and training/rehearsing ensembles in a church music program in various traditions. Musical topics include rehearsing and conducting from the keyboard, hymn playing in various styles, playing from chord symbols, global percussion and handbell techniques. Repertoire includes choral music for all ages and for all parts of the church year. Students also explore current issues in church music, the vocation/philosophy of the church musician, organization and administration. Counts toward BA music major and all BM majors. Required for BM church music major. Offered alternate years in spring semester.
Prerequisite: declared music major.
MUSIC 237: Local and Global Musicking
This course explores how musicians and music researchers impact society. Building on skills and concepts developed in Music 141, this course addresses questions related to ethical musicking in an unequal world. Students study a series of case studies, experience hands-on workshops with local performers, and design community engaged music research proposals. Studying local examples of engagement with music and musicians from around the world prepares students to carry out collaborative musical work wherever they are.
Prerequisites: MUSIC 141 or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 239: Javanese Gamelan
This course introduces students to the cultural, theoretical, and aesthetic discourses of the Javanese Gamelan tradition. Incorporating lectures, discussions, audiovisual materials, and performance sessions with internationally renowned artists, this interdisciplinary course teaches students about historical and contemporary contexts for gamelan performance, shadow puppet theatre, and dance, and their relationship to religious practice, gender roles, and social and political life in Java and beyond. No previous musical experience required. Offered annually. Also counts toward Asian studies major.
MUSIC 241: History and Literature of Music I
Students encounter the history and development of Western European music from the Middle Ages to ca. 1750 and study the genres and styles of music from monophonic chant to concerted music of the Baroque. Offered periodically in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114.
MUSIC 242: History And Literature of Music II
Continuing the study begun in MUSIC 241, students encounter the history and development of Western European music from ca. 1750 to the present and study the major forms, styles and representative literature of the Classic and Romantic eras and the 20th and 21st centuries. Offered periodically in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114.
MUSIC 245: Music and Social Justice
Students study how music can engage and advocate for those on the margins of society, inspiring social justice movements. Analyzing historical and current events, class members design a musical project that can empower a people, group or organization in addressing moral and social problems such as racial inequality, rural or urban violence, or prison reform. A Christian normative framework, along with religious and secular alternatives, help guide the ethics implications pertaining to this subject. Offered periodically during January Term.
MUSIC 251: Conducting (0.50)
Students learn basic conducting gestures (with and without baton) through exercises in meter patterns, preparatory beats and cut-offs, cueing, dynamics, fermata, articulations, phrasing, left hand independence, and face/eye usage. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 114 and sophomore status, or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 252: Choral Conducting (0.50)
Students learn conducting techniques for choral literature including research-based rehearsal techniques, vocal preparation, score study, and video self-evaluation of gesture and rehearsal. Course work also includes observation of conductors on campus and in the community. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 251.
MUSIC 253: Instrumental Conducting (0.50)
Students learn conducting techniques for instrumental literature, including rehearsal techniques, score preparation, and reading full score. Repertoire includes characteristic examples from standard band and orchestra literature. Students gain practical experience in conducting an instrumental ensemble. Course work includes observation of conducting faculty. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 251.
MUSIC 261: Piano Class III (0.25)
This advanced piano class for music majors only emphasizes sight playing, score reading, harmonization and transposition, advanced harmonic idioms, improvisation, ensemble playing, and performance preparation. A grade of B- or higher satisfies Piano Proficiency Level 3 requirements. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 162, completion of Piano Proficiency Level 2, or audition placement; concurrent registration in MUSIC 212 recommended.
MUSIC 262: Piano Class IV (0.25)
This continuation of 261 emphasizes sight playing, score reading, harmonization and transposition, more advanced improvisation and harmonic usage, performance preparation, and leadership from the keyboard. A grade of B- or higher satisfies Piano Proficiency Level 4 requirements. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 261, completion of Piano Proficiency 3, or audition placement; concurrent registration in MUSIC 214 recommended.
MUSIC 263: Lyric Diction I (0.25)
Students study and practice principles for singing in English and Italian with good pronunciation, enunciation, and expression. Course content includes phonetic analysis using the International Phonetic Alphabet and identifying and exercising the phonemic features of English and Italian through class performances and listening assignments. Offered alternate years.
Prerequisite: two semesters of voice lessons.
MUSIC 264: Lyric Diction II (0.25)
Students study and practice principles for singing in French and German with good pronunciation, enunciation, and expression. Course content includes phonetic analysis using the International Phonetic Alphabet and identifying and exercising the phonemic features of French and German through class performances and listening assignments. Offered spring semester in alternate years.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 263 and two semesters of voice lessons.
MUSIC 266: Opera in Context: Austria and Italy (study abroad)
Opera was conceived in Italy in the 16th century and has continued to evolve into the living artistic expression presented worldwide today. In this course, students explore and reflect on opera while being embedded in the unique cultural settings of three countries of its origin: Austria and Italy. Through readings, research, reflection, discussion, and group projects, students connect history, architecture, politics, society, and art to performances on the stage and the places that shaped them. Offered periodically during January Term. Apply through Smith Center for Global Engagement. Open to all students.
MUSIC 267: Advanced Acting For The Lyric Stage
This studio course focuses on advanced techniques of acting and singing for the musical stage with emphasis on opera. Students explore voice, movement, improvisation, and characterization at an advanced level. Participants receive coaching in musical and dramatic style through solo and small ensemble literature and prepare scenes for class performance. The course culminates with public performances of a fully staged and costumed lyric theater work. May be repeated once. A production fee will be charged to all students participating in the production. Offered annually in the fall semester. Counts toward musical theater concentration.
Prerequisites: two semesters of voice study or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 268: Opera Creation Residency in the Schools: Civic Engagement
This course is designed for students interested in civic engagement in the arts and arts fusion projects. Participants mentor students from a local elementary school in an Opera Creation Residency as the elementary students compose and perform their own original works. The course culminates in staged public performances. Enrollment is subject to a fall interview/audition. Open to all students. May be repeated once. A class fee may be required. Offered during January Term in alternate years. Counts toward musical theater concentration.
Prerequisites: two semesters of voice study or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 269: Opera Workshop
Participants prepare for performance of a one-act opera or opera scenes. Students receive coaching and performance experience through individual and group singing/acting exercises. The course culminates with staged and costumed public performances. Open to all students. May be repeated once. A class fee may be required. Offered periodically during January Term. Counts toward musical theater concentration.
Prerequisites: two semesters of voice study or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 270: Advanced Keyboard Skills
For music majors with organ or piano as their principal instrument, this course provides intensive practical experience with and development of functional keyboard skills including sight-reading, score reading, keyboard harmonization, transposition, improvisation, and figured bass/continuo realization. Open to other advanced organists and pianists by permission of instructor. A grade of B- or higher satisfies the keyboard proficiency level 4 requirements. Offered alternate years. Counts toward BA music major and all BM majors.
Prerequisite: concurrent registration in, or successful completion of, MUSIC 114.
MUSIC 271: Music Performance Science
Drawing from the fields of biology, neuroscience, physics, and psychology, this course introduces students to the biological and psychological aspects of music performance. Students develop an understanding of the origins of performance-related injury, the mechanism of hearing, the sources of workplace stress in the lives of professional musicians. Each student will design and complete an exercise program tailored to their individual needs as a musician. Offered January Term alternate years.
MUSIC 273: Professional Practices for the Individual Musician
How does a musician find work with little or no prior professional experience? What skills do musicians need to refine before and after graduation? This course invites students to engage in self-reflection, topical discussions, capacity-building, and best professional practices for individual musicians in the performance industry. Topics include the basics of the music business (roles in the industry, copyright law and contracts), artist identity development, and practical skills for a musical career. Offered alternate years in the fall.
MUSIC 275: Instrumental Chamber Music (0.25)
Through regular rehearsals and coaching sessions, new or already-formed chamber groups prepare and perform selected literature, learn about related repertoire, and cultivate observation, communication, and leadership skills. Typical ensembles include string quartets, brass or woodwind quintets, piano trios, saxophone quartets, etc. May be repeated. Offered each semester.
Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
MUSIC 281: Vocal Solo Literature I (0.25)
Students survey the solo art song repertoire of Germany, Italy, and Spain. The course highlights the significant features and development of the art song, and provides context, approaches, and resources for studying this literature. Course work includes in-class performance. Offered fall semester in alternate years.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 141 and MUSIC 214 or permission of instructor; MUSIC 263 and MUSIC 264 preferred.
MUSIC 282: Vocal Solo Literature II (0.25)
Students survey the solo art song repertoire of France, England, the United States, and the Nordic countries. This course highlights the significant features and development of the art song, and provides context, approaches, and resources for studying this literature. Coursework includes in-class performance. Offered spring semester 2019-20 and alternate years.
Prerequisites: MUSIC 141 and MUSIC 214 or permission of instructor; MUSIC 263 and MUSIC 264 preferred.
MUSIC 283: Piano Literature (0.50)
Beginning with the 17th century, students trace the evolution of literature for piano through the major works of such diverse composers as Bach, Boulez, Couperin, and Cage. Course content includes lectures, readings, listening, analysis, performance, and written assignments. Special attention is paid to performance practice traditions and historical context. Offered periodically.
Prerequisites: MUSIC 141, MUSIC 212, and one 300-level musicology or music theory elective, or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 287: Choral Literature I (0.50)
This course is a study of the smaller forms of choral music from the Renaissance to the present with an emphasis on music suitable for junior and senior high school and church choirs. Students study scores and recordings and discuss representative style features and characteristics, interpretation, and conducting problems. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Prerequisites: MUSIC 252.
MUSIC 290: Fundamentals of Vocal Development for Instrumentalists
Through group instruction, students encounter the fundamentals of singing and an introduction to song literature. In-class performance is required. Additionally during the second half of the course, class participants are introduced to the principles of vocal pedagogy as applied to the child and adolescent voice in the class or ensemble rehearsal. There is an emphasis on understanding the developing young voice and establishing good vocal habits with healthy pedagogical techniques as well as exploration of appropriate choral literature. Counts towards BA music major and all BM majors. Required for BM instrumental music education majors. Offered annually in the fall semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 251 or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 291: Vocal Development and Pedagogy
This course introduces a systematic approach to the study of voice production for use in the studio or classroom. Students examine basic vocal anatomy and physiology approached through body mapping strategies. Students then apply these principles of vocal pedagogy to the child and adolescent voice with emphasis on the developing voice, establishing healthy vocal habits, appropriate teaching techniques, and literature. Counts towards BA music major and all BM majors. Required for BM vocal music education and BM vocal performance majors. Offered annually in fall semester. Also counts toward business and management studies concentration.
Prerequisite: at least three semesters of MUSPF 152 (voice lessons) or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 292: Vocal Pedagogy II
This course focuses on applying the foundations of vocal production learned in MUSIC 291 - Vocal Development and Pedagogy to the practice of teaching voice in a solo setting. Students in this course take on a private voice student for the semester and develop a systematic, personalized curriculum for this student. Topics include developing a pedagogical approach to warm-ups and vocalizations, choosing repertoire, vocal registration, vocal acoustics and format training, training different voice types, musical theater belting technique, and the aging voice. Counts toward BA music major and all BM majors. Required for BM vocal music education and BM vocal performance majors. Offered annually in spring semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 291.
MUSIC 293: Keyboard Pedagogy (0.50)
An introduction to principles, methods and resources for effective and creative music teaching through the piano. Students observe demonstration teaching at various levels and individual and group settings, engage in peer teaching, analyze and perform teaching literature, and discuss topics such as technical development, learning stages and styles, and studio management. Offered spring semester 2019-20 and alternate years.
Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
MUSIC 294: Academic Internship
MUSIC 295: String Literature and Pedagogy (0.50)
Students examine scores and listen to a broad range of string etudes, solos, sonatas, concertos, and orchestral excerpts with attention to notable performers of the past and present. Through required readings, listening assignments, video viewing, discussion, and hands-on teaching, students engage with practical issues of teaching, repertoire selection for beginning and intermediate players, performance and basic studio management.
Prerequisites: MUSIC 214 and MUSIC 141, or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 298: Independent Study
MUSIC 312: Counterpoint
To deepen awareness and understanding of performance music, and to gain tools to produce textural interest in composition, students study the contrapuntal techniques of composers from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Modern periods including Palestrina, Bach, and Barber. Offered fall semester 2019-20 and alternate years.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 214.
MUSIC 313: Analysis of Tonal Music
Analysis is a course of discovery, using advanced tools of music theory to examine the ways in which great works of music are put together. Students examine principles of form and style and, using a range of analytical techniques, come to a deeper understanding of tonal music. The course focuses on Classical and Romantic literature, with some work in 20th-century tonality. Offered alternate years.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 214.
MUSIC 314: Analysis of Post-Tonal Music
An analytical study of the wide range of musical styles found in the 20th- and 21st-centuries, this course provides an opportunity to study important modern works and to come to a deeper understanding of their structure and meaning. Students study atonal music theory in depth and examine some of the new approaches to tonality in our time. Offered alternate years.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 214.
MUSIC 316: Music Performance Anxiety
Drawing from the fields of biology, neuroscience, psychology, and sociology, this course offers a deep dive into the psychology of music performance anxiety. Students develop an understanding of (1) the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, (2) causes, triggers, and symptoms of music performance anxiety, and (3) the current state of music performance anxiety research including prevention, intervention, and treatment protocols. Students complete a literature survey examining both quantitative and qualitative research on a topic related to music performance anxiety.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 141 or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 324: Composition II: Orchestration
Students develop more advanced technique in writing for instruments and voice through study in creative composition, focusing on large ensembles. Offered every year.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 223.
MUSIC 345: Advanced Study in Musicology
Students encounter in-depth studies in a specific topic or area of musicology. The content and nature of this course are determined by the instructor and the music department. Sample topics include American music, South Asian music, Opera, and Music, Gender, and Sexuality. May be repeated if topic is different. Offered each semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 141 or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 346: Topics in Music History
Students encounter in-depth studies in a specific topic or area of musicology. The content and nature of this course are determined by the instructor and the music department. Sample topics include American music, South Asian music, Opera, and Music, Gender, and Sexuality. May be repeated if topic is different. Offered each semester.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 141 or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 347: Somali Community Engagement through Music
Students explore how Somali diaspora communities have made important visible and audible contributions to the cultural landscape of Minnesota, while studying and learning to perform the interconnected arts of Somali poetry, music, dance, and theater. Interactions with local Somali musicians and community leaders, a visit to the Somali mosque, and collaboratively working to discern and support the needs of a community partner organization that serves Somali families provides students with hands-on experience in community engagement.
Prerequisite: MUSIC 141 or permission of instructor.
MUSIC 354: Advanced Conducting (0.50)
Working with a live instrumental or choral ensemble, students learn and conduct complete movements and/or entire works and encounter a variety of advanced baton techniques. Course activities develop skills in reading, preparing, interpreting and memorizing scores, with further focus on rehearsal procedures, performance practice, and concert programming. Participants are required to observe a variety of rehearsals on- and off-campus. Offered annually in the fall semester. Also counts toward business and management studies concentration.
Prerequisites: MUSIC 251 and either MUSIC 252 or MUSIC 253.
MUSIC 394: Academic Internship
MUSIC 396: Directed Undergraduate Research
This course provides a comprehensive research opportunity, including an introduction to relevant background material, technical instruction, identification of a meaningful project, and data collection. The topic is determined by the faculty member in charge of the course and may relate to their research interests. Offered based on department decision. May be offered as a 1.00 credit course or .50 credit course.
Prerequisite: determined by individual instructor.
MUSIC 398: Independent Research
Associate Chair, 2024-2025
Tracey M. Engleman
Professor of Music
voice; vocal pedagogy; vocal literature
Department Chair, 2024-2025
Louis K. Epstein
Associate Professor of Music
music history
Kathryn E. Ananda-Owens
Professor of Music
piano; piano literature
Francesca J. Anderegg (on sabbatical fall semester 2024-25)
Associate Professor of Music
violin; viola; chamber music
Anton Armstrong
Harry R. and Thora H. Tosdal Professor of Music
choir; conducting; voice; pedagogy for young voices
Christopher G. Atzinger
Professor of Music
piano
Abbie Betinis
Adjunct Instructor of Music
James E. Bobb
Associate Professor of Music; Elliot M. and Klara Stockdal Johnson Chair of Organ and Church Music
organ; church music; choir; chapel cantor
Rachel Brandwein
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
harp; music theory
Michael Buck
Adjunct Associate Professor of Music
band
Sarah Hohenstein Burk
Adjunct Instructor of Music
jazz piano
David M. Carter (on sabbatical January term and spring semester 2024-25)
Professor of Music
cello; chamber music; string techniques; string literature/pedagogy; music appreciation
David R. Castro
Professor of Music
music theory; counterpoint; advanced analysis
Hyein Choi
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music
Kurt Claussen
Adjunct Instructor of Music
saxophone, chamber music
Anna Clift
Instructor of Music
cello; chamber music
Paolo Debuque
Visiting Instructor of Music
Henry L. Dorn
Assistant Professor of Music
band; composition; conducting
Wesley Dunnagan
Assistant Professor of Music
Alexandra Early
Adjunct Instructor of Music
Jerome Elsbernd
Visiting Instructor of Music
Alison Feldt
Professor of Music; Associate Dean of Fine Arts
voice
Leigh Ann Garner
Assistant Professor of Music
music education
Charles K. Gray
Professor of Music
violin; viola; string literature/pedagogy; chamber music
Thea Groth
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music
bassoon
Therees Hibbard
Associate Professor of Practice and Robert Scholz Endowed Chair in Music
choir; voice; voice class; conducting
Martin Hodel
Professor of Music
trumpet; orchestra; chamber music
Joseph Jefferson
Associate Professor of Music
jazz trombone; jazz ensembles
Reid Kennedy
Adjunct Instructor of Music
Rehanna Landis Kheshgi (on sabbatical 2024-25)
Associate Professor of Music
ethnomusicology; gamelan
April R. Kim
Associate Professor of Practice in Music
piano; piano literature
Dale H. Kruse
Associate Professor of Practice in Music
voice; lyric theater
Siriana Lundgren
Visiting Instructor of Music
Dana L. Maeda
Instructor of Music
oboe; historic winds; woodwind techniques; chamber music
Jill Mahr
Adjunct Instructor of Music
handbell ensembles; flute
Jenna L. McBride-Harris
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
French horn
James M. McClung
Visiting Associate Professor of Music
percussion
Justin W. Merritt (on sabbatical fall semester and January term 2024-25)
Professor of Music
composition; theory; instrumentation; electronic music
Johnathan Moeller
Adjunct Instructor of Music
guitar techniques
Natalia Moiseeva
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music
Monica Murray
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music
Mackenzie O'Dell
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
Chung Park
Associate Professor of Music
orchestral ensembles; conducting
Sarah Pradt
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music
Hardanger Fiddle
Catherine Ramirez
Artist in Residence in Music
flute; theory; chamber music
Catherine R. Rodland
Artist in Residence in Music
organ; theory
Kyle Sanborn
Adjunct Instructor of Music
Ray Shows, Jr.
Instructor of Music
violin; viola
Shari Speer
Visiting Instructor of Music
voice
Emery Stephens
Associate Professor of Music
voice
Marita Stryker
Assistant Professor of Music
voice
Cole Swanson
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
Jason Tanksley
Adjunct Instructor of Music
tuba
Esther Wang
Adjunct Associate Professor of Music
KrisAnne Weiss
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
voice
Peter Whitman
Adjunct Instructor of Music
jazz saxophone
Karl Wiederwohl
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
trombone; euphonium; chamber music
Karen K. Wilkerson
Adjunct Instructor of Music
voice