Music Emphasis Course List

Fundamentals of Music introduces the foundations of music theory. Students will study elements of rhythm, melody, and harmony, as well as learn basic keyboard skills. This course is designed for students with little or no prior musical experience and serves as a preparatory class for other music courses, including MUSC 1101.

MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 2/CT); (3 Cr - 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is the first semester of music theory and aural skills designed for music students, elementary education students, or anyone desiring to develop and improve skills in reading, writing, and understanding music. Students engage in interactive musicianship development including aural, improvisation, and composition skills. Those with little or no music reading background are encouraged to take MUSC 1100 prior to enrolling in 1101.

MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

In this course, students will learn basic keyboard skills, receive an introduction to the fundamental building blocks of music, and then apply those to create music using a Digital Audio Workstation. This course is designed for the student who has little or no training in piano playing and music reading. It will also include instruction in the areas of composition and improvisation.

• (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an overview of music and musical style from antiquity through the present. It includes a brief introduction to musical elements and is suitable for the student who has little or no training in music as well as for those interested in learning more about the development of music. It combines instruction in musical terminology with extensive, critical listening along with an overview of the historical and sociological impacts of music of the Western hemisphere.

• MnTC (Goal 6/HU and 8/GP); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

Music as a living language of love, politics, spirituality, war, and identity is examined through a variety of learning experiences. From songs of ancient world cultures to American Top 40 hits, common social themes and musical traits are traced, compared and contrasted to help students build an understanding of how music has – and continues to – reflect and advance the human experience. No prior musical training or experience is necessary for this introductory course. No prerequisite.

• MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 7A/HD);

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is a study of popular music in America from around 1750 to the present. Subjects studied are musical elements, historical and social perspectives, and genres and styles of popular music including the music of the slaves, music of early white America, music of the Civil War, post-Civil War, black music, Tin Pan Alley, Dixieland, Big Band, Blues, Pop, Jazz, Rock 'n Roll, Rock, and contemporary styles.

• MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 7A/HD);

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This travel/study trip will allow participants to encounter the cultural offerings of the USA’s most vibrant cities. Experienced faculty will provide a survey of exhibitions and performances in art, music, and theatre, as well as historical background and practical guidance. This trip offers access to arts experts and cultural experiences not available to most travelers or commercial tour groups, while allowing flexibility for exploration of individual interests. A special fee is charged to cover travel expenses.

• (1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

Global culture comes alive as students experience a major international city and its surrounding areas. This travel/study opportunity gives students a first-hand look at international theater, art, music, and daily culture. Faculty members provide guidance and support while giving students the freedom to explore their own areas of interest. Pre-trip classes help prepare students to gain the most from an exciting and memorable trip abroad. A special fee is charged to cover travel expenses.

• Student must be co-enrolled in THTR 2295.

• (1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an introductory exposure to the creative process, integrating fundamental aspects of art, music, theatre, and film with current technology in digital media. Students will apply learned visual, aural, and design principals by creating and editing digital images, sound, and video using the Mac OS. Students will address multimedia concepts in the development and creation of a final interdisciplinary project. MnTC (Goals 2/CT and 6/HU); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

Introduction to Songwriting is an introduction to the art and craft of songwriting. From inspiration to final product, students learn to create original songs while employing technology to aid in the creation, presentation, and/or distribution of their music. Examples from various styles, traditions, and contexts will be studied as models for strong, affective writing. Recommended: experience playing an instrument and/or basic note-reading ability. 

(1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

Students desiring to impact society through music are guided through the design and execution of their own unique music engagement plan. Possibilities include a field experience working with youth, elderly, special needs, or immigrant communities; designing performances; creating online or other distribution strategies for self-created music; and collaborating with others on unique projects.

• (1 Cr – 0 lect, 1 lab)

This course emphasizes the fundamentals of guitar technique and performance for the beginning guitar student.  Instruction is presented in a lecture/application format in a group setting.  Each student is responsible for providing his/her own acoustic guitar for use in the class sessions.

(1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course provides students hands-on experience working with digital audio recording and MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) software. Students will learn the basics using current D.A.W. (digital audio workstation) software applications, including basics of audio hardware setup, software configuration, MIDI sequencing, and digital audio recording and processing. Prior music experience is not required. No prerequisites; DIGI 1100 recommended.

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an introductory survey of performance techniques for the singing actor. Students will perform solo, duet, and ensemble repertoire drawn from various styles throughout history, beginning with the early 20th century through the modern era. In addition, students will build a technique for the various types of musical theatre auditions, including singing, reading, and dance.

• MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 7A/HD);

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course introduces proven strategies and applications to help students achieve greater success in college and in life.  Topics include, but are not limited to, time management, goal setting, learning strategies, critical thinking, communication skills, diversity awareness, health and wellness, college and community resources, and financial planning.  This course introduces students to making choices that promote responsibility, motivation, interdependence, and self-awareness.  Recommended:  Score of 52 or above on test Accuplacer Reading Comprehension.
(1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

This course is an overview of music and musical style from antiquity through the present. It includes a brief introduction to musical elements and is suitable for the student who has little or no training in music as well as for those interested in learning more about the development of music. It combines instruction in musical terminology with extensive, critical listening along with an overview of the historical and sociological impacts of music of the Western hemisphere.

• MnTC (Goal 6/HU and 8/GP); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

Music as a living language of love, politics, spirituality, war, and identity is examined through a variety of learning experiences. From songs of ancient world cultures to American Top 40 hits, common social themes and musical traits are traced, compared and contrasted to help students build an understanding of how music has – and continues to – reflect and advance the human experience. No prior musical training or experience is necessary for this introductory course. No prerequisite.

• MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 7A/HD);

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

This course is a study of popular music in America from around 1750 to the present. Subjects studied are musical elements, historical and social perspectives, and genres and styles of popular music including the music of the slaves, music of early white America, music of the Civil War, post-Civil War, black music, Tin Pan Alley, Dixieland, Big Band, Blues, Pop, Jazz, Rock 'n Roll, Rock, and contemporary styles.

• MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 7A/HD);

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)