College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Music (MUS)

MUS 102   Basic Musicianship 1 credit

Basic Musicianship is designed for students with little background in music. This course provides concepts for an understanding of the basic fundamentals of music theory. Students will also have an introduction to ear training and the keyboard.

MUS 111   Class Piano I 2 credits

This is the first of two courses in a beginning piano instruction sequence. Through group class instruction students are given a practical knowledge of the keyboard and an understanding of the tonal-rhythmic structure of music. Keyboard skills requisite for handling classroom music situations or for personal enjoyment of music are developed. Studio Course.

MUS 112   Class Piano II 2 credits

This is the second of two courses in a beginning piano instruction sequence. Through group class instruction students are given a practical knowledge of the keyboard and an understanding of the tonal-rhythmic structure of music. Keyboard skills requisite for handling classroom music situations or for personal enjoyment of music are developed. Studio Course. (Pre-requisite: MUS 111 or instructor permission).

MUS 115   Beginning Guitar I 1 credit

This course is designed for those with no knowledge of the instrument. Areas covered include tuning the guitar, strumming techniques, chords-two keys, and transposing. Open to all students. Studio course.

MUS 116   Beginning Guitar II 1 credit

This course is a continuation of Beginning Guitar I with additional chords in several more keys. This course is recommended for students desiring to study private guitar. Studio Course. (Pre-requisite: MUS 115 or instructor permission).

MUS 122   Music for Life 3 credits

This course teaches music listening skills, explores music in history and culture, and reveals how music expresses human emotions, thoughts, and ideals. Students will study the foundational elements of music and apply their knowledge to classical art music, global music, folk music, and popular music. They will also discover lifelong benefits and societal uses of music. The course fulfills one course for the Humanities requirement in the General Education curriculum.

MUS 200   Music History Survey 3 credits

This course explores classical music history and style developments throughout influential periods of Western European history and modern America of the 20th and 21st century. Historical time periods include the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic Eras. Students will study significant musical ideas, events, composers, and compositions that shaped history and impacted future generations of composers, performers, listeners, and users of music in society. In addition to applying their score reading and listening skills to trace music styles and characteristics such as melody, texture, harmony, and rhythm, students will develop a greater appreciation for the benefits of music in their lives and careers.

MUS 205   Musicianship I 3 credits

This course builds on the foundations of Basic Musicianship by focusing on diatonic harmonic practices from the Common Practice period. Basic formal structures in music and ear training skills are also studied. Historical context and commentary relevant to the theoretical concepts at hand (largely from the Baroque and early Classical periods) are also presented in this course. (Prerequisites: MUS 102 or equivalent)

MUS 206   Musicianship II 3 credits

This course extends the study of Musicianship I into chromatic harmony and larger formal structures from the Common Practice period. Ear training skills appropriate to these new concepts are introduced. Historical context and commentary relevant to the theoretical concepts at hand (largely from the late Classical and Romantic periods) are also presented in this course. (Prerequisites: MUS 205 or equivalent)

MUS 261   Beginning Conducting 2 credits

The goal of this introductory course is to begin to develop a clear and expressive conducting technique. Students will conduct in-class frequently, videotaping their work and receiving immediate feedback and suggestions for improvement. Students will learn to conduct regular beat patterns, preparatory gestures, cues, cutoffs, deadbeats, fermatas, asymmetrical patterns, and subdivided gestures. Students will learn to make thoughtful decisions in varying their conducting patterns to show changes in dynamics, tempo, and articulation. Activities to strengthen the inner ear while conducting will also be included. Studio Course. (Pre-requisite: MUS 102 or equivalent).

MUS 304   Musicianship IV 3 credits

Students explore the new directions composers have taken in the 20th century and compose their own pieces in various contemporary styles. Keyboard harmony, dictation, and sight-singing are continued. (Offered every spring. Prerequisite: MUS 303)

MUS 305   Musicianship III 3 credits

This course bridges the gap from the Common Practice period practices into the 20th and 21st century musical practices by surveying a wide variety of genres: Impressionism, ragtime, jazz, atonal music, post-tonal music, and music influenced by specific cultures and countries. Appropriate scalar and chordal structures are introduced, along with ear training skills. Historical context and commentary are also presented in this course. (Prerequisites: MUS 206 or equivalent)

MUS 363   Piano Pedagogy 1 credit

As an introduction to the various techniques related to the teaching of piano, students are exposed to and explore piano instructional materials and methodology. Practical experience is gained through observation, teacher interviews, and evaluation of pedagogical materials. (Offered even springs. Prerequisite: MUS 840 or other previous private piano study.)

MUS 364   Handbell Techniques & Pedagogy 1 credit

Through lecture and hands-on ringing, students are given practical study of handbell techniques, score preparation, and pedagogy. (Offered odd falls. Prerequisite: music reading ability. Studio course.)

MUS 365   Electronic Instruments Techniques & Pedagogy 2 credits

This course introduces students to a range of computer-based music technologies. Extensive work is done with the music notation/MIDI program, Finale. Students will also explore using pre-set patches, sequencing, and creating new synthesized sounds. CD ROM programs for music history, music education, music theory, and ear-training will also be explored. Students will be expected to log lab hours in the music technology studio. This course is an elective in all music majors, minors, and emphases. (Offered every spring. Prerequisites: music reading ability, computer literacy. Studio course.)

MUS 368   Jazz Improvisation 1 credit

Students will explore concepts used in jazz improvisation. (Offered odd springs.Prerequisites: A workable knowledge of scales, chords, chord progressions, sight-reading, and a familiarity with the musical vocabulary. Studio course.)

MUS 402   The Business of Music 2 credits

This course will introduce the wide range of professions in the music industry. Topics include practical, entrepreneurial, business, and legal aspects applicable to music professions, including music performance, music education, music publishing, music recording, directing and conducting, church music, performing arts management, and others. This course will provide an opportunity to develop and present career-related projects and a professional portfolio.

MUS 425   Choral Literature 2 credits

A study of the choral literature from the Renaissance through the present (including global choral music) forms the material for this course. Choral composers and representative compositions from each era are studied. The historical perspective on choral music is discussed and a filing card reference library developed. (Offered odd falls. Prerequisites: MUS 122, MUS 204 or consent of instructor.)

MUS 431   Congregational Song 4 credits

Students examine the theology and history of congregational song, including psalms, liturgical chants, canticles, Latin and Greek hymnody, the Lutheran chorale, the English hymn, and contemporary sacred songs. (Offered odd springs. Prerequisite: MUS120 or 121.)

MUS 442   Instrumental Literature & Arranging 2 credits

This course will emphasize instrumental literature for school-aged groups, including a study of instrumental composers and compositions. Students will also learn the practical aspects of scoring and will gain understanding of how composers have traditionally written for instrument(s) and ensembles. Studio Course. (Prerequisite: MUS 205 or equivalent).

MUS 446   Choral Literature & Arranging 2 credits

A course of study focusing on choral literature from the Renaissance through the present, including global choral music. Using a variety of representative compositions from each era, students will study techniques for composing effective settings for choral groups. Studio Course. (Prerequisites: MUS 205 or equivalent).

MUS 488   Independent Study in Music 1-4 credits

Topic and course of study determined in consultation with instructor. (Offered on demand. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.)

MUS 498   Music Business Internship 0-3 credits

This off-campus internship with a music business (usually in the Twin Cities metro area) serves as the capstone for the music business major. Students may take other classes on campus during this part-time internship.

MUS 700   Beginning Lesson: 1 credit

A course of 30-minute, introductory private lessons designed for the beginning student interested in learning the basic techniques of their chosen instrument. Options include voice, keyboard, brass, percussion, woodwind, or string instruments.

MUS 713   Choral Ensemble: Concordia Chorale 1 credit

This choir regularly provides music for chapel worship. Special projects include the Fine Arts Christmas Concert and choral worship services throughout the year. While full-year membership is desired, students may audition to enter the choir at semester breaks. The choir is an excellent ensemble for students who wish to sing but are involved in other touring ensembles or will be off-campus part of the year as student teachers or interns. (Prerequisite: Choral audition for placement by instructor.)

MUS 714    Choral Ensemble: Christus Chorus 1 credit

This group presents major choral works in a series of concerts, including the "Fine Arts Christmas Concert". Weekend tours/retreats and an extended annual spring tour are part of the schedule. Trips abroad are planned occasionally. Auditions are held at the beginning and end of each academic year. Full-year membership is required. (Prerequisite: Audition for placement by instructor.)

MUS 720   Instrumental Ensemble: Concert Band 1 credit

Concert Band performs works drawn from worldwide genres. Performances include chapel services, fall and spring concerts, and Commencement. Occasional off-campus performances are also scheduled. (Prerequisite: prior instrumental experience and seat audition placement.)

MUS 725   Private Voice Lesson 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute vocal lessons stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the voice are studied. Material covered includes standard vocal works. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 730   Instrumental Ensemble: String Ensemble 1 credit

String Ensemble performs works drawn from worldwide genres. Performances include chapel services, fall and spring concerts, and Commencement. Occasional off-campus performances are also scheduled. (Prerequisite: prior instrumental experience and seat audition placement.)

MUS 735   Private Keyboard Lesson: 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute lessons on one of the various keyboard instruments stress proper form, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 740   Instrumental Ensemble: Handbell Ensemble 1 credit

This ensemble is open to any student with handbell experience or sufficient music reading ability. It will perform both on campus for chapel services and the Fine Arts Christmas Concert as well as for area congregations. Members of this ensemble may also belong to other music organizations on campus. (Prerequisites: audition for placement by instructor.)

MUS 745   Private Brass Lesson: 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the brass family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 750   Instrumental Ensemble: Jazz Ensemble (Blue Rondo) 1 credit

Jazz Ensemble and Jazz combos from the group perform works from various jazz styles. Performances include fall and spring concerts, chapel service playing, and occasional off campus performances. (Audition for placement by instructor).

MUS 755   Private Percuss Lesson: 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the percussion family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 760   Instrumental Ensemble: Percussion Ensemble 1 credit

The Percussion Ensemble is open to all students and is designed to develop mastery of various percussion instruments. Students will develop and refine percussion techniques through the rehearsal and performance of standard percussion ensemble repertoire. (Audition for placement by Instructor).

MUS 765   Private Woodwind Lesson: 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the woodwind family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 775   Private String Lesson: 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the string family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 785   Private Composition Lesson 1 credit

Individual, 30-minute lessons in the steps and techniques in musical composition, including vocal, instrumental, choral, jazz, or popular genres. Students will produce their own compositions under the supervision of a faculty member. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 805   Private Lesson -Vocal Pedagogy 2 credits

A course of private lessons designed for advanced singers who wish to gain techniques and practice in teaching vocal technique, both in working with individual voice lessons and with choral groups. Activities include leading warm-ups and teaching peer voice lessons. (Prerequisites: private voice study and consent of instructor)

MUS 825   Private Lesson - Accompanying 2 credits

A course of private lessons designed to provide students with the skills necessary to become artistic and capable accompanists. Areas explored include vocal, instrumental, and choral accompanying. (Prerequisite: private piano study and consent of instructor)

MUS 828   Choral Ensemble - Conducting Apprenticeship 2 credits

This advanced conducting apprenticeship will apply and develop the skills gained in MUS 261, focusing on leading choirs. Students will be paired with a choral director and work closely with one choral ensemble during the semester. Literature selection/programming, choral score study, audition procedures, seating formations, rehearsal planning and execution, and working to develop vocal quality and musicianship in rehearsals will be modeled and practiced, along with the organization and management of choral programs. A major component of the course will be the preparation and conducting of a public choral ensemble performance. (Prerequisite: MUS 261)

MUS 844   Brass Methods 1 credit

This course provides future music educators with the knowledge and skills to teach brass instruments effectively. It covers fundamental aspects like tone production, technique, and common pedagogical approaches for various brass instruments. The course includes hands-on practice, performance, and discussions to develop both playing and teaching abilities. (Prerequisite: MUS 102)

MUS 845   Instrumental Ensemble - Conducting Apprenticeship 2 credits

This advanced conducting apprenticeship will apply and develop the skills gained in MUS 261, focusing on leading instrumental groups. Students will be paired with an instrumental director and work closely with one instrumental ensemble during the semester. Rehearsal techniques, transcriptions, performance practices and score study of standard concert band and jazz ensemble repertoire will be modeled and practiced, along with the organization and management of an instrumental program. A major component of the course will be the preparation and conducting of a public instrumental ensemble performance. (Prerequisite: MUS 261)

MUS 855   Percussion Methods 1 credit

This course focuses on teaching the fundamentals and techniques of playing and teaching percussion instruments, particularly those found in school bands and orchestras. The course covers instrument assembly, care, grips, and various stick/mallet techniques. Additionally, it may delve into the history of percussion instruments, their acoustical properties, and methods of sound production. (Prerequisite: MUS 102)

MUS 865   Woodwind Methods 1 credit

This course provides future music educators with the knowledge and skills to teach woodwind instruments effectively. The course covers instrument assembly, maintenance, tone production, and basic playing skills on instruments like flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, and bassoon. Students will also develop teaching strategies for both individual and ensemble settings. (Prerequisite: MUS 102)

MUS 875   String Methods 1 credit

This course focuses on developing the skills needed to play and teach stringed instruments like violin, viola, cello, and bass. The course will cover instrument fundamentals, pedagogy, maintenance, and repertoire selection for beginning string players. Students will also develop teaching strategies for both individual and ensemble settings. (Prerequisite: MUS 102)

MUS 905   Private Honors Voice 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute vocal lessons stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the voice are studied. Material covered includes standard vocal works. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 925   Private Honors Keyboard: 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute lessons on one of the various keyboard instruments stress proper form, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 935   Private Honors Brass: 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the brass family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 945   Private Honors Percussion: 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the percussion family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 955   Private Honors Woodwind: 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the woodwind family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 965   Private Honors Strings: 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute lessons on the standard orchestral and band instruments in the string family stress proper tone production, phrasing and style. Special techniques unique to the instrument are studied. Material covered includes standard works for the instrument. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)

MUS 975   Private Honors Composition 2 credits

Individual, 60-minute lessons in the steps and techniques in musical composition, including vocal, instrumental, choral, jazz, or popular genres. Students will produce their own compositions under the supervision of a faculty member. All lessons include studio classes scheduled throughout the term as a lab time. (Prerequisites: approval and placement by instructor. Private lesson fee.)