Theory & Composition

One of the requirements for the Music Major is a three-course sequence in Music Theory & Composition. Before students can begin the series, however, they must pass Music 170 - Basic Musicianship, or test out of it. To find out more about the test-out: Test-out for Music 170 Basic Musicianship

It is advisable to take the prerequisite and three required theory courses over a two-year period, without a break, beginning in the freshman or sophomore year. All theory courses have a co-requisite “Aural Skills” class that serves as a lab to develop sight-singing and ear-training.

MUSIC 170 – Basic Musicianship
Fulfills a requirement for the Music Minor and Core Concentration
Note: This course is also a Prerequisite for the Music Major.
This course explores the study of notation, intervals, scales, rhythmic skills, ear training, and other fundamentals of music theory. (3 credits)
Fall

MUSIC 270 – Music Theory and Composition I
Prerequisites: Music 170, test out, or consent of instructor
Co-Requisite MUSIC 271
Focuses on the study of the melodic composition and harmonic compositional techniques in two parts (counterpoint). Also included are skill elements in rhythm, ear training and keyboard. (3 credits)
Spring

MUSIC 271 – Aural Skills I
Co-requisite MUSIC 270
Fulfills a requirement of the Music Major.
A lab for sight-singing, ear-training, and musicianship at the theory I level. (Pass/Fail 1 credit)
Spring

MUSIC 370 – Music Theory & Composition II
Prerequisite: Music 270
Co-requisite MUSIC 371
Continues the study of melodic and harmonic 2 part compositional techniques as well as 3 part and song writing techniques. Also included are skill elements in rhythm, ear training and keyboard. (3 credits)
Fall

MUSIC 371
Prerequisite MUSIC 271
Co-requisite MUSIC 370
Fulfills a requirement of the Music Major
A lab for sight-singing, ear-training, and musicianship at the theory II level. (Pass/Fail 1 credit)
Fall

MUSIC 470 – Music Theory & Composition III
Prerequisite: Music 370
Co-Requisite MUSIC 471
Continues the study of contrapuntal techniques as well exploring a variety of other compositionalformats. Also included are skill elements in rhythm and ear training. (3 credits)
Spring

MUSIC 471 – Aural Skills III
Prerequisite: MUSIC 371
Co-Requisite MUSIC 470
Fulfills a requirement of the Music Major
A lab for sight-singing, ear-training, and musicianship at the theory III level. (Pass/Fail 1 credit)
Spring