Music (MUS)

MUS100. Music Appreciation in Western Traditions. 3 Credits.

A broad-based survey course for the non-major designed to illustrate the elements of the art and the cultural styles employed, with numerous examples of both functional and professional application. The course explores Western art and popular forms, as well as non-Western sounds, jazz, musical theater, and music for the cinema. Not open to Music majors.

MUS103. Basic Sight Singing and Ear Training. 1 Credit.

This course teaches students the rudiments of singing by sight and recognizing intervals upon hearing them. Various reading systems are utilized. Students participate in each class session. Remedial course; may not be counted toward the music major.

MUS106. Basic Music Theory. 3 Credits.

Working knowledge of the rudiments of music, e.g., scales, keys, intervals, chords, and basic principles of rhythm, melody, harmony and form. Knowledge applied in sight singing, ear training, keyboard, and creative activities. Remedial course; may not be counted toward the music major.

MUS109. Introduction to Music. 3 Credits.

Music of the world as a form of communication. Attend weekly live performances preceded by a seminar to enhance the listener's understanding of the techniques employed by composers and performers. May not be counted toward the music major.

MUS110. Introduction to Music Studies. 1 Credit.

An introduction to the policies and procedures of the Music Department, and to the field of music. Topics include: musical resources on campus and in the region; music research and writing; health and safety; music software; and career planning.

MUS140. Southeast Asian Music Ensemble. 1 Credit.

Learn to play square gongs, pot gongs, and hand drums from Indonesia, Philippines and Myanmar. No experience is necessary. Music is learned by listening, observing and playing.

MUS141. College/Youth Symphony. 1 Credit.

The orchestra performs primarily classical works throughout the mid-Hudson region with selected students and guest artists as soloists. Consultation with the director is recommended before registering. May be repeated for credit.

MUS142. College-Community Chorale. 1 Credit.

The largest combined choral ensemble of the College. Open to all students, faculty and community members on a non-audition basis. Consultation with the director is recommended before registering. May be repeated for credit.

MUS143. Symphonic Band. 1 Credit.

Performs the highest quality wind band music ranging from classical to popular. Student and guest soloists appear. Consultation with the director is recommended before registering. May be repeated for credit.

MUS144. Concert Choir. 1 Credit.

The major performing choral ensemble of the College. Membership is open to college students (both music and non-music majors) by audition. May be repeated for credit.

MUS145. Collegium Musicum. 1 Credit.

Performance of Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque music. Study performance practices of these periods. Early instruments are used as much as possible. Ability to read music required. Consultation with the director recommended before registering. May be repeated for credit.

MUS146. Chamber Singers. 1 Credit.

A vocal chamber ensemble that sings small-chorus literature of various periods. Advanced singers gain ensemble experience in a select group of 16 to 20 performers. Admission is by audition. May be repeated for credit.

MUS150. Concert Series Attendance. 0 Credits.

Required of all declared music majors. Students will fulfill this requirement by attending a minimum of eight approved concerts each semester in attendance at New Paltz.

MUS160. History of Jazz. 3 Credits.

History of jazz as a musical and sociocultural development of the twentieth century. In addition to analyzing the development of jazz styles in musical terms, this course traces the effect of cultural forces on this uniquely American music.

MUS162. Chamber Jazz Ensembles. 1 Credit.

Rehearsal and performance of instrumental and vocal jazz literature for the small jazz ensemble (2-8 performers). Focus on developing ensemble awareness, familiarity with jazz performance practices, improvisation, and stylistic distinctions. Placement in a group of students with similar levels of experience based upon an entry audition. Basic music reading skills necessary. At least one major concert is presented each semester.

MUS193. Music Selected Topic. 3-12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

MUS199. Modular Course. 0 Credits.

MUS201. Basic Piano. 2 Credits.

For beginners. Class instruction to develop the ability to play elementary pieces and to gain a concept of the basic requirements of a performing technique. Special emphasis on basic keyboard harmony skills. Not for applied piano majors.

MUS202. Piano 1. 2 Credits.

Continuation of Basic Piano. Not for Music majors concentrating in Classical Performance or Jazz Performance whose primary instrument is piano. Student may place into the course by examination.

MUS203. Theory 1. 3 Credits.

Fundamental practices of harmony and counterpoint in Western tonal music: modes, cadences, harmonic progressions, non-harmonic tones. Study of diatonic voice-leading through part-writing and harmonic analysis. Placement examination required.

MUS204. Theory 2. 3 Credits.

In-depth study of chromatic harmony and counterpoint in Western tonal music: secondary functions, modulation, Neapolitan and augmented 6th chords, and advanced 19th century harmonies. Continued study of voice-leading through part-writing and harmonic analysis.

MUS205. Class Voice. 2 Credits.

Class instruction for students with little or no previous vocal training. Emphasis on basic vocal techniques--breath control, posture and focus--through vocalises. Study of Italian diction, early Italian songs and simple songs in English. Not for applied voice majors. May be repeated once for credit.

MUS210. Jazz Improvisation Workshop. 2 Credits.

Instruction in jazz style improvisation in traditional and contemporary jazz literature. Solo and ensemble improvisation exercises to develop improvisational skill and technique in all styles. Emphasis on concepts of scale selection, melodic balance and contour, tension and release, and development of an individual voice as a jazz improviser. Assigned projects in analysis, preparation, and in-class performance of selected jazz literature.

MUS211. Experiments in Music Composition. 3 Credits.

Students learn the art of music composition though studying the techniques, styles and philosophies of American experimental musicians from the 1960's forward. Students will investigate non-traditional methods of performance, music-making and design their own pieces.

MUS217. Basic Guitar. 2 Credits.

An introduction to the folk guitar, focusing on chords, runs, strums, picking patterns and repertoire development. Not for Music majors whose primary instrument is Guitar.

MUS218. Guitar 1. 2 Credits.

Continuation of Basic Guitar, with emphasis on barre chords, picking and strumming patterns, and repertoire development. Required for guitar performance proficiency. Not for Music majors whose primary instrument is Guitar. Students may place into the course by examination. Prerequisite MUS217 or placement exam.

MUS219. Applied Composition. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in composition. For music majors and minors only. Instructor approval required. Course fee.

MUS220. Applied Classical Voice. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS221. Applied Classical Piano. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS222. Applied Classical Strings. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS223. Applied Classical Woodwinds. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS224. Applied Classical Brass. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS225. Applied Classical Percussion. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS226. Applied Classical Guitar. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS227. Applied Classical Misc. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS228. Classical Voice Studio. 1 Credit.

Applied voice students develop performance skills in workshop setting, performing regularly and observing one another. Analysis of individual performances guided by the instructor. Students also receive weekly half-hour coaching with an accompanist assigned by the professor. Co-requisite, MUS220 Applied Voice.

MUS229. Classical Instrumental studio. 1 Credit.

Students perform and discuss repertoire learned in applied instrumental lessons in a group setting in order to acquire critical skills and performance experiences.

MUS230. Composition Seminar. 1 Credit.

Weekly meeting for composition students to discuss compositional techniques and share their work-in-progress projects in an informal setting.

MUS231. Sight Singing and Ear Training 1. 1 Credit.

Basic training through musical activity exercises: action in time (rhythm and meter); action in space (pitch and intervals, scales); and coordinated action (combining time and space). Pre-requisite: Placement Exam.

MUS232. Sight Singing and Ear Training 2. 1 Credit.

Continuation of Sight Singing and Ear Training I.

MUS250. Music Therapy Overview. 3 Credits.

An overview of music therapy's history, definition, methods, practices, clinical populations, models, and education and training requirements.

MUS251. Masterworks of Western Music. 3 Credits.

Learn about historic, social and cultural context, cultural environment and musical design in selected great works of music such as the chant of Hildegard von Bingen, Mozart's Magic Flute, Beethoven's Sixth Symphony, and Dukas' Sorcerer's Apprentice. Previous musical background is not needed.

MUS252. Music Cultures of the United States. 3 Credits.

Students will examine music of the United States from Colonial America to the present. Centered on American music, topics include development of several immigrant traditions including African-American, Latin-American, Protestant Christian, and Jewish European traditions as well as the roles of BIPOC musicians in musical communities. The course consists of lecture/discussions, guided and independent listening, writing assignments, and periodic examinations. For the general student as well as for music majors and minors.

MUS260. History of Rock. 3 Credits.

A survey of Rock music styles from 1950 to the present. Emphasis is placed on the ethnic, cultural, and historical contexts surrounding each era. Special attention will be given to important artists and their music.

MUS270. Applied Vocal Jazz. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz voice. For music majors only.

MUS271. Applied Jazz Piano. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz piano. For music majors only.

MUS272. Applied Jazz Bass. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz bass. For music majors only.

MUS273. Applied Jazz Woodwinds. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz woodwinds. For music majors only.

MUS274. Applied Jazz Brass. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz brass. For music majors only.

MUS275. Applied Jazz Percussion. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz percussion. For music majors only.

MUS276. Applied Jazz Guitar. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz guitar. For music majors only.

MUS277. Applied Jazz Misc. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in a jazz instrument. For music majors only.

MUS293. Music Selected Topic. 12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

MUS295. Indep Study Music. 1-12 Credits.

MUS299. Modular Course. 0 Credits.

MUS301. Piano 2. 2 Credits.

Continuation of Piano 1 with a classical focus. Not for Music majors concentrating in Classical Performance whose primary instrument is piano.

MUS302. Jazz Piano and Popular Styles. 2 Credits.

Continuation of Piano 1 with a focus on jazz and popular styles. May be repeated for credit.

MUS303. Theory 3. 3 Credits.

This course will include a survey of advanced topics relating to harmonic practice in the late 19th century as well as an introduction to major 20th century practices such as atonal theory and 12-tone theory. It will also include counterpoint, including species counterpoint, invertible counterpoint, and canon. Special attention will be given to applying one's knowledge to analysis of complete pieces or movements. Students will also write compositions of their own.

MUS310. Jazz Theory 1. 3 Credits.

Fundamentals of jazz harmony, chord voicing, harmonization and progressions. Scales, modes and secondary dominant scales in jazz improvisation. Rhythmic fundamentals and swing. Melodic analysis of improvised solos. Introduction to standard song forms.

MUS311. Jazz Theory 2. 3 Credits.

Further development of the vocabulary, structure and forms introduced in Jazz Theory 1. Introduction to melodic minor modes, symmetrical scales, chord superimposition, substitution and progression. Advanced melodic and harmonic analysis. Rhythm and form in modern jazz.

MUS312. Jazz Instrumentation and Arranging. 3 Credits.

Jazz instrumentation and arranging are unique with their emphasis on rhythm and improvisation within a written musical composition. Key concepts are presented through arranging/instrumentation exercises, and through the analysis of important jazz arrangements.

MUS313. Improvisation for Every Musician. 3 Credits.

Often associated only with Jazz, improvisation is used in other genres as well. Improvisation methods that enhance the creative process and an ability to be spontaneous, regardless of the genre being played, will be explored.

MUS315. Musical Theater Orchestra. 3 Credits.

A performance ensemble associated with musical theater production. Students are admitted only by permission of the instructor and may be required to audition if not known to the instructor. The ensemble meets weekly to prepare an orchestration for a musical production and performs in the theater in as many as twelve performances.

MUS319. Applied Music Composition. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in composition. For music majors and minor only. Instructor approval required. Course fee.

MUS320. Keyboard Harmony and Improvisation. 2 Credits.

This course is designed to supplement courses in written theory, sight-singing, and ear-training. It will develop skills in sight-reading, transposition, accompaniment, and improvisation at the keyboard.

MUS326. Diction for Singers 1. 3 Credits.

Study and application of the rules of Italian diction for singing; pronunciation learned through drill work and applied to songs sung in class. Voice prerequisite may be taken concurrently. At least one semester of a language other than English recommended.

MUS327. Diction for Singers 2. 3 Credits.

Continuation of Diction for Singers I, with emphasis on French and German diction for singing.

MUS328. Inclusive Conducting and Arranging. 1 Credit.

Basic conducting, music arranging, and ensemble directing skills are presented. In addition, students will learn adaptive and inclusive techniques for application with a variety of individual and group music making contexts, including expressive movement.

MUS330. Music Cultures of the World. 3 Credits.

A survey of music traditions across the world, as well as their influence on Western music. Topics include music cultures from Africa, Black America, Europe, Latin America, Indonesia, and Japan. Choice of cultures may change from semester to semester.

MUS331. Music to 1750. 3 Credits.

This course will examine the evolution of Western music from ca. 200 B.C.E. to the year 1750 C.E. Developments in musical style will be studied in their political, historical, social and cultural contexts.

MUS333. Music since 1750. 3 Credits.

This course will examine the evolution of Western music from 1750 to the present. Developments in musical style will be studied in their political, historical, social, and cultural contexts.

MUS335. Sight Singing & Ear Training 3. 1 Credit.

Continuation of Sight Singing and Ear Training 2, including advanced harmonic functions, irregular and mixed meters, modal scales, and seventh chords.

MUS341. Music Therapy Ethics & Professional Development. 2 Credits.

A study of applied professional ethics with particular attention to music therapy clinical practice, private practice, teaching, supervision and research. An emphasis is placed on the process of ethical thinking and solving dilemmas from a variety of professional scenarios. Minimum final grade required: B-

MUS345. Psychology of Music. 3 Credits.

Physical, psychological, physiological, socio-cultural, and health aspects of music experience across the lifespan are discussed. Basic techniques of conducting, reading, and interpreting psychological research in music are reviewed.

MUS346. Conducting. 3 Credits.

Basic skills and training in rudimentary rehearsal techniques. Practical conducting experience with small vocal and instrumental ensembles in class and, where possible, with major ensembles.

MUS350. Computer and Electronic Music. 3 Credits.

This course provides the student with training in MIDI and computer-driven electronic music processes. Exploration of electro-acoustic music through a historical/analytical and hands-on approach.

MUS351. Advanced Computer and Electronic Music. 3 Credits.

Extension of techniques and concepts covered in Computer and Electronic Music (MUS350), with an added emphasis on live performance technique and interdisciplinary approaches to the medium, e.g. theater, dance, installation , film and television, web-based design and multimedia. Basic Reording (MUS380) is strongly encouraged.

MUS352. Chamber Music Ensemble. 1 Credit.

Students perform and discuss important pieces of chamber music in small groups. Students rehearse together and receive weekly coaching.

MUS353. Clinical Applications of Music I. 3 Credits.

A survey of receptive and re-creative music experiences used at the supportive level of music therapy practice. Minimum final grade required B-. Course fee.

MUS354. Clinical Applications of Music II. 3 Credits.

A survey of clinical songwriting and improvisation methods used at the supportive level of music therapy practice. Minimum final grade required B-.

MUS360. Women in Music. 3 Credits.

Explores composers from the 16th to 21st centuries whose work has been lost or silenced or has been heard despite pervasive and persistent barriers of racism, sexism, and homophobia.

MUS364. Form and Analysis. 3 Credits.

Principal forms and compositional devices employed in music. Various masterpieces studied from the score. Rhythmic, structural, harmonic and contrapuntal factors.

MUS365. Instrumentation. 3 Credits.

Characteristics of the instruments and how they are employed in scoring for full orchestra or band.

MUS380. Basic Recording Techniques. 3 Credits.

Essential concepts in the live music recording process are explored from instrument setup, to recording and mixdown in a digital computerized environment. The process of field recording with laptop computers is covered as well.

MUS381. Advanced Recording. 3 Credits.

Further exploration of techniques introduced in Basic Recording (MUS380): audio recording, MIDI, editing, plug ins, automation, mixdown, mastering. Three software platforms are explored: ProTools, Digital Performer, and Logic. Students run sessions and manage a department recording studio.

MUS383. Junior Recital. 0 Credits.

Recital opportunity for junior-level students in applied music. Program planned with and approved by the applied music instructor.

MUS393. Music Selected Topic. 1-12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

MUS399. Modular Course. 0 Credits.

MUS410. Jazz Improvisation Workshop. 2 Credits.

Instruction in jazz style improvisation in traditional and contemporary jazz literature. Solo and ensemble improvisation exercises to develop improvisational skill and technique in all styles. Emphasis on concepts of scale selection, melodic balance and contour, tension and release, and development of an individual voice as a jazz improviser. Assigned projects in analysis, preparation, and in-class performance of selected jazz literature.

MUS419. Applied Composition. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in composition. For music majors only. May be repeated once for credit. Course fee.

MUS420. Applied Classical Voice. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS421. Applied Classical Piano. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS422. Applied Classical Strings. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS423. Applied Classical Woodwinds. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS424. Applied Classical Brass. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS425. Applied Classical Percussion. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS426. Applied Classical Guitar. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS427. Applied Classical Misc. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in classical [instrument]. Students also meet weekly in a chamber ensemble, and receive four faculty coaching sessions per semester. For music majors only.

MUS428. Classical Voice Studio. 1 Credit.

Applied voice students develop performance skills in workshop setting, performing regularly and observing one another. Analysis of individual performances guided by the instructor. Students also receive weekly half-hour coaching with an accompanist assigned by the professor.

MUS429. Classical Instrumental Studio. 1 Credit.

Students perform and discuss repertoire learned in applied instrumental lessons in a group setting in order to acquire critical skills and performance experiences.

MUS430. Composition Seminar. 1 Credit.

Weekly meetings for composition students to discuss compositional techniques and share their work-in-progress projects in and informal setting.

MUS432. Writing About Music. 3 Credits.

Students will develop their writing skills in a variety of modes of musical discourse. Assignments will include performance reviews, website critiques, liner notes or program notes, and a scholarly research paper. A seminar format encourages discussion and revision of students' work. Writing Intensive.

MUS460. Piano Literature: Performance and Analysis. 2 Credits.

A class in piano literature from both analytical and performance perspectives. Piano instruction is given in a class setting. Students will prepare lesson materials and perform for the class. Criticism will be shared by all students in the class. This class will meet in a periodic fashion and is repeatable for credit.

MUS462. Clinical Musicianship. 1 Credit.

Students will learn clinical techniques on instruments currently used in music therapy practice. Playing techniques for instruments and vocal traditions from a variety of cultures will be explored. Minimum final grade required B-.

MUS470. Applied Vocal Jazz. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in vocal jazz. For music majors only.

MUS471. Applied Jazz Piano. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz piano. For music majors only.

MUS472. Applied Jazz Bass. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz bass. For music majors only.

MUS473. Applied Jazz Woodwinds. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz woodwinds. For music majors only.

MUS474. Applied Jazz Brass. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz brass. For music majors only.

MUS475. Applied Jazz Percussion. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz percussion. For music majors only.

MUS476. Applied Jazz Guitar. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in jazz guitar. For music majors only.

MUS477. Applied Jazz Miscellaneous. 2 Credits.

Individual weekly lessons in a jazz instrument. For music majors only.

MUS483. Senior Recital. 1 Credit.

Students in the Classical Performance and Jazz Performance majors present a recital approximately an hour in length on their major instrument. Program planned with and approved by the applied instructor.

MUS484. Music Therapy Observations. 2 Credits.

On-site observation of practicing MT-BC and introduction to use of music therapy methods in a clinical setting. Sixty (60) hours during the semester at an approved facility, plus weekly seminar on campus. On-site evaluation by music therapy faculty as needed.

MUS490. Senior Project Seminar. 2 Credits.

The nature of the research and/or creative activity is determined by the student and his/her project advisor and approved by the chair. The project may be analytical, historical or creative. Students meet in a seminar four times during the semester and give a public presentation of the project at the end of the semester. Required of all Music majors except Classical and Jazz Performance majors and those completing MUS480.

MUS493. Music Selected Topic. 12 Credits.

Selected topics courses are regularly scheduled courses that focus on a particular topic of interest. Descriptions are printed in the Schedule of Classes each semester. Selected topics courses may be used as elective credit and may be repeated for credit, provided that the topic of the course changes.

MUS494. Fieldwork in Music. 1-12 Credits.

MUS495. Indep Study Music. 1-12 Credits.

MUS499. Modular Course. 0 Credits.