Q: Where can I go online to find Department of Music resources for current students?
A: You'll find information for current undergraduate and graduate/professional students on our website. Explore Resources for Current Students.
Q: Whom should I contact if I have academic advising questions over the summer?
A: New students will receive frequent emails from the Department of Music during the summer. For questions, visit the Contact Us page and find the department representative for your program of study. Undergraduate students will meet with their advisors before registering in classes and be provided advising sheets to help track their progress within their degree program.
Q: When will I declare my major in music or music education?
A: First-year students declare their major in music during orientation week by completing a Major Declaration Form approved by the Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies for their program of study. This is an important step because music majors start taking core classes in their first semester.
Q: Will I take music classes during my first semester?
A: Yes. Music majors should plan to take their required music theory (MUTH), applied music lessons (MUAP 121), and primary ensemble (MUEN) during their first semester. Other music courses could include eurhythmics (MUDE), music education skills (MUED 200), optional ensembles (MUEN) or secondary lessons (MUAP 131). Incoming undergraduate students are placed into a music theory course based on a diagnostic exam and a sight singing placement exam that are administered online prior to orientation.
Q: How many credit units can I take in my first semester?
A: Undergraduate students can take a maximum of 19 credit units in their first semester. Graduate or professional students will enroll in the amount of credit units outlined in their contracts.
Q: What are the solo performance requirements for music majors?
A: Music majors are required to participate in Recital Class each semester that they are enrolled in primary applied music lessons. Students attend class every Wednesday at 3:20 PM – 4:10 PM in Harkness Chapel and perform once each academic year. The music department does not require full-length solo recitals, but students are welcome to do so with the approval of their applied instructor. Other competitions and recitals include the Concerto Competition and Ronis Recital Prize.
Q: What are jury examinations?
A: Jury Exams are final exams for primary applied lessons. Each music major is required to perform jury exams specific to their degree. Students are evaluated by their applied instructor and several department faculty members. These jury exams allow the department to track progress in the applied lesson sequence.