Undergraduate Courses

Undergraduate courses at Case Western Reserve University are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in both theoretical and practical aspects of music. 

Overview of Courses for Majors

Music (BA)

• Music Theory: Students learn the foundational elements of music, including harmony, counterpoint, and form, which are essential for analyzing and creating music.
• Music History: Courses cover the evolution of music across different historical periods, helping students understand various styles, genres, and the cultural context of music.
• Performance Studies: Students receive instruction on their chosen instrument or voice, participating in individual lessons, ensembles, and recitals to develop technical skills and artistry.
• Music Composition and Arranging: These courses teach students how to create and arrange music, providing them with skills to compose original works and adapt existing pieces.
• Music Technology: Students explore the use of technology in music production, including digital audio workstations, recording techniques, and sound design.
• Music Pedagogy: For those interested in teaching, these courses cover methods and approaches for effectively teaching music to various age groups and skill levels.

Music Education (BS)

• Educational Theory and Pedagogy: Students study different teaching methods and educational philosophies, learning how to develop and implement effective music curricula.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Courses focus on techniques for evaluating student progress and assessing the effectiveness of music programs.
• Curriculum Development: Students learn to design music education programs and lesson plans tailored to diverse student needs and educational standards.
• Fieldwork and Practicum: Students gain hands-on teaching experience through supervised placements in schools and community settings, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world environments.
• Music Education Research: Students engage in research related to music education practices, contributing to the field’s knowledge base and staying informed about current trends and issues.
• Conducting and Ensemble Leadership: These courses focus on leading musical ensembles, including conducting techniques and ensemble management.

Recommended Courses for Music Minors or Non-Majors

Music Theory

• MUTH 111: Music Theory I
• MUTH 112: Music Theory II
• MUTH 319: Jazz Skills (pre-req MUTH 111, MUTH 112 or permission of instructor)

Music History or General

• MUGN 201: Intro to Music - Listening Experience I
• MUGN 212: History of Rock and Roll 
• MUGN 216: Hip Hop History, Culture, Music 
• MUGN 308: Digital Music - Composition and Production
• MUGN 310: Folk Music of Eastern Europe
• MUHI 217: Liturgy, Music, and Art in Medieval and Renaissance Europe
• MUHI courses at 200 or 300 level (by permission of instructor)

Music Education

• MUED 305: World Music in Education
• MUED courses at 200 level (by permission of instructor)

Ensembles, Lessons, and Group Classes

Music Ensembles (MUEN)
The Department of Music offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary music ensembles open to undergraduate and graduate students from all academic disciplines—as well as qualified community members.

• Most ensembles require auditions and may have prerequisites.  
• Get audition information

Applied Music Lessons (MUAP 131)
Take private instruction through the Joint Music Program with the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM).

• $750 for 30-minute weekly lessons (1.00 credit unit)
• $1,500 for 60-minute weekly lessons (2.00 credit units)
• Requires completion of the Secondary Lessons Policies and Pre-Registration Form

Group Class for Beginners (MUSP 100 + MUSP 130)
No prior experience? Start here!

• Beginner group classes in piano, voice, or guitar
• Two-part sequence required before enrolling in private lessons (MUAP 131)
• Focuses on fundamental skills for solo and ensemble performance