SAGES Capstone for Music Majors

The Music Capstone is a significant culminating project that involves either a senior thesis or a senior recital with a supporting document. The project must include a substantial writing component and a public presentation, which is fulfilled by the recital for recitalists.

Course Structure

  • MUHI 395A (Fall, 2.00 Credits): In this course, students work on their bibliography, preliminary research, outline, and the initial draft of their written document. The course includes both group sessions and individual tutorials with the instructor.

  • MUHI 395B (Spring, 1.00-3.00 Credits): Students finalize their written component and deliver their public presentation. The course format includes classes and individual tutorials to support this process.

Instructor: Prof. Georgia Cowart (gjc4@case.edu), Haydn Hall 314

Course Details

  • Group Sessions and Tutorials: The class begins with group meetings each semester, and students will continue with individual weekly tutorials with the instructor and graduate assistant.

  • Public Presentation: Non-recitalists will present their work in a program at the end of the jury exams in the spring. This presentation includes a 20-minute PowerPoint followed by a 10-minute Q&A session. All students in the class, including recitalists, are required to attend. The presentation is open to family and friends but is not a jury.

Requirements and Options

  • Is MUHI 395 Required?: Music majors must complete the Capstone within the music department unless they are double majors or dual degree candidates who may choose another department for their Capstone. The two-semester sequence must be taken in order and is typically completed in the senior year.

  • Elective Option: MUHI 395 may be taken as an elective if prerequisites are met. However, space is limited, and preference is given to music majors for whom the course is a requirement.

  • Early Registration: Students planning to study abroad or who will be away from campus during their senior year must complete the Capstone sequence in their junior year or fulfill it in another department.

  • Applied Instruction: Students opting for a senior recital as their Capstone must enroll in 2.00 credits of primary applied music during both semesters of Capstone registration. The recital may substitute for the Exit Jury if needed, requiring three jury members and pre-arranged evaluation sheets from the music office.

  • Document Length: The written component should be approximately 15-20 pages for a supporting document or 20-25 pages (excluding bibliography) for a senior thesis.

  • Prerequisites: Students must complete MUHI 201 and MUHI 202 before enrolling in MUHI 395A. It is recommended to complete the department seminar and as many music history electives as possible prior to starting the Capstone project.

Senior Recital (without Capstone Credit): With approval from their applied instructor, students may perform a senior recital outside of the Capstone project. They must register for 2.00 credits of primary applied music during the semesters before and during the recital and obtain approval from their applied instructor.


[updated: May 14, 2024]