This course is designed to help students develop grater confidence and skill as a singer. The class is geared toward the beginner who is interested in learning the basics of healthy vocal technique. All singing styles and genres are welcomed. Students will learn and perform songs both alongside and in front of their classmates in a positive, encouraging environment. No musical training is required.
This course provides an introduction to various approaches to creating music using computers. Students will gain hands-on experience with a Digital Audio Workstation, while exploring the theoretical concepts of sound in both analog and digital domains. Although technical skills-such as mastering music software and understanding digital audio-are essential and will be thoroughly covered, the primary emphasis is on fostering creativity.
This introductory course is designed to give students a deeper understanding of Western classical music by studying different musical styles and trends from each major time period. It will increase students' grasp of musical fundamentals and structure as well as enhance their powers of aural perception. Students will learn the basic elements of music, understand some common musical forms, and be able to distinguish some of the differences in the masterworks of major composers. No musical background is required. Given the range of subject matter this course shall not attempt an exhaustive survey but students will learn about the variety of music in its evolving historical and cultural context: to enjoy it, to get inside it, and to focus on developing listening skills. Discussion of the ways in which the music of other cultures have influenced both historical and modern trends will also be pursued.
Let's make music together. This is a course designed for students with little to no piano background wanting to further explore keyboard music. Students will learn reading on the grand staff, ensemble playing, keyboard technique and theory, and perform repertoire from the jazz, pop and classical styles.
Development of applied guitar terminology; basic notation for melody and accompaniment; beginning left and right hand techniques; basic music theory as applied to guitar; learning how to practice and play by ear. Performance of music in a variety of styles to include folk, blues, classical, and contemporary.
Introduction to the Fundamentals of Music intended for those students with little or no background in music. The course covers such topics as treble and bass clefs, major and minor scales, simple and compound meters, triads and seventh chords, and elementary counterpoint. Composition and in-class performance are emphasized.
Review of the rudiments of music, including clefs, notations, meters and their signatures, key signatures, scales, intervals, triads, and seventh chords. Two-voice composition; triads and seventh chords; the basic phrase model; chorale harmonization and figured bass; leading-tone, predominant, and 6/4 chords; tonic expansions, root progressions, and the mediant triad; the interaction of melody and harmony; and cadences. Laboratory.
The course content will include: diatonic sequences, secondary dominants, phrase rhythm, and motivic analysis, tonicization of scale degrees other than V, modulation to closely related keys, binary and ternary forms. Laboratory.
The course is designed for those who have successfully completed MUSC 140 or have attained a similar level of proficiency. Emphasis will be on music reading skills and basic keyboarding technique. The laboratory instructional context is reinforced by performance -based assessment. Using the piano lab in a group setting, this course teaches students to read more fluently the grand staff, effectively learn ensemble music, and to play piano repertoire with appropriate technique, in addition to the exploration of sight reading and keyboard theory. Class Piano is paced for the motivated student. More advanced students will be given supplemental repertoire and technique.
This course explores the nature of virtuosity in music, as it is culturally defined and constrained. With each musical tradition explored, students will also examine the culture's specific values which define the terms of the music's reception, and come to recognize how music is expressed through vocal or instrumental traditions. Is virtuosity performative, or even considered art, is the virtuosity valued, or devalued. Indeed - how is virtuosity defined? Case studies will be taken from traditions that span history and the globe, to explore questions such as: does the tradition value speed, complexity, improvisational skill, memory, and are there connections to dance and religion.
Independent study in a course of one's choice. To be used at the discretion of an individual professor in order to fulfill a student's graduation requirements or to satisfy a student's interests. Such an option will usually be open only to seniors.
A semester-long study of topics in Music. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar's webpage for descriptions and applicability to graduation requirements.
Improvisation is an approach to music making that crosses boundaries of medium, style, and culture from rock to raga, jazz to new music. With a focus on free and semi-structured approaches, this class will experiment with a range of musical elements and ideas through hands-on improvisational performance. Interactive improvising with other art forms will also be explored. All instrumentalists/vocalists are welcome. No prior improvisational experience is necessary.
This course will present an overview of the evolution, contexts, and creative processes behind the artistry of Jazz music and musicians. Primary focus will be on the recordings of seminal artists. Concert attendance and in-class guest performers will offer additional opportunity for insight into the unique process engaged in improvisational creation. Reading and discussion will offer additional perspectives on the music and the musicians who make it. Students will synthesize these elements, constructing their own understanding of Jazz music and it many dimensions.
This course examines the plural relationships between sound and image from historical, functional, and critical perspectives. It explores how music and sound shape visual media and influence one another. Through film screenings, listening sessions, readings, discussions, and reflective writing, students will develop the skills to critically analyze these interactions across four modules: film music, video game music, music videos, and animation.
Screening for MUSC 214 or MUSC 314, Knowing the Score.
For two centuries, Beethoven has been received and interpreted as the composer who liberated music, and the composer of revolution. Born at a pivotal point in European social and music history, he took the conventions of classical style and molded them into the beginnings of Romanticism in music. The discussions and and writing surrounding the reception of his music shaped an entire discourse, often contentious, regarding the true nature of music, and whether it has the possibility to convey meaning. This class will combine elements of a music appreciation course, which deepens our awareness of the way the human experience is reflected in music, along with developing the necessary listening skills to grasp the subtlety of Beethoven's compositional process. To underscore the universality of: rhythm, melody, harmony, structure, and the ways in which these interdependent elements are negotiated, musical examples of many cultures, genres, styles, and historic periods will also be examined. Concert attendance will be strongly encouraged, if not required. No pre-requisites, however a love for and curiosity about music will make the experience more gratifying.
This course introduces core concepts and practices of live sound engineering through hands-on experience. Students will learn the fundamentals of sound and psychoacoustics, preamps, digital mixing consoles, signal routing, gain structure, and essential audio technologies such as microphones, signal processing, power amplifiers, loudspeakers and monitors. Sound reinforcement system concepts will be comprehensively applied through modeled live performance scenarios involving proper equipment design, setup, operation and maintenance, performer-technician communications, and intentional listening.
Survey of Music History from Antiquity music to 20th Century. An introduction and overview of the history of Western Music, basic terminology, the development of musical styles in various historical eras, and the contributions of significant composers. Lectures and presentations supplemented by score study, performance and critical listening.
The recording studio and audio recording technology have revolutionized the way we create, judge, learn, and even define music. Once exclusively the means to document a live performance, studio practice and multitrack technologies have evolved to become the means to compose and produce original music track by track. This class will trace the history of audio recording technology and recording studio practice through readings and listening. Examples will range from the earliest jazz and classical music recordings, to the first sampling and electronic music recordings of the 1940s, to the revolutionary recordings made by Les Paul, Jimi Hendrix, and the Beatles, to contemporary rock, pop, and hip-hop productions.
Topics include: Modal mixture chromatic mediants and submediants, the Neapolitan and augmented sixths, popular song and art song, variation and rondo, sonata form, advanced chromaticism. Laboratory.
Principles of English and Italian phonetics for singing. Learning to apply the International Phonetic Alphabet to song texts in each language.
Principles of French and German phonetics for singing. Learning to apply the International Phonetic Alphabet to song texts in each language.
Explore the interplay between music and drama. Students will learn to use score analysis to inform their acting choices, creating a more integrated and impactful performance. Some music-reading ability recommended. Semester culminates in a showcase performance.
In this course we will examine operas from the 17th century to the present day to gain an understanding of the historical and cultural conditions in which operas have been composed and staged, and to examine recurring themes developed in these works. Topics to be selected from: the impact of star performers (castrati and divas); character types (courtesans); constructions of exotic others; and the world of contemporary opera composition and performance, with a focus on works by composers from historically underrepresented groups. Prior musical experience beneficial though not required.
Independent study in a course of ones choice. To be used at the discretion of an individual professor in order to fulfill a students graduation requirements or to satisfy a students interests. Such an option will usually be open only to seniors.
A semester-long study of topics in Music. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar's webpage for descriptions and applicability to graduation requirements.
Continuing studies in improvisational music and jazz performance practice. Course focuses on understanding chord/scale relationships, exploration of melodic, motivic, and rhythmic improvisational practice, transcription and performance of important recorded improvisations, and developing fluency in jazz language through analysis and memorization of notable jazz standards representing a variety of common song forms. Students will apply theory to their own voice or instrument.
This course examines the plural relationships between sound and image from historical, functional, and critical perspectives. It explores how music and sound shape visual media and influence one another. Through film screenings, listening sessions, readings, discussions, and reflective writing, students will develop the skills to critically analyze these interactions across four modules: film music, video game music, music videos, and animation. Students taking this course will meet concurrently with MUSC 214, and will complete additional research projects via writing assignments and creative work in the Ford Hall digital music lab. This 300-level section is intended for Music majors.
This course offers an advanced exploration of music creation for and with visual media, building on concepts from MUSC 121 and MUSC 339. It delves deeper into the intersection of music and technology, balancing both technical and creative approaches to composition. Students will examine industry roles, explore the process of composing for and alongside images, and engage in hands-on experimentation through creative assignments. The course culminates in a final collaborative project with Animation program students from Pacific Northwest College of Art.
For two centuries, Beethoven has been received and interpreted as the composer who liberated music, and as the composer of revolution. The discussions and writing surrounding the reception of his music, from other artists and intellectual luminaries, shaped the entire narrative regarding the true nature of music as an art, and whether it had the possibility to convey meaning. The structures developed by his generation still dominate composition. Students taking this course which is co-listed with MUSC 218 will engage with the topic in a more rigorous fashion through the completion of 3 writing projects and one oral presentation. Discussion and study of Beethoven: the composers of the period, the structures and syntax created, along the growing discourse of the 19th century over the absolute vs. program music paradox, all satisfy the normal requirements of a topics music history course. The papers will extend from the analysis of a work which epitomizes the type of larger structure which became so dominant during the period to a paper which allows the student to correlate a feature of classical style composition with a technique developed later in 19-21st century composition.
In this course students will apply the analytical techniques mastered in Theory III and IV to a few select works that will be studied in depth. The aim of the course is to enhance the understanding of musical style as it applies to individual composers and to musical periods, to engage historical and modern-day music-theoretical and musicological writings relevant to these composers and their works, and to hone students writing skills in the context of musical analysis.
Students will explore DAW-based desktop music production techniques through their application to creative projects. These techniques will include virtual instrument sequencing, multimedia sound design and scoring, synthesis, signal processing, and mixing. Collaborative projects across media will be a prominent feature of the class.
This course serves as an introduction to formal compositional techniques and processes as they pertain to creating original music. Students will analyze form and language in tonal and atonal music, learn to understand and apply select modern contemporary compositional techniques (such as set theory, serial process, minimalism, digital looping/layering, and spatial notation) through regular composition assignments, as well as study the scores and/or recordings of important works in the classical, jazz, and popular music idioms. The final project is the creation and recording of a complete work for mixed ensemble.
Examination of 20th century art music from the western canon. On a rotating basis, topical foci may include electronic and electro-acoustic music, symphonic and large ensemble concert music, opera and vocal music, chamber music, and music from historically under-represented groups. Lectures and presentations supplemented by score study, critical listening, readings in contemporaneous literature, lab work, criticism and cultural history.
Conducting technique, score preparation, rehearsal technique and expressive ensemble conducting. Students gain the necessary skills to effectively communicate musical ideas to their ensembles.
This course will examine the anatomy and physiology of the vocal instrument and study the history, theory, and practice of the teaching of singing in Western music. Direct observation of Willamette University voice faculty in studio lessons will be included in the course activities, which will culminate in the practical teaching experience of a series of lessons given by students.
Independent study in a course of ones choice. To be used at the discretion of an individual professor in order to fulfill a students graduation requirements or to satisfy a students interests. Such an option will usually be open only to seniors.
A semester-long study of topics in Music. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar's webpage for descriptions and applicability to graduation requirements.
This course will focus on audio recording and mixing technique in a DAW-based studio environment. Through a series of hands-on recording sessions, critical listening exercises, and readings students will develop competency in a range of techniques. These competencies will then be applied to each student's independent production of an audio portfolio CD. Students can also expect a number of collaborative projects across disciplines with a view towards developing competencies applicable to the range of media production settings.
A semester-long study of topics in Music. Topics and emphases will vary according to the instructor. This course may be repeated for credit with different topics. See the New and Topics Courses page on the Registrar's webpage for descriptions and applicability to graduation requirements.
An in-depth analytical study of music composed for small groups (2-13 instruments), this course will focus on selected works composed between 1750 and 1950 which have made a significant impact in the evolution of Western music. The format of the class is lecture and discussion with students and professor taking turns presenting. Live performances by students, faculty and visiting ensembles will be used whenever possible. Designed primarily for music majors.
Independent study in a course of ones choice. To be used at the discretion of an individual professor in order to fulfill a students graduation requirements or to satisfy a students interests. Such an option will usually be open only to seniors.
Senior music majors will complete a summative project subject to review by a faculty committee. The project may be a recital, a large-scale composition, a studio production with supporting materials, or a research thesis paper. In each case the work is proposed, planned, and completed in consultation with sponsoring faculty member(s).
All music majors are required to attend at least 8 Tuesday morning student convocations in their entirety, and 7 additional concerts/masterclasses per semester, for a total of 15 performances. At least 10 concerts each semester must be on-campus events. Concerts and recitals in which you perform can be counted toward the total. Students involved in multiple concerts or multiple performances during tours can only apply 2 of those performances toward the total of 15.
The Pacific Rim Symphony Orchestra offers students of any major an opportunity to participate in an orchestral performance ensemble at the University. Through the process of musical preparation of repertoire for performance, students explore the cultural, historical, and musical backgrounds of the composers whose music is being performed. Though no competitive audition is required for enrollment, each person enrolled in the course will perform an informal playing demonstration for the director before the first rehearsal; these demonstrations give the director an awareness of individuals' musical backgrounds, as well as the overall performance potential of the orchestra.
The Willamette Jazz Collective is the premiere instrumental jazz ensemble at Willamette University. Comprising a full rhythm section with six to eight melodic instruments (winds/strings), this select group of 12 to 14 musicians performs compositions and arrangements from across the full spectrum of jazz, ranging from the music of Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus to modern works by John Hollenbeck and Maria Schneider. In addition to a creative focus on high level ensemble communication and improvisation, the WJC places special emphasis on the music of today, with frequent premieres of original works by emerging jazz composers, unique re-imaginings of popular songs from other genres and compositions and arrangements by Willamette University students.
The Willamette University Concert Band offers students of any major an opportunity to participate in a band performance ensemble at the University. Through the process of musical preparation of repertoire for performance, students explore the cultural, historical, and musical backgrounds of the composers whose music is being performed. Though no competitive audition is required for enrollment, each person enrolled in the course will perform an informal playing demonstration for the director before the first rehearsal; these demonstrations give the director an awareness of individuals' musical backgrounds, as well as the overall performance potential of the ensemble. The University Band is open to students who play woodwinds, brass, and percussion.
This workshop offers students a rich experience with opera, and an in-depth integration of stage movement, character analysis and vocal skill. The Dramatic Vocal Arts presents two productions during the school year. One evening of operatic scenes with piano accompaniment is performed during the fall semester, and one fully staged, costumed production with orchestral accompaniment is presented during the spring semester. In this class, students develop the skills needed to pursue a professional career. Recent productions include Mozarts Le Nozze di Figaro, Puccinis Suor Angelica, Die Fledermaus, by Johann Strauss, Mozarts Cosi fan Tutte, Our Town by Ned Rorem, and Hansel and Gretel by Humperdinck.
The coaching and performing of major works from the chamber music literature, with emphasis on rehearsal technique and small ensemble skills. Typical chamber groups are: Flute Choir, Trumpet Choir, Trombone Choir, Woodwind Quartet, Waller String Quartet, Brass Quintet, and Small Jazz Ensemble. Other chamber groups may be created depending on the availability of qualified instrumentalists. May be repeated for credit.
Exploration of vocal jazz literature for small groups. Performs both on and off campus. May be repeated for credit.
Exploration of choral literature for mixed voices from the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary style periods, including both unaccompanied and instrumentally accompanied works. In some years a concert tour is taken. May be repeated for credit.
Exploration of a wide variety of choral literature suitable for treble range voices. Particular attention will be given to the development of vocal technique and musicianship. May be repeated for credit.
Exploration of a wide variety of choral literature suitable for bass/tenor range voices. Particular attention will be given to the development of vocal technique and musicianship. May be repeated for credit.
The study of the art of piano accompanying. Emphasis on sight reading and the development of the listening and interpreting skills necessary for successful ensemble performance. Weekly seminar which includes live performances by students, lectures, discussions and assigned listening. May be repeated for credit.
This course is designed for students interested in exploring movement as it relates to playing a musical instrument, singing or acting. Students will learn Body Mapping, a method for improving coordination. Participants gain ease in performing, learn how improved coordination enables them to better avoid fatigue, injury and technical limitation, and thereby be able to more completely realize their musical and artistic intentions.
An exploration of the various components of the rhythmic language in western and world musics, culminating in a public performance featuring both pre-composed and improvised works. Meets two hours per week. Required of all music majors and minors.
First year development of applied instrumental and vocal skills, starting with the students level of attainment. May be repeated for credit.
Second year development of applied instrumental and vocal skills, starting with the students level of attainment. May be repeated for credit.
Third year development of applied instrumental and vocal skills, starting with the students level of attainment. May be repeated for credit.
Fourth year development of applied instrumental and vocal skills, starting with the students level of attainment. May be repeated for credit.
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