Department of Performing Arts
The Music Department seeks to develop students’ God-given talents by training skilled musicians for Christian service, fostering aesthetic discernment in varying styles of music and providing opportunities for performing, creating and serving God and the community through music. The Music Department offers majors in music leading to a bachelor of music degree in performance (with primary applied areas in any traditional instrument, voice, or piano) or music education. A bachelor of arts degree in music and a bachelor of science degree in music business are also available.
Prospective music majors should contact the Music Department before or at the same time they apply to the University to make arrangements for an audition. Performance scholarship and grant money is allotted to outstanding students based upon their auditions and other University criteria. Performance grant application forms may be obtained at any time by calling the Music Department secretary at 260-359-4262. Music audition days are normally held at the beginning of the spring semester of each academic year.
Several assessments are made to ensure that each music student is progressing sufficiently and has a reasonable expectation of completing the degree program in four years. All students enrolled in private applied lessons must complete a performance jury at the end of each semester. Freshmen will interview with the music faculty at the end of the second semester to evaluate the viability of continued study. Sophomores in the bachelor of music degrees will take the upper divisional qualifying exam in their primary applied area at the end of the second semester, in lieu of a jury, to determine their eligibility for advancement to upper division applied lessons. All candidates for the bachelor of music and candidates for the bachelor of arts will take the piano proficiency exam, typically after four semesters of class piano or private study, and will take similar proficiency exams in voice and guitar. All students majoring in music will take MU 115 and two hours of applied music to be counted in fulfillment of core requirements.
Bachelor of Music in Performance
Students who choose the performance major in the bachelor of music degree must complete MU 110, 111, 112, 113, 115, 178, 301, 302, 303, 304, 341, and 342; pass a piano proficiency exam; and give a one half-hour and one-hour recital. In addition to the basic performance requirements, students whose primary applied area is voice must take FR 111; GM 111; MU 241, 242, 344, 365, 385; MU A01-04; eight semesters of MU P12 (eight credits); four semesters of MU P30 (0 credit); four semesters of applied voice for two credits; four semesters of upper division applied voice for two credits; and eight semesters of MU ALAB. Students whose primary applied areas are wind, string or percussion must take MU 236, 237, 335, 346, 380; MU A01-04; participate in at least one major instrumental ensemble (MU P20 or P21) for eight semesters (eight credits); one semester of MU P22 (one credit); four semesters of applied instrument for two credits; four semesters of upper division applied instrument for two credits; eight semesters of MU ALAB; and participate in a second ensemble for four semesters. Students whose primary applied area is piano must take MU 335, 347, 382; participate in at least one major ensemble (MU P12, P20, P21) for eight semesters (eight credits); one semester of MU P22 (one credit); four semesters of MU P31; four semesters of applied piano for two credits; four semesters of upper division applied piano for two credits; applied study in a secondary instrument or voice (two credits for two semesters); eight semesters of MU ALAB; and an elective in music (two hours). The bachelor of music performance major prepares students for graduate school and college teaching as well as for professions such as solo and ensemble performance, accompanying, conduction, church music ministry, private teaching and teaching at private Christian academies.
Bachelor of Music in Music Education Leading to Teacher Licensing
The music education major in the bachelor of music degree provides the student with two possible licensing programs that permit the student to teach in pre-kindergarten through grade twelve. Students must be accepted into the Teacher Education Program no later than the fall semester of the junior year. In addition to the required music courses, all music education students must complete PY 111 Introduction to Psychology, ED 212 Introduction to Education, ED 236 Educational Psychology, SE 232 Education of the Exceptional Learner, ED 364 Assessment Strategies for Secondary Educators (or ED 362 Assessment Strategies for Elementary Educators), MU 234 Elementary General Music Methods, MU 325 Middle School Music Methods, either MU 427 Instrumental Methods and Communication or MU 429 Choral Methods and Communication, ED 440 Topics and Problems and ED 450 or 460 Student Teaching in Elementary or Secondary school. ED 377 Integration of Technology in the Classroom and TE 233 Foundations of TESOL/ELs are highly recommended electives for students in the education program.
To complete the music education major in the bachelor of music degree with a concentration in all-grade vocal and general music students must complete MU 110, 111, 112, 113, 115, 178, 241, 242, 301, 302, 303, 304, 335, 338, 341, 342, 360, 385; MU A01-A04 and A08 (unless in applied area); two semesters of applied voice or applied piano for one credit; two semesters of applied voice or applied piano for two credits; three semesters of upper division applied voice or applied piano for two credits; seven semesters of MU ALAB; seven semesters of MU P12; pass the piano proficiency exam; and give a 25-minute senior recital. Piano may be the major applied area, in which case, a student must complete four semesters of applied voice.
To complete the music education major in the bachelor of music degree with a concentration in all-grade instrumental and general music students must complete MU 110, 111, 112, 113, 115, 178, 236, 237, 301, 302, 303, 304, 335, 341, 342, and 360; MU A01-A04 and MU A06 and A08 (unless in applied area); two semesters of applied instrument for one credit; two semesters of applied instrument for two credits; three semesters of upper division applied instrument for two credits; seven semesters of MU ALAB; MU P22 for two semesters; seven semesters of one major instrumental ensemble (MU P20 or P21); pass the piano proficiency exam; and give a 25-minute senior recital. Piano may be the major applied area, in which case, a comprehensive proficiency on a secondary instrument must be demonstrated.
Bachelor of Arts
The music major in the bachelor of arts degree is a general liberal arts degree for the student interested in music but not seeking a career in public-school teaching or performance. Students who choose the music major in the bachelor of arts degree must complete MU 110, 111, 112, 113, 115, 178, 301, 302, 303, 304, 341, and 342; MU A01, A02, and A08 (unless in applied area); six semesters of applied lessons for one credit; six semesters of MU ALAB; and six semesters of major ensembles (MU P12, P20, P21) for one credit.
Bachelor of Science in Music Business
The music business major in the bachelor of science degree is designed for those students interested in operating a commercial music enterprise, such as a retail music store or private lesson studio or in working in the sound recording or commercial music industry. Students in this program complete MU 110, 111, 112, 113, 115, 178, 265, 285, 342; MU A01; MU A02; six semesters of applied study; six semesters of MU ALAB; two semesters of MU P22; seven semesters for credit of a major ensemble (MU P12, P20, P21); AC 241, 242; BA 252, 281, 351; OA 215CG, 215DB; two courses from any 300 or 400 level business course, including OA 371; and 12 hours either on-campus or off-campus at the Contemporary Music Program in Nashville, Tennessee. Students who select the on-campus program must complete MU 497 and ten hours from MI 304; MU 301, 320, 321, 322, 323, 335, 338. Students who select the off-campus program at the Contemporary Music Program must complete CMC 301, 302, 405; and courses to complete one of the following tracks. The artist track requires CMC 412, 415 and 418. The business track requires CMC 420, 423 and 426. The technical track requires CMC 431, 434 and 437.
Minor in Music
A minor in music may be earned by completing 18 hours in music courses, including MU 110, 111, 115, 178; six semesters of a major ensemble for 0 credit (MU P12, P20, or P21); six credits of applied music lessons; six semesters of MU ALAB; and five additional elective hours from any music course listing.
The Department of Theatre Arts seeks to develop effective and creative communicators in order to challenge others to thoughtful examination of ideas, cultures and values. Students majoring in theatre arts will develop technical and artistic skills and engage in critical thinking that reflects the historical foundations of the discipline as well as more current advances in theatrical training. Through traditional classroom instruction and production experience, students will enhance their skills of observation, analysis, development, performance, and artistry in order to better prepare themselves for their careers and lives. A major in theatre serves the purpose of (a) providing more intensive study in the discipline within the student’s liberal arts education, (b) preparing for graduate work leading to a master of arts or a master of fine arts degree in theatre, or (c) preparing for a career in professional and/or non-commercial fields of theatre.
Students in the theatre arts program who wish to pursue a bachelor of arts degree may major in theatre, theatre (NYC), theatre performance or theatre technology. Students may also pursue a bachelor of fine arts degree in performing arts.
Theatre Arts
Students in the general theatre major will complete 26 hours in theatre, consisting of TH 121, 212, 311, 312, 336, 341, and 421; one course from TH 221, 222 or 223; TH 391/392 (at least three credits). An additional 12 elective hours must be completed from theatre courses (excluding TH 391 and 392) to total 38 hours in the major.
Students in the theatre (NYC) major have the opportunity to spend a semester in New York City at The King's College. Students will complete 26 hours in theatre, consisting of TH 121, 212, 311, 312, 336, 341, and 421; one course from TH 221, 222 or 223; TH 391/392 (at least three credits). An additional 12 elective hours must be completed from theatre courses (excluding TH 391 and 392) to total 38 hours in the major. Students may substitute up to 12 approved credit hours from The King's College in place of required courses in the major.
Students in the theatre performance major will complete 51 hours, including TH 121, 212, 224, 241, 311, 312, 316, 336, 341, 361, 365, 421, 431, 441, 451, and 485; one course from TH 221, 222 or 223; TH 391/392 (at least three credits).
Students in the theatre technology major will complete 48-49 hours, including TH 121, 212, 311, 312, 336, 341, 350, 421, 451, and 485; one course from AR 141 or 142; two courses from TH 221, 222, or 223; one course from DM 160, DM 231, MU 265, TH 224, or TH 231; two courses from TH 320CO, 320LI, 320SC, or 320SO; and TH 391/392 (at least three credits with two being TH 391).
Performing Arts
Students in the performing arts major will complete 65-66 hours, including TH 121, 212, 224, 241, 271,316, 336, 361, 373, 421, 441, 451, and 485; DM 231 and 434; one course from DM 250, TH 221, TH 222, or TH 223; one course from DM 338, TH 311, TH 312, MU 341, or MU 342; four hours from TH 392, TH P30, MU 395, DM 395FDN, DM 395RADIO, or DM 395FILM; and 12 hours from DM 155, DM 160, DM 330, DM 361, MU 110, MU 111, MU 112, MU 113, MU 320, MU 338, MU 344, MU A10 (up to three times), TH 101, TH 331MT, TH 341, TH 365, or TH 431.
Minors
A minor in theatre arts requires 22 hours in theatre, including TH 121 and 212; one course from TH 221, 222, or 223; TH 311 or 312; TH 391/392 (at least three credits); and eight additional hours to total 22 in theatre.
A minor in production technology requires the completion of 22-24 hours, including TH 121; two courses from 221, 222, 223; one course from MU 265 or DM 160; three credit hours from DM 395FDN, DM 395FILM, DM 395RADIO, or TH 391/392; and nine credit hours from DM 120, DM 155, DM 251, DM 281, TH 224, TH 231, TH 320CO, TH 320LI, TH 320SC, TH 320SO, TH 350, or TH 421.
Courses in Music
Students will learn basic knowledge related to key signatures, scales, intervals and chords. Student will also develop skills in writing and identifying these foundational music theory elements.
For students wishing to take MU 110 Music Theory I and are unable to pass the Theory Entrance Exam administered on the first day of class, this course will be required to take and pass before enrolling again in MU 110.
This course is designed to give students an understanding of the formal construction of music. It includes an in-depth study of rhythmic notation, tonality, scales, key systems, intervals and transposition, chords, figured bass, cadences, non-harmonic tones, melodic organization and analysis, texture, principles of voice leading, first species counterpoint and an introduction to composition and improvisation.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 111.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on Theory Entrance Exam administered on the first day of fall classes. Recommendations for preparation for the Theory Entrance Exam are provided by the Music Department upon request.
An introduction to dictation and recognition exercises in melody, harmony and rhythm, with special attention to intervals. Students learn to sight-sing using the 'move-able do' system. Dictation and sight-singing exercises are related to studies in written theory/form.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 110.
A continuation of composition, improvisation and voice-leading principles and an in-depth study of harmonic progression and analysis, seventh chords, modulation and binary/ternary forms.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 113.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 110
A continued study of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictation. Sight-singing studies are continued, including singing in minor and using chromatic syllables.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 112.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 111
An introduction to appreciation of Western music concentrating on: basic terminology and instruments; the time periods of music history and their respective style characteristics; the parallels between poetry, literature, visual art and music; listening skills to encourage life-long learning; and a sociological understanding of how different cultures use music. An emphasis is placed on critical analysis and writing skills. Listening assignments and concert attendance are required.
Introduction to the basic conducting patterns and coordination of both hands. Practice in shaping musical sounds through conducting, demonstrating a functional knowledge of the language of music.
Usually taken concurrently with MU 301 and 302.
The study of the musical development of children ages 3-9 years as well as methods and materials for teaching general music in elementary school. Suzuki, Orff, Kodaly, Dalcroze and Gordon educational systems will be studied in detail, and the student will become familiar with the basic vocabulary of each method, i.e. Kodaly hand-signals, Dalcroze eurhythmics movement, Orff instruments, etc. Topics related to program administration and assessment of students' progress will be explored.
Field experience, including work with special needs children, required.
Prerequisites: ED 212 and C- or better in MU 301 and 302
A pedagogical study of the brass and percussion families of instruments, learning basic embouchure, fingerings, how to produce a correct tone, sticks and rhythmic rudiments and melodic percussion mallets. The student will gain a familiarity with the instruments and experience in methods for teaching the instruments to beginners.
A pedagogical study of the woodwind and string families of instruments, learning basic embouchure or position, fingerings, how to produce a correct tone and other basic rudiments. The student will gain a familiarity with the instruments and experience in methods for teaching the instruments to beginners.
Students will learn and master the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and drill on phonetics and rules of English diction for singers while studying the major song literature of Great Britain and America, from the Renaissance to the Modern period. Students will apply the IPA to learning German pronunciation and diction for singers while exploring the major German art song repertoire from the Renaissance through the twentieth century, with special emphasis on the major song cycles and other Lieder of the Romantic Period.
Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), students will learn correct singer's diction in Latin and Italian, memorize basic vocabulary, learn to translate text and transcribe text into IPA while exploring the Mass and other significant Latin prose and the major Italian art song repertoire of the Renaissance through the twentieth century. Mid-semester, the emphasis will switch to the French language with work on learning correct diction, transcribing orthographic language to IPA, translating and memorizing basic vocabulary while listening to and singing French Melodie from the major periods.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 241
This course has two components. The first is an introduction to the use of public address equipment in a performance setting. Topics include the various components of the PA system, its use and criteria for selection and preparation for hands-on work with different systems. The second component features the use of electronic keyboards and computers. The student will learn to connect the two and, through, MIDI interface, exchange information to be used in recording, performing, scoring and sequencing.
Prerequisite: MU 112
An overview of the music industry, including a survey of its history and a study of contemporary trends. Focus is given to the recording industry, band organization and legal issues.
Field trips expected.
A continuation of composition, improvisation and a study of chromatic harmony, including borrowed chords, Neapolitan sixths, augmented sixths, extended chords, altered dominants, chromatic mediants, common-tone diminished sevenths and foreign modulation.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 302.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 112
An intermediate study of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictation and recognition. Sight-singing studies include chromatic syllables, modulation and syncopation.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 301.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 113
A study of form and analysis, including standard classical instrumental and vocal forms, and an introduction to the characteristics and techniques of Impressionist, twentieth century and New Music.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 304.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 301
Advanced study of harmonic dictation and other aural skills. Further sight-singing studies in modulation, as well as modal, non-tonal and twentieth-century melodies.
Must be taken concurrently with MU 303.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 301
Students will receive beginning instruction in song composition. Related areas of song marketing, promotion, publication and copyright law will be explored.
Prerequisite: MU 110
Students will receive instruction in the management of the musical artist within the music industry. The many forces of the music business that influence and shape the artist and the artistic product are investigated.
Prerequisite: BA 252
Introduction to the equipment of the studio and its use, including studio session procedures and recording production.
Prerequisite: MU 265
Selected topics in methods and principles of marketing music products.
Prerequisite: BA 381
The study of the musical development of children and young adolescents ages 10-14 years as well as methods and materials for teaching general music, guitar class, piano class, beginning band, beginning choir and exploratory music appreciation courses in middle school or junior high.
Field experience, including work with special needs children, required.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 234
An introduction to the instruments of the orchestra, their ranges, tones, technical idiosyncrasies, histories and scoring for small ensembles, wind bands and orchestra. Some non-Western instruments are also studied such as the string instruments of the Far East and percussion instruments of Africa and Latin America.
Prerequisite: MU 112
Practical experience in and the study of arranging styles and techniques for various choral ensembles, including SATB, SSA and TTBB. Students will learn to use music-writing computer programs to complete major assignments such as arrangements of instrumental works, hymns, simple chorales, transcriptions, freely composed works for different combinations of voices and voices with instruments.
Prerequisite: MU 112
Detailed study of the history and stylistic development of music from antiquity to 1750, including interdisciplinary studies relating music to other arts and humanities. Although the main focus is on Western art music, many ethnomusicological examples are used and some unusual genre of world music are studied.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 115
Detailed study of the history and stylistic development of music from 1750 through the twentieth century, including Western art music and non-traditional world music. Students will explore wholly modern idioms such as jazz aleatory and minimalist music and will examine non-Western harmonic systems.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU 115
A survey of vocal music composers, their styles and their literature from the major musical periods: Baroque, Classic, Romantic, twentieth century and Contemporary. Performance class designed for music majors and minors. Students will complete an annotated compendium and discography of the major vocal literature.
Prerequisite: One year of applied voice (MU A10)
Survey of solo, chamber and concerto literature for an orchestral instrument. This class will usually be taught by the applied instrument instructor concurrently with the applied lessons during the semester of the Senior Recital. Students will complete an annotated bibliography and discography of the major repertoire for their instruments.
Survey of solo, concerto and chamber music literature for the piano. Students will complete an annotated compendium and discography of the major repertoire for piano.
Prerequisite: One year applied study
Practical application of advanced conducting techniques combined with principles of score study and rehearsal techniques. Students work with various ensembles to hone conducting and rehearsal skills.
Prerequisite: MU 178
This course is an introduction to the skills essential for today's musical theatre performer. Topics such as song preparation, dance/ movement, ensemble and duet work, musicality and acting the lyric will be covered. The semester will conclude with a public performance of music and scenes.
Identical with TH 365.
Prerequisites: Music or theatre major and sophomore standing
Exploration of common pedagogical principles for private wind, string or percussion instrumental instruction, with a study of the methods and materials from most of the major publishers. Consideration of business management, marketing and ethical issues confronting private studio teachers.
Prerequisite: One year of applied study
Exploration of common pedagogical principles for private and group piano instruction for students of all ages, with a study of the methods and resources from most of the major publishers and suppliers. Consideration of new technology, business management, marketing, ethical and performance issues confronting studio piano teachers.
Prerequisite: One year of applied study
A detailed study of the anatomy and physiology of the singing process, respiration and phonation, the classification of vocal fach and a discussion of the various pedagogical approaches to the teaching of singing. Students will compile an annotated bibliography of 50 books and journals on teaching voice and an additional annotated bibliography of literature for the beginning singer in all fachs.
Prerequisite: One year of voice class or applied study
Practicum in some aspect of music designed to give student practical, directed experience.
Prerequisite: Consent
The study of teaching instrumental music in the public schools, including pedagogy and materials for band, orchestra and jazz band. Extensive work in communications includes the study of various learning styles and methods for reaching those learners and producing polished written communications. Other topics include organizing booster organizations and planning and managing budgets. Students will complete a detailed written project outlining the establishment of a high school or middle school instrumental program, purchase of instruments, choice of literature, balance of instrumentation, publicity and recruitment.
Field experience, including work with special needs children, required.
Prerequisites: All junior music coursework and C- or better in MU 325
The study of teaching choral music in the public schools, including pedagogy and materials for mixed and same-sex traditional ensembles and show choirs. Using Don Collins' Teaching Choral Music, students will study Piaget and other theories of cognitive development and learning styles and practice methods of communication with each. This writing intensive course culminates in an extensive written project on the development of a high school or middle school comprehensive choral program, including setting up a budget, purchasing equipment, choosing and purchasing uniforms, planning concert programs, publicity and recruitment.
Field experience, including work with special needs children, required.
Prerequisites: All junior music coursework and C- or better in MU 325
A research project, usually culminating in a formal monograph related to the music major; recommended for seniors preparing to enter graduate school.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in music which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent
Students intern with a music agency, such as a professional recording studio, a retail store or wholesale music or instrument distributor, an applied teaching studio, an instrument building or repair facility, or other commercial music enterprise.
Prerequisite: Completion of junior coursework in music with an emphasis in business
Courses in Applied Music
For beginning pianists, this class focuses on the development of music reading, basic piano facility and motor skills. For music majors whose primary applied area is not keyboard, this course is the first in a four-semester sequence in preparation for the piano proficiency exam. The class covers Level One of Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course. Technical study includes five-note scales with varied articulations, all triads, major arpeggios, pedal use, harmonization and transposition of melodies and sight reading.
A continuation of MU A01. Technical study includes all one-octave major and minor scales, all major/minor arpeggios, triad and seventh chord inversions, chord progressions, greater depth in harmonization/transposition of melodies and sight reading.
Prerequisite: MU A01
A continuation of MU A02. Technical study includes one-octave major/minor scales and arpeggios, with more advanced chord progressions and resolutions, harmonization/transposition of melodies and sight reading.
Prerequisite: MU A02
A continuation of MU A03. Repertoire focus is on proficiency pieces. Proficiency level is achieved in scales, arpeggios, chord progressions/resolutions, harmonization/transposition and sight reading.
Prerequisite: MU A03
Class voice is a group setting in which students learn the basics of singing. Students in this class will learn proper technique in voice production. Repertoire covered includes art songs, arias, folk songs and musicals. Students are expected to sing in front of the class and to practice consistently.
This course is intended for students who have no experience playing the guitar. The focus is on fundamental skills needed to play worship music, including reading traditional sheet music, tablature and chord charts. Students will learn to play finger-style and with a pick, identify and play chords and scales, strum basic patterns and tune the guitar. Emphasis is on formal technique through contemporary praise and worship and folk repertoire.
Students provide their own acoustic guitar in good playing condition. Nylon strings are recommended.
All music majors and minors register for MU ALAB and attend lab sessions in their applied area. The labs for each instrument include a multi-faceted curriculum that is designed to instruct in a variety of areas related to the instrument. Students are coached and perform during lab sessions and discuss topics such as pedagogy, repertoire, performance practice, formal criticism and chamber music.
Music Ensembles
The Concert Choir is a mixed choral ensemble and normally tours during the spring semester. Meets four and a half hours per week. Repertoire includes major choral literature, early music and contemporary works for chorus.
For wind, brass and percussion performers, the symphonic band performs standard band literature and provides on- and off-campus performances. May include musicians from the community in addition to students and faculty.
The chamber orchestra is open to all string players by audition and performs standard chamber string literature. The chamber strings occasionally join with wind players from the Wind Ensemble to perform standard orchestral literature. Meets two hours per week with additional rehearsals scheduled for pit work. Usually includes one or two performances per semester plus pit work for shows.
May include musicians from the community in addition to students and faculty.
Group of instrumentalists who perform in various jazz styles. Jazz improvisation is taught as a part of the ensemble. Meets two hours per week. Most performances are held on campus.
An acting, singing and stage movement workshop culminating in scenes for performance from musical theatre, operetta and opera.
Must be able to read music.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU A06 Class Voice I or one semester of applied voice
A weekly workshop seminar in which pianists work with soloists and are coached by the piano faculty to polish selected repertoire in a four-semester cycle. One semester each is devoted to the following: art song, choral music, orchestral reductions (concertos, opera) and chamber music/instrumental works.
Contemporary Music Center Program
The purpose of this course is to help students connect a career path in the entertainment industry with a calling to be Christ-followers. A holistic understanding of ourselves in the world includes the ability to hear the "noise" in culture, assessing personal strengths/weaknesses, considering the cost of a career in the entertainment industry, and then mapping a strategy for moving forward.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with an overview of the entire entertainment industry and how art, business, and technology interact with each other. Since employers continue to hire graduates who have skill-sets across multiple disciplines, this course equips students with a core set of "gotta knows" that will prepare them for careers in every aspect of the entertainment industry.
This course, often referred to as "Road Trip" or "Tour," is the capstone experience of the semester. Students and faculty embark on a 6-8 day tour of college campuses and clubs mounting a show each night with full production - lights, sound, staging, and video. Every student is involved in the process either as a performer, part of the technical staff, or as a producer. The Business track students are also required to keep the tour on budget by tracking costs and providing a daily analysis of the budget.
Artist Track
The purpose of this course is to equip students with the skills to write, arrange, and demo an original song idea. The inspiration for a great song domes from God...sadly, we have nothing to do with that.
The purpose of this course is to equip artist track students with the skills and experience necessary to perform successfully on a public stage. Each artist is required to rehearse a full rhythm section, contribute to the technical vision, and assume responsibility for success of the show.
The purpose of the course is to equip students with the technical abilities to record, mix, and distribute audio recordings. Concepts include signal flow, mic placement, console automation, the recording process from basic tracks to mixing and mastering, loop creation and editing, soft sampler and MIDI control, plug-in instantiation, and building a home project studio.
Business Track
The purpose of this course is to provide students with skills in progressive marketing strategies focusing on including publicity, advertising, radio and video promotion, Internet marketing, and tour support. Students will develop a comprehensive marketing plan for each artist and will also create and implement the marketing plan for the CMC Road Tour.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a broad understanding of key aspects of the music business including booking, artist management, touring, road management, production, marketing and promotion, copyright and legal issues, publishing, and licensing.
The purpose of this course is to require students to assemble a successful artist roster and participate in the following activities on their artist's behalf: scheduling, creating a business plan, analyzing and forecasting trends in popular music, advising and developing the artists with regard to their live show and recordings.
Technical Track
This course focuses on the recording and production of audio for playback, professional audio recording, and production. The concepts and practices learned in this course will be used by the students to engineer songs for those students in the artist track. The goal is for students to leave the CMC prepared for an entry-level position in any area of studio recording including the setup of a professional home studio.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with technical skills and experience necessary to succeed in live event production. Students will rotate each week through the major tour positions, which include FOH, Monitors, Lighting, Patch, RF, Switching, Resolume, Backline, and Camera Ops.
This course focuses on stage management, lighting and design, video wall mapping/control, multi-camera switching, and power distribution. The concepts and practices earned in this course will be used by students to produce the weekly CMC Live show and the end of semester Road Tour.
Courses in Theatre Arts
This dance intensive course will introduce students to the fundamentals of tap dancing. Students will master basic tap techniques and learn a few short routines. Tap shoes (not provided) are required for this course and should be acquired prior to the first day of class.
This course in theatre appreciation provides an introduction to the audience experience in theatre, including an emphasis on the history and traditions of theatre and the role of the theatre in our contemporary social context. Consideration is given to the important contributions of actor, designer, director and playwright. Attendance at theatrical productions required.
An overview of the potential careers in the performing arts, including actor, director, dramaturge, stage manager, arts administrator, and producer. This course will also provide students with practical information about life skills pertinent to self-employed artists, such as budgeting, taxes, and insurance.
This course explores human creative expression through role play, scene study, improvisation and acting exercises. The course introduces basic terminology and physical activities that lead to a foundational understanding of theatre arts and performance skills. The course is intended for students who might suffer from stage fright or want to increase confidence in public speaking/performing. The course will also serve both the theatre major and non-major who have an interest in developing skills in basic acting/performing.
This is a concurrent course offered at local area high schools. May be counted as an elective in the theatre majors or as a creative studio arts course in the core curriculum.
This course provides an introduction to the art and craft of acting. Students will explore basic acting techniques, theories and principles through specific exercises, monologue and scene study work.
An introduction to the techniques, materials, equipment and procedures employed in scenic construction for the theatre. Studio experience in hand drafting, construction, painting, rigging and shifting scenery and properties. Emphasis on developing creative solutions to production challenges.
Includes laboratory experience.
An introduction to the theory, techniques, materials, equipment and procedures employed in lighting for the theatre. Studio experience in hand drafting, wiring, rigging and focusing. Emphasis on developing creative solutions to production challenges.
Includes laboratory experience.
An introduction to the techniques, materials, equipment and procedures employed in costuming for the theatre. Studio experience in pattern drafting, draping, cutting and sewing. Emphasis on developing creative solutions to production challenges.
Includes laboratory experience.
An introduction to the theory, techniques, materials, equipment and procedures employed in make-up for theatre and film. Emphasis is placed on design, character development, application techniques and basic skin care.
Studio exploration of drawing and painting for the theatre. Introduction to color theory, highlight, shadow and scale. Emphasis on visual analysis and development of painting techniques to produce basic textures for scenery.
Prerequisite: TH 221
An introduction to technique and theory as it pertains to the development and exploration of the speaking voice for clear and effective communication. Focus is on physical awareness, tension/release, breath, vibration, and resonance. Special attention will be given to the anatomy of the vocal tract and an introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet.
Students will learn basic principles of on-camera presentation and creating an authentic character/personality. Emphasis is on commercial/industrial work, news presentation, and self-taping.
Identical with DM 271.
A history of theatre from Greek theatre through the eighteenth century. Representative plays and playwrights of the various eras and cultures will be studied.
A history of theatre from the early nineteenth century through the contemporary period. Representative plays and playwrights of the various eras and cultures will be studied.
A continuation of the techniques and skills covered in Principles of Acting I. Emphasis will be placed on character transformation, in depth scene study, and a more detailed exploration of various acting techniques.
Prerequisite: TH 212
An intermediate course in design for non-realized productions. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative design process experienced in professional theater. Consideration of theatre styles and the development of creative methods to solve design challenges.
Repeated twice. Students choose two of the four offerings from TH 320CO, 320LI, 320SC and 320SO.
Further development of design theory, techniques, materials and processes employed in costume design. Exploration of the principles and elements of costume design through studio experience in creating script breakdown and analysis, research methods, sketching, rendering, costume plots and fabric specifications.
Prerequisite: TH 223
Further development of design theory, techniques, materials and processes employed in lighting design. Exploration of the principles and elements of lighting design through studio experience in creating script breakdown and analysis, research methods, drafting, sketching, rendering, color keys and equipment specifications.
Prerequisite: TH 222
Further development of design theory, techniques, materials and processes employed in scene design. Exploration of the principles and elements of scene design through studio experience in creating script breakdown and analysis, research methods, drafting, sketching, rendering and model making.
Prerequisite: TH 221
Further development of design theory, techniques, materials and processes employed in sound design. Exploration of the principles and elements of sound design through studio experience in creating script breakdown and analysis, research methods, drafting, spatial acoustics and equipment specifications.
Prerequisite: One course from TH 221, 222, or 223
Selected topics or studies in theatre will be offered as needed and based on student interest.
May be repeated for credit in different topics.
An introductory class into the various styles of dance within musical theatre. Basic ballet, jazz, tap and modern dance techniques will be explored as well as distinct styles of contemporary choreographers who have heavily influenced American musical theatre. Emphasis is on body awareness, physical coordination and a heightened sense of performance through dance.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
Students will examine a selection of plays, music, films, and other selections from modern performing arts that are topical and relevant. Through analysis and critique, students will study these works from both secular and Christian worldviews, discussing the religious themes presented in the works as well as the intersection of Christianity and the performing arts.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
A study of the procedures, practices, and problems of directing theatrical productions. Emphasis is given to script analysis and modern directing methods. Each student will experience the process of preparing to direct a full-length production and will gain practical experience directing scenes.
Prerequisites: TH 121 and 212
An intermediate course in drafting for the stage (scenery, lighting and sound plots). Focus is on the development and creation of industry standard drafting documents for the purpose of communicating design ideas to technical and creative collaborators.
Prerequisite: TH 221 or 222
An introduction to the study of the vocal mechanism as it relates to dramatic text. Topics include the International Phonetic Alphabet, phrasing, stress, rhythm, intensity and attention to individual speech problems pertaining to the development and exploration of the stage-speaking voice for clear and effective communication. Dialects are also explored in class through monologue and scene work.
Prerequisite: TH 241
This course is an introduction to the skills essential for today's musical theatre performer. Topics such as song preparation, dance/movement, ensemble and duet work, musicality and acting the lyric will be covered. The semester will conclude with a public performance of music and scenes.
Identical with MU 365.
Prerequisites: Music or theatre major and sophomore standing
Students will learn and apply character and text analysis skills to create in-depth characters and perform them in narrative scenes. Special emphasis is given to multi-person and multi-camera scene work.
Identical with DM 373.
Practical experience in technical theatre wherein students assist in the production of a play/musical with possible emphasis on scene design, scene building, scene painting, makeup, costuming, lighting, props, sound, stage management, house management or backstage crew duties.
May be repeated for credit up to three times.
Prerequisite: Consent
Practical experience in acting and performance is provided in scheduled productions.
Student must audition and be cast in a production prior to adding the course. May be repeated for credit up to three times.
Prerequisite: Consent
Practicum in some aspect of theatre designed to give student practical, directed experience.
Prerequisite: Consent
An introduction to the business of non-profit art organizations as well as the functions of theatrical management from pre-production organization through rehearsal and performance. Topics of producing, casting, directing, managerial responsibilities, production schedules, budgeting, supervision of facilities and personnel, and effective communication are covered. Emphasis is on development of creative solutions to production challenges as the class culminates in the student-produced One-Act Festival.
Prerequisites: TH 121 and 212; TH 341 if student wishes to direct for the One-Act Festival
More than any other author who wrote in English, William Shakespeare has shaped our world in complicated ways. How has Romeo and Juliet shaped our ideas of romantic love? How has Hamlet influenced our ideas of our inner lives? Has Othello influenced the development of racism, or has it helped us to address the problems of racism? William Shakespeare's plays have an ongoing presence in our lives. This course will examine as many as eleven Shakespeare plays with attention give to their presence today, on stage and transformed in our culture. (Attending a play, performed professionally if possible, is a requirement for this course.)
Identical with EN 431.
Prerequisite: EN 151
An advanced study of principles and theories of acting as it relates to historical period styles. Special emphasis is given to Elizabethan drama and the rhythm and phrasing necessary for Shakespearean performance. Through scene, monologue, and exercise work, students learn how to meet the demands of heightened characterization and style.
Prerequisites: TH 212, 241, 316, 361
Devised performance is a practice of collaborative creation developed via alternative rehearsal and production processes and frequently utilizing improvisational skills. Devised work is a new piece created in response to an idea, event, or other external stimulus and often involves a plurality of viewpoints. This course focuses on developing an artist's toolkit for devising and improvisation, pulling from a variety of traditions. Students will work closely with each other to create a variety of performance pieces throughout the semester.
Prerequisite: TH 212 or 373
A seminar course covering advanced topics such as resumes, portfolios, and job searching for the performing artist. In addition, students will complete a formal showcase of their work to be performed and/or displayed to the public.
Prerequisite: Senior standing
The study of a challenge, a research paper or a project related to the theatre major on a subject of mutual interest to the student and the professor.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in theatre which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent
An acting, singing and stage movement workshop, culminating in scenes for performance from musical theatre, operetta and opera.
Must be able to read music.
Prerequisite: C- or better in MU A06 Class Voice I or one semester of applied voice