Core Offerings

Arts Core

The department offers three courses (MUSA1100, MUSA1200, and MUSA1300) that satisfy the University Core requirement in the Arts.  Each introduces a different area of musical knowledge: theory, musicology, ethnomusicology

MUSA1100

Fundamentals of Music Theory focuses on technical aspects of the language of music: the basic vocabulary and manipulation of scales, chords and use of figured bass.  This is a prerequisite for the major and minor and is recommended for those intending to continue in music.

MUSA1200

Introduction to Music surveys a the broad history of Western music history through the various style periods styles: the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Baroque, Classical Era, Romantic Era, 20th century and contemporary art music.

MUSA1300

History of Popular Music offers a socio-historical approach to the history and context of American popular music from the; upper level cross-cultural courses deal with Western traditions (such as Celtic Musics, Irish Folk Music, Music in America, Rhythm and Blues) and non-Western traditions.

Cultural Diversity Core

The following courses fulfill the cultural diversity requirement and fulfill requirements or act as electives within the music major and minor.

  • MUSA1320 Introduction to Musics of the World
  • MUSA2303 Afro-Brazilian Musical Worlds
  • MUSA2304 Musics of India
  • MUSA2306 Musics of Africa
  • MUSA2307 Musics of Asia
  • MUSA2309 Music and Culture of the Middle East