Courses

Designed for the music major whose primary instrument is other than piano. The course material will focus on the rudiments of piano playing, including acquisition of the Technical Skills (Items 1-10) of Piano Proficiency (i.e. scales, arpeggios, and chords). (1 Units)

Designed for the music major whose primary instrument is other than piano. The course material will focus primarily on the Functional Skills (Items 11-15) of Piano Proficiency (i.e. solo repertoire, harmonization, transposition, score-reading, and sight-reading) with review of the Technical Skills. Prerequisite: MUS012 (1 Units)

Private Instruction is offered with material and performance of increasing difficulty as the student develops. Students must arrange a lesson time before or during the first week of classes in the School of Music office or with the instructor. Twelve (12) half-hour lessons will be offered per unit. Students are expected to perform in Student Recitals and a Jury Exam. (2 Units)

An inclusive concert band designed to provide instrumental experience and growth through rehearsal and public performance. Open to qualified students by audition or instructor's consent. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

Camerata is the most advanced, select mixed (SATB) choral ensemble open by audition from all academic disciplines. Repertoire for this ensemble focuses on music composed specifically for advanced level chamber choirs. Additionally, Camerata will join other choirs and Symphony Orchestra to perform extended works composed for large musical forces. Rehearsals seek to promote vocal development, musicianship training, team work, artistic espression, and spiritual reflection. Camerata is also a service organization which performs concerts for the California Baptist University community, in the local area, and in outreach and recruitment events. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

This choral ensemble will rehearse and perform a variety of music for soprano/alto voices. The group will concertize throughout the traditional academic year. Open by audition to all interested students. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

Jazz Ensemble provides musicians with opportunities to learn a variety of jazz styles in a "big band" setting, as well as to enhance individual improvisational skills. This course also provides practical experience through rehearsals and performances. It is open to qualified students by audition or instructor's consent. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

A select concert band comprised of the finest woodwind, brass, and percussion students at the University, performing both standard and emerging repertoire for winds at a high artistic level. Open to qualified students by audition. Members of the ensemble are expected to demonstrate outstanding skill and musicianship through individual practice with refinement in ensemble rehearsal. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS072 or MUS079 or MUS080 or MUS081 or MUS082 or MUS084 or MUS085 or MUS086 or MUS087 or MUS088 or MUS089 or MUS460 or MUS461 or MUS462 or MUS463 or MUS464 or MUS465 or MUS466 or MUS467 or MUS468 or MUS469 (1 Units)

Symphony Orchestra is open by audition to all qualified students. The group will rehearse and perform the finest examples of orchestral literature, ranging from the 18th century to the present. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

An inclusive concert band designed to provide instrumental experience and growth through rehearsal and public performance. Open to qualified students by audition or instructor's consent. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS067 or MUS097 (1 Units)

Camerata is the most advanced, select mixed (SATB) choral ensemble open by audition from all academic disciplines. Repertoire for this ensemble focuses on music composed specifically for advanced level chamber choirs. Additionally, Camerata will join other choirs and Symphony Orchestra to perform extended works composed for large musical forces. Rehearsals seek to promote vocal development, musicianship training, team work, artistic expression, and spiritual reflection. Camerata is also a service organization which performs concerts for the CBU community, in the local area, and in outreach and recruitment events. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

This choral ensemble will rehearse and perform a variety of music for soprano/alto voices and combine with other choirs to form the Worship Collective. The group will concertize throughout the traditional academic year. Open by audition to all interested students. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS091 or MUS094 (1 Units)

A select concert band comprised of the finest woodwind, brass, and percussion students at the University, performing both standard and emerging repertoire for winds at a high artistic level. Open to qualified students by audition. Members of the ensemble are expected to demonstrate outstanding skill and musicianship through individual practice with refinement in ensemble rehearsal. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS097 (1 Units)

Symphony Orchestra is open by audition to all qualified students. The group will rehearse and perform the finest examples of orchestral literature, ranging from the 18th century to the present. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS099 (1 Units)

This introductory course equips first-semester performing arts majors with the habits, skills, and perspectives essential for academic, artistic, and professional success. Required for all SoPA majors. It is a tool for culture building, expectation-setting, retention, and student success. (1 unit)

A review of music fundamentals, intensive study of basic concepts of music theory for the music major, introduction to music notation software. Concert attendance requirement. (3 Units)

Introductory experiences in sight-singing and ear-training. (1 Units)

Development of skills in analyzing and writing music involving diatonic voice leading principles and harmonic progressions. Examples are drawn from art, sacred and popular music. Concert attendance requirement. Prerequisite: MUS114 (3 Units)

Continued development of aural skills and introduction to keyboard harmony and improvisation. Prerequisite: MUS115 (1 Units)

Emphasis on musical instruments, and their significance in a culture's folklore, religion and history; fundamental elements of music and how they vary in different traditions; the effects of cultural influences such as gender and ethnically on the perception, interpretations and performance of music; forces of nationalism, acculturation, and westernization and their effect on musical traditions. (2 Units)

Advanced writing and analysis of music involving chromatic and extended harmonies, and an introduction to 16th century polyphony and 18th century counterpoint. Examples are drawn from art, sacred and popular music. Prerequisite: MUS124 (3 Units)

Advanced training in ear-training, sight-singing and keyboard harmony involving chromatic exercises. Prerequisite: MUS125 (1 Units)

Basic conducting skills, principles, and rehearsal techniques for choral and instrumental music. Observations of choral and instrumental ensemble rehearsals. Prerequisite: MUS214 (2 Units)

(3 Units)

A study of the transformation of musical ideas and styles as they reflect broader changes in culture, aesthetics, and creative identity. Attention is given to shifts in form, genre, and expressive intent, as well as to the expanding roles of composers and performers in society. Through analysis and listening, students investigate how evolving artistic values shaped the relationship between innovation and tradition in Western music. (3 units)

A study of the transformation of musical ideas and styles as they reflect broader changes in culture, aesthetics, and creative identity. Attention is given to shifts in form, genre, and expressive intent, as well as to the expanding roles of composers and performers in society. Through analysis and listening, students investigate how evolving artistic values shaped the relationship between innovation and tradition in Western music. (3 units)

An examination of modern and contemporary perspectives in Western music as they intersect with new artistic, technological, and global influences. The course considers how composers and performers have challenged, reinterpreted, and reimagined the inherited conventions of musical style. Students engage with diverse works that illustrate the continuing dialogue between musical structure, cultural meaning, and creative experimentation. (3 units)

Music majors in the Performance or Composition for Stage and Screen degree programs present a concert or half recital of 20-30 minutes during their junior year. Students will perform selections from their Junior Recital repertoire in this class setting, and will receive constructive critique from the instructor and classmates. Students must successfully complete the Applied Music Proficiency and Piano Proficiency in order to enroll in this course. (1 Units)

A study of advanced principles of musical organization integrating formal, contrapuntal, and compositional analysis. Students will examine how musical materials are structured through processes of thematic development, variation, and imitation in both historical and contemporary contexts. The course combines approaches traditionally found in form and analysis and counterpoint, emphasizing how composers create coherence, contrast, and continuity across diverse genres and styles. Through analytical study and short creative projects, students will apply these principles to deepen their understanding of musical architecture and design. (3 units)

Prerequisite: (MUS214,MUS215) (2 Units)

Students seeking a Bachelor of Arts in Music or Bachelor of Music degree must enroll in Senior Recital and Project in the semester they intend to perform their Senior Recital, typically the last semester of their senior year. Students may enroll in the course after successfully completing the Applied Music Proficiency and meeting the performance expectations described in the Undergraduate Handbook for their specific course of study. Piano Proficiency completion required. Requirements for recital length are determined by the student's major. See School of Performing Arts Undergraduate Student Handbook for recital length and repertoire requirements. (1 Units)

A study of the orchestral instruments; scoring for full orchestration or small ensembles. Students do extensive work in the computer lab working with notation software. Prerequisite: MUS224 (3 Units)

This class provides a theological and philosophical foundation for studying the performing arts. This course examines the relationship between beauty, the arts, and the Christian life and worship. It is primarily designed as an examination of the aesthetic, cultural, and creative components of the performing arts, but it will also explore other art forms, philosophies of culture, and the arts' capacities for spiritual formation. Giving particular attention to music and theatre, this course will examine the role that the arts play in society, in the church, and in Christian worship. (3 Units)

An inclusive concert band designed to provide instrumental experience and growth through rehearsal and public performance. Open to qualified students by audition or instructor's consent. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

Camerata is the most advanced, select mixed (SATB) choral ensemble open by audition from all academic disciplines. Repertoire for this ensemble focuses on music composed specifically for advanced level chamber choirs. Additionally, Camerata will join other choirs and Symphony Orchestra to perform extended works composed for large musical forces. Rehearsals seek to promote vocal development, musicianship training, team work, artistic espression, and spiritual reflection. Camerata is also a service organization which performs concerts for the California Baptist University community, in the local area, and in outreach and recruitment events. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

University Choir and Orchestra is open by audition to all interested students. The group will rehearse and perform a variety of music. A concert tour at the end of the school year is required. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

This choral ensemble will rehearse and perform a variety of music for soprano/alto voices. The group will concertize throughout the traditional academic year. Open by audition to all interested students. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

Chamber Singers gives experience in preparation and performance of recognized and new choral works as well as masterworks of Western music written for small choral ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. May be repeated for a maximum of twelve (12) units. (0-1 units; Fall/Spring) (1 Units)

Chamber Ensemble provides opportunities for preparation and performance of small ensemble repertoire. Ensembles rehearse weekly, are provided coaching, and present performances of the music studied. The course is open to all music majors and to non-music majors by instructor permission. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

Jazz Ensemble provides musicians with opportunities to learn a variety of jazz styles in a "big band" setting, as well as to enhance individual improvisational skills. This course also provides practical experience through rehearsals and performances. It is open to qualified students by audition or instructor's consent. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

A select concert band comprised of the finest woodwind, brass, and percussion students at the University, performing both standard and emerging repertoire for winds at a high artistic level. Open to qualified students by audition. Members of the ensemble are expected to demonstrate outstanding skill and musicianship through individual practice with refinement in ensemble rehearsal. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS072 or MUS079 or MUS080 or MUS081 or MUS082 or MUS084 or MUS085 or MUS086 or MUS087 or MUS088 or MUS089 or MUS460 or MUS461 or MUS462 or MUS463 or MUS464 or MUS465 or MUS466 or MUS467 or MUS468 or MUS469 (1 Units)

Symphony Orchestra is open by audition to all qualified students. The group will rehearse and perform the finest examples of orchestral literature, ranging from the 18th century to the present. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

University Choir and Orchestra is open by audition to all interested students. UCO will rehearse and perform a variety of sacred music. A concert tour at the end of the school year is required. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Prerequisite: MUS090 (1 Units)

Camerata is the most advanced, select mixed (SATB) choral ensemble open by audition from all academic disciplines. Repertoire for this ensemble focuses on music composed specifically for advanced level chamber choirs. Additionally, Camerata will join other choirs and Symphony Orchestra to perform extended works composed for large musical forces. Rehearsals seek to promote vocal development, musicianship training, team work, artistic expression, and spiritual reflection. Camerata is also a service organization which performs concerts for the CBU community, in the local area, and in outreach and recruitment events. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

This choral ensemble will rehearse and perform a variety of music for soprano/alto voices and combine with other choirs to form the Worship Collective. The group will concertize throughout the traditional academic year. Open by audition to all interested students. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS091 or MUS094 (1 Units)

A select concert band comprised of the finest woodwind, brass, and percussion students at the University, performing both standard and emerging repertoire for winds at a high artistic level. Open to qualified students by audition. Members of the ensemble are expected to demonstrate outstanding skill and musicianship through individual practice with refinement in ensemble rehearsal. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS097 (1 Units)

Symphony Orchestra is open by audition to all qualified students. The group will rehearse and perform the finest examples of orchestral literature, ranging from the 18th century to the present. Students must have sophomore status and prior experience to take Upper Division ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. Prerequisite: MUS099 (1 Units)

Chamber Singers gives experience in preparation and performance of recognized and new choral works as well as masterworks of Western music written for small choral ensembles. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. May be repeated for a maximum of twelve (12) units. (0-1 units; Fall/Spring) (1 Units)

Chamber Ensemble provides opportunities for preparation and performance of small ensemble repertoire. Ensembles rehearse weekly, are provided coaching, and present performances of the music studied. The course is open to all music majors and to non-music majors by instructor permission. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

Jazz Ensemble provides musicians with opportunities to learn a variety of jazz styles in a "big band" setting, as well as to enhance individual improvisational skills. This course also provides practical experience through rehearsals and performances. It is open to qualified students by audition or instructor's consent. Students must be enrolled in at least one ensemble for full credit each semester. Additional ensembles may be taken for zero (0) units. (1 Units)

An introduction to the principles and practices of effective music teaching in both private and group settings. This course explores foundational methods of instruction, learning theory, and communication as they apply to diverse musical contexts. Students will examine topics including studio organization and management, curriculum design, improvisation as a pedagogical tool, and strategies for teaching students of various ages and skill levels. Emphasis is placed on developing a personal teaching philosophy, integrating artistry with pedagogy, and preparing for the practical and entrepreneurial aspects of private studio instruction. (2 units)

Scientific exploration into the workings of the vocal mechanism and the technique of voice production. A survey of common vocal faults with appropriate correction exercises will be discovered. Successful voice studio procedures are included. Students will demonstrate knowledge learned by privately teaching a student for one month, then once before the class. (2 Units)

A survey of the methods and materials available to the private piano teacher. Private studio procedures (teacher-student relationship, billing procedures, recruitment, etc.) will be explored. (2 Units)

Students study the methods and materials used in teaching brass, woodwind, string, or percussion instruments. The area of emphasis is determined by the student's primary instrument. (2 Units)

This course provides individualized study of music literature within the student's primary performance area, taught through the applied instruction model of private lessons. Students will engage in score analysis, listening, and guided performance, exploring the historical and artistic contexts of major repertoire while developing interpretive and pedagogical insight. Emphasis is placed on integrating scholarship with applied artistry, enabling students to connect literature study directly to their performance and teaching practice. (2 units)

An advanced, individualized study in the pedagogy of the student's primary instrument or voice. Through private instruction with faculty, students receive focused guidance and feedback on their teaching of applied lessons. Emphasis is placed on observation, instructional planning, communication, and assessment of student progress. Students will engage in supervised teaching experiences, apply discipline-specific pedagogical techniques, and refine their ability to integrate artistry, technique, and pedagogy in real instructional settings. (2 units)

Practical experience in observing and teaching music in individual and group learning environments under faculty supervision. Regularly scheduled conferences for evaluation and planning. Open to selected Music Majors only. Prerequisite: MUS224 (1 Units)

This introductory course is a survey of the processes of adjustment, growth, learning, remembering, perception, sensation, socialization, and emotions. It is meant to better equip students to understand and articulate their own life experiences, as well as improve their understanding of the behavior of others. This course is a prerequisite to all other courses in Psychology. (3 Units)

The course addresses principles of psychological development across time and culture. Students will understand universal stages of human development, influences on individual differences and the impact of nature and nurture. The course views human development as a unit of interrelated parts, concentrating on the relationships between the mind, body, and the socio-cultural context. Specific consideration is given to issues of integration, culture, and Biblical worldview. Prerequisite: PSY213 (3 Units)