MUSC (Music)

MUSC 1010 - Foundations in Music  - 3 Credits

This is a beginning study of music reading and writing including notation, terminology, major and minor keys, interval recognition, triad identification, rhythmic perception, melodic dictation and sightsinging. This course can be used as an elective for non-majors. Music majors may enroll in the course as a review if necessary, but this course does not count toward music degree requirements. (See MUSC-1700) Lecture: 4 hours


MUSC 1015 - Essentials of Rhythm  - 2 Credits

This course involves intensive study of rhythm concepts and practices, designed for students whose rhythm comprehension needs strengthening. Students are challenged to master visual, aural, performed and written rhythm skills. Note: Course required for Music or Jazz A.F.A degree students who, upon examination at the end of two semesters, show inadequate rhythm skills. Lecture: 3 hours, Fall semester


MUSC 1030 - Voice Class - 3 Credits

This course is designed to develop basic vocal technique in terms of breath control, tone production, tone placement, articulation and diction through appropriate exercises, as well as to develop basic musicianship through careful study and singing of a diversified vocal repertoire. Both ensemble and solo pieces are assigned. Lecture: 4 hours


MUSC 1040 - Woodwind Class I - 3 Credits

This course acquaints students with the fundamentals of playing a flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone or bassoon. A limited number of instruments are provided by the Music Department. No prior playing experience is necessary but students must read music. Prerequisite: MUSC 1010 or 1700 or permission of instructor, Rehearsal: 4 hours


MUSC 1045 - Woodwind Class II - 3 Credits

A sequel to MUSC 1040, this course places emphasis on improving tone quality, intonation, technical facility, sight reading and basic performance; or acquaints students with a woodwind instrument not studied in MUSC 1040. Prerequisite: MUSC 1040 or permission of instructor, Rehearsal: 4 hours


MUSC 1050 - Music Before 1750 - 3 Credits

The history of music of the early Christian, Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque periods is examined in reference to the culture in which each was created. Special emphasis is placed on intensive listening. Lecture: 3 hours, Spring semester


MUSC 1060 - Music After 1750  - 3 Credits

This course covers the history of music of the Rococo, Classical, Romantic and early 20th century periods with cultural correlations to the periods. Special emphasis is placed on intensive listening. Lecture: 3 hours, Fall semester


MUSC 1070 - Twentieth Century Music - 3 Credits

This course is designed to familiarize students with literature and techniques employed in both jazz and classical music from 1900 to 2000. The course begins with a study of Impressionism and concludes with contemporary music. Major forms of music are considered and several significant composers such as Debussy, Stravinsky, Ives, Schoenberg and Bartok are studied. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1080 - Music of the United States - 3 Credits

This course covers American music from Colonial times to the present. Folk, jazz and Classical music are examined, with special emphasis on music after 1850. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1090 - Introduction to Opera - 3 Credits

This historical course is concerned with the emergence and spread of opera from Monteverdi to Gershwin. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1091 - Opera Workshop I  - 1 Credit

This course is a workshop in developing the techniques and skills of operatic performance. Emphasis is placed equally on singing and acting skills in two consecutive semesters. Each student is assigned at least two opera scenes for study and preparation. During the first semester, the scenes are musically prepared and memorized. Detailed musical coaching includes stylistic study, diction ornamentation and discussions of performance practice. Students also read the complete libretto and prepare a synopsis of each assigned opera. Opera Workshop I may be repeated for four semesters. Prerequisite: College freshman ability in singing, as demonstrated in an informal audition at the first class meeting, Corequisite: Enrollment in sequential course, Opera Workshop II-MUSC 1092 in spring semester. Lecture: 2 hours Fall semester


MUSC 1092 - Opera Workshop II  - 1 Credit

This course is the second semester of a workshop in developing the techniques and skills of operatic performance. Students are coached in acting, stage movement, props, costuming and the overall dramatic presentation of the opera scenes studied and learned in the immediate previous semester. Opera Workshop II culminates in a final performance of the scenes that have been studied for the entire academic year. The course may be repeated for four semesters. Prerequisite: Completion of Opera Workshop I-MUSC 1091 in the same academic year, Lecture: 2 hours, Spring semester


MUSC 1100 - The Creative Process in the Arts - 3 Credits

This course examines the creative process in three types of artistic expression: verbal (poetry, prose, drama), aural (music) and visual and tactile (drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics). An attempt is made to find relationships between these various disciplines and to identify sources of inspiration common to all. Projects, either individual or group, are initiated in workshop sessions and supplemented by discussions and guest lecturers. Lecture: 3 hours, Spring semester


MUSC 1110 - Jazz History - 3 Credits

This course is designed to familiarize students with literature and techniques employed in jazz from the 1890s to the present. The course begins with a study of the elements of music and major sub-styles are considered in historic context. Significant jazz artists studied include Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker and Miles Davis. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1120 - The American Musical - 3 Credits

This course is a study of the American Broadway musical from 1870 through the present, including works by Kern, Rodgers/ Hammerstein, Sondheim and Webber. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1130 - String Class I - 3 Credits

This course is designed to develop the basic skills of playing the violin, viola, cello or doublebass. A limited number of instruments are provided by the Music Department. No prior playing experience is necessary but students must read music. Prerequisite: MUSC 1010 or 1700 or permission of instructor,  Rehearsal: 3 hours, Spring semester


MUSC 1135 - String Class II - 3 Credits

This is a sequel to MUSC 1130 with emphasis on improving tone quality, intonation, technical facility, sight reading and basic performance; or, to acquaint students with a string instrument not studied in String Class I. Prerequisite: MUSC 1130 or permission of instructor, Rehearsal: 3 hours, Spring semester


MUSC 1137 - Beginning Guitar Class - 3 Credits

This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of music through a study of the guitar. The basics of rhythm, melody and harmony are applied directly to the guitar in an ensemble setting. Students develop basic music reading skills by studying and playing classical trios and quartets, learn chord accompaniment to songs and learn  simple classical improvisation techniques. Individual projects enhance students’ creativity as composers or arrangers. No previous musical experience is required. Students must supply their own non-electric instruments. Lecture: 3 hours Spring semester


MUSC 1140 - Piano Class I - 3 Credits

This course develops basic keyboard skills, including two-octave scales and chord progressions, improvisation of simple accompaniments and sight reading of easier selected pieces. Prerequisite: MUSC 1010 or 1700 or permission of instructor, Lecture: 4 hours


MUSC 1145 - Piano Class II - 3 Credits

A sequel to MUSC 1140, this course places emphasis on improving finger dexterity, hand coordination, pedalling techniques, sight-reading, articulation and interpretive skills. Prerequisite: MUSC 1140 or permission of instructor, Lecture: 4 hours


MUSC 1160 - Introduction to Music  - 3 Credits

This course is designed to foster better understanding and appreciation of great music of the Western world. European and American musical styles, techniques and forms are presented from the listener’s standpoint. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1170 - Music in Human Services and Education - 3 Credits

This course is designed to prepare Early Childhood Education, Social Services and Elementary Education students for teaching music in day care and retirement centers and the elementary classroom. Fundamental music skills are included to enable students to prepare and present music activities confidently. Students learn to use autoharp and rhythm band instruments for accompaniment purposes. Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 1180 - Jazz Ensemble - 1 Credit

This is a course designed to provide students with opportunities to participate in a musical ensemble, perform various styles of jazz and develop their improvisational ability. Note: Instrumentation and stylistic direction of the ensemble may vary from semester to semester. Notes: Four credits of this ensemble may be counted toward the A.F.A. degree ensemble requirement. Additional credits are counted as electives.  Prerequisite: Technical proficiency on an instrument and audition during the first week of classes., Rehearsal: 3 hours


MUSC 1200 - Chamber Ensemble - 1 Credit

The course provides an opportunity for students to develop ensemble skills in a small group setting. Various combinations of winds, strings, piano and percussion are utilized Note: Four credits of this ensemble are counted toward the A.F.A. degree requirement. Further ensemble credits are counted as electives.  Prerequisite: Moderate technical proficiency on an instrument and/or permission of instructor, Rehearsal: 3 hours


MUSC 1210 - Chorus - 1 Credit

This course is designed to provide singers an opportunity to perform in an ensemble while developing vocal technique  proper breath support, tone production, tone placement, etc.) Note: Four credits of this ensemble are counted toward the A.F.A. degree requirement. Further ensemble credits are counted as electives.  Prerequisite: Audition at first class meeting, Rehearsal: 3 hours


MUSC 1220 - Chamber Singers - 1 Credit

This course is for a select group of singers who perform a variety of choral repertoire, including a cappella polyphonic compositions and 20th century styles. Note: Four credits of this ensemble are counted toward the A.F.A. degree requirement. Further ensemble credits are counted as electives.  Prerequisite: Audition at the first class meeting, Rehearsal: 2 hours


MUSC 1700 - Music Theory I  - 3 Credits

This is a study of the organizing factors of music including scales, key signatures, intervals, triads with inversions, seventh chords with inversions, rhythm, meter, 4-part writing and harmonization with primary triads. Basic keyboard assignments are included. Prerequisite: Enrollment in Music/Jazz program or permission of Music Department,  Corequisite: MUSC 1710, Lecture: 3 hours,  Fall semester


MUSC 1710 - Sight Singing and Ear Training I - 1 Credit

This is a course in practical sight singing and ear training via solfeggio, to express and comprehend aurally the concepts studied in MUSC 1700 Music Theory I.  Prerequisite: Enrollment in Music/Jazz program or permission of Music Department,  Corequisite: MUSC 1700, Lecture: 2 hours  Fall semester


MUSC 1800 - Music Theory II  - 3 Credits

A sequel to MUSC 1700, this course continues with the principles of 4-part writing, seventh chords, chorale analysis, modulations and two-part counterpoint. Basic keyboard assignments are included.  Prerequisite: MUSC 1700 or permission of Music Department, Corequisite: MUSC 1810 Lecture: 3 hours Spring semester


MUSC 1810 - Sight Singing and Ear Training II - 1 Credit

A sequel to MUSC 1710, this course provides practical application of concepts studied in MUSC 1800. Special emphasis is placed on seventh chords and more complex rhythm studies. Prerequisite: MUSC 1710 or permission of Music Department,  Corequisite: MUSC 1800, Lecture: 2 hours  Spring semester,


MUSC 2040 - Jazz-Rock Arranging  - 3 Credits

This course is designed to introduce students to the skills required for arranging in the jazz and jazz-rock idioms. Topics include instrumental characteristics, writing for winds and rhythm section, multi-part writing and analysis of works by significant arrangers. Student projects include the preparation of two arrangements for jazz ensemble.  Prerequisite: MUSC 1800, Lecture: 3 hours  Spring semester,


MUSC 2070 - Jazz Harmony I  - 3 Credits

This course is designed to introduce students to theoretical analysis and aural recognition in the jazz idiom. Topics include chord construction and identification, sight singing and ear training.  Prerequisites: MUSC 1800 and 1810, Lecture: 4 hours  Fall semester,


MUSC 2080 - Jazz Harmony II  - 3 Credits

This course is designed to develop further understanding of theoretical analysis and aural recognition in the jazz idiom. Topics include modal harmony, re-harmonization, sight singing and ear training.  Prerequisite: MUSC 2070, Lecture: 4 hours  Spring semester,


MUSC 2090 - Jazz Improvisation I  - 3 Credits

This course introduces students to the skills required for jazz improvisation. Topics include chord progressions, scales, modes and the analysis and creation of melodic lines. Musical performance is emphasized. Prerequisite: MUSC 1800 and 1810, Lecture: 3 hours, Fall semester


MUSC 2100 - Jazz Improvisation II  - 3 Credits

This course is designed to further develop students’ improvisational skills. Topics include complex chords, modes of the melodic minor scale and performing standard works in all keys.  Prerequisite: MUSC 2090, Lecture: 3 hours  Spring semester,


MUSC 2110 - MIDI Sequencing and Notation - 3 Credits

This course introduces the fundamentals of music sequencing and notation using MIDI  Musical Instrument Digital Interface,, Macintosh computers and various synthesizers and sound modules. Students work independently with MIDI equipment during scheduled lab times. They complete two projects during the semester: one sequenced and one in musical notation.  Prerequisite: basic piano skills, intermediate theory skills--classical or jazz, basic computer skills, Lecture: 3 hours


MUSC 2700 - Music Theory III  - 3 Credits

This course involves further study of musical organization to include 18th century polyphony, augmented and Neapolitan sixth chords, borrowed chords and instrumental forms of the 18th and 19th centuries. Basic keyboard assignments are included. Prerequisite: MUSC 1800 or permission of Music Department,  Corequisite: MUSC 2710, Lecture: 3 hours, Fall semester


MUSC 2710 - Sight Singing and Ear Training III - 1 Credit

This course offers a practical aural/vocal study of the concepts presented in MUSC 2700 with particular emphasis upon non-diatonic pitches and modulation.  Prerequisite: MUSC 1810 or permission of Music Department, Corequisite: MUSC 2700 Lecture: 2 hours, Fall semester


MUSC 2720 - Music Composition  - 2 Credits

This course provides students the opportunity of studying Music Composition on an individual basis with a private instructor. Students pursue either jazz or classical styles beginning with melodic organization, through various tonal concepts with addition of counterpoint, harmonization, form and instrumentation. Semester projects are presented in written score and performance. Note: A fee for private composition instruction is due at the beginning of the semester. Apply directly to the Music Department. Prerequisite: MUSC-2700 or MUSC-2070 and MUSC-1060 and Class Piano I or equivalent, Lecture: 1 hour private lesson per week


MUSC 2800 - Chromatic and Modern Music Theory IV - 3 Credits

A sequel to MUSC 2700, this course covers topics from the late Romantic period through Impressionism and the 20th century. It offers a continuation of forms, extension of pitch organization, to include serialism, aleatory, sound mass, electronic synthesis, MIDI and minimalism. Basic keyboard assignments are included. Prerequisite: MUSC 2700 or permission of Music Department, Corequisite: MUSC 2810, Lecture: 3 hours (Spring semester)


MUSC 2810 - Sight Singing and Ear Training IV - 1 Credit

This is a practical aural and vocal study of the advanced concepts presented in MUSC 2800 Chromatic and Modern Music Theory IV. Prerequisite: MUSC 2710 or permission of Music Department, Corequisite: MUSC 2800, Lecture: 2 hours, Spring semester


MUSC - Applied Music for Majors - 2 Credits

This course provides private music instruction on a principal instrument or in principal voice for music majors. Instruction is offered in classical music or jazz (one hour lesson per week) for students already proficient in playing an instrument or singing. Ability to read music is required. All students registered for principal applied music are required to perform in a student recital at least once per semester. Admission to any of the applied music courses is by audition only. Note: A fee for private music instruction is due at the beginning of the semester. Students are assigned to CCRI music faculty. Apply directly to the Music Department for detailed audition information and dates and/or see Music Student Handbook at www.ccri.edu/music/handbook.shtml. Prerequisite: College freshman ability in playing an instrument or singing, as demonstrated in an audition.

Bassoon 1380, 1390, 2380, 2390

Clarinet 1360, 1370, 2360, 2370

Flute 1320, 1330, 2320, 2330

French Horn 1420, 1430, 2420, 2430

Guitar 1620, 1630, 2620, 2630

Oboe 1340, 1350, 2340, 2350

Organ 1520, 1530, 2520, 2530

Percussion 1480, 1490, 2480, 2490

Piano 1500, 1510, 2500, 2510

Saxophone 1600, 1610, 2600, 2610

String/Electric Bass 1300, 1310, 2300, 2310

Trombone 1440, 1450, 2440, 2450

Trumpet 1400, 1410, 2400, 2410

Tuba 1460, 1470, 2460, 2470

Viola 1260, 1270, 2260, 2270

Violin 1240, 1250, 2240, 2250

Violoncello 1280, 1290, 2280, 2290

Voice 1540, 1550, 2540, 2550


MUSC - Secondary Applied Music - 2 Credits

Private music instruction on a second instrument or in voice for music majors or private music instruction for non-majors wishing to study an instrument or voice for credit. Instruction is offered in classical music or jazz (one hour lesson per week) for students with basic proficiency in playing an instrument or singing. Elementary ability to read music is necessary. All students are required to perform in a student recital at least once per semester. Admission is by audition only, with a lesson fee for private instruction due at the beginning of the semester. Students are assigned to CCRI music faculty. Apply directly to the Music Department for detailed audition information and dates. (Prerequisite: Basic proficiency in playing an instrument or singing, as demonstrated in an audition.)

Bassoon-Secondary 1382, 1392, 2382, 2392

Clarinet-Secondary 1362, 1372, 2362, 2372

Flute-Secondary 1322, 1332, 2322, 2332

French Horn-Secondary 1422, 1432, 2422, 2432

Guitar-Secondary 1622, 1632, 2622, 2632

Oboe-Secondary 1342, 1352, 2342, 2352

Organ-Secondary 1522, 1532, 2522, 2532

Percussion-Secondary 1482, 1492, 2482, 2492

Piano-Secondary 1502, 1512, 2502, 2512

Saxophone-Secondary 1602, 1612, 2602, 2612

String/Electric Bass-Secondary 1302, 1312, 2302, 2312

Trombone-Secondary 1442, 1452, 2442, 2452

Trumpet-Secondary 1402, 1412, 2402, 2412

Tuba-Secondary 1462, 1472, 2462, 2472

Viola-Secondary 1262, 1272, 2262, 2272

Violin-Secondary 1242, 1252, 2242, 2252

Violoncello-Secondary 1282, 1292, 2282, 2292

Voice-Secondary 1542, 1552, 2542, 2552


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