All undergraduates take core music classes that provide professional preparation in
a broad base of music skills and knowledge. These courses of study include performance
(applied music), music theory, music history, piano, music in world culture, large
ensembles (including band, orchestra, jazz, choral and opera) and chamber music. Study
in music beyond the music core include specialization in performance, music education,
composition, jazz, advanced music history and ethnomusicology, advanced music theory,
and early music.
Instruction in each area is designed to train students for public performance and
teaching in schools or private studios, to prepare them for passing barrier examinations,
to develop them culturally, to develop musicianship and technical proficiency, to
strengthen sight-reading and the ability to assimilate music without guidance, and
to prepare them for participation in church services, orchestras, ensemble groups
or graduate work. Instruction is given in both group and individual settings.