Introduction to Music Theory – MUSC 522
CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 02/01/2024
Course Description
In this course, students learn foundational principles of music theory including: notes, rhythms, intervals, chord construction, and harmonic progressions. Basic arranging and analytical techniques are also explored related to traditional, classical, and popular music styles. This course is designed to prepare students for MUSC 524 or WMUS 524.
For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.
Rationale
Students learn foundational principles of music theory, including notes, rhythms, intervals, chord construction, and harmonic progressions, in order to successfully function as skilled musicians in today’s society. Basic arranging and analytical techniques are also explored related to traditional, classical, and popular music styles required for evaluating and analyzing music in preparation for rehearsals, presentations, seminars, or composing/arranging music for a variety of settings. This course will prepare students for MUSC 524 and serves to further develop and reinforce music theory knowledge for students who do not achieve a requisite score on the Graduate Theory Assessment Test.
Course Assignment
Textbook readings and lecture presentations/notes
Course Requirements Checklist
After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.
Discussions (2)
Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt. Each thread must be 300 words, demonstrate course-related knowledge, and reference 1 source. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be 200 words. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E)
Music Skills Assignments (7)
The student will complete 7 unique music assignments that focus on foundational skills of music writing and analysis. During the first few modules, the student will learn to write and identify notes, scales, key signatures, and intervals. As the modules progress, rudiments of chord construction, harmonic function, and analytic concepts are assessed through workbook assignments. With each successive assignment, the student will gain valuable knowledge and practical skill related to the use of basic music concepts. (CLO: A, B, C, D, E)
Quizzes (9)
Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the module(s) in which it is assigned. Each quiz is intended to assess the student’s speed and accuracy applying the principles of the associated module's material. To help the student develop fluidity in the material, a series of Practice Quizzes are provided. In preparation for taking the Graded Quizzes, the student can repeat the Practice Quizzes as often and/or as many times and as desired. The graded Quiz: Note and Rest Values consists of two sets of matching questions. All other Practice and Graded Quizzes contain 20 multiple-choice questions with a 20-minute time limit for completion. (CLO: A, B, C, D)
