61 courses with the subject MUS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
The College Choir performs vocal ensemble music each semester in rehearsals and performance(s). Students must demonstrate competence in musical ability and a desire to sing. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
*MUS 2010 Music Theory and Ear Training (4cr) One methodology course from the following:
This class explores the diversity of music making across time and place as a socially embedded practice. It looks at the value and meaning that music contributes to the lives of individuals and communities, as they seek to understand the past, fully experience the present, and to imagine themselves into the future. Case studies range from the music culture of Warren Wilson College to various international contexts. Along the way, students critique the notion of “music culture” as a fixed or stable entity, and recognize the ways that all individuals exist at the intersection of multiple spheres of cultural influence. This class takes an ethnomusicological approach, and addresses the intersections of music with religion, politics, race, gender, identity, and other critical themes. GE: Artistic Expression
Through private lessons that meet for 30 minutes once per week, this course is designed to help the student gain proficiency and knowledge in playing and/or singing West African traditional music. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course introduces basic elements of music theory, including staff notation, time signatures, rhythm, scales, chords, progressions, and intervals. MUS 1201 Introduction to Music Theory is a prerequisite for
Students learn the fundamentals of electronic music production, including making beats and melodies, sampling, and remixing existing work. Students may record acoustic instruments as well, but the emphasis will be on using digital audio workstations to create new music.
This course is designed to prepare bass students for professional work in one or more of the following areas: classical music, jazz, traditional music, and other popular music styles. It develops fundamental abilities, principals, competencies, and concepts, helping students gain an increased repertoire of standard literature or tunes and improvement in the skills necessary for successful bass performance. Such skills may include standard notation reading, bass line construction, improvisation, and technique. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course is designed to help the student percussionist develop proficiency in one or more of the following four areas of percussion study: drum set, keyboard percussion, hand percussion, and/or band/orchestral percussion. Students also study relevant aspects of musical genre, performance practice, music theory, and music literacy. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Each semester, the Jazz Ensemble explores music from a variety of jazz genres and traditions. This ensemble is open to all Warren Wilson College students, staff, faculty, and alumni. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is expected for the group to successfully attain excellence in collaboration and performance. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits. asked to audition at the beginning of the semester and placed into an appropriate section of this course.
Each semester, the West African Music Ensemble explores music from various West African musical traditions and gives public performances of works learned. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course is designed to help the student pianist develop proficiency in piano performance, while also studying relevant aspects of musical genre, performance practice, music theory, and music literacy. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course focuses on development of the student's technical and artistic skills as a vocalist through lessons, practice, performance, and listening. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course is designed to help students develop proficiency on one or more of the following instruments: flute, clarinet, or saxophone. The student also studies relevant aspects of musical genre, performance practice, music theory, and music literacy. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course for beginning fiddlers is an introduction to the traditions of southern old-time fiddling. Students learn the basics of tuning, fingering, and simple bowing patterns as well as open-string drones and double-stops. The class focuses on a basic repertoire of standard old-time southern dance tunes, in cross-tuning, as well as standard tuning, taught mostly by ear. This course is designed to accommodate those with prior classical training as well as those who are new to the instrument.
In this course, students learn the basics of Appalachian flatfooting and clogging, the traditional step dances of the Appalachian region. They also learn about the traditions of team clogging and have the opportunity to create a clogging group for performance. Through assigned readings and documentary videos, students gain an understanding of the roots and history of these traditional dance forms and their role in the Appalachian community, past and present. Although prior dance knowledge is welcome, it is not a prerequisite for the course.
This course, open to dancers of all levels, focuses on the traditional square dances of the southern Appalachian region. Students learn these dances and gain an understanding of their roots and history as well as their role in the Appalachian community, past and present. Contra dances, reels, and other dance
This is a course for intermediate players who are comfortable with basic chord changes in keys such as G, D, A, and C, and have a repertoire of at least 5-6 songs/tunes, who want to learn to play in a group setting. Students must already have basic competency on instruments such as fiddle, guitar, banjo, mandolin, or bass to participate in this course. Using traditional songs in the Southern Appalachian string band repertoire, the class explores rhythm, chords, song form, arrangements, lead and harmony singing, and performance dynamics. There is one final performance at the end of the semester during the Traditional Student Concert. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
In this introductory course, students learn the basics of acoustic guitar playing, including tuning, chords, strumming patterns, and picking out melodies. Repertoire is drawn from a variety of styles including folk, country, bluegrass, old-time, blues, and popular music. Students are expected to provide their own instrument.
This intermediate level course is for students who have taken MUS 1610 Guitar I: Beginning Folk Guitar (or have prior experience) and are comfortable with basic guitar chords and technique. Students learn traditional fingerpicking styles as well as basic bluegrass flatpicking technique.
This course introduces basic techniques and repertoire of clawhammer banjo, with a focus on learning by ear. Tablature is also available. No background knowledge or performance experience is required.
This course introduces basic techniques and repertoire of bluegrass banjo, with a focus on learning by ear. No background knowledge or performance experience is required.
Gamelan is a traditional instrumental ensemble of Indonesia that includes many metal percussion instruments. This ensemble is an introduction to Indonesian gamelan performance, and focuses on Central Javanese style or Sundanese (degung). While auditions are not required, students must demonstrate competence in musical ability. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course is an introduction to the unaccompanied ballad and folk song traditions of Appalachia. Students learn Appalachian versions of British ballads that were brought to the southern Appalachians at the end of the 18th century as well as 19th century ballads that are native to America. In addition to singing, students learn about the history of the ballads, their cultural context in Appalachia, and the ballad collectors ("songcatchers") who came to the region in the early 20th century.
Students earn 1 credit for enrolling in and completing 3 classes during one week of Swannanoa Gathering. Upon completion of the week, students must submit a 250-word (minimum) document to the music major coordinator outlining their curricular and creative activities at SG, what they learned, and how they will build upon that learning now that their courses are complete. This course counts as an
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme. May be repeated up to a maximum of 12 credits.
This is the core theory course for music majors and music minors. It is designed to familiarize students with fundamental characteristics of music theory and ear training as applicable to popular music performance, including the vernacular music traditions of North America. It explores relevant conceptual, kinesthetic, aural, and visual elements of music theory, with a focus on developing both knowledge in the theory of music and the practical application and performance of this knowledge. placement exam.
This course explores ways of engaging in music as a listener, performer, critic, and more. Students improve their ability to listen deeply, describe sound with words, and engage critical social issues through a study of various musical traditions, genres, and concepts. GE: Oral and Written
This course examines lead vocal and harmony styles as applicable to the traditional vernacular music of North America, with a focus on the music traditions of the southern Appalachian region. Such traditions include old-time music, bluegrass, country music, folk and certain styles of sacred music. The course offers students an opportunity to develop their own unique lead voice in addition to exploring vocal harmony construction, specific vocal parts, singing intervals, elementary ear training and other relevant concepts. Focus on the practical application of these concepts in performance settings and aspects of performance musicality are also covered.
This course is an introduction to the craft of songwriting. It explores techniques behind the four components of effective song construction: lyrics, melody, harmony and rhythm. Students work on cultivating lyrics and music from a "seed" idea and fashioning these elements into a complete song. The course concludes with a public performance featuring material that students created based on concepts discussed during the semester. Students need not be experienced singers but must be willing to sing with their accompanying instrument in class and ultimately perform original songs in front of a supportive audience.
The Advanced Jazz Combo focuses on jazz repertoire from a wide variety of jazz traditions, and improvisation in the jazz idiom in a small group setting. As one of the flagship ensembles of the Music Department, this ensemble gives performances both on and off campus. This ensemble is open to all Warren Wilson College students, staff, faculty, and alumni. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is expected for the group to successfully attain excellence in collaboration and
This intermediate-level ensemble course focuses on learning traditional Celtic folk music from Ireland and Scotland. Students study reels, jigs, airs, and folk songs, with attention to style, ornamentation, rhythm, and ensemble collaboration. This course is open to a variety of traditional instruments such as fiddle, guitar, flute, bodhran, mandolin, and more. The course emphasizes listening skills, understanding the music within its historical context, and includes a number of public performances in the second half of the semester. This course may require an audition for participation. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Elective Requirements (16 credits) 1. Select at least eight (8) credits from the following:
This course is both an ensemble and a tunewriting workshop, in which each student writes one tune per week. Students give supportive feedback on each other's tunes, and collaborate together in performing their original tunes in a concert. The expectation is not that students write a "masterpiece" each week; rather the goal is to finish something, however basic or derivative. In this way, students gain experience in the technique and practice of composition. This course is open to students working within all genres of music. May be repeated up to seven times for a maximum of 8 credits. techniques on their instrument, and the ability to incorporate new sounds throughout the semester (new chords, new chord voicings, new melodic and rhythmic passages, etc).
This course introduces intermediate and advanced music students to the world of klezmer: Jewish folk music which originated in Eastern Europe and developed across the Jewish diaspora worldwide. This course explores the history, elements, and ornamentation of klezmer music, as well as seminal recordings in the genre, focusing on klezmer music in America. Using both sheet music and aural skills, students in the ensemble arrange the repertoire for a variety of instruments and perform a concert at the end of the semester. This course satisfies the ensemble requirement for music majors and minors. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Each semester, the Chamber Ensemble performs composed works ranging from classical to new music, including works composed by faculty, staff, and students. Participation in this ensemble is determined by audition, and any Warren Wilson College students, staff, faculty, and alumni are eligible to audition. This ensemble is intended for instrumentalists, though vocalists who are also instrumentalists can audition. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is expected for the group to successfully attain excellence in collaboration and performance. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits. proficiency on their instrument and proficiency in reading music. Students will be asked to audition at the beginning of the semester.
In this course, students learn percussive dance steps from multiple traditions such as Appalachian flatfooting and clogging, Cape Breton step dancing, Waltz clog, and tap dancing. They also learn about the traditions of these forms of dance and the music that accompanies it. Students learn to work as an ensemble, learn choreography, and create original choreography. They have the opportunity to perform as a group during the semester. Through assigned readings, documentary videos, and possible visits to regional dance venues, students gain an understanding of the world history of these traditional dance forms and their role in building community, past and present. Prior dance knowledge is required. May be repeated up to seven times for a maximum of 8 credits. Dance.
This course focuses on techniques and repertoire of the fiddle/violin through weekly individual lessons. Repertoire may be selected from vernacular fiddle styles (bluegrass, old-time, etc.) or classical violin pieces depending on student preferences and proficiency. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course focuses on technique and repertoire for cello. Technique and repertoire vary according to student needs and proficiency. Course Fee. May be repeated up to seven times for a maximum of 8 credits.
This course focuses on techniques and repertoire of the mandolin through weekly individual lessons. Repertoire is generally selected from vernacular mandolin styles (bluegrass, old-time, etc.) depending on student preferences and proficiency. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Students work to deepen their ability to write effective, expressive music and lyrics and gain a better understanding and awareness of how to compose meaningful new songs. They explore relevant music theory, vocal stylings, and project writing assignments. Instructor feedback appropriate to each student's individual ability and goals is a key component of their lessons. Students have an opportunity to perform at the Traditional Music Student Concert held at the end of the semester. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
This course is for musicians who are proficient on a traditional Appalachian instrument and have already had some experience playing as part of an ensemble. Students work together to form an old-time band that is capable of playing for dances or other performances both on and off campus. Topics include repertoire, arrangements, starting and endings, tempo, rhythm, lead, back-up, chord choices, singing, dynamics, how to achieve a cohesive band sound, and performance for dances and concerts. Students meet once each week with the professor for guidance and feedback and once every week as a group (on their own) for a band practice. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits. in an ensemble setting. Students will be asked to audition at the beginning of the semester and placed into an appropriate section of this course; if music faculty determines that the student is not ready for this course, they will be asked to enroll in Beginning String Band.
This course focuses on techniques and repertoire of the guitar through weekly individual lessons. Repertoire is generally selected from vernacular guitar styles (blues, bluegrass, old-time, ragtime, etc.) or other popular music depending on student preferences and proficiency. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits. Fingerpicking, and permission of instructor.
This course features one-on-one instruction for technique, repertoire, and historical background of bluegrass or old-time banjo, with an emphasis on learning by ear. The bluegrass track includes techniques applicable to other musical styles, including improvisation, arranging, and harmony. The old-time track includes clawhammer, fingerstyle, and other regional techniques. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits. permission of instructor.
One (1) ensemble credit may come from any of the following:
Originating in the cultural and musical milieux of the United States during the early twentieth century, jazz has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon and one of the most influential art forms in modern history. Its development progressed through distinct stylistic periods and legendary performers with music that at times reflected important dynamics of race, class, gender, politics, and other cultural issues within American society. In this course, students engage jazz from the perspectives of musicians, listeners, and critics alike, exploring compelling intersections between certain historical eras, artists, musical concepts, and social issues. They also cultivate critical skills of listening, describing, and contextualizing the music in terms of its structure and performance. GE: Oral and Written
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme.May be repeated up to a maximum of 12 credits.
This is a Study Away course that will focus on a special topic within the discipline, and will include two to three weeks of travel to a domestic or international destination at the culmination of the semester. The topic will be approached through an intercultural lens, and will achieve the following learning outcomes: 1. Students will demonstrate the ability to understand and respect diverse cultural and historical traditions. 2. Students will engage with voices, writings, scholarship, and perspectives from other cultures. For details on the course topic and destination, see the course schedule. May be repeated up to a maximum of 12 credits.
This course is for advanced music students who wish to study improvisation and/or composition beyond the context of their specific instrument. Course content varies according to the interests of the student and covers various musical concepts and their applications in the areas of melody, harmony, rhythm, and texture. Course Fee. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits. technique and repertoire with an instructor of their own instrument. Students are also encouraged to take MUS 2010 Music Theory and Ear Training before registering for this course and should be able to apply those skills (chords, intervals, scales, inversions, etc.) on their instrument. Interested students should contact a member of the music faculty and explain why this class is an appropriate fit for them.
How do people make careers in music? What kind of paths might a music major pursue to prepare for their post-graduation goals? This course, designed for upper-level music majors, explores these important questions. It provides an opportunity to learn from people who have made careers in various aspects of the music business. It also requires students to think through their own remaining work as music majors and prepares them to undertake their own signature work project in advance of the MUS
What is the relationship between sound and labor? How does music serve as a source of inspiration and resistance in labor movements? How does music become laborious (for musicians)? What are the connections between sound, labor/production, and place? How has this changed over time, and how has it remained the same? Such questions beg an examination of the ways that work and music are bound together in Appalachian culture throughout history. This course examines those connections while investigating intersections of musical and social history in this region. This course focuses on three main themes: work music, music about work and workers (including labor movements), and music as work. 2320 Appalachian Music Soundscapes.
What are the creative practices that sustain artists over the course of a lifetime? What are the pedagogical practices that inspire students to want to learn and that help to sustain that learning over a lifetime? Students explore these questions through readings, qualitative research, and reflective work on their own educational and creative experiences. Students in non-musical artistic disciplines are also welcome to enroll. Music Appreciation, MUS 2320 Appalachian Music Soundscapes, ART 1103 Introduction to Craft and Material Studies, ART 2350 Craft Histories: The Cultures of Skill, Labor & Material
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Topics in Music is a course series that examines upper-level topics concerning music and its intersections with culture, creativity, and/or other themes. Each time this course is taught, it has a different focus. Different types of music (or dance) serve as the lens through which ideas are explored, and students may repeat the course for credit. May be repeated up to a maximum of 12 credits.
This supervised work experience will be at least six weeks long and include a minimum of 80 hours of work. In addition to the five summer weeks during the Swannanoa Gathering, an internship will include advance work, prior to the Gathering, either during Term 4 or after the end of spring semester. During the five weeks of the Gathering, interns will be able to audit one class each week. One academic credit may be earned for each 40 hours of work in the internship placement. to registration. The Internship Application should include a job description (“learning contract”) that describes in detail the activities involved as well as four “personal learning goals.” Application materials may be obtained from Music faculty members.
This capstone course provides music majors with an opportunity to connect their liberal arts coursework in music and other disciplines with a culminating senior music project. Students conduct research, participate in peer-review workshops, and present their work in a public forum. The result of this project may be a written thesis (most common), or students may propose an alternative format (e.g., a film, a recording project, or the development of a viable music business plan).
For this practicum course, senior majors complete work toward effectively designing, preparing, and promoting a senior music recital that culminates in their selected area(s) of performance specialization. During both semesters of the senior year of study, music majors enroll in MUS 4850 Senior Recital Practicum. A student’s primary applied instructor supervises senior recital practicum work. May be repeated up to a maximum of 2 credits.
VI. Community Engagement Commitment: PEG 1, 2, and 3 must be fulfilled by each student (as detailed here in the catalog). These are not required to be directly relevant to the major, but students are encouraged to explore community engagement experiences that intersect with their major coursework. They should explore these opportunities with their advisor, with the support of the Community Engagement Office. Music Major: General I. Core: 16 credits
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme. May be repeated up to a maximum of 8 credits.
Topics courses are 2- or 4-credit, in-depth, thematic courses that may be repeated for credit under a different theme. May be repeated up to a maximum of 12 credits.
Source: Warren Wilson College's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 61
