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Undergraduate Courses
Courses Offered
- Courses are offered in:
- individual performance
- ensemble performance
- general courses in music education, history, literature, theory, composition, jazz, and sound recording.
- individual performance
- All university students, both music majors and non-music majors, are encouraged to participate in performing ensembles.
- However, due to the limited availability of private applied music instruction, as well as certain other music classes, the School may use the following criteria for determining students’ access to music instruction:
- studio/class space availability;
- a student’s overall musical talent, musical achievement, and performance/teaching potential as determined by audition;
- and/or academic standing as represented by GPA and other appropriate indicators.
- studio/class space availability;
| Courses in Music | Courses in Ensembles | Courses in Applied Music |
Courses in Music (MU)
1000 Departmental Recital
(0-0) Performance, attendance, and weekly observation of recitals. Concurrent enrollment with applied lessons required for all music majors.1150 Introduction to Music Technology
(1-0) Introduction to current computer applications in music. Including MIDI and sequencing, notation, internet communication, and digital audio.1180 Recording Practicum
(0-2) Independent study in sound recording. Students develop aural and practical skills necessary to produce high quality recordings. May be repeated once with different emphasis for additional credit. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.1210 (MUSI 1216) Aural Learning I
(0-2) The course materials from Music Theory I as applied through lessons in singing, playing, and music dictation. Prerequisite: MU 1312 with a grade of “C” or higher or pass by exam.1211 (MUSI 1211) Music Theory I
(3-0) A comprehensive study of the materials of counterpoint and harmony. The study is made through listening and observation of the literature; lessons in application include activities in musical writing and analysis. Prerequisite: MU 1312 with a grade of “C” or higher or pass by exam.1212 (MUSI 1217) Aural Learning II
(0-2) The course materials from Music Theory II as applied through lessons in singing, playing, and music dictation. Prerequisites: MU 1210, 1211 with a grade of “C” or higher.1213 (MUSI 1212) Music Theory II
(3-0) A comprehensive study of the materials of counterpoint and harmony. The study is made through listening and observation of the literature; lessons in application include activities in musical writing and analysis. Prerequisites: MU 1210, 1211 with a grade of “C” or higher.1311 Fundamentals of Music
(3-0) Introduction to basic music skills for the elementary classroom. Includes practical application of beginning techniques for piano and recorder, as well as teaching techniques for the elementary music class. Intended for majors in elementary education.1312 Essential Musicianship
(3-0) Detailed instruction in fundamentals of music theory, including but not limited to notation, meters, scales, key signatures, intervals, and chords. This course is designed primarily for music majors and minors.2000 Departmental Recital
(0-0) Performance, attendance, and weekly observation of recitals. Concurrent enrollment with applied lessons required for all music majors.2104 Writing About Music
(2-0) Focusing on basic writing skills, research, and the use and documentation of sources. This course centers on the process of writing about music. Besides written exercises, the assignments include the study of such professional writing samples as concert reviews, program abstracts, and research essays. Co-requisite: MU 2303, 3315, or 3316.2123 (MUSI 1104) Foundations of Music
(1-0) Designed to introduce the student to principles of aesthetics and philosophy, and their practical application as related to music. 2141 (MUSI 2160 & MUSI 2161) Fundamentals of Diction in Singing. (1-1) A basic course in the pronunciation of singing in English, French, Italian, Spanish, and German.2142 Fundamentals of Diction in Singing II
(1-1) A basic course in the pronunciation of singing in Italian and French combining lecture and laboratory sessions for practical application. Prerequisite: MU 2141.2153 Problems in Music
(1-0) Study of one or more problems in music. The courses are conducted as seminars and are open to students on an individual basis by arrangement with the Director of the School of Music. May be repeated once for credit.2180 Recording Practicum
(0-2) Independent study in sound recording. Students develop aural and practical skills necessary to produce high quality recordings. May be repeated once with different emphasis for additional credit. Prerequisite: MU 1180 or permission of instructor.2253 Problems in Music
(2-0) Study of one or more problems in music. The courses are conducted as seminars and are open to students on an individual basis by arrangement with the Director of the School of Music. May be repeated once for credit.2260 (MUSI 2216) Aural Learning III
(0-2) The course material from Music Theory III as applied through lessons in singing, playing, and music dictation. Prerequisites: MU 1212, 1213 with a grade of “C” or higher.2261 (MUSI 2211) Music Theory III
(3-0) A continuation of the comprehensive approach used in Music Theory I and II, with an emphasis upon traditional forms and harmony using altered chords. Lessons in application include activities in composition and analysis. Prerequisites: MU 1212, 1213, MUSP 1108W with a grade of “C” or higher (or equivalents).2262 (MUSI 2217) Aural Learning IV
(0-2) The course materials from Music Theory IV as applied through lessons in singing, playing, and music dictation. Prerequisites: MU 2260, 2261 with a grade of “C” or higher.2263 (MUSI 2212) Music Theory IV
(3-0) A continuation of the comprehensive approach used in Music Theory I, II, and III, with an emphasis upon traditional forms and harmony, and twentieth century materials. Lessons in application include activities in composition and analysis. Prerequisites: MU 1150, 2260, 2261, MUSP 1110W with a grade of “C” or higher (or equivalents).2303 (MUSI 1307) Survey of Music Literature
(3-0) A study through listening to recordings of the characteristic examples of music literature. The aim of this course is to provide a rich background of experience with music in order that theoretical and applied study may be more meaningful. Prerequisite: MU 1213 or permission of instructor.2310 (MUSI 1303) Guitar Class I
(3-0) An introductory course primarily for the non-music major. This course offers the opportunity to study tuning, hand positions, chords, accompaniment patterns, strumming and introductory music reading.2313 (HUMA 1315) Introduction to Fine Arts
(3-0) A study of the interrelation of music with art, dance, and theatre. This course may not be repeated for credit by taking ART 2313, DAN 2313, or TH 2313.2353 Problems in Music
(3-0) Study of one or more problems in music. The courses are conducted as seminars and are open to students on an individual basis by arrangement with the Director of the School of Music. May be repeated once for credit.2381 Recording Industry Operations I
(3-0) An overview of recording studio and industry-related functions and operations. Prerequisites: MU 1180 (taken twice) and consent of instructor. Co-requisite: MU 2180.2382 Recording Industry Operations II
(3-0) A continuation of MU 2381, with particular attention in areas of administrative functions of recording studio operations and business practices. Prerequisite: MU 2381. Co-requisite: MU 2180.3000 Departmental Recital
(0-0) Performance, attendance, and weekly observation of recitals. Concurrent enrollment with applied lessons required for all music majors.3050 Junior Recital
(0-1) Preparation and performance of the junior recital for music performance majors.3180 Recording Practicum
(0-2) Independent study in sound recording. Students develop aural and practical skills necessary to produce high quality recordings. May be repeated once with different emphasis for additional credit. Prerequisite: MU 2180 or permission of instructor.3207 Fundamentals of Conducting
(2-1) The fundamentals of baton technique.3217 Instrumental Conducting
(2-1) An application of the principles of conducting to instrumental music, including score reading and problems of interpretation. Some choral conducting experience will be included. Prerequisite: MU 2262/2263 or permission of instructor.3220 Introduction to Music Theatre
(2-2) Techniques for performing and staging musical comedy and opera. Practical experience with University productions.3227 Choral Conducting
(2-1) An application of the principles of conducting choral music, including score reading and problems in interpretation. Some instrumental conducting experience will be included. Prerequisite: MU 2262/2263 or consent of instructor.3234 Jazz Improvisation II
(2-0) A continuation of MU 3333, with particular attention to developing skills in the use of scales and modes (including major and minor pentatonic scales), modal playing, and jazz nomenclature. Prerequisites: MU 3333 and concurrent enrollment in Jazz Combo.3241 A Survey of Ensemble Performance Literature
(3-0) Detailed consideration of literature of all periods appropriate for performance by performance ensembles. Repertoire selection and performance problems peculiar to small, medium, and large ensembles are discussed.3253 Performance Ensemble Techniques
(3-0) A course designed for performance ensemble conductors. Includes supervision, administration, and rehearsal techniques.3255 Musical Instruments for Performing Folk and Traditional Music
(2-1) Basic performance skills for the recorder, guitar, piano and keyboard percussion instruments. Prerequisite: MU 1311.3269 Current Trends in Music II
(3-0) A study of melodic and harmonic techniques for keyboard percussion instruments. Sight-reading techniques using Sol-Fa. Survey of the folk music of Europe and America. Prerequisite: MU 3340.3308 History of Rock
(3-0) A survey of the evolution of rock styles, contributions of important performers, and musical techniques involved in the creation and performance of rock music. The course focuses on the first three decades of rock history.3310 Guitar Class II
(3-0) Primarily for the non-music major, the course includes the opportunity for development of more advanced techniques in accompaniment, music reading and solo guitar techniques.3315, 3316 History and Analysis of Music
(3-0) A comprehensive musicianship approach to the study of music from the earliest times to the present using techniques of stylistic and structural analysis. Prerequisites: MU 2303 or consent of instructor.3318 World Musics
(3-0) Study of ethnomusicology with special focus on the music cultures of Africa, India, Japan, Native America and Latin America.3321 Piano Literature I
(3-0) A study of keyboard literature from 1300 through the music of Schubert with emphasis on listening and recognizing the standard masterworks.3322 Piano Literature II
(3-0) A study of keyboard literature from around 1820 through the music of the present with emphasis on listening and knowing the standard piano literature. May be repeated once for additional credit.3323 Piano Pedagogy
(3-0) A study of methods of individual piano instruction and a review of current teaching methods.3333 Jazz Improvisation
(3-0) Familiarity with the scales, patterns, backgrounds, and other materials used in improvisation in the jazz idiom.3340 Current Trends in Music I
(3-1) A study of the components of music and their concepts. An emphasis on singing and rhythmic performance skills, and esthetic awareness through listening. Prerequisite: MU 1311 or 2123.3263 Marching Band Techniques
(2-0) An examination of the techniques required to program, design, and instruct a successful marching band show. Discussion will include different types of design concepts currently being employed throughout the country and construction and charting those designs. Prerequisite: Music (with all-level teacher certification) major status.3375 History of Jazz
(3-0) Jazz originated in America, free of European influence, and has been of great importance in the development of 20th Century music. Topics will include the structure and history of jazz, the contributions of jazz to contemporary music, and the chronological development of jazz experienced through recordings and live performances.3383 Audio Technology: Microphones and Mixing Techniques
(3-0) Principles and practices of microphone and mixing techniques. Prerequisite: MU 2382. Co-requisite: MU 3180.3384 Audio Recording Techniques
(3-0) Audio tape and disc recording and their applications in a variety of settings and genres. Prerequisite: MU 3383. Co-requisite: MU 3180.4000 Departmental Recital
(0-0) Performance, attendance, and weekly observation of recitals. Concurrent enrollment with applied lessons required for all music majors.4151 Band Instrument Repair
(2-1) A one-semester course designed to equip the prospective band director with the skills to make basic repairs on the various musical instruments.4153 Problems in Music
(1-0) Study of one or more problems in music. The courses are conducted as seminars and are open to students on an individual basis by arrangement with the Director of the School of Music. May be repeated once for credit.4180 Recording Practicum
(0-2) Independent study in sound recording. Students develop aural and practical skills necessary to produce high quality recordings. May be repeated once with different emphasis for additional credit. Prerequisite: MU 3180 or instructor consent.4280 Senior Research Project
(1-1) A study of the student’s senior recital literature resulting in a thorough research paper on the theoretical, historical, technical and stylistic aspects of the compositions.4223 Vocal Pedagogy and Literature
(3-0) The study of publications concerning the teaching of singing and sources of vocal literature. Will include practical experience teaching in a private studio setting.4234 Arranging Techniques for School Music Ensembles
(3-0) This class will introduce the many techniques involved in arranging for a wide variety of school music ensembles. Content will include an examination of the various instrument families, basic manuscript techniques (both manual and computer aided) and various orchestration techniques for voicing and scoring.4253 Problems in Music
(2-0) Study of one or more problems in music. The courses are conducted as seminars and are open to students on an individual basis by arrangement with the Director of the School of Music. May be repeated once for credit.4310 Guitar Class III: Rock, Country, Blues
(3-0). Designed primarily for the non-music major. Continued study of advanced techniques including scales, arpeggios, strumming patterns and advanced accompanying styles. Analysis and performance of musical styles including rock, country and blues. May be repeated for additional credit.4312 Guitar Class IV: Rock, Country, Blues
(3-0). Designed primarily for the non-music major. Continued study of advanced techniques including soloing techniques, accompaniment techniques. Detailed analysis of performance styles emphasizing the styles of contemporary performers. May be repeated for additional credit.4330 Form and Analysis
(3-0) Principles of form and analysis developed through the in-depth application of analytical systems to the musical repertoire through the nineteenth century. Prerequisites: MU 2262, 2263 or consent of the instructor.4332 Contemporary Analytic Techniques
(3-0) Detailed study and analysis of selected compositions from the early twentieth century to the present; analytical projects. Prerequisites: MU 2262, 2263 or consent of the instructor.4334 Orchestration
(3-0) Study of the characteristics of individual instruments; writing for various combinations; study of scores of different periods; techniques of instrumentation, arranging, and orchestration; listening to recorded and live performances. Prerequisites: MU 2262, 2263 or consent of the instructor.4336 Eighteenth Century Counterpoint
(3-0) A study to develop further skills in the comprehensive approach used in MU 2261 and 2263, with an emphasis upon contrapuntal analysis and writing and a continuation of ear training. Prerequisites: MU 2262, 2263 or consent of the instructor.4343 Jazz Pedagogy
(3-0) A study of repertoire selection and evaluation, phrasing and articulation, rhythm section techniques, methods of instruction, and review of current teaching styles in American jazz programs, including contest preparation and the teaching of basic improvisation. Prerequisites: MU 2262, 2263 or consent of instructor.4344 Jazz Theory and Arranging
(3-0) A study of the elements of jazz and popular styles, including but not limited to: scales, modes, chord voicings, standard jazz song-forms, chord substitutions, and various techniques of arranging for big bands and small combos. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisites: MU 2262, 2263 or consent of instructor.4346 Jazz Arranging
(3-0) An in-depth exploration of various commercial writing styles and instrumentations, focusing on Pop, Latin and Jazz. The class will analyze the writing styles of many of the most prolific and successful Big Band Arrangers of the 20th century. Participants will be able to write music for any and all types of commercial applications, and musical styles for all levels of musicians. Prerequisite: MU 4344 or permission from instructor.4351, 4353 Problems in Music
(3-0) Study of one or more problems in music. Problems chosen may not duplicate the scope of another course offered for credit. The courses are conducted as seminars and are open to students on an individual basis by arrangement with the Director of the School of Music.4354 Business in Music
(3-0) A preparation of students and future musicians for a career in music. The course will discuss the various career options available to aspiring musicians and the paths to take to pursue these options. By the end of the course the musician/student will compile a personal business plan.4356 Mariachi Arranging
(3-0) Analysis and arranging music for a Mariachi ensemble. Topics will cover instrument ranges, orchestration techniques, and styles. Prerequisite: MU 2263.4360 Music in the United States
(3-0) A survey of the music and musical development in this country from pre-Columbian times to the present. Folk music, popular music, and jazz will be considered as well as traditional and experimental styles. Prerequisite: MU 2203-2204, or consent of instructor.4385 Advanced Audio Recording Techniques
(3-0) Application of theoretical skills in recording, mixing, and editing concert music. Prerequisites: MU 3383, 3384. Co-requisite: MU 4180.4386 Internship
(0-6) Practical experience in audio recording under professional supervision. Provides the opportunity for students to demonstrate professional competencies based on prior theoretical and laboratory experiences. Prerequisite: Permission from the instructor.4680 Internship in Sound Recording Technology
(0-6) Practical experience in audio recording under professional supervision. Provides the opportunity for students to demonstrate professional competencies based on prior theoretical and laboratory experiences. Prerequisite: MU 4385. Capstone course.Courses in Music Ensembles (MUSE)
3101 Basketball Band
(0-4) The Bobcat Basketball Band performs for all home men’s and women’s basketball games that do not fall over a university break. The group travels for all postseason tournaments. May be repeated for credit.3102 Salsa Del Rio
(0-6) Performing ensemble specializing in Latin and South American music. May be repeated for credit.3103 Texas State Mariachi
(0-6) Performing ensemble specializing in Mexican folk music. May be repeated for credit.3104 Panorama Steel Drum Band
(0-6) A performing ensemble specializing in Caribbean steel drum band music. May be repeated for credit.3105 VocaLibre
(0-6) A select vocal ensemble specializing in chamber music, including madrigal and jazz literature. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Enrollment in major choral ensemble.3106 Opera Workshop
(0-9) Vocal performance opportunity to participate in performance of opera and to learn techniques for operatic acting and staging. May be repeated for credit.3120 Bobcat Marching Band
(0-9) This ensemble performs at all home and select away football games utilizing traditional and corps-style marching. The ensemble is focused on delivering entertaining and high-powered halftime shows while supporting Bobcat Football. The band also performs in exhibitions for high school band events. May be repeated for credit.3123 Concert Band
(0-6) This ensemble provides playing experiences for non-music majors and music majors who want to improve their skills and serve as a lab ensemble for conducting students. May be repeated for credit.3124 Women’s Choir
(0-6) Performing ensemble specializing in choral literature for women’s voices. May be repeated for credit.3125 Men’s Choir
(0-6) Performing ensemble specializing in choral literature for men’s voices. May be repeated for credit.3126 Chamber Music
(0-4) Small group performing ensembles focusing on chamber literature of mixed and similar instrumental music. May be repeated for credit.3127 Jazz Combo
(0-4) A small performance ensemble designed to develop improvisational skills and individual musical creativity through performance of standard jazz literature. May be repeated for credit.3130 Wind Ensemble
(0-9) Major instrumental ensemble comprised of the most outstanding wind and percussion students who are selected by audition. The group is dedicated to the performance of the finest wind repertoire, whether a contemporary works for winds, or transcriptions from the orchestral repertoire. May be repeated for credit.3131 Symphonic Band
(0-6) Major instrumental ensemble consisting primarily of music majors and talented non-music majors. This ensemble performs a broad range of full ensemble repertoire, representative of all historical periods and styles. May be repeated for credit.3140 Texas State Chorale
(0-9) Auditioned major choral ensemble specializing in performances of literature from the Renaissance and 20th Century. May be repeated for credit.3141 University Singers
(0-6) Major choral ensemble that performs a variety of literature, including masterworks, from the 17th Century to the present. May be repeated for credit.3150 Texas State Symphony
(0-9) A full symphony orchestra that performs standard orchestra literature, as well as oratorio, concerto, and opera accompaniments. May be repeated for credit.3160 Jazz Ensemble
(0-9) The jazz based ensemble performs advanced arrangements of contemporary popular music in various styles. May be repeated for credit.3161 Jazz Orchestra
(0-6) The jazz based ensemble performs intermediate arrangements of contemporary popular music in various styles. May be repeated for credit.3162 Jazz Lab Band
(0-6) The jazz based ensemble performs beginning arrangements of contemporary popular music in various styles. May be repeated for credit.3170 Accompanying
(0-4) A coaching seminar for pianists to develop reading and accompanying skills. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Piano major.3180 Mysterium for Modern Music
(0-4) A seminar-based course focusing on the performance and analysis of 20th century music in all styles and media. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Composition major.3190 Guitar Ensemble
(0-6) Chamber guitar ensemble designed to provide interaction with fellow guitarists, develop musicianship as ensemble performer, and to familiarize student with music from different periods through a variety of literature May repeated for credit.Courses in Applied Music (MUSP)
Applied Instruction:
Private study of piano, voice, organ, string, brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments is available to all students of Texas State, on both beginning and advanced levels of instruction. Through supervised private coaching, instruction focuses on technique, musicality, literature and performance. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Music major status or permission from instructor.Voice:
MUSP 1120, 1220, 2120, 2220, 3220, 3320, 4220, 4320, 4409YKeyboard (Piano, Organ):
MUSP 1130, 1230, 2130, 2230, 3230, 3330, 4230, 4330, 4410VWoodwind (Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone):
MUSP 1140, 1240, 2140, 2240, 3240, 3340, 4240, 4340, 4410A-EBrass (Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba):
MUSP 1150, 1250, 2150, 2250, 3250, 3350, 4250, 4350, 4410F-JString (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Guitar):
MUSP 1160, 1260, 2160, 2260, 3260, 3360, 4260, 4360, 4410K-N,Percussion:
MUSP 1170, 1270, 2170, 2270, 3170, 3270, 3370, 4170, 4270, 4370Composition:
MUSP 1180, 1280, 2180, 2280, 3280, 3380, 4280, 4380Senior Recital
4219Y, 4419Y Voice (1-0). Preparation and performance of the senior recital for voice majors. 4220V, 4420V Piano (1-0). Preparation and performance of the senior recital for piano majors.224 4122, 4222, 4422 Brass (F-J), Woodwinds (A-E), Percussion (O), Strings (K-N), Guitar (P) (1-0). Preparation and performance of the senior recital for instrumental majors.