The A.B. offerd by the Music Department is a general degree, integrating theory, history, ethnomusicology, technology, composition and performance in a single, liberal concentration.
There are currently three tracks within the concentration: one that emphasizes theory, history and composition; another that emphasizes ethnomusicology; and a third that focuses on computer music and multimedia.
MUSC 0550 and 0560 are required for all three tracks. These courses should be taken in the first year if possible; they must be completed by the end of the sophomore year. (N.B. The sequence starts in the fall.) The basic keyboard skills expected of concentrators are tested at the end of MUSC 0560.
The Department of Music does not award course credit to Advanced Placement (A.P.) courses. Students may receive placement credit for MUCS 0550 and/or MUSC 0560, however. Students interested in placing out of MUSC 0550-0560 must take the theory placement test administered during the first class meeting of MUSC 0550 at the beginning of the fall semester. Each student who passes the test will consult with the director of the course to work out individual arrangements for placement credit.
Participation in one or more of the departmentally sponsored performing courses is highly recommended: Chorus, Orchestra, Jazz Band, Wind Symphony, Chamber Music Performance, Electroacoustic Ensemble, Sacred Harp/Shape-Note Singing, Old-time String Band, Javanese Gamelan, or Ghanaian drumming.
All music courses -- including performance courses -- are open to all Brown students, provided that they have statisfied the prerequisites.
Music Theory (2) MUSC 0550-0560 are prerequisites for any upper-level music courses, 0550 is offered every fall; 0560 is offered every spring.
History (2) Any two of the three courses below are required; the third is optional.
Advanced Theory (2) Any two advanced theory courses are required (in no particular order). 1020 and 1030 are usually offered every other fall, as are 1040 and 1050.
Advanced Musicianship (2) MUSC 1010-1011 are required; each is worth 1/2 credit. (Prerequisite: 0560) 1010 is offered every fall; 1011 is offered every spring.
Ethnomusicology (1) MUSC 1900 is a concentration requirement. 1900 is usually offered annually and should be taken before the senior year.
Electives (3) Three upper-level courses are required (i.e., no course below MUSC 0570); 1600-level seminars are preferred. Up to two full Applied Music or ensemble credits (i.e., four semesters) may be applied ti the concentration requirements.
Music Theory (2) MUSC 0550-0560 are prerequisites for any upper-level music courses, 0550 is offered every fall; 0560 is offered every spring.
Other Foundational Courses (2) The two courses below are required. 1900 is usually offered annually and should be taken before the senior year.
History (2) Any two of the three courses below are required; the third is optional.
Electives in Ethnomusicology (4) Four additional courses in ethnomusicology are required. Two must be numbered 1000 or higher, and two must be geographical area courses (a study of music of one country, continent, or region).
Music Theory (2) MUSC 0550-0560 are prerequisites for any upper-level music courses, 0550 is offered every fall; 0560 is offered every spring.
Computer Science (1) One of the following courses is required.
Other Electronic Media (2) Two approved courses are required. Options include courses in the following departments: Modern Culture and Media; Visual Arts; Computer Science; Engineering; Theatre, Speech and Dance. RISD courses are also possible.
MEME Electives (3) Two must be numbered 1000 or higher. All choices must be approved. Recommended: MUSC 0220, which has no prerequisites; MUSC 2200-2280, for juniors and seniors who have completed the prerequisites.
Prof. Dana Gooley
Dana_Gooley@brown.edu
225 Orwig Music Building
(401) 863-3711
Page last updated in February, 2009.