Music
Courses
MUSC 101 University Chorus 0-1 Credits
A large chorus that studies and performs music of many styles; performs each term. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 102 Chamber Singers 1.0 Credit
A select choir that performs advanced choral repertoire; performs frequently on and off campus. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 103 Naturally Sharp (Vocal Jazz Ensemble) 0-1 Credits
Naturally Sharp is a select group of singers, chosen by audition in the fall from the University Chorus. Naturally Sharp performs vocal jazz repertoire from the past hundred years with a three-piece backup band. Singers must also be able to do solos.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
Corequisite: MUSC 101
MUSC 104 All-College Choir 0-1 Credits
All-College Choir is a non-auditioned, mixed voice ensemble that performs repertoire of various styles, genres and eras - including music of the classical tradition, jazz, spirituals, American musical theater, folk and pop.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 105 Concert Band 1.0 Credit
Performs a wide variety of music written for a large band; concerts given each term. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 106 Guitar Ensembles 1.0 Credit
Performs a wide variety of music written for a small guitar ensemble; concerts given at least twice a year. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 107 Jazz Ensembles 1.0 Credit
Offers rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz compositions for both large and small ensembles; concerts given on and off campus, sometimes with guest soloists. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 108 Jazztet 0-1 Credits
Jazztet is a subset of the larger Jazz Orchestra. Its size can vary based upon the availability of instrumentation and the desire of the director. Its purpose is to present jazz music in a small instrumentation format. Performances are typically part of the greater Jazz Orchestra concerts at the end of each term.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
Corequisite: MUSC 107
MUSC 109 University Orchestra 1.0 Credit
This is a full orchestra that performs concert repertoire of various periods from the 18th century to the present day. Wind, brass, and percussionists must be in the concert band in order to participate.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 110 Keyboard Ensembles 1.0 Credit
Performs a wide variety of music written for a small keyboard ensemble; concerts given at least twice a year. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 111 Chamber Music Ensemble 1.0 Credit
Various small ensembles performing a variety of music of many periods and styles. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 112 Fusion Band 1.0 Credit
Performs a wide variety of music written for a small fusion ensemble. The Fusion Band gives concerts at least twice a year. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 113 Percussion Ensembles 1.0 Credit
Performs a wide variety of music written for a small percussion ensemble. The ensemble gives concerts at least twice a year. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 114 Mediterranean Ensemble 0-1 Credits
The Drexel University Mediterranean Ensemble is open to any student with an interest in performing traditional music from the Balkans, the Middle East and Northern Africa. All instruments are welcomed.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 115 Gospel Choir 1.0 Credit
Performs gospel music drawn from both traditional and contemporary sources. Performance opportunities for both singers and instrumentalists. Concerts given on and off campus each term. May be repeated for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 116 Pep Band 0-1 Credits
Pep Band is a group of roughly forty-five student musicians primarily from the concert band. The purpose of the Pep Band is to support the Drexel Dragons basketball team and play from the bleachers at home games as well as travel to tournaments.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 117 Rock Ensemble 0-1 Credits
Rock Ensemble is an ensemble where students have the opportunity to gain experience working as a group rehearsing, arranging, organizing, recording, and ultimately performing songs in the rock/pop/contemporary genres. By choosing music that is both of high quality and varied, students have a unique opportunity to develop a strong work ethic while being exposed to various musical challenges.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 118 Chamber Music: Strings 0-1 Credits
MUSC 118 forms its participants into various sized string groups from trios and quartets to octets. The repertoire spans music of the classical tradition and beyond, from the modern day back to the 17th century. These small groups will perform as part of a larger chamber recital at the end of each term.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 120 Music Fundamentals 3.0 Credits
Music Fundamentals teaches students essential skills and knowledge relating to Western music. Focus is placed on ear training and core music theory concepts. This course perfectly compliments any student’s musical playing ability, beginning to advanced, and is essential to further musical development.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 121 Music Theory I 3.0 Credits
MUSC 121 covers the foundations of: notation, major/minor scales and keys, intervals, chord construction, phrase construction, small forms, and basic techniques of harmonizing a melody. The methodology centers on analysis combined with application.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 122 Music Theory II 3.0 Credits
MUSC 122 covers: texture and textural reduction, chromatic harmony, modulation, and large forms. This is a continuation of MUSC 121 and provides more depth into the topics of that course as well as offers advanced material. The methodology combines musical analysis with application.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 121 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 124 Jazz Theory 3.0 Credits
Jazz Theory introduces musical concepts and skills as they pertain to this specific style of music. The material discussed is foundational knowledge for jazz composition, arranging, and improvisation. Therefore, this course is suitable for students interested in jazz performance or composition.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 121 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 125 Ear Training I 1.0 Credit
Introduces the basics of ear training and sight singing.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 121 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 126 Ear Training II 1.0 Credit
Continues MUSC 125.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 125 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 130 Introduction to Music 3.0 Credits
Provides an introduction to music, including elements of melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, structure, history, and an introduction to various genres. Emphasizes listening with understanding.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 134 Mambo, Samba, Salsa, and More 3.0 Credits
This course introduces the various Latin American musical traditions, as well as their historical contexts, evolution, inter-connectivity and current importance.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 152 Survey of Songwriting 3.0 Credits
This course will examine the art and craft of songwriting. Students will listen to and analyze many examples from folk and popular music, from the 1930’s through to the present day. Students will use this knowledge, as well as that of basic music fundamentals, to compose a song at the end of the term.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 190 Class Piano I 2.0 Credits
Uses a group situation to teach basic performance skills and beginning instruction on piano.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 191 Class Guitar I 2.0 Credits
Uses a group situation to teach basic performance skills and beginning instruction on guitar.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 192 Class Percussion I 2.0 Credits
Uses a group situation to teach basic performance skills and beginning instruction on percussion.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 193 Class Voice I 2.0 Credits
Uses a group situation to teach basic performance skills and beginning instruction in voice.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 194 Class Bass I 2.0 Credits
Class Bass I uses group instruction to teach basic performance skills and techniques on electric bass guitar and upright bass.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 3 times for 6 credits
MUSC 195 Class Bass II 2.0 Credits
Class Bass II uses group instruction to teach advanced performance skills and techniques on electric bass guitar and upright bass.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 3 times for 6 credits
MUSC 196 Jazz Class Piano 2.0 Credits
Students will learn the fundamentals in jazz piano playing by studying the melodic, harmonic and rhythmic aspects associated with jazz. Students will learn how to read, “lead sheets” and improvise over modal and standard chord changes.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 229 Modern Arranging Techniques 3.0 Credits
Modern Arranging Techniques. Discusses the capabilities and ranges of varying instruments. Students study modern arranging techniques utilizing strategies and standard music material.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 122 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 231 European Classical Music History 3.0 Credits
This course surveys and analyzes compositions from antiquity through the modern period in European music history. After an overview of musical vocabulary, we will study selected masterpieces of Western music, thereby gaining a greater appreciation for developments of musical style.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 232 European Classical Music History II 3.0 Credits
This course surveys and analyzes compositions from the Romantic Era through the 21st Century in European classical music history.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 234 The Beatles 3.0 Credits
This course will examine the cultural phenomena of The Beatles from their early history as a band through the end of their regular collaboration in 1970. While The Beatles have been examined in many different ways, this course will concentrate on their productivity as a rock band through the single pop song, the pop album, and film. It will also serve to provide a more in depth study of the group and their influence on other popular culture.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 235 History of Film Music 3.0 Credits
This course surveys film music from the silent film era to the present. Topics will include the composers of the genre, the changing musical styles through the decades, and the techniques used by film composers.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 236 Rock Music Through the Mid-60s 3.0 Credits
Surveys rock music from its roots through the mid-60s.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 238 Rock Music Since the Mid-60s 3.0 Credits
Surveys rock music from the mid-60s through the mid-90s.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 241 Private Lesson 1.0 Credit
Weekly private music lessons on an instrument or voice as indicated by the section number. Lessons are fifty minutes per week. The specific day and time is mutually agreed upon by the instructor and the student. Musical style, level of ability, and learning objectives are individually based. Students are encouraged to contact the instructor if they have questions. Students are charged a lab fee every term they register.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC 249 Digital Music Composition 3.0 Credits
Digital Music Composition teaches students how to compose music intended to be produced by a computer and related to software, opposed to composing for acoustic instruments. Students will learn how to use specific music software and explore contemporary compositional techniques.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 121 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 252 Music Composition 3.0 Credits
Music Composition engages students in writing music for ensembles ranging from solo performer to large ensemble. Techniques of the common practice period as well as modernist harmonic techniques will be introduced and applied. Live performance of student projects will be provided and is an important feature of the course.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 229 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 290 Class Piano II 2.0 Credits
Class Piano II is a continuation of Class Piano I. By the end of the term students will be able to perform a number of simple songs, play several scales and chord progressions, and have basic note reading skills.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 190 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 291 Class Guitar II 2.0 Credits
Class Guitar II is a continuation of Class Guitar I. In this course students continue to work on note reading in first position, develop rhythmic skills and reading ability in different keys, learn movable barred chords and power chords, and learn basic finger picking technique.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 191 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 300 Improvisation 0.0-3.0 Credits
Provides study and practice of various improvisatory styles in music. Includes classroom lectures, listening, and solo and ensemble performance.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 323 Songwriting 3.0 Credits
Addresses basic songwriting techniques including form, melody, rhythm, lyrics, and production. Projects are required.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 121 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC 331 World Musics 3.0 Credits
Surveys various musical traditions from around the world in their cultural contexts. Includes selected music from Africa, the Americas, Europe, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, West Asia, and Oceania.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 333 Afro-American Music USA 3.0 Credits
Examines the African heritage and related New World forms outside the United States. Covers work songs, spirituals, blues, folk music, ragtime, gospel, rhythm and blues, jazz, etc.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 334 The Power of Black American Music 3.0 Credits
Provides an overview of American Folk music established by Black Americans in the early 1600s. Attention will be given to the African and Caribbean heritage exploring the religious, economic, cultural, and social environment that gave birth to work songs, spirituals, ragtime, blues, jazz, country, gospel, rock ‘n’ roll, rhythm & blues, soul, and hip hop. The course provides the opportunity to listen to music and highlight the musical inventions Black Americans brought to the new world.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 336 History of Jazz 3.0 Credits
Surveys the music popularly known as jazz from before 1900 through the stylistic changes and trends of the 20th century. Covers precursors, early jazz, big bands, bebop, the new music, etc.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 337 Hip-Hop Music History 3.0 Credits
Hip-Hop Music History is a comprehensive exploration of the origins of hip-hop music, and its meteoric rise to a preeminent genre of popular American music today. Instruction for this course comprises of the examination of hip-hop's noteworthy practitioners, the corroborative technology and propitious media which support it, and the often innovative practice of musical and lyrical creativity that defines the genre.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 338 [WI] American Popular Music 3.0 Credits
Examines popular music (dances, marches, ragtime, jazz, musical comedy, movie music, swing, rock, etc.) from Colonial times to the present, with cultural-historical contexts.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MUSC 342 Applied Music-Recital 2.0 Credits
Students will present a public recital featuring significant solo repertoire. Repertoire choices for recital must be made through the Applied Music instructor.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MUSC 241 [Min Grade: D]
MUSC I199 Independent Study in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Self-directed within the area of study requiring intermittent consultation with a designated instructor.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC I299 Independent Study in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Self-directed within the area of study requiring intermittent consultation with a designated instructor.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC I399 Independent Study in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Self-directed within the area of study requiring intermittent consultation with a designated instructor.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC I499 Independent Study in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Self-directed within the area of study requiring intermittent consultation with a designated instructor.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC T180 Special Topics in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Topics decided upon by faculty will vary within the area of study.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC T280 Special Topics in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Topics decided upon by faculty will vary within the area of study.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC T380 Special Topics in Music 0.5-12.0 Credits
Topics decided upon by faculty will vary within the area of study.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit
MUSC T480 Special Topics in Music 0.0-12.0 Credits
Topics decided upon by faculty will vary within the area of study.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated multiple times for credit