;

Bachelor of Arts Degree - Music

This program gives students a thorough training in the fundamentals of music and allows the student to focus on several paths within the music field, such as musical theater or performance. Music majors learn to plan ahead, work collaboratively, multi-task, and think creatively. Additional careers that require further study include audio production, film scoring, or music therapist.

A Bachelor of Arts in Music major may select a band instrument, voice, or keyboard as the major performing area. He/she must complete a minimum of seven semesters of applied lessons, at least two of which must be taken at the 400 level. A minimum requirement of seven semesters in a major performing ensemble (Concert Band, Chorale) must also be fulfilled in his/her major performing area. (The Bachelor of Arts major with keyboard as the major performing area may substitute accompaniment of an approved vocal ensemble for major ensemble credit. However, the seven credits still must be earned over seven semesters).

Degree Requirements:

General Education Courses

Major Courses

Minor Courses

Foreign Language Requirement

Electives

Degree available in Bismarck

RECITAL/CAPSTONE REQUIREMENT

Music majors must present a recital in the major applied music area during the senior year of study. It is recommended that all music majors present a junior recital. Students must have permission from their applied lesson instructor prior to registering for the recital. For the senior recital, students must be registered in at least the seventh semester of applied study for the major applied instrument. Students must be enrolled in at least the second semester of 400 applied level study during the semester of the recital. B.A. music students not pursuing a performance-oriented area of interest may present a capstone project in lieu of the senior recital. For the junior recital, students must be registered in at least the sixth semester of private lessons for the major applied instrument and have the permission of the applied instructor. The recital will be graded by at least three members of the music faculty, including the applied instructor.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will perform a variety of musical styles with technical and rhythmic accuracy, tone quality, intonation, musical interpretation, appropriate diction/articulation, and stylistic accuracy both as a solo and ensemble performer, in rehearsal and performance on their primary instrument. (This learning outcome directly addresses Institutional Learning Outcomes I and VI).
  2. Students will engage in historical, cultural, theoretical, and educational research in music by identifying and demonstrating ability to use appropriate resources. (This learning outcome directly addresses Institutional Learning Outcomes I, II, III, and VI.) 
  3. Students will analyze and evaluate written music and musical performance, including aural and cognitive comprehension of harmonic, structural, stylistic, and compositional music concepts. (This learning outcome directly addresses Institutional Learning Outcomes I, II, III and VI.)
  4. Students will engage in music as a profession through membership in professional organizations, and participation in professional activities. (This learning outcome directly addresses Institutional Learning Outcomes I, V, and VI.)

Requirements

The following is required as part of general education:

MUSC 201 - Introduction to World Music - 3 credits (Satisfies Group III-A)

Chorale or Concert Band satisfies Group III-A - 3 credits

Music Major Courses

MUSC 122Music Theory and Analysis I

3

MUSC 123Aural Skills I

1

MUSC 124Music Theory and Analysis II

3

MUSC 125Aural Skills II

1

MUSC 130Piano Keyboard Skills I

1

MUSC 131Piano Keyboard Skills II

1

MUSC 133Music Technology

2

MUSC 215Basic Conducting

2

MUSC 222Music Theory and Analysis III

3

MUSC 223Aural Skills III

1

MUSC 224Music Theory and Analysis IV

3

MUSC 225Aural Skills IV

1

MUSC 230NPiano Proficiency Exam

0

MUSC 289Performance Class

0

MUSC 326Music History and Literature I

3

MUSC 327Music History and Literature II

3

MUSC 489Performance Class

0

Applied Music

7

Primary Large Ensemble

7

Electives in Music

7

Small Ensemble

1

Recital

1

Total Credit Hours: 51