MUS 100 - Introduction to Music Studies

4 credits (Fall)

Music is an essential component of human life. In this course, students will examine the ways in which music moves people, creates meaning, forms knowledge, and shapes social life as an expression of history, culture, identity, and creativity. Using examples from multiple styles, time periods, and geographic origins, students will learn to engage with the sonic dimensions of music through live performance, recordings, and written forms. Students will consider how different modes of writing and thinking about music both inside and outside of the academy intersect with multiple ways of making music, whether through collaborative performance, improvisation, composition, or amateur music-making. Beyond developing skills of critical listening, thinking, and writing, students will learn and reinforce the skills necessary to continue studies in music. Lab work required.

Prerequisite: None.
Note: Students with prior music notation and keyboard experience should take the music placement exam during New Student Orientation to determine if they can test out of the lab.
Instructor: Staff