Music

Bachelor's Degree Program(s)

Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA)

The bachelor of arts in music degree has as its goal a broad education in music within a liberal arts context. Although students may elect to pursue special interests, the primary emphasis is on the development of basic musicianship, an ability to perform music, and a broad knowledge of the foundations and principles of music as an art. The bachelor of arts in music may be completed with or without an emphasis in musicology and world musics.

Students may elect to pursue a degree in a nonmusic field in addition to a music degree. This is most often done with a BA in music; double degrees typically require more than four years to complete.

A minimum of 120 semester hours with an overall GPA of 2.000 must be earned for the BA in music degree. Of these hours, at least 68 (66 for musicology emphasis) must be in nonmusic courses. Thirty must be at the 3000 or 4000 level. A minimum of 44 hours (50 for musicology emphasis) is required in music courses.

The normal pattern for private applied instruction in this degree is one half-hour lesson per week for 2 semester hours of credit. Not more than 16 semester hours (12 for musicology emphasis) of credit in private instruction may be used toward the degree.

Students registered for applied music must participate in an ensemble as recommended by their applied faculty. A maximum of 4 credit hours (6 for musicology emphasis) in ensemble can apply to the BA in music degree.

A recital may be given with permission of the chair of the applied faculty area and the student’s advisor.

Minimum Requirements

In addition to the general requirements listed above, the following specific requirements must be met:

  • Three credits of English composition.
  • Basic proficiency in one foreign language equal to three semesters at the university level. This requirement also may be fulfilled by three years of study in high school in one language or by passing a university proficiency examination.
  • Nonmusic electives to fulfill the minimum requirement of 68 semester hours of credit. Of the nonmusic electives, 37 semester hours of credit must be fulfilled through the College of Arts and Sciences core curriculum. The arts and sciences core curriculum for the BA degree includes:
    3 credit hours of written communication
    3 credit hours of historical context
    3 credit hours of human diversity
    3 credit hours of United States context
    3 credit hours of contemporary societies
    3 credit hours of ideas and values
    6 credit hours of literature and the arts
    13 credit hours of natural science

Courses and Curricula

For the BA in music degree, students must complete the courses listed below. More detail is given on the degree sheet available from the associate dean of undergraduate studies.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1XXX applied instruction (lessons and literature class)—4
  • Ensemble—2
  • Foreign language—3
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—9

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2988 Introduction to Music Research—1
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • MUS 2XXX applied instruction (lessons and literature class)—4
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—18

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • Upper-division theory elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes, except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives—22

Senior Year

  • Elective in music history, 4000 level—3
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Non-music electives—21

Bachelor of Arts in Music with an Emphasis in Musicology and World Musics

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1XXX applied instruction (lessons and literature class)—4
  • Written communication—3
  • Ensemble—2
  • Foreign language—3
  • Non-music electives—9

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2772 World Musics—3
  • MUSC 2782 World Musics—3
  • MUSC 2988 Introduction to Musical Research—1
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • MUSC 2XXX applied instruction (lessons and literature class)—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—15

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation Recitals (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • 4000-level theory elective—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—20

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4112 Ethnomusicology—3
  • 4000-level music history elective—3
  • Non-music electives—20

Bachelor of Music (BM)

The four-year professional curriculum leading to the bachelor of music degree emphasizes creative skill, academic achievement, and artistic performance in music. Concentration areas are offered in performance, composition, musicology, and jazz studies. Performance areas include voice, piano, jazz piano, organ, harpsichord, string instruments, classical guitar, woodwinds, brass, and percussion

A half recital in the junior year and a full recital in the senior year are required of students in the performance concentration areas, except voice theatre. Students should check with their advisor about preview policies.

A thesis is required of students in the composition and musicology areas. For composition students, the thesis should be an original composition; for musicology students, a major paper. Students should check with their advisor for details.

A senior project is required of students in the voice theatre area. This project may be a senior recital, major role, or direction or design of a major show.

Specific performance group requirements are controlled by the degree plan in each concentration area and are subject to the advisor’s judgment in the best interest of the student.

The bachelor of music degrees include requirements in theory, history, and literature of music. Elective study in most degrees requires 30 nonmusic credits, including 3 in English composition, and 12 free electives that may be music or non-music courses. A suggested course sequence is shown below. (More detail is given on the degree sheets available on the undergraduate studies website at music.colorado.edu/students/undergraduate-advising.)

Written Communication

Students pursuing the bachelor of music degree will be required to take one 3-hour course in English composition through the Program for Writing and Rhetoric or the English department. Courses such as First-Year Writing and Rhetoric, Freshman Writing Seminar, or Introduction to Creative Writing fulfill the requirement. The credit hours are applied in the liberal arts electives category. Students are strongly encouraged to complete this requirement by the end of their freshman year.

Courses and Curricula

All degrees require 120 credit hours.

Brass and Percussion Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied brass/percussion instruction (lessons and
  • literature class)—6
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2XXX Applied brass/percussion instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • Chamber Music —2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—13

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 2071 Instrumentation—2
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • MUSC 4918 Building Your Music Career—2
  • PMUS 3XXX Applied brass/percussion instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • Chamber Music—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Upper-division Theory Elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes, except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives—9

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4081 Introduction to Music Technology—3
  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4XXX Applied brass/percussion instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • Chamber Music—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western Music 2000/4000 level—3
  • Music electives—3
  • Non-music electives—9

Composition Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • PMUS 1526 Composition (and Composition Seminar)—6
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • Applied lessons—4
  • Written communication—3
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2071 Instrumentation —2
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2526 Composition (and Composition Seminar)—6
  • Applied lessons—4
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—14

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1 —2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 4001 New Music Styles and Practices —2
  • MUSC 4011 16th Century Counterpoint—2
  • MUSC 4041 Orchestration —2
  • PMUS 3526 Composition (and Composition Seminar)—6
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—10

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4021 18th Century Counterpoint—2
  • MUSC 4061, 4071 Tonal Analysis and Post-tonal Theory and Analysis—4 
  • PMUS 4526 Composition (and Composition Seminar)—6
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Non-music electives—7

Classical Guitar Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1326 Guitar Musicianship—1
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • MUSC 2366 Introduction to Accompanying—2
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • PMUS 1566 Applied guitar instruction (lessons and literature classes)—8
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2566 Applied guitar instruction (lessons and literature classes)—8
  • Ensemble—2
  • Music electives—3
  • Non-music electives—15

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2 —6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • MUSC 4061 Tonal Analysis —2
  • PMUS 3566 Applied guitar instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • Ensemble—2
  • Upper-division theory  or history elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes, except MUSC 4101)—2/3
  • Non-music electives—8

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4106 Guitar Literature—2
  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4566 Applied guitar instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Non-music electives—10

Harp Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2 —2
  • PMUS 1576 Applied harp instruction (lessons and literature class)—8
  • Written communication—3
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—9

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2105, 2205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • PMUS 2576 Applied harp instruction (lessons and literature class)—8
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—12

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 2071 Instrumentation—.2
  • PMUS 3576 Applied harp instruction (lessons and literature class)—7
  • Chamber Music—1
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—10

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4576 Applied harp instruction (lessons and literature class)—7
  • Chamber Music—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western Music 2000/4000—3
  • Upper-division theory elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes, except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives—9

Organ Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1616 Applied organ instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • Ensemble—2
  • Performance minor—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2265 Service Playing Techniques—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • PMUS 2616 Applied organ instruction (lessons and literature class)—8
  • Ensemble—2
  • Performance minor—2
  • Non-music electives—8

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—.6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • MUSC 4011 or 4021 16th/18th Century Counterpoint—.2
  • MUSC 4285, 4295 Organ Survey—6
  • PMUS 3616 Applied organ instruction (lessons and literature class)—7
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—8

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4011 or 4021 16th/18th Century Counterpoint—2
  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4616 Applied organ instruction (lessons and literature class)—7
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Ensemble—1
  • Non-music electives—14

 

Harpsichord Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1586 Applied Harpsichord Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • University Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—12

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • MUSC 4405 Basso-Continuo Accompaniment (fall)—2
  • PMUS 2586 Applied Harpsichord Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • University Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western music history—3
  • Performance minor—4
  • Non-music electives—9

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1 (fall)—2
  • MUSC 4011 16th Century Counterpoint—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • PMUS 3586 Applied Harpsichord Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • University Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—9
  • Music Electives (special studies focusing on harpsichord literature and pedagogy recommended)—2

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4061 Tonal Analysis (fall)—2
  • MUSC 4852 17th Century and Early 18th Century Music—3
  • MUSC 4021 18th Century Counterpoint (fall)—2
  • PMUS 3586 Applied Harpsichord Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • Upper-division music history elective—3
  • University Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—7

Piano Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1325 Sight Reading for Piano—1
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • MUSC 2365 Introduction to Accompanying—2
  • PMUS 1636 Applied piano instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—11

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2325 Applied Harmony for the Keyboard—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2636 Applied piano instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • PMUS 4105 Supervised Accompanying—2
  • Non-music electives—15

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0 
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1 (fall)—2
  • MUSC 3345/3355 Piano Pedagogy 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 3802/3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • MUSC 4061 Tonal Analysis or MUSC 4071 Post-tonal Theory and Analysis—2
  • PMUS 3636 Applied piano instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Band, orchestra, or choir—2
  • Performance minor—4
  • Upper-division theory elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes, except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives—6

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4325, 4335 Piano Literature 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4636 Applied piano instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • PMUS 4105 Supervised Accompanying—2
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Jazz Piano Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • EMUS 1427 Jazz Ensemble—2
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1325 Sight Reading for Piano—1
  • MUSC 2365 Introduction to Accompanying—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1636 Applied Piano Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—4
  • PMUS 1806 Applied Jazz Piano Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • EMUS 1427 Jazz Ensemble—2
  • EMUS 1437 Jazz Combo—1
  • HIST 2437 African American History—3
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4 —2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • MUSC 3081 Jazz Theory and Aural Foundations —3
  • MUSC 3997 Classical Recital—1
  • PMUS 2636 Applied Piano Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—4
  • PMUS 2806 Applied Jazz Piano Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—5
  • Non-music electives—6

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • EMUS 3427 Jazz Ensemble—1
  • EMUS 3437 Jazz Combo—2
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3061, 3071 Jazz Improvisation 1 and 2—4
  • PMUS 3806 Applied Jazz Piano Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Non-music electives—8

Senior Year

  • EMUS 3642 History of Jazz—3
  • EMUS 3437 Jazz Combo—2
  • MUSC 4997 Jazz Senior Recital—1
  • MUSC 4031 Jazz Scoring and Arranging —2
  • PMUS 4806 Applied Jazz Piano Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—5
  • Two credits selected from MUSC 3345, 3355 (Piano Pedagogy 1 and 2), MUSC 4325, 4335 (Piano Literature 1 and 2), or one seminar of piano pedagogy or literature and MUSC 3253 Jazz Techniques for the Music Educator—2
  • Non-music electives—11

Performance with Secondary Emphasis in Jazz (Available for Trumpet, Trombone, and Saxophone)

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2 —2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship—2
  • Applied Instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • University Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4 —4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4 —2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 1515 Jazz Piano Class—2
  • MUSC 3081 Jazz Theory/Aural Foundations—3
  • Applied Instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • University Ensemble—2
  • EMUS 1507 Chamber Music—2
  • Music electives (Performance minor for saxophone students)—4
  • Non-music electives—6

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3061 or 3017Jazz Improvisation 1 or 2—2
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • Applied Instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • University Ensemble—1
  • EMUS 3507 Chamber Music—1
  • EMUS 3427 Jazz Ensemble—1
  • EMUS 3437 Jazz Combo—1
  • Non-music electives—10

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • MUSC 3273 Jazz Techniques for the Music Educator—2
  • MUSC 4031 Jazz Arranging 1—2
  • EMUS 3427 Jazz Ensemble—2
  • EMUS 3437 Jazz Combo—2
  • Applied Instruction (lessons and literature class)—6
  • Non-Western Music or History of Jazz—3
  • Non-music electives—12

Jazz Studies Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—.0
  • ETHN 2001 Foundations of Ethnic Studies—3
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • MUSC 3061 Jazz Improvisation 1—2
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied Instruction—8
  • Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—3

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters) —0
  • HIST 2437 African American History—3
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 3081 Jazz Theory/Aural Foundations—3
  • MUSC 3642 History of Jazz—3
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 1515 Jazz Piano Class—2
  • PMUS 2XXX Applied Instruction—.8
  • Ensemble—4
  • Non-music electives—3

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3071 Jazz Improvisation 2—2
  • MUSC 4031, 4091 Jazz Arranging 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • PMUS 3XXX Applied Instruction—5
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—11

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4XXX Applied Instruction—5
  • Non-Western Music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Ensemble—3
  • Music electives—2
  • Non-music electives—11

String Performance Concentration Area: Double Bass, Harp, Viola, Violin, and Violoncello

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • EMUS 1327 Orchestra—2
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied string instruction (lessons and literature classes)—8
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • EMUS 1327 Orchestra—2
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • MUSC 3273 String Pedagogy—2
  • PMUS 2XXX Applied string instruction (lessons and literature classes)—8
  • PMUS 2105, 2205 Keyboard Musicianship 3 and 4—2
  • Non-music electives—10

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • EMUS 3327 Orchestra—2
  • MUSC 2071 Instrumentation —2
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1 —2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2 —6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • PMUS 3XXX Applied string instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • PMUS 4517 Orchestral Repertoire—2
  • Chamber music—1
  • Non-music electives—10

Senior Year

  • EMUS 3327 Orchestra—2
  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4XXX Applied string instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • Chamber music—2
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Upper-division theory or musicology elective (not MUSC 4101)—2-3
  • Non-music electives—10

Voice Performance Concentration Area

One year of study at the university level of each of two foreign languages is required of vocal performance majors.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1544, 1554 Italian/English Diction—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • PMUS 1726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2105, 2205 Keyboard Musicianship 3 and 4—2
  • PMUS 2726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives (including foreign language)—13

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3193 Pedagogy for Young Voices—2
  • MUSC 3464, 3444 German/French Diction—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • PMUS 3726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • Ensemble—2
  • Upper-division theory elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes, except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives (including foreign language)—14

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 4726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • PMUS 4137, 4147 Opera Theatre 1 and 2—2
  • Ensemble—1
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Non-music electives—9

Voice Performance with Elective Studies in Music Theatre 

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1544, 1554 Italian/English Diction—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • PMUS 1726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Ensemble—2
  • Theatre/dance elective—1
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives (including foreign language)—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 2105, 2205 Keyboard Musicianship 3 and 4 —2
  • PMUS 2726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • THTR 1019 and 1029 Foundations of Theatre 1 and 2—6
  • Beginning ballet—1
  • Ensemble—1
  • Non-music electives (including foreign language)—10

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1 —2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3193 Pedagogy for Young Voices —2
  • PMUS 3167 Opera Theatre Stagecraft—3
  • PMUS 3726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • PMUS 4137 Opera Theatre 1—1
  • PMUS 4147 Opera Theatre 2—1
  • PMUS 4167 Opera Theatre Lab—1
  • THTR 2003 Acting 1—3
  • THTR 3053 Acting 2—3
  • Ensemble—1
  • Non-music electives—3

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4101—2
  • PMUS 4157 Opera Practicum—2
  • PMUS 4167 Opera Theatre Lab—1
  • PMUS 4726 Applied Voice Instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000-level—3
  • Senior project (or major role, or design or direction of a major production)—0
  • Theatre and dance elective—3
  • Upper-division theory elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives—9

Woodwind Performance Concentration Area

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2 —4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied wind instruction (lessons and literature classes)—6
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—6

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied wind instruction (lessons and literature classes)—8
  • Chamber music—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Music electives—4
  • Non-music electives —12

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 2071 Instrumentation —2
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • MUSC 3997 Junior Recital—1
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied wind instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • Chamber music—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Upper-division theory elective (3000 or 4000 level theory classes except MUSC 4101)—2
  • Non-music electives—7

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4997 Senior Recital—1
  • PMUS 1XXX Applied wind instruction (lessons and literature classes)—7
  • Chamber music—2
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western music, 2000/4000 level—3
  • Non-music electives—12

Musicology Concentration Area

In addition to the requirements applying to all bachelor of music curricula, a second year proficiency is required in one foreign language.

Required Courses and Semester Credit Hours

Freshman Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • HIST 1010, 1020 History of Western Civilization—6
  • MUSC 1101, 1111 Theory 1 and 2—4
  • MUSC 1121, 1131 Aural Skills 1 and 2—2
  • MUSC 1802 Introduction to Musical Styles and Ideas—3
  • PMUS 1105, 1205 Keyboard Musicianship 1 and 2 —2
  • Applied instruction (lessons and literature classes)—4
  • Ensemble—2
  • Written communication—3
  • Non-music electives—3

Sophomore Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • HIST 1010, 1020—6
  • MUSC 2101, 2111 Theory 3 and 4—4
  • MUSC 2121, 2131 Aural Skills 3 and 4—.2
  • MUSC 2997 Sophomore Proficiency—0
  • Applied instruction (lessons and literature classes)—4
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-music electives—18

Junior Year

  • CONV 1990 Convocation (two semesters)—0
  • MUSC 3176 Conducting 1—2
  • MUSC 3802, 3812 History of Music 1 and 2—6
  • Applied instruction (lessons and literature classes)—4
  • Ensemble—2
  • Non-Western music 2000/4000 level—3
  • Music history (4000 level)—3
  • Non-music electives—12

Senior Year

  • MUSC 4011 16th Century Counterpoint and MUSC 4021 18th Century Counterpoint or MUSC 4081 Music Technology—4
  • MUSC 4061 Tonal Analysis and MUSC 4071 Post Tonal Analysis —4
  • MUSC 4957 Senior Thesis —4
  • TMUS 4403 Special Studies —2
  • Music history (4000 level)—12

Graduate Degree Program(s)

Master of Music (MM) 

The major fields for this degree are composition, conducting, music theory, performance, and the combined major of performance/pedagogy. Conducting students may concentrate in choral, orchestral, or wind symphony/band. Performance and performance/pedagogy majors may concentrate in brass instruments, early keyboard, jazz, piano, percussion, organ, harpsichord, string instruments (including harp and guitar), voice, or woodwind instruments.

Major work in the conducting degrees includes advanced conducting, analytical studies, score reading, orchestration, arranging, conducting practica, and research and writing. In music theory, course work and two thesis papers are required. In pedagogy, courses in the psychology of music learning, the pedagogy and literature of one’s performing area, and a written thesis are required. In performance, students complete applied study, recitals, and courses that investigate the repertoire of their performance areas. All master’s degree students are required to take a course in bibliographic research and 6 credits outside their major area.

Brass, conducting, percussion, string, voice, and woodwind majors are required to participate in a music ensemble. Committee chairs advise students concerning the appropriate choice of ensemble. 

Prerequisites. As noted in the Graduate School section, students should have completed undergraduate preparation equivalent to that expected for the bachelor’s degree at this university. Normally this is a bachelor of music degree in the proposed area of concentration.

Before admission, composition majors should submit representative scores and recordings (CD format), and a list of completed compositions. Theory majors should submit two scholarly writing samples that demonstrate ability in critical analysis, appropriate research techniques, and skill in the cogent use of English. For further details, see the Application Process section of the website. Performance majors must submit a repertoire list and arrange for an audition, or submit a non-returnable recording of their performance. Conducting majors must submit a videotape or DVD of their performance. Refer to “Graduate Auditions” above for further details.

Program of Study. The master of music (MM) degree, which the Graduate School considers a Plan II program, requires a minimum of 30–32 semester hours of graduate course work, including thesis projects. Many students find it necessary to exceed this minimum in order to meet the musical and academic standards demanded by the MM qualifying examination. Outlines of specific programs may be obtained online at music.colorado.edu/students/graduate/degrees.

Each student’s program is directed by a three-member advisory committee headed by the major advisor (the student’s major professor). A second member is chosen from the major area, and a third from outside the major area. (The major areas are music education, music theory, composition, and performance.) By the second semester of residence, the student should complete a tentative degree plan and obtain the approval of the advisory committee and the associate dean for graduate studies. Students must complete the master’s degree within four years of matriculation into the program.

Examinations. In addition to preliminary examinations, master’s degree students in music must take the master’s qualifying examination. The procedures, guidelines for registration, and deadlines for taking these examinations are announced by the Music Graduate Office.

Recital/Thesis Requirements. The recital/thesis requirement for the MM in composition is the composition (during the period of graduate study) of several works of major proportion, at least one of which must receive public performance. For the major in conducting, the requirement is a public practicum and a performance-related or other scholarly document. For the major in music theory, it is two thesis papers. For the major in performance, presentation of two public recitals constitute the requirement. For the major in performance and pedagogy, a full-length recital and a research document in pedagogy are required.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 

The doctor of philosophy (PhD) in music degree is offered through the Graduate School for students who seek a terminal degree with an emphasis on research. The two principal areas of study are music education and musicology (including ethnomusicology).

Prerequisites. Students applying to the PhD program should have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a music field related to their intended area of study. Applicants for the PhD with an emphasis in music education should hold an MME degree. Letters of recommendation, representative research papers, and satisfactory scores on the GRE (the general test) are required elements of the student’s application for the degree. Upon entrance to the degree program, students must pass the prelimi

Doctor of Philosophy: Musicology (PhD) 

For the musicology student, the doctor of philosophy in music degree is intended to emphasize research in music history, music theory, ethnomusicology, or some other aspect of music in culture. The musicology faculty encourages students entering the graduate program, whether from the bachelor’s or master’s level, to pursue the PhD, the benchmark of professional education within the field. A minimum of 30 semester hours in courses numbered at 5000 or above is required (although the minimum number is almost always exceeded). At least 4 doctoral seminars (7000 level) in musicology and music theory (3 plus 1, 1 plus 3, or 2 plus 2) must be taken at the University of Colorado Boulder as part of this course work. Up to 21 semester hours of graduate work taken at another institution may be considered for transfer. The College of Music requires proficiency in two foreign languages appropriate to the student’s program of study. Normally the language requirement is met by a translation examination scheduled twice a semester through the graduate music office.

Dissertation Requirements. A student must complete a total of at least 30 credit hours of dissertation credit (beyond course work), with not more than 10 of these hours in any one semester. Furthermore, not more than 10 hours of dissertation credit earned prior to a student’s advancement to candidacy may be applied toward the required 30 credit hours. The dissertation itself should be an original and worthwhile contribution to knowledge in the field of musicology. It is expected that the student work closely with a major professor who will serve as the first reader and critic before it is submitted to the other dissertation committee members.

Dual Degree Programs

Double Degrees in Music

Students may complete requirements in two fields and receive two degrees from the university. Such double-degree programs are available combining music with business, engineering, journalism and mass communication, or disciplines in the College of Arts and Sciences. Students must make application for a double-degree program in both the College of Music and the Leeds School of Business, the College of Engineering and Applied Science, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, or the College of Arts and Sciences. Any other combined program must be arranged by consulting both schools or colleges.

Dual Master’s Degree in Music

Students may apply for a dual master’s degree that combines any two master’s programs in the College of Music. The student must apply separately and be admitted by the faculty in each of the degree programs under their respective admissions procedures and standards. The student must be accepted to both degree programs at the time of the initial application. With the exception of thesis credits, courses that fulfill requirements in both degree programs need only be taken once to be counted for both. A minimum of 45 credit hours must be earned. For most students, it is far preferable to pursue the DMA or PhD degree after completing a master’s degree, rather than to pursue a dual master’s degree.  

Certificate Program

Certificate in Jazz Studies

The Jazz Program offers a Certificate in Jazz Studies for undergraduate music majors. The certificate program consists of an intense 18-hour curriculum in both academic and performance areas, concluding with a jazz recital. Courses include jazz theory and aural foundations, improvisation, history of jazz, scoring and arranging, jazz piano, jazz techniques for the music educator, jazz combo, and jazz ensemble.

Certificate in Music Technology

The certificate in music technology provides students with an opportunity to study music technology in greater depth than music degrees currently allow. This certificate program requires 18 credit hours, including five music technology courses, an interdisciplinary performance course, and an independent project (a composition, performance, or research project) under the supervision of a member of the Music Technology faculty. For more information, contact John Drumheller at drumhell@colorado.edu.

Professional Certificate in String Quartet Performance

The Professional Certificate in String Quartet Performance is designed to provide instruction and experiences for young artists who have already completed a master’s degree or its equivalent in performance. Students are generally accepted into the certificate program as part of a pre-formed string quartet, which will apply for admission into the College of Music graduate program as a unit. 

Professional Certificate in Opera and Solo Vocal Performance

This program provides instruction and experiences for a select number of young artists, most of whom have already completed a master’s degree in performance. Participants in the certificate program will concentrate significantly on the performance aspect of their work. This program is considered a path to a specialized career in solo vocal performance. 

Professional Certificate in Woodwind Performance

This program is designed to emphasize performance experiences for truly outstanding young artists who have already completed a master’s degree or its equivalent in woodwind performance. The professional certificate is intended for students who plan on careers in performance and admission and is highly selective.

Professional Certificate in String Quartet Performance

The Professional Certificate in String Quartet Performance is designed to provide instruction and experiences for young artists who have already completed a master’s degree or its equivalent in performance. Students are generally accepted into the certificate program as part of a pre-formed string quartet, which will apply for admission into the College of Music graduate program as a unit.