Program Description:

This course of study is recommended for students who plan to transfer and earn the baccalaureate degree with a major in music. It provides basic preparation for a career in music. In the program, a balance is maintained between courses dealing with general musical knowledge and those courses designed to develop a particular music skill. A variety of performing organizations provide students with ensemble experience and with opportunities for public performances. Students will also be required to take a minimum of 15 one-hour lessons each semester. The cost of lessons is not included in MCC tuition.

Recommended Preparation: Students who plan to complete this course of study in two years should have experience in vocal or instrumental performance and reading music. Entering students must prepare two contrasting pieces for a music area audition. To find out about audition dates, please contact the department secretary at 292-2047.

The Music Performance program follows a strategic sequence of coursework that begins only in the fall after passing the audition process. There are no spring auditions into the program.

Careers in the field:

Performer, Music Therapist, Music Educator, Composer, Arranger, Arts Administrator, Recording Engineer, Music Editor

Schools to transfer to:

SUNY: Fredonia, Geneseo, Potsdam, New Paltz, Oneonta, Buffalo State; Eastman School of Music, Syracuse University, Nazareth College, Roberts Wesleyan College, CUNY City College, Berklee College of Music, Heidelberg College, Mansfield University, University of Miami

Specific skills learned:

Music theory, aural skills, vocal and instrumental skills, small and large ensemble performance, music history, music technology

Full-time faculty:

Roland Fisher • David Shaw • John Nyerges

Coursework enhancement activities available:

Public performances • Student Music Association

Suggested Schedule:

1st Semester - (15 credits)

• ENG 101 - College Composition or ENG 200 - advanced Composition
• MUS 109 - Music Theory I
• MUS 126 - Applied Piano Minor I
• MUS 151 - Music Performance and Lessons
• MUS 159 - Aural Skills I
• Social Science Elective
• Health / Physical Education
• Performing Ensemble

2nd Semester - (15 credits)

• MUS 110 - Music Theory II
• MUS 127 - Applied Piano Minor II
• MUS 151 - Music Performance and Lessons
• MUS 160 - Aural Skills II
• Math Elective
• Social Science Elective
• Performing Ensemble

3rd Semester - (18 credits)

• MUS 151 - Music Performance and Lessons
• MUS 201 - History of Music I
• MUS 209 - Music Therory III
• MUS 226 - Applied Piano Minor III
• MUS 259 - Aural Skills III
• Performing Ensemble
• Natural Science Elective
• Literature Elective

4th Semester - (17 credits)

• MUS 151 - Music Performance and Lessons
• MUS 202 - History of Music II
• MUS 210 - Music Theory IV
• MUS 227 - Applied Piano IV
• MUS 260 - Aural Skills IV
• Natural Science Elective
• Performing Ensemble

Information about auditioning for the Music Program can be found here.