Study Abroad

ENJZ-220, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: Overall ensemble rating 4

The Small Band Jazz Rating 4 ensemble will study and perform jazz in the context of a small band. Students will participate in weekly supervised rehearsals. They will focus on playing standard jazz arrangements with special attention to the swing feel, playing through song forms, and the further development of standard jazz repertoire and vocabulary. Additionally, students will be introduced to improvising over complex chord changes, more complex song forms, as well as an introduction to a variety of rhythmic feels within the genre of jazz. Emphasis will be given to stylistic integrity, as well as melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic accuracy.

ENGB-220, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: Written approval of course instructor

The South American Contemporary Music Ensemble focuses on the performance of modern arrangements of music from different South American countries such as Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, and others. This course emphasizes stylistic integrity, as well as melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic accuracy. Students use advanced analytical tools by learning how to recognize traditional elements in folkloric music from different regions in South America. Using unique creative processes, the students adapt these traditional elements into modern arrangements of the same tunes, or new compositions inspired from these folkloric elements.

Sample Syllabus

ENMX-221, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: Overall ensemble rating 4

Small group performance in jazz, rock, swing, and Latin idioms. In this course, students will participate in weekly supervised rehearsals. Students will gain experience in performing every song selected for the semester. Emphasis will be given to stylistic integrity, as well as melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic accuracy. Instrumentation: trumpet, alto, tenor, flute, piano, guitar, bass, drums, vibes, and strings.

ENGB-404, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: None

The Middle Eastern/Flamenco Ensemble will study and perform the music of the contemporary Middle Eastern and flamenco Music. This course is part of a team-taught class between Middle Eastern and flamenco styles. In this course, students will participate in weekly supervised rehearsals. Students will gain experience in performing and improvising in a groove-oriented setting. Emphasis will be given to stylistic integrity as well as melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic accuracy.

ILPH-359, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: None

A lab focusing on rhythmic techniques and song styles of Brazilian music and their related percussion instruments. Development of performance skills through study of audio and video recordings as well as supervised ensemble playing. Note: ILPH-357 may be taken instead of this course.

ILPD-273, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: Overall ensemble rating 3

An introduction to cajón playing that will cover the history of the instrument from its origins in Peru to the contemporary setup with other drums and foot pedals. The course will cover traditional musical styles from Peru such as the Landó, festejo, and the Marinera, as well as Spanish flamenco. This course is highly recommended to all hand percussionists and drum set majors who wish to improve their overall understanding of Latin music through the adaptation of cajón playing. This instrument has transcended borders and is becoming a standard part of the set up for percussionists in global music, jazz and pop, or any musical setting.

ILRE-375, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: PIXX-212 and current enrollment in RPXX-311

Required for all fifth-semester performance majors. Each student will perform three times during the semester. Students will critique one another's performances. Topics to be discussed will include repertoire, stage presence, constructive criticism, and mental preparation.

ISKB-211, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: PW-111

For non-piano principals. Comping, harmonic continuity. Triads, seventh chords, melody, and accompaniment. Standard song forms, blues.

ISKB-212, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: ISKB-211

Continuation of ISKB-211. Advanced comping, voicings, additional melody with accompaniment.

PFSS-301, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: None

This course will examine the various tonalities, meters and compositional structures that characterize the various music styles from the Mediterranean region. This is a survey course focused on the folk music from the Mediterranean with a spotlight on how melody is the defining and dominant feature of the music. Students will explore modal systems with limited harmonic progression and tonalities not always consistent with western tonal systems and metric forms. The influence of religious music, the differing ethnic traditions, and the sociocultural differences of the principal music sources will be reviewed and studied. Listening, performing, songwriting, and sight singing are the main activities of this course.

PSIJ-215, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: Overall ensemble rating 3

Building and retaining a functional repertoire of approximately 30 selected standards and jazz standards that form a common vocabulary and basis for study among jazz musicians. Development of skills to effectively memorize the melody, harmony, and rhythm of selected repertoire. Recommended for students who plan to take jazz improvisation techniques courses.

ENDS-400, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: Written approval of course chair

The Directed Study – Pop Performance Studies Ensemble is similar to an independent study. The lead student (who has at least 5th-semester standing), submits the approved application and proposal and is responsible for leading the rehearsals, delegating responsibilities, communicating week-to-week goals, planning the final performance, and promoting the final performance. These sections are created to support students who desire a show of covers or original music within the pop idiom. The assigned/selected faculty is responsible for mentoring the lead student in their directorial role, and assisting students with coordinating equipment and/or performance needs with the Ensemble Department and/or College, as necessary.

The directed study application process is as follows:

• Attend mandatory directed study meeting held during each midterm week
• Complete online application
• Complete detailed proposal
• Audition and assemble a full band

Sample Syllabus

MB-389, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MB-255 or MB-355

This course will explore the underlying technology and terminology required to effectively communicate and conduct business in the technology-driven marketplace. In today's business environment, it is essential for managers and executives to understand the basic concepts behind contemporary information systems and how they can be used effectively in business. Topics include hardware, software, network architecture, information security, data warehousing, customer interfaces, and online marketing opportunities. Students will have the opportunity to work with common open source applications used for content management, customer relationship management, online purchasing and payment systems, and more.

MB-287, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: None

An in-depth study of the nature of human and electronic communication. Students write and edit a variety of business documents including cover letters, memos, reports, and proposals, among others, as well as practice extemporaneous speaking, presenting to a group, planning and running meetings, and supervising teams.

MB-325, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: MB-275, LMSC-251, and MB-255

An introduction to integrated marketing principles and practices within corporate and agency environments covering branding strategy and positioning, the value proposition, market research, customer relationships, target markets, buying behavior, the promotional mix, and related metrics. Students create an integrated marketing communication plan that reflects a comprehensive understanding of competitive strategy based on research findings as well as translating business objectives into effective marketing strategies and plans.

MB-391, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MB-201, MB-211, and MB-275

This course explores the various aspects of producing and promoting successful tours and shows. Emphases include: (1) The promoter's and artist's team’s ability to produce successful shows, taking into consideration such matters as competition, population, guarantees and percentage splits, ticket pricing and distribution, advertising budgets, production costs, sponsorship opportunities, rental agreements, labor, security, concessions, tour packages, and venue choices; and (2) Managing and producing a successful tour, including such aspects as routing, itineraries, riders, offers, contracts, subcontractors, show and tour personnel, merchandising, sponsorships, day-of-show, and show settlements. 

The shifts in music consumption habits and the creative economy–most notably from physical products and digital downloads to streaming–have made touring, live events, and merchandise the primary sources of income for most musicians. This course provides students with the foundational knowledge and experience necessary to set up and operate successful, engaging, safe, and financially viable tours.

MB-499, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

The global music industry is responsible for the supply of music content and brands to music consumers around the world. The digital environment in which this international flow of content occurs has created a new paradigm for regional and national music brands willing to expand beyond their home market, regardless of geography. In this course, students examine the national and regional music industries that have adapted particularly well to this new business model and forged paths into various international markets—many of which, to a great extent, remain impenetrable. Students analyze these successful businesses and the various ways they have reached transnational audiences, which often challenge common practices in the global music industry. 

CM-211, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: PW-111

This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of harmonic analysis, melody writing and harmonization within a functional tonal context originating from the common practice period, with emphasis on voice leading, melodic writing, and figured bass. The student will understand the musical grammar of tonal composition, and through weekly composition assignments will gain an enhanced understanding of its relation and application to present day styles.

CM-212, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: CM-211

CM-212 is a continuation of Tonal Harmony and Composition 1 (CM-211), with an emphasis on chromatic harmony, chromaticism, modulation and more extended forms of the 19th-century Romantic style. The course provides a variety of source material and students will write short exercises and compositions modeled on the repertoire.

COND-211, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: ET-211 or ET-231

This course provides students with beginning conducting skills, incorporating in-class conducting experience and in-depth score study, with an emphasis on symphonic repertoire. Beginning skills include basic baton technique, standard beat patterns, indicating dynamics and articulations, cueing entrances, leadership skills, and more. Elements of score reading and score preparation and familiarity with orchestral instruments will also be addressed. Repertoire to include symphony orchestra works (and/or excerpts of works) from the classical and romantic periods.

CP-210, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: HR-112, ET-112, and CM-211 or CM-251

ET-211, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: ET-112

Development of ear training skills through performance and dictation. Study of melodies, intervals, harmony, and solfege in Lydian, Mixolydian, Dorian, and Phrygian modes, mixed modes, and harmonic and melodic minor. Continued study of rhythms, meters, conducting patterns, and notation.

ET-212, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: ET-211

Continuation of ET-211. Modal singing and dictation studies. Interval studies, two- and three-part dictation. Basic atonal melodic studies.

HR-211, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: HR-112

HR-212, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: HR-211

AR-124, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: AR-111 or AR-123 and HR-112

After a full review of writing for the rhythm section, students learn the properties of trumpet, alto sax, tenor sax, trombone, and baritone sax, and the writing/arranging processes of standard and spread voicings, approach techniques, melodic embellishment, and guide tone backgrounds. Focus is on applying the writing processes to soli and background writing for two-, three-, four-, and five-part combinations of these instruments. 

CW-191, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: AR-111 and MTEC-111

The course covers the necessary tools, techniques, and applications of MIDI sequencing and digital audio for writing and production. Main topics include the MIDI standard and its applications, set up and use of digital audio workstations (DAWs), integration of MIDI and audio tracks/sources, use of software synthesizers, basic mixing techniques, audio theory, equipment, and techniques. Through practical examples, activities, and projects the student will learn how to effectively use a DAW to write and produce music. Emphasis is on technological needs of the contemporary writer.

CW-227, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: AR-111

This course examines the concepts and techniques of writing flamenco music, which is a vital and growing genre in contemporary music. The course covers the origins of the various styles of flamenco, their individual influences, primary composers of flamenco, overview of popular lyrics, and common composition and arranging techniques in flamenco styles. Students will investigate the various aspects of writing flamenco music: use of improvised structure; binary, ternary, and polyrhythm rhythmic styles; traditional harmonic approaches and concepts; melodic approaches; and the use of microtones. A variety of compositions, arrangements, and orchestrations will be analyzed, including examples of contemporary compositions and new stylistic variations in flamenco that feature the use of electronics and flamenco without guitar. Students will create compositions and/or arrangements for a flamenco music ensemble.

CW-261, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: AR-112, ISKB-211 (non-piano principals), and CW-191

The advanced student will learn to utilize digital audio workstations (DAW) to create arrangements of either original or existing musical elements. This course focuses on the creative use of technology in music production. Topics covered include signal flow of MIDI and audio signal within the DAW sound processing plugins, choosing appropriate sounds and combining elements from software synthesizers, alternate approaches to quantizing and refining rhythmic grooves, hybrid production techniques (audio and MIDI), use of the DAW for scoring to picture and basic synthesis techniques. In addition to using their own laptops in the Professional Writing Technology Lab students are expected to have the CWP major bundle.

LENG-223, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

In this course, students explore different themes and genres within the field of literature, examining critical and creative thinking through literary analysis. Specifically, students will explore literary genres and devices, learn the conventions of literary analysis and elements of literary theory, and apply textual evidence in response to literary works. Students will explore how culture, society, and history impact literature and will learn how to discuss those elements. Although all sections will offer exposure to poetry and fiction, each LENG-223 course has a different focus and will explore readings from a variety of cultural perspectives. The titles of individual sections of LENG-223 identify the theme of that section and descriptions for each section are available at www.berklee.edu/liberal-arts.

LHIS-223, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

History Topics courses enable students to choose from a variety of course themes that change each semester. Topics focus on a variety of historical periods and ideas. In History Topics courses, students explore the role of historical sources in the formation of ideas, as they examine various historical interpretations, debates, and methodologies. Students come to recognize that not all questions have simple yes-or-no, right-or-wrong answers. Students learn to appreciate and respect diversity and are able to identify bias in written and media sources used to document history. Individual course descriptions are available to registering students at berklee.edu/liberal-arts/courses/liberal-arts-topics-courses.

LVIS-223, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

The various sections of Art History Topics focus on different and more narrowly defined themes, rather than a broad historical survey. Topics may include the Art of Egypt, the meeting of Eastern and Western Art, 20th-Century American and European Art, and others. Periodically, a visiting scholar may teach a section on the art, architecture, and archeology of cultures such as those of pre-Columbian Central and South America; the indigenous peoples of North America; and the various societies of Africa, Asia, or the Middle East. The focus of these special sections would include the material artifacts and the interpretations, debates, and methodological approaches to these objects within the literature of the field. All sections of this course present individual topics. Individual course descriptions are available to registering students at https://www.berklee.edu/liberal-arts/courses/liberal-arts-topics-courses.

LHUM-400, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: Sixth-semester standing

The Professional Development Seminar provides an opportunity for students in their sixth semester to reflect upon their academic and professional experience at Berklee, prepare to complete their Berklee programs, and transition from college into the professional world and/or graduate school. Students evaluate their knowledge, skills, abilities, and interests as they develop and/or refine college and career goals. Students also explore their own identities and their professional and personal relationships as they reflect on the role of the artist in society generally and their role as a musician in their community specifically. Students learn business, entrepreneurship, legal, and communication skills, and address issues of business ethics. Additionally, students refine and redirect their Berklee College of Music electronic portfolio towards a professional model and explore issues of presentation and critique. The Professional Development Seminar provides a creative and reflective atmosphere that encourages students to participate in their own learning while preparing for their future.

LMSC-208, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: Score of 80% or higher on the General Math Exam and the Logarithms Exam, or pass LMSC-130, or LMSC-250. You must also be a native English speaker, or pass LENG-106.

This course is a survey of acoustical phenomena relating to music. The course includes an overview of the nature of sound waves and vibration, sound propagation and room acoustics, sound level and its measurement, the human ear and perception, and tuning systems. Course material is directed toward the contemporary musician's need to understand acoustical phenomena in various contexts, including performance, writing, and music technology applications. 

LMSC-221, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

This course is designed to provide a scientific approach to issues of health and wellness necessary for the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. Topics such as nutrition, exercise, stress, sexuality, substance abuse, eating disorders, and the physical environment will be examined in the context of human physiology. Note: This course may be used to fulfill the natural science requirement.

LSOC-211, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

LSOC-225, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: Passing score on the General Math Exam, LMSC-130, or completion of college level precalculus or higher; and LENG-111

This course presents frameworks to better understand businesses, markets, finance, as well as both the economy and history in general. Relevant examples are drawn heavily from the music industry. In addition to the course surveying basic principles, students will learn answers to questions such as: Why are housing rental costs so high? What causes financial crises? What strategies can a band use to become more profitable? Note for MBUS majors: this course fills the social science requirement for degree students, in addition to being a requirement for the major.

LSPN-161, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: None

This course covers basic grammar, composition, and cultural reading selections. The emphasis is on pronunciation and conversational Spanish. Note: This course is not available to students for whom Spanish is one of their primary languages and/or primary languages of instruction.

LSPN-262, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: None

A continuation of LSPN-161, this course covers more advanced grammar, composition, and reading selections. Emphasis continues on pronunciation and conversational Spanish. Note: This course is not available for credit to students for whom this is a first language. Note: This course is not available to students for whom Spanish is one of their primary languages and/or primary languages of instruction.

LSPN-363, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: None

This course develops the language skills built in Spanish 1 and 2. Students learn Latin American and Spanish culture, including music and literature. Exploring a variety of texts and disciplines, and focusing on conversation, students deepen their language skills. Grammar lessons are embedded in reading and writing assignments. Note: This course is not available to students for whom Spanish is one of their primary languages and/or primary languages of instruction.

LSPN-464, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: None

Spanish 4 is a continuation of Spanish 3 as students develop advanced language skills through readings and analyses of literature and cinema. This course focuses on representations of Latin American and Spanish culture including music, poetry, and fiction. Students explore a variety of texts as a means of deepening language skills through an integrated curriculum. Grammar lessons will be embedded in reading and writing assignments. Note: This course is not available to students for whom Spanish is one of their primary languages and/or primary languages of instruction.

LMAS-259, 3 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

MHIS-201, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: CM-211 or CM-251, and LENG-111

MP-114, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111

This online course focuses on developing critical listening skills with particular emphasis on analyzing recording and mix techniques in the context of the popular music mix. Topics include: acoustics of the critical listening environment; mix elements such as balances, panning, EQ, reverb, compression, delay and time-based effects; instrument identification; stylistic comparisons of recording and mix techniques. Listening analysis examples and concepts are reinforced through weekly critical listening assignments. A set of weekly audio ear training drills are also part of the class.

MP-115, 1 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111

This course represents a step-by-step approach to the essential elements of effective records. Using evaluation of demos, masters and commercial recordings, it takes students through an in-depth analysis and appraisal of the emotional effectiveness of recordings, with consideration for: artist identity, vision and intention; melody, lyrics, and song form; arrangement, performance, and mixing. Several student analysis projects are required.

MTI-303, 4 credit(s), prerequisites: ET-112 and HR-112

This project-based course is broken into two weekly sessions, the first focused on production and engineering concepts and the second focused on mixing skills. Throughout the semester, students complete two production projects: a step-by-step, singer-songwriter multitrack recording, and an exact sound-alike of an existing pivotal or hit record. Students experience the complete production process from preproduction though delivery, acquiring technical skills including multitrack recording techniques, microphone technique for vocals, guitars, drum-set and other instruments, and an understanding of signal flow, editing, mixing and delivery in the modern DAW environment. Students also gain experience with effective techniques of music production, including identifying goals, serving the emotional content of the song, effective arranging for records, and interpersonal issues surrounding the recording process.

Study abroad students outside of Berklee enrolling in this course must have requisite musical background. 

MTI-304, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111

Live Sound and Stage Craft teaches students the ins and outs of setting up and operating sound reinforcement systems. Students develop knowledge of signal flow, mixing board operation, microphone choice and placement as well as strategies to avoid feedback. Weekly hands-on guided set up and operation of sound reinforcement systems help illustrate concepts and allow students to learn through the power of experience. This includes mixing from the stage while performing, mixing for other musicians for and from the FOH (front of house) position, as well as monitors. In addition, students acquire effective set up and stage management skills as well as the common communication protocol with other musicians and technicians in live sound reinforcement situations. Finally, implementation of adapted practices and systems for problematic spaces or venues is also explored. Students will also gain experience with basic lighting and video stagecraft systems.

MTI-307, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111

This course explores topics in electronic production and live performance techniques related to modern electronic dance music production, sound design, arrangement, and performance. Students will generate content and create their own music while learning how to use Ableton Live Suite. Students will learn to analyze electronic music, and explore techniques for remixing, performing, and creating electronic music.

MTI-308, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: ET-112 and HR-112

This is an 'in-the-box' project-based virtual production course. Students learn to produce short sound-alikes of fragments of contemporary hit records employing sequencing and virtual instruments. They also learn to produce a full acoustic band cover using virtual instruments and one live instrument and/or vocalist. Additionally they learn to produce short musical creations by chopping and editing audio, incorporating tempo mapping, elastic audio, Melodyne, looping, beat detective, and other manipulation tools. Students also learn the skills needed to edit and arrange music to picture.

Study abroad students outside of Berklee enrolling in this course must have requisite musical background. 

MTI-309, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111

This course provides an introduction to the art and technology of creating music videos. Students learn the challenges and possibilities of representing music visually through the art of filmmaking. They explore the fundamental tools and techniques of music video production by reviewing and analyzing groundbreaking music videos. They also apply those techniques in the hands-on production of personal music videos.

MTI-310, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111

An introduction to live electronic music performance and DJ skills, beginning with the use of the turntable as a musical instrument. Students will explore the culture and aesthetics of Hip-hop, turntablism, club DJs, radio, and mash-up DJs, and will master the following techniques: cueing, mixing, beat matching, beat extending, mash-ups, blending, and scratching (basic, scribble, laser, uzi, stab, cut, transformer, crab, chirp and flare). Students will create their own live mixes and present them as midterm and final performances.

FILM-200, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-105 (non-native English speakers only), PW-111, ET-111, and MTEC-111

This introduction is intended for prospective film and media scoring majors, minors, and other students looking for an in-depth exploration of the field of film and media scoring. This course investigates the aesthetic relationship between film and music, discusses the many functions of music scored to visuals, analyzes effective applications of linear music to dramatic situations, and explores career opportunities in film and television music. This course presents early opportunities for students to start scoring simple film cues.

CW-171, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: AR-111, ET-112, HR-112, and MTEC-111

Expanding on the material introduced in Arranging 1, this course focuses on a more in-depth study of stylistic approaches of creating and writing grooves for the rhythm section (drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and percussion) and how different styles work together and influence each other. Original techniques and practical approaches to creating grooves will be presented through listening analysis, original writing techniques, as well as methods used to create hybrid grooves. Styles to be covered include: funk, rock, soul, Afro-Cuban, hip-hop, electronic, and Brazilian, which includes some selected Caribbean styles. Some production analysis will be included to identify soundscapes and instrumentation as they relate to style. 

CW-216, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: AR-112, HR-211, and either ET-211 or ET-231

Conceptualizing, writing, and producing vocals; contemporary writing and production techniques for vocal groups of different sizes; working with vocals in live situations versus the recording studio environment; writing background vocals above a band versus a cappella vocal writing. Creating vocal band effects will also be explored. Range considerations, timbre, vocal production, and notation for various size vocal groups; writing and production techniques and considerations for recording studio situations.

CW-498, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: CW-311 or CW-321, CW-333, and CW-361; this course must be taken after or at the same time as CW-411 and CW-422.

In this course, students receive individualized instruction designed to guide students majoring in contemporary writing and production in the preparation of their graduation projects. Students will be allowed to schedule time in the Professional Writing Division MIDI Lab to meet the portfolio requirements (see more portfolio information here). CWP students must be take this course after or at the same time as CW-411 and CW-422.

MB-211, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: none.

An overview of business and legal issues of special concern to musicians and songwriters, with special emphasis on copyright law, recording and music publishing agreements, and relationships between artists and other parties, including managers, producers, and investors.

MHIS-221, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111

MHIS-331, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: LENG-111 and MHIS-201, MHIS-202, MHIS-203, MHIS-251 or MHIS-252

A survey of music in feature-length films from the silent period to the present day. An overview of stylistic scoring approaches that represent the most significant developments in the field. Discussion of works of composers who have contributed extensively to the development of film music, including representatives of newer trends in recent years. Extensive visual examples will be combined with independent aural analysis of a wide range of scores.

PM-340, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: PIXX-211

This course provides a detailed overview of how to define one's identity as an artist-entrepreneur. Students learn how to grow a music-related business from initial idea to planning, implementation, and effective managing and marketing as an independent creator developing multiple income streams. The course culminates in a written business plan.

PM-425, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: PM-340

This course develops the awareness and skills required for a career in the music and entertainment business. Students will conduct self-directed research into their future career path in addition to developing and applying strategies for independent musicians. They will also explore techniques for making the transition from college to career. Course outcomes focus on digital marketing and social media techniques, networking in a new music economy, understanding copyright and performing rights organization, and business development planning.

PM-476, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: PM-425 and minimum of sixth-semester standing

Students receive individualized guidance in the preparation and completion of their final capstone project. In this course, students will develop an approach, timeline, and self-evaluative criteria for assessment for their final project, and realize this project at the level of artistry and professionalism required in the industry.

SW-191, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: MTEC-111, LENG-106 (for non-native English speaking students)

This course will prepare students to compose, arrange, and produce music using Apple’s Logic Pro X software, a powerful, affordable and ubiquitous MIDI and audio production tool. This will be achieved through learning general concepts of music production and modern recording, as well as the specific workflow of Logic Pro X. The course will also cover the use of tracks, beats, loops and sounds as a generative impetus. Topics to be covered in include: virtual instruments such as Apple loops, drummer, software instruments, audio processing, and editing tools. Students will also gain general knowledge in signal flow, MIDI, recording, mixing, and mastering.

SW-211, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: SW-110, SW-115 or ILGT-115, HR-112, LENG-106 (for non-native English speakers); SW-211 must be taken concurrently with SW-221

This course is designed to introduce students to the tools and techniques of songwriting. Throughout the course, students will explore various aspects of melodic design and development, including the placement of lyrics with melody, the emotional life of chords, prosody in relation to melodic placement, title formats, song sections, and structure. Moreover, the course will focus on developing the skills necessary to identify and formulate emotional expression in songwriting. Emphasis will be placed on the compositional decisions and choices available to the songwriter through weekly assignments, enabling students to apply their knowledge and refine their skills.

SW-212, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: SW-211 and SW-221; SW-212 must be taken concurrently with SW-222

This course extends the introduction of foundational knowledge and skills developed in SW-211 Songwriting 1. Its purpose is to provide students with an opportunity to expand their expertise in songwriting through an exploration of hybrid song structures and form, advanced melodic development, modes and modulations, and the proper integration of lyrics and melody. During the course, students will be expected to compose, notate, and record both partial and full songs in response to specific parameters and prompts. Furthermore, the development of critical thinking and communication skills will be emphasized, as students will give aural and written peer feedback. The ability to interpret peer and teacher feedback, as well as synthesize ideas for revisions, will also be honed.

SW-221, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: SW-110, SW-115 or ILGT-115, LENG-106 or native English speaker; SW-221 must be taken concurrently with SW-211

This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental tools and techniques of lyric writing. Through the course, students will explore the different aspects of generating lyrical concepts and ideas such as prosody in relation to rhythm, rhymes, and lines, literary devices, and the shape of language. Furthermore, the course will focus on developing the skills necessary to identify and formulate emotional expression in lyric writing. Emphasis will be placed on the compositional decisions and choices available to the lyricist through weekly assignments, allowing students to apply their knowledge and hone their skills.

SW-222, 2 credit(s), prerequisites: SW-221 and SW-211; SW-222 must be taken concurrently with SW-212

This course extends the introduction of fundamental knowledge and skills introduced in SW-221 Lyric Writing 1. Its primary objective is to provide students with an opportunity to explore various song forms, story development, lyrical content implications, advanced rhyme, point of view, and current trends in lyric writing. Through these elements, students will be able to identify and formulate emotional expression in their lyric writing. Emphasis will be placed on the compositional decisions and choices available to the lyricist through weekly assignments. Furthermore, the development of critical thinking and communication skills will be emphasized, as students will give aural and written peer feedback. The ability to interpret peer and teacher feedback, as well as synthesize ideas for revisions, will also be honed.