COVID-19 and Campus Repopulation

CSULB’S COVID-19 information hub is now part of the One Beach campaign. You can find up-to-date information here:

Reuniting The Beach

The "Reuniting the Beach" page includes live news updates about campus protocols, event postponements, travel restrictions, etc. It also contains a series of useful links about Academic Planning and related FAQs regarding changes due to COVID-19.

Please familiarize yourself with this page and bookmark sections that you find useful.

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Alternative Coursework

The BCCM faculty has designed valuable courses that will offer you alternative music-making options while adding to your professional skill set during the pandemic. These are substitutions for chamber and large ensemble credits for Spring 2021.

If the course has two levels, enroll in the 200 level if you are a first- or second-year student; if you are a junior or senior, enroll in the 400 level. If you are a graduate student, enroll in the 500 or 600 level:

(1 unit) One-Unit Music-Making Courses:

MUS 200K/400K/600K Section #1 (Urso, Rena): INSTRUMENTAL emphasis Introduction to recording at home or remotely, current hardware, software, and studio practices in the industry. Emphasis is on musicians recording themselves for their own & other’s projects. Basic requirements: a computer with DAW software (GarageBand, Audacity, Ableton, Logic Pro X, ProTools, etc.), and microphone and interface (if you have a USB mic an interface may not be required)

MUS 200K/400K/600K Section #2 (Guter, Christine): VOCAL emphasis. Introduction to recording at home or remotely, current hardware, software, and studio practices in the industry. Emphasis is on musicians recording themselves for their own & other’s projects. Basic requirements: a computer with DAW software (GarageBand, Audacity, Ableton, Logic Pro X, ProTools, etc.), and microphone and interface (if you have a USB mic an interface may not be required)

MUS 200K/400K/600K Section #3 (Mason, Jay) INSTRUMENTAL emphasis Introduction to recording at home or remotely, current hardware, software and studio practices in the industry. Emphasis is on musicians recording themselves for their own & other’s projects. Basic requirements: a computer with DAW software (GarageBand, Audacity, Ableton, Logic Pro X, ProTools, etc.), and microphone and interface (if you have a USB mic an interface may not be required)

MUS 200K/400K/600K Section #4 (Darke, Ryan): Advanced Audition Preparation: Organization and Performance Psychology. For students who already took Ryan Darke’s Introduction to Audition Preparation. Learn to perform at an advanced level for auditions, competitions, and/or interviews. You will learn the pathway to excellence using visualization, meditation, and affirmations. These tools will strengthen your mental toughness and performance skills for success.

MUS 200K/400K/600K Section #5 (Darke, Ryan): Introduction to Audition Preparation: Organization and Performance Psychology. Learn to perform at an advanced level for auditions, competitions, and/or interviews. You will learn the pathway to excellence using visualization, meditation, and affirmations. These tools will strengthen your mental toughness and performance skills for success.

MUS 200K/400K/600K Section #6 (Cooper, Rychard): Basic music production using Apple’s Garage Band software. Covers setting up a small studio space, recording and editing audio & MIDI files. Explores working with loops. adding music to video, podcasting, notation, and audio effects.

This class requires that you have access to a Mac computer and Garage Band.

(2 units) Two-Unit Music-Making Courses/ensemble substitutions:

MUS 417/517 (Frear, Rob): Music Business. Overview of business and artistic process of music industry. Includes popular music, music and media, operation of retail music stores, and film, theatrical, and concert music. Also includes recent changes in digital recording, broadcasting technology, copyright laws, and legal issues.

MUS 495/595 (Richey, Craig): Introduction to Basic Commercial Songwriting. An exploration of musical creativity through commercial songwriting. Students will learn skills and techniques required to compose songs in the pop music genre.

(3 units) Three-Unit Music-Making Courses/ensemble substitutions:

MUS 370 Music Technology (Cooper, Rychard): Music production using Apple’s Logic Pro X software. Covers setting up a small studio space, recording and editing audio & MIDI files. Explores virtual drum tracks, synthesis, sampling, remixing, arranging, effects & mixing. This class requires that you have access to a Mac computer and the current version of Logic Pro X. While not required, to get the most from this class, a student should have either a USB microphone or a conventional microphone and an audio interface. In addition, a MIDI keyboard that connects to your computer and a pair of headphones will be very helpful.

MUS 470/570 Body Mapping for the Performing Artist (Urso, Rena): The study and practical application of anatomical awareness through self-observation and self-inquiry for the performing artist.

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Enroll in a Virtual Ensemble

In addition to the Alternative Music-Making courses outlined above, the BCCM will be offering the option to enroll in virtual large ensembles. You can only join these ensembles by permission and there is no audition required.

If you are interested in joining one of these virtual ensemble options, fill out this form (email and SSO login required) so that we can permit you.

If you choose not to join one of these ensembles it will not affect your placement when we return to in-person instruction.

MUS 100/300/500, Concert Jazz Orchestra (M/W 12:30-1:45)

Open to Jazz Majors who normally play in big bands and combos (Jarvis).

The course will address both large and small jazz ensemble styles and techniques and will employ a seminar style format, video and audio analyses, and hands-on projects that are doable online. Instruction will alternate between larger meetings and the use of break-out rooms for activities involving smaller groups of students.

MUS 100/300/500C, Wind Symphony (T/Th 1-3:15)

Open to instrumentalists who normally play in Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, or Concert Band (Carnahan).

The focus of the course is on individual preparation to enable successful ensemble performance techniques. Evaluation would take place individually until which time the group would be permitted to rejoin as an in-person ensemble. Some texts currently exist that would become required reading for the course.

MUS 100/300/500G, Chamber Choir (M/W 1-2:50)

Open to all who would like to sing together (Talberg)

This online class is open to all who want to sing together and learn about great choral music and the techniques that go into building world-class choral ensembles. We will make several virtual choirs. We will explore exciting and new repertoire together—with a special emphasis on music by American composers of color. We will build community through virtual luncheons and a choir retreat, and we will prepare for CSULB’s invited performance at the ACDA National Conference, should it be offered and we be allowed to travel and participate. Dr. Talberg will challenge your musicianship, help you to increase your skills, and offer you my perspective on choral excellence and how to achieve it.

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Using Zoom

Zoom is a video conferencing tool for remote meetings, online courses, and webinars. It is the software sanctioned by the university and it is available to you on your Dashboard as a chicklet.

Visit this page first to learn about installing and using Zoom for your online courses:

Zoom Video Conferencing

After you’ve installed the Zoom desktop app, be sure to read about your Zoom account, Zoom Best Practices, Zoom Security, and Student Privacy Rights. Maybe even download a few of the Official CSULB Zoom backgrounds.

Then proceed to the "Zoom Setup For Musicians" tab to learn how to get the most out of the software in your lessons.

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Advanced Audio Features in Zoom

The Zoom software has advanced audio features that will make your online lessons of much higher quality. To enable them, you need to use the Zoom desktop app and be signed into your CSULB Dashboard through Single Sign-on (SSO).

Login to SSO and use the Zoom chicklet on your dashboard to download the Zoom desktop app (do not use the web application. See the "Zoom" tab above if you haven’t done so already), or check that you have the latest version by clicking: zoom.us > Check for updates

High quality audio works best when your computer is connected to the internet via an ethernet cable. WiFi is not recommended and your results may vary.

Setup Enhanced Audio

1. Launch the Zoom desktop app on your computer
2. In Zoom, go to "Preferences > Settings > General" (you can also find this by clicking the gear in the upper right corner of the main Zoom popup window)
3. At the bottom of the General tab, click "View More Settings"
4. A web browser should open. Sign in with SSO in your browser; use the option below the general "Sign In" button. The company domain is "csulb" in lowercase. After you enter this you will be taken to the SSO page you are familiar with
5. Once you’re signed in through the browser, click on "In Meeting (Advanced)" in the Settings > Meeting menu
6. Scroll down and turn on "Allow users to select stereo audio in their client settings" and "Allow users to select original sound in their client settings."
7. Close your browser and return to your Zoom program settings
8. In the Zoom desktop app, go to Settings > Audio. Uncheck "Automatically adjust microphone volume"
9. Under "Music and Professional Audio" make sure that all the following are checked: "Show in-meeting option to ’Enable Original Sound’ from Microphone," "Echo Cancellation," and "Stereo audio"
10. Close the Settings window and start a meeting
11. In the upper left corner of your meeting window you should see a button called "Turn On Original Sound." Click it

Enable Enhanced Sound in a Zoom meeting

1. If you are hosting, Launch Meeting
2. Tell all clients to go to the upper right corner of the chat window and select "Turn On Original Sound"
3. If you are a client and don’t see "Turn On Original Sound," alert your host

Sharing Music or Videos over Zoom

1. When sharing music or videos over Zoom the first time: Click on "Share Screen" at the bottom of the chat window
2. If prompted, download the driver and install, then restart Zoom and click on "Share Screen"
3. In the popup window, make sure you are on the "Basic" tab. You can choose to share your whole screen or choose the specific application that you are using to play music or video (e.g. a browser window with a YouTube video; a media player like QuickTime)
4. Click on "Share sound" at the bottom. If you will be sharing video, click on "Optimize for Video" and then click the "Share" button
5. If the other Zoom clients have "Original Sound" turned on, they should hear high-quality audio and still be able to hear you talking. Clients will see your whole screen or only the chosen application on their Desktop, full-screen
6. When you are done, click the "Stop Sharing" button at the top of the shared window
7. Note: when sharing your screen, if instead of choosing an application you choose to share your entire Desktop, you can change what the clients are seeing without un-sharing and re-sharing your screen

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Recording and Zoom

The BCCM Technical Staff have compiled equipment suggestions to help improve the quality of your online Zoom sessions. The items listed below have been thorougly researched and have been determined to be cost-effective, high-quality gear that will work well with most computer setups.

Simple USB Mic (highly recommended)

Your audio will sound a lot better with a microphone that is not in a fixed location but can be moved closer to your instrument. This, coupled with adjusted settings in Zoom (see "Zoom Setup For Musicians" above), will result in much better quality. This mic will work with PCs, Macs, and Chromebooks:

USB Mic at Amazon

Simple USB Camera

If you have an older model computer or one with a poor camera, please consider this simple upgrade for high quality video. It also has a mic built-in and could work as a great combo of video/mic for Zoom:

USB Camera

ZOOM Audio Interface

If you would prefer an audio interface where levels can be more easily adjusted and high-quality recordings can be produced, please consider this ZOOM stereo recorder. It will be a good investment for your future as a music major. It also works plug-and-play with all types of computers:

ZOOM Audio Interface

(Note: the ZOOM brand audio interface is not affiliated with the "Zoom" software; their shared name is merely coincidenal)

Arm to hold ball joint to position camera:

Ball Joint Arm

Ball joint for camera mount connection to arm:

Ball Joint Camera Mount

Device to get a camcorder (if you have one) or other HDMI output device into your computer for a Zoom session:

HDMI Audio/Video Capture Card

Keyboard for Keyboard skills/Piano Proficiency classes:

We recommend acquiring a simple keyboard with full-size keys and preferably weighted action. If you live in Long Beach, we may be able to check some out to you. Here is an example:

Weighted Action Keyboard

Financial Assistance

Lastly, if you are in a financial hardship situation and need help with equipment costs/equipment loan, please contact our BCCM Tech team by emailing Rychard Cooper at: rychard.cooper@csulb.edu

Chromebook Loan Program

The CSULB campus is continuing its Chromebook loan program for students who need them. Also, for students in hardship situations, the campus will make mobile hotspots available. Please visit the Reuniting The Beach page and click on > WIFI and Technology near the bottom:

Reuniting The Beach

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CSULB IT Resources

The campus IT department has developed a hub of links for different IT suppport issues. You can find information on VPNs, Office 365, how to use your OneDrive, Digital Inclusion Resources, etc.

Technology for Working and Learning Remotely

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Practice Rooms

Practice rooms are closed for all students until further notice. This includes Keyboard and Percussion students.

Lockers

No lockers will be made available for any reason for Spring Semester 2021.

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Instrument Checkout

In a few rare instances, some string instruments will be made available for checkout at the Tech Window. You must have special permission to checkout an instrument and your student ID will be required.

Tech Window Hours

• Monday 9:00am-2:00pm
• Thursday 9:00am-2:00pm

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Academic Advising Page

If you have questions about meeting your degree requirements, please visit the Academic Advising page and make a virtual appointment.

BCCM Academic Advising—Undergraduate and Graduate

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General Cleaning Policy

The University will provide cleaning of high-touch public spaces three times a day (i.e. restrooms, door handles, railings, etc.), during weekdays only. There is no cleaning crew available on weekends.

Departments/Labs are responsible for cleaning the spaces and equipment used. The cleaning procedure includes all tables, chairs, etc. that someone may use or touch (placing bags or notebooks on tables).

Practice Rooms

For students assigned a practice room: you have been assigned your own practice room. No one else is allowed in the room with you. For safety purposes, please keep the door locked at all times. When you leave please be sure the door is closed and locked behind you

General COVID-19 Guidelines

Wash your hands before and after using any equimpment or instruments, i.e.: pianos, percussion instruments, conducting batons, etc.

• Use soap and water, scrub your hands for at least twenty seconds
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
• Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry
• Avoid touching your face
• If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and then thoroughly wash your hands
• Routinely disinfect frequently touched items
• Maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet from others
• Use a face mask at all times when you are on campus. The mask is not a substitute for social distancing; the mask is meant to protect other people in case you are infected
• You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick

Piano and Percussion Guidelines

• Wash your hands before and after using the instrument
• Clean the instrument before and after use
• Use Morning Mist (supplied by BCCM) to disinfect the high-contact areas of the instrument
• Spray Morning Mist on a paper towel until just damp. NEVER spray directly on the instrument. If the towel is dripping wet you’ve used too much product
• For Piano:
• Wipe down all contact areas, including but not limited to the music desk, playing keys (all 88 keys, front to back and sides of sharps), fallboard (key cover), piano bench, door handles, light switches, and any other surface you touched
• Scrubbing is NOT required. Simply moisten the area with a paper towel and allow it to air dry.
• DO NOT DRY with a paper towel or cloth. The contact time allows the disinfectant to be effective.
• For Percussion:
• Please contact Prof. Ted Atkatz for direction

Cleaning Supplies

If you need the piano serviced or refills of Morning Mist disinfectant, please contact Sue Babcock

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Parking on Campus

PLEASE DO NOT COME TO CAMPUS. For the few students permitted to be on campus due to cirumstances outlined at the top of this page, please refer to the new parking and transportation guidelines below:

Parking Permits

A new monthly permit will now be available at $40/month. Additional permit changes for fall semester 2020 can be found at Permits. Monthly, fall semester and academic year permits are now on sale via the Parking Portal.

Shuttles

On-campus shuttles will not be in operation during fall semester due to primarily remote instruction and social distancing requirements. Beachside shuttle will not be in operation as Beachside Housing is currently closed. The Los Coyotes shuttle route has been permanently discontinued due to low ridership. Services from the traffic circle area to campus are now provided by Long Beach Transit. Additional information can be found at Shuttle.

Long Beach Transit Pass

The previous LBT semester pass will be replaced by a 30-day unlimited pass option for $40 and 150-day unlimited pass option for $100. LBT fee waivers will not be offered during fall semester 2020. For additional program information or to purchase your LBT pass today, please visit Bus.

Closed Lots

In order to increase campus security, certain buildings and parking lots have been closed. Additional information can be found at Maps.

Rideshare Rewards & Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH)

Previously available only to employees, Rideshare Rewards and GRH will now be open to students. Students who choose to commute to campus sustainably will also be eligible to win a monthly raffle for Beach Bucks by tracking and submitting their rideshare entries via Zimride. Additionally, Rideshare Rewards members will qualify for two emergency rides home per year under the GRH program.

We ask that individuals limit any non-essential travel to campus whenever possible. If you do choose to park on campus, please remember that a valid parking permit is required at all times.

For full information about all the above changes, please visit Parking Program Changes—Spring 2021.

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