MUS Courses - Graduate Level
500. Selected Topics - Major Performance Organization (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Audition may be required.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 8 units with different topics in the same semester. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes. (3-5 hrs reh.)
- A. Concert Band
- B. Symphonic Band
- C. Wind Symphony
- E. Forty-Niner Chorus
- F. University Choir
- G. Chamber Choir
- I. Orchestra at the Beach
- J. Symphony Orchestra
- L. Studio Jazz Band
- M. Vocal Jazz Ensemble I
- N. Vocal Jazz Ensemble II
- O. Concert Jazz Orchestra
- P. Vocal Jazz Ensemble III
510. Improvisation Styles and Literature (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Explores various musical styles, forms, genres, and significant musical concepts in Jazz Improvisation. Theoretical work emphasizes detailed study of harmonic and linear forms, digital patterns and scales, combination of idioms, patterns, use of experimental material, transcriptions and historic implications.
Letter grade only (A-F).
511A./411A. Film Scoring (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Overview of the current trends and practices involved in creating and icvntegrating music to moving picture. Students gain experience producing music cues for film, television and video games.
Letter grade only (A-F).
511B./411B. Advanced Film Scoring Project (3)
Prerequisites: MUS 511A or consent of instructor.
Students gain advanced experience creating music cues for film, television and video games. Real-world concepts and problems will be explored with an emphasis on preparing the student for a successful career in media composition.
Letter grade only (A-F).
512. Advanced Techniques in Jazz Arranging (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Advanced scoring techniques used with big band arranging and orchestrating for studio/pops orchestra. Includes ranges and capabilities of instruments and scoring for traditional and contemporary instrumentation. Requires the composition of a major work to be recorded by CSULB Studio Orchestra.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units in different semesters.
513. History and Analysis of Jazz Styles (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Explores development of various musical styles, forms, genres, and significant musical concepts and problems in Jazz History.
Letter grade only (A-F).
514./414. Techniques for the Jazz Vocalist (2)
Prerequisite(s): Open to jazz majors or consent of instructor.
Basic stylistic requirements for solo singing in the jazz idiom. Includes analysis of established jazz singers and styles, communication with the rhythm section, solo jazz repertoire, lyric interpretation and writing solo jazz arrangements.
Letter grade only (A-F).
516./416. Pedagogy of Jazz (2)
Organization and management of school jazz programs, addressing rehearsal techniques, improvisation, repertoire, and conducting.
Letter grade only, (A-F).
517./417. Business of Music (2)
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.
Letter grade only (A-F).
519./419. Choral Master Class (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Advanced conducting laboratory with emphasis on advanced conducting, vocal, and rehearsal techniques as well as performance practices.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 4 units.
520. Graduate Conducting Seminar (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Advanced baton technique, interpretation, securing proper sound, organizing routine, and program making.
Letter grade only (A-F).
522./422. Advanced Choral Conducting and
Literature (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Choral technique, style, and interpretation; choral schools and composers since 16th century; contemporary secular and sacred choral compositions. Class used as laboratory group.
Letter grade only (A-F). (1 hr lec., 2 hrs lab)
524. Orchestral Literature: Performance and Styles (1)
Prerequisites: Consent of Instructor.
Performance of standard orchestral repertoire in instrumental sectional for Brass, Woodwinds, Percussion, or Strings.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 8 units in different semesters. (2 hrs. rehearsal)
525./425. Advanced Instrumental Conducting (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Principles and techniques of instrumental conducting and organization. Study and interpretation of instrumental literature using class laboratory.
(1 hr lec. 2 hrs lab)
526./426. Vocal Development (2)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Theory and techniques of teaching voice.
Letter grade only (A-F).
529. Selected Topics - Individual Instruction for Music Majors (1)
Open to graduate students in music only. Private lessons in major performance medium. Application must be made to Graduate Advisor of the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music during semester prior to registration. Registration is subject to conservatory's approval.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 10 units with different topics in the same semester. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
- A. Baritone/Tuba
- B. French Horn
- C. Trombone
- D. Trumpet
- E. Harpsichord
- F. Organ
- G. Piano
- J. Percussion
- K. Double Bass
- L. Cello
- M. Viola
- N. Violin
- O. Guitar
- P. Harp
- Q. Voice
- R. Bassoon
- S. Clarinet
- T. Flute
- U. Oboe
- V. Saxophone
- W. Conducting
- X. Composition
- Y. Jazz Writing/Arranging
530. Opera (1)
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Performance of excerpts and complete works for lyric theatre; solo and ensemble coaching; intensive language and diction training; preparation and performance of entire role in original language; additional areas include stage management, scheduling, costuming, set construction.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 4 units. (3 hrs or more reh.)
531. Music Theater (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor.
Performance of musical theater works and operas. Include stage management, scheduling, costuming, and set construction.
(2 hrs reh.)
532. Opera Coaching (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Corequisite: MUS 530.
One-on-one and small group coaching for opera majors.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 4 units in different semesters. (3-5 hrs reh.)
534A./434A. German Song Repertoire (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Preparation of German song literature for performance, with coaching in language, musical styles, as well as vocal and accompanying techniques.
Letter grade only (A-F).
534B./434B. French Song Repertoire (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Preparation of French song literature for performance, with coaching in language, musical styles, as well as vocal and accompanying techniques.
Letter grade only (A-F).
536./436. Opera Repertoire (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Preparation of varied portfolio of voice-appropriate selections from standard operatic repertoire in English, French, German and Italian. Include translation, lyric diction, ornamentation, tools for role study, rehearsal and audition techniques.
Letter grade only (A-F).
541. Seminar in Musical Analysis (3)
Analysis of forms and techniques of musical compositions in various genres and styles.
May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
543./443. Advanced Orchestration (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Techniques of arranging, transcribing, and composing for standard chamber ensembles, chorus and orchestra. Readings of student orchestrations will be included whenever possible.
544. Graduate Composition I (2)
Corequisite: MUS 529X.
Study of contemporary techniques in composition, music aesthetics, and contemporary literature.
Letter grade only (A-F).
545. Graduate Composition II (2)
Prerequisite: MUS 544. Corequisite: MUS 529X.
Advanced studies in musical composition, music aesthetics, and listening methodologies.
Letter grade only (A-F). Course may be repeated to a maximum of 4 units in different semesters.
547./447. Counterpoint (2)
Serves as a continuation of the contrapuntal topics covered in Harmony I, Harmony II, and Form & Analysis. Covers advanced analysis of contrapuntal literature, and various student composition projects such as accompanied canon and fugue.
Letter grade only (A-F).
555./455. Electronic Music (3)
An introduction to the history and practice of electronic music, with an emphasis on listening and analysis of classical and contemporary works. The history, ethics and practice of sampling and remixing are also explored.
Letter grade only (A-F).
556./456. Sound Design (3)
Introduces students to principles of composition and analysis of electro-acoustic media through application of music software, sampling, digital media, digital signal processing, and psychoacoustics. Course culminates in collaborative creative project involving video, web, or live theater.
Letter grade only (A–F).
557./457. Composition with Digital Media (3)
Computer created projects that combine visual media (including web-based), and electronic music. Analysis of interdisciplinary and mixed media works, collaborative work in electronic arts and readings in critical theory and multimedia.
Letter grade only (A-F).
558./458. Literature and Aesthetics of Interactive Media (3)
Explore artists'/composers' use of interactive media from the intermediality and limited interactivity of Wagner's and Scriabin's works, to the latest software-driven and web-based constructions, to gain a better understanding of the philosophical and musical context for the students' works.
561. Seminar in Medieval and Renaissance Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Topics in development of musical styles and genres from Gregorian Chant through late sixteenth-century sacred and secular polyphony.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
562. Seminar In Baroque Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Stylistic analysis and inquiry into cultural background of composers and genres.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
563. Seminar In Classical Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Music from Rococo to end of eighteenth century. Philosophical attitudes in relation to musical styles.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
564. Seminar in Romantic Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Music from Beethoven to end of nineteenth century.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
565. Seminar In 20th-Century Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Stylistic analysis and music; aesthetic and socioeconomic problems of contemporary music; survey of new music.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6-9 units.
569./469. Music of the Theater (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
History and development of music for stage from 1600 to present, its conventions and styles. Analysis of representative masterworks.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units in different semesters.
571./471. Studies in Ethnomusicology (3)
Prerequisite:Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Emphasis on theory and methodology of enthnomusicological study. Investigation of music of particular non-western or popular cultures. For music majors only.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
573./473. Advanced Diction for Singers (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Advanced principles of diction and International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) applied to lyric Italian, French, German, and English repertoire; intended for Senior and Graduate level vocalists and choral conductors. Special studies possible in other languages.
Letter grade only (A-F).
574A./474A. Jazz Arranging I (2)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Fundamentals of Jazz arranging, including 4-part writing, harmonic practices and philosophies of arranging.
Letter grade only (A-F). Not open for credit to students with credit in MUS 474B/574B.
574B./474B. Jazz Arranging II (2)
Prerequisite(s): MUS 474A/574A or consent of instructor.
Jazz arranging for big band through detailed analysis of known big band writers. Emphasis on reharmonization, the idiomatic use of counterpoint, styles and song forms.
Letter grade only (A-F).
575. Studies in Choral Music (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Studies in research techniques for choral musicians and exploration of choral masterworks including score preparation, performance practice considerations, and historical investigation. Rehearsal techniques and principles and procedures necessary to effective choral teaching also examined.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units.
576./467. Studies in Gender and Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Surveys issues surrounding women as musicians (performers and composers), comparative studies of role men and women have played in music, and feminist criticism of music.
Letter grade only (A-F).
577./477. Piano Accompanying (2-2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Instruction and training in art and techniques of accompanying for singers, instrumentalists, and ensembles.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units in different semester.
578./478. Musical Instruments of World (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Open to music majors and minors. Study of origins and history of musical instruments in western and non-western world, with emphasis on cross-cultural influences, iconographical and organological issues, and scientific classification.
Letter grade only (A-F).
580./480. Marching Band Techniques (2)
Marching fundamentals, charting, formations, precision drills, parade techniques and half-time pageantry.
Letter grade only (A-F).
581. Foundations of Music Education (3)
Open to graduate music majors only. Survey of contemporary aesthetic, philosophical, psychological and sociological trends in music education.
Letter grade only (A-F).
582A./482A. Secondary Literature/Rehearsal Techniques – Choral-Vocal (3)
Examination of rehearsal techniques, methods and choral literature applicable to the Secondary and Middle School Choral Ensemble.
Letter grade only (A-F).
582B./482B. Secondary Literature/Rehearsal Techniques – Instrumental (3)
Procedures for organization and development of instrumental programs and literature for performing groups.
Letter grade only (A-F).
583A./483A. Choral Repertoire I (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Examination of five genres of choral repertoire: Mass, motet, cantata, oratorio, and madrigal. Traditional and contemporary choral repertoire for public school teachers and church choir directors.
Letter grade only (A-F).
583B./483B. Choral Repertoire II (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Survey of choral and choral/orchestral works from Renaissance to 20th century.
Letter grade only (A-F).
585./485. Music for Elementary Child (3)
Examination of approaches to developing musical and aesthetic sensitivities in children. Students create vocal, instrumental and listening experiences appropriate for use in grades K-6. Intended for music education majors. Others by consent of instructor.
Letter grade only (A-F).
587. Contemporary Trends in Assessment and Technology in Music Education (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Introduction to research methodologies and analysis of current trends in measurement and evaluation of musical behavior with an emphasis on innovations in music education. Application of methodologies that includes technology as a teaching and performance instrument.
Letter grade only (A-F).
589A. Emerging Methods in Music Education (3)
Prerequisite: BM Music Education or equivalent with instructor’s consent
Emerging pedagogical methods for music education settings outside of the traditional general, band, choir, and orchestra settings.
Letter grade only (A-F).
589B. Emerging Methods in Music Education (2)
Prerequisites: BM Music Education or equivalent, and MUS 589A.
The course will include a combination of lecture, discussion, modeling, and “hands-on” performance activities.
The application of concepts of vernacular learning, gained through various course work (MUS 589A), in a non-traditional, student directed, music education performance setting.
Letter grade only (A-F)
592A./492A. Studies in Keyboard Music (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Survey of evolution of keyboard music including clavichord, harpsichord, piano, and organ from 13th century to Beethoven.
Not open for credit to students with credit in MUS 592.
592B./492B. Studies in Keyboard Music (2)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Survey of evolution of keyboard music including clavichord, harpsichord, piano, and organ from Beethoven to present.
593./493. Selected Topics - Instrumental Music (3)
Prerequisite: Graduate student in Music or consent of instructor.
Seminar in instrumental music spanning at least two epochs of music history and covering at minimum, two of five categories: solo sonata (excluding keyboard), chamber music, orchestral/symphonic, wind ensemble/band, and orchestral/concerto.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
595. Selected Topics in Music (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of graduate advisor and instructor.
Topics of current interest in various fields of music selected for special presentation and development.
May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
597./497. Selected Topics - Music Composition (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of graduate advisor and instructor.
Topics of current interest in various fields of music selected for special presentation and development.
Letter grade only (A-F). Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
- D. Contemporary and Computer Music Notation
- E. Composition with Interactive Technologies
- G. From Poetry to Song: Composing Art Songs
598. Teaching Music in the University (1)
Prerequisite: position as TA or GA in the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music or consent of instructor.
Seminar on teaching methods, goals, and objectives; covers regulations and responsibilities; preparation of course materials; assessment and evaluation tools; technology in classroom. Required of first-term TAs and GAs with teaching responsibilities.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 3 units.
599. Special Studies (1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of Graduate Advisor and instructor.
Individual research or group investigation of selected topics.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units of credit.
600. Selected Topics - Chamber Music (1)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 8 units with different topics in the same semester. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes. (2 hrs reh.)
- A. Brass Ensemble
- B. New Music Ensemble
- C. String Ensemble
- D. University String Quartet
- E. University Wind Quintet
- F. University Brass Quintet
- G. Piano Ensemble
- I. Men's Chorus
- J. Jazz Combos
- K. Performance
- L. Brass Chamber Music
- M. Percussion Ensemble
- N. Steel Drum Orchestra
- O. Woodwind Chamber Music
- P. String Chamber Music
- Q. Women's Chorus
- R. Collegium-Vocal
- S. Collegium-Instrumental
- T. Saxophone Ensemble
- U. Directed Accompaning
- W. Laptop Ensemble
- X. World Percussion Group
- Y. World/Traditional Music Performance
- Z. University Percussion Group
629. Selected Topics - Individual Instruction for Music Majors (2)
Open to graduate students in music only. Private lessons in their major performance medium. Application must be made to Graduate Advisor of the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music during semester prior to registration. Registration is subject to conservatory's approval.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 12 units with different topics in the same semester. Topics announced in the Schedule of Classes.
- A. Baritone/Tuba
- B. French Horn
- C. Trombone
- D. Trumpet
- E. Harpsichord
- F. Organ
- G. Piano
- J. Percussion
- K. Double Bass
- L. Cello
- M. Viola
- N. Violin
- O. Guitar
- P. Harp
- Q. Voice
- R. Bassoon
- S. Clarinet
- T. Flute
- U. Oboe
- V. Saxophone
- W. Conducting
- X. Composition
640. Seminar in Music Theory (3)
Prerequisites: MUS 541 and consent of instructor.
Intensive seminar focusing on analytical and theoretical issues in music. May center on individual composer, theoretical technique, or history of theory.
Letter grade only (A-F). May be repeated to a maximum of 6 units in different semesters
680. Seminar in Instrumental Music Teaching (3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Principles, procedures, and materials used in teaching instrumental music in public schools. Special attention given to methods and materials used in instrument classes.
Letter grade only (A-F).
696./496. Research Methods (3)
Principles of research and writing about music, thesis preparation, and citation/bibliographic format. Serves as introduction to graduate study in music. Required of all MA and MM candidates in music.
Letter grade only (A-F).
698. Thesis or Project (1-6)
Prerequisite: Advancement to Candidacy and consent of Director of Music History
Planning, preparation, research, and completion of recital/project report or thesis. Enrollment limited to graduate candidates who have passed qualifying examination for their program and who have approved project/thesis proposal.
Letter grade only (A-F).
