The emphasis of the M.A. degree in Music is on research rather than applied music study. Since the M.A. degree in Music is a research-intensive program, a strong emphasis is placed on research and writing skills. Graduate students pursuing the M.A. in Music degree work closely with world-renowned educators and scholars, culminating in a significant thesis project.
Musicology
Ethnomusicology
Theory
Piano Pedagogy
Required for a major: MUS 121, 122, 121L, 122L, 231, 231L, 250, 332, 332L, 341, 342, 343, 344, and 7 semesters of private lesson study in the student’s major applied area.
The above courses are the music major core. A sequence of courses can be arranged to allow a student to begin a major in the sophomore year.
Recital requirement: All music majors must present a half recital or its equivalent in general recital appearances.
Ensemble requirement, piano proficiency, recital attendance: All music majors must complete an ensemble requirement which may be satisfied in a variety of ways. (See music department policies booklet.) Music majors are also required to meet a piano proficiency requirement and to attend recitals as directed by departmental policy.
Transfer students: Prior to initial registration, all transfer students must make an appointment with the music department to determine the number of music credits and other requirements for the major that will be accepted for transfer. Any transfer student expecting to graduate as a music major at Luther College must complete at least 8 hours of course work in the department and at least 3 semesters of private lesson study in the student’s major applied area while at Luther College.
Permission to continue major: Acceptable musical and academic progress, regularly reviewed by the music faculty, shall permit the student to continue as a major in the department.
Required for certification to teach music K-8 and 5-12: Completion of the music major, completion of the music education minor K-12, and student teaching at elementary and secondary levels. See education department for K-12 minor requirements.
Required for a minor: MUS 121, 122, 121L, 122L, either MUS 341, 344, or MUS 342 and MUS 343, four semesters of applied music study, and a minimum of two additional elective courses (totaling 4-6 credits) with at least one course from the following: MUS 231, 236, 237, 247, 248, 250 (encouraged), MUS 272, 341, 342, 343, 344 (with instructor’s permission), and MUS 445 but not MUS 273 or applied music. The student must also satisfy the ensemble requirement with four semesters of participation (or an approved equivalent) and fulfill the current recital attendance requirement during two of the semesters he/she is registered for private lessons.
Study plans: Upperclass students are encouraged to develop supplemental study plans with their advisors in one of the following areas: church music, conducting, historical musicology, instrumental performance, music education, music technology, theory/composition or vocal/opera performance. For further information, see Recommended Study Plans in the latest edition of the music department policies.
Music Management Program: The program in music management is described in this catalog under Special Programs.
The study of music affords the student opportunities not only to develop self-discipline, creativity, critical thinking, and an appreciation for human achievement, but also yields life-long intellectual and personal benefits. Students majoring in music are expected to gain knowledge and skill in the areas of performance, aural skills and analysis, composition and improvisation, history and repertory, and technology. Lander’s music curriculum focuses on heightening the student’s musical awareness and sensitivity to the broadest possible spectrum of music in preparation for possible graduate study and the pursuit of a career in music.
GOALS
Fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, the Department of Music offers a comprehensive program of music study designed to promote musical literacy and artistry.
Students graduating from Lander University with recommendation for teacher certification should meet the music education standards of the National Association of Schools of Music and the Lander University College of Education’s conceptual framework: “Professional Instructional Leader.” The conceptual model, which guides all Teacher Education Programs at Lander, is built upon the following learner outcomes.
The Professional Instructional Leader:
integrates content knowledge and skills of scholarly inquiry to teach all students. (Content knowledge encompasses the goals of the music education program of studies.)
plans, provides and assesses learning experiences that are supported by research, knowledge of best practice and professional standards.
collaborates with diverse populations, including students, educators, community members, and families for the benefit of learners.
engages in reflection and professional development to assess and improve content knowledge and pedagogical skills.
exhibits dispositions that address the needs of all students and that provide leadership to the profession.
Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).
Students work closely with experienced and nationally recognized music faculty in an enriching, non-competitive environment.
World class performing artists visit the campus as part of the Greenwood-Lander Performing Arts (GLPA) series.
Opportunities for study abroad.
Fine Arts Tours worldwide, with Fine Arts Faculty as guides (academic credit available).
Many student performance activities such as student recitals, ensembles, opera workshops, piano showcase, and music tours.
Internships and scholarships available.
Outside opportunities such as local community theaters, touring productions, and religious organizations.
Student music organizations such as honor societies, Phi Mu Alpha, Music Educators National Conference (MENC) Student Chapter.