BA in music at Lafayette College
Sunday, March 1st, 2009The department offers both a major and a minor in music. The Bachelor of Arts program begins with introductory courses on fundamentals and basic theory, history of Western and non-Western music, and composition using modern electronic technology.
A solid basis in music theory is provided by a sequence of courses that integrates the study of harmony, counterpoint, composition, and analysis.
You’ll receive one-on-one guidance from faculty. Being familiar with your interests and ability, instructors can precisely challenge your musicianship, whether it is through small or private classes or by creating a performance group that suits your instrument and level. Ensembles are ideal for developing and refining musical skills. Student composers often have their original pieces premiered by campus ensembles or played and critiqued by professional musicians-in-residence.
After achieving a solid grasp of traditional music concepts, many students examine an idea more carefully through independent study, advanced courses, or an honors thesis. Advanced courses touch on such topics as history, literature, orchestration, and arranging skills, with special seminars on particular composers, particular periods, or interdisciplinary topics such as poetry and music.
Both majors and minors are asked to demonstrate piano proficiency by examination. The department also encourages students to take courses in other subject areas that complement their principal area of interest in music.