Current Music Students
Welcome current undergraduate music students!
This page features advising and degree planning information, academic policies, and student recital procedures. We encourage you to explore these resources and contact us with any questions or concerns.
Prospective undergraduate students are encouraged to first review the Prospective Students Page before diving into the information below. Graduate students should review the information on the Master of Music page.
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Programs and Advising
In this section, you will find advising resources, tools, and contacts to help guide you on your academic journey. Explore this section and reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns.
Music Advising
Undergraduate music students are assigned to the Undergraduate Music Advisor after completing an entrance audition. Students will declare their major or minor through email, during registration sessions, or by appointment with the Undergraduate Music Advisor
WWU is a shared-responsibility university. This means that students are responsible for setting up advising appointments. Our goal is to support you in every way possible as you pursue your degree and we are committed to providing you with the resources necessary for success.
Program of Study Planning Guides
Our planning guides serve as a valuable secondary tool that may not include all degree requirements. Students should plan to use the University Catalog along with Degree Works to ensure they meet all necessary degree requirements.
Core Sequences and KPE
Music Core Sequence Tracks
Currently, the Music Department offers two tracks to complete the music core sequence. All students are required to complete keyboarding skills, regardless of piano lesson experience. Piano majors, minors, and those with extensive piano lesson experience will be placed in an advanced keyboarding track and complete three-quarters of keyboarding skills (MUS 221C-225C).
Theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills must be completed as a set of courses each quarter, except for students who demonstrate proficiency through assessments or do not meet the minimum grade in a subject. If a student does not meet the minimum grade in one of the core classes, they may still enroll in the other subjects within the set.
- Track One (Recommended): Incoming first-year students are recommended to complete track one, which spans three years and covers two years of music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills, followed by a year of music history.
- Track Two (Accelerated): Completion of Track Two, an accelerated two-year sequence, is an option for students who have passed MUS 126 and combines the 200-level of core classes alongside the music history sequence. It is important to note that choosing the accelerated track does not guarantee earlier graduation, and students should consult the Current Music Student page for more advising information.
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The KPE is a requirement for all music majors and is administered as tests/quizzes during the final quarter of the keyboarding sequence (225B or 225C), or as a full assessment for students attempting to test out through Music Core Equivalency Assessments.
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I-IV-V7-I cadence in any key, major or minor, with chord roots in the left hand and any chord inversion in the right hand.
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Sight-reading a simple piano piece and a four-part hymn, hands together.
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Play at least two parts from a four-part choral open score. Any combination but soprano/alto.
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Sight read a part for either Bb Clarinet, transposing the Clarinet part, or viola, reading alto clef.
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Sight-reading a given lead sheet, with a melody in the right hand and chords in the left hand. Included will be any type of seventh chord.
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Harmonize a given melody with chords in the left hand. You must include V/V and V/IV with their proper resolution. Play the melody with the right hand and your harmonization with the left hand. You will have a moment to study the melody.
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Perform a prepared solo piece from the following choices:
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A Clementi Sonatina mvt.
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A Minuet by Bach, Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart, or Beethoven
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A piece from Schumann Album for the Young or Scenes From Childhood
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Anything from Volumes 17, 27, 37, or 47 of Classics to Moderns, Denes A gay, ed2. o Perform a prepared accompaniment to an art song or instrumental piece with a soloist. Good choices include short Schubert Lieder, Italian Art Songs, pieces from the Suzuki string methods, Vols 3 or higher. You will need to provide your own soloist.
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Major and Minor Guides
The minor in music is a 30-credit program that is designed to take one year to complete. This minor does not have a concentration. Incoming students can audition for the minor after their first year and still be on track for graduation. It consists of a basic core study in music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills (class piano), along with an introduction to different genres of music, and optional ensemble and private instruction. Music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills must be taken together as a set of classes. All music majors and music minors take the same first-year core sequence. This minor cannot be combined with a BA in Music or BMus major.
Planning Guide
The 100-level core classes of music theory must be completed as a set of courses each quarter unless a student tests out through our assessments. Survey courses and electives can be completed any quarter at WWU. See the Music Minor University Catalog page for full degree requirement details.
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The jazz studies minor is open to all current music majors. This minor consists of advanced jazz theory and improvisation, jazz history, private jazz lessons, and jazz arranging and composition.
To Declare
- Audition for jazz ensembles.
- After placement in jazz ensembles, set up a meeting with the Jazz Area Coordinator, Kevin Woods to discuss their interests and permission to declare.
- Contact the Undergraduate Music Advisor to declare after receiving permission.
Jazz Enrollment
- MUS 202 and 434: MUS 202 is now called Jazz: An American Original and is offered in-person every other spring in rotation with Jazz Arranging and Composition.
- MUS 418: Students will enroll in private jazz lessons with Professor Woods with permission. Please speak to Professor Woods for more information.
- MUS 334 and 335: Students may use these courses as upper-division/advanced music theory for the BMus Performance, Composition, and Musicology majors. These courses may also apply to the BA Electives.
Bachelor of Music in Composition
The Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA) is our music major without a concentration. It includes core courses in music theory, aural skills, and history, as well as private instruction and ensemble performance. The BA is designed to take two to three years to complete. Students can choose to take the second and third years of core sequences together to finish the major in less than three years. Note that students must earn a minimum of 180 credits, including 60 upper-division courses (300 and 400-level). Students with minimal or no transfer credits should expect to take at least 3.5 years to graduate with any bachelor's degree.
Planning Guide
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track additional requirements including electives.
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Bachelor of Music in Composition
The BMus in Composition major (110+ cr.) is designed to provide students with private composition training, advanced music theory, music history, conducting, lesson, and ensemble performance experience. While composition instruction covers all modes, genres, and periods, students may elect to concentrate their creativity on one or more specific areas. The degree typically takes around four years to complete for an average incoming music student. Students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. Students who test out of core classes should still expect to take a minimum of 2.5-3 years to finish the total major.
Planning Guide
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including electives, chamber music, conducting, upper-division/advanced theory, and music history seminars.
Advising Notes
- The timeline recommendations for the upper-division composition portfolio, senior composition recital, upper-dvisiong primary instrument jury will vary based on technical growth and instructor recommendations.
- Year 2: Students should talk to their primary instrument/voice instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury.
- Year 3: Students are encouraged to talk to Dr. Halka and their composition instructor about planning for their senior recital the following academic year.
- Year 4: Applied lessons on the primary instrument/voice and the co-requisite major ensemble are not required during the final year of composition study unless minimum requirements are not met (18 credits each).
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Bachelor of Music in Musicology
The BMus in Musicology (110+ cr.) is ideal for students who are interested in musicology or ethnomusicology. In addition to the core sequences of music theory, music history, aural skills, and keyboarding skills, musicology majors concentrate their advanced work on musicology seminars and have the opportunity to take independent studies with our Musicology Coordinator. The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming Musicology major. Students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner.
Planning Guide
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. This planning guide will not include all courses required for the degree program. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including electives, chamber music, conducting, and upper-division/advanced theory.
Advising Notes
- Year 2: Students should talk to their primary instrument/voice instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury.
- Year 3: Students are encouraged to talk to Dr. Youngblood about their thesis ideas and plans during their third year if not already completed.
- Senior Thesis: MUS 490 must be completed to graduate. Students will work with Dr. Youngblood to determine which quarter registration is appropriate. A quarter of independent study might be required in the quarters leading up to the thesis.
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Bachelor of Music Education, Instrument Endorsement
Band and Strings Tracks
This major is structured to take approximately 4.25-4.5 years to complete for the average incoming music student. Students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. Based on the sequence of classes, all academic coursework can be completed in four years, followed by 14 weeks (1 quarter) of full-time student teaching the following fall or winter quarter. The Music Education Coordinator will assist students in their application to the Woodring of College of Education to complete the combined P-12 certification, this typically takes place during the third year in the music major.
Planning Guide: Mus. Ed Instrument/General
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including a list of pedagogy requirements.
Advising Notes
- Pedagogy Labs: Please review your list of required pedagogy labs through the University Catalog.
- Band Endorsement: Within the band endorsement only students are not required to complete pedagogy labs on their primary instrument. Students with demonstrated proficiency on other instruments may test out under advisement with the Music Education Coordinator or Program Coordinator. Strings endorsement students must complete all pedagogy labs even if they have experience on an instrument.
- Student Teaching: Students must apply for student teaching two quarters in advance with the help of the Music Education Coordinator. Student teaching is 14 weeks and will begin before and end after the WWU quarter. SEC 495, Student Teaching, is only available fall or winter.
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Bachelor of Music Education, Choral/General Endorsement
This major is structured to take approximately 4.25-4.5 years to complete for the average incoming music student. Students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner. Based on the sequence of classes, all academic coursework can be completed in four years, followed by 14 weeks (1 quarter) of full-time student teaching the following fall or winter quarter. The Music Education Coordinator will assist students in their application to the Woodring of College of Education to complete the combined P-12 certification, this typically takes place during the third year in the music major.
Planning Guide: Mus. Ed Choral/General Endorsement
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including a list of pedagogy requirements. Transfer students who qualify for assessments may need to take core classes out of sequence and will work with the Music Education Coordinator to create a customized planning guide.
Advising Notes
- *Global Traditions: Global Traditions A and B are offered in winter and spring quarters every other year. Students should pay close attention to when these courses are available in their second or third year.
- **Pedaogy Labs and Voice Ped: Voice pedagogy B is offered in the winter quarter only. Students may enroll K-12 classroom ped and percussion ped when they are offered.
- Student Teaching: Students must apply for student teaching two quarters in advance with the help of the Music Education Coordinator. Student teaching is 14 weeks and will begin before and end after the WWU quarter. SEC 495, Student Teaching, is only available fall or winter.
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Bachelor of Music in Performance: Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwinds
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Area Contact/Career Advising: Area Coordinators
- Full Major Requirements
Planning Guide: Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwind
The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner.
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including chamber music, upper-division/advanced theory, and history seminars.
Advising Notes
- Pedagogy (466 and 466E): All performance students must take MUS 466E which is offered every other year in fall quarter only. Students must also complete two more credits of MUS 466 (no alpha) with this private teacher and should talk with them about when that enrollment is appropriate.
- 312 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
- 412 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 499 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
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Bachelor of Music in Performance: Guitar
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Guitar Area/Career Advising: Professor Eli Schille-Hudson
- Full Major Requirements
Planning Guide: Guitar
The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner.
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including chamber music, upper-division/advanced theory, and history seminars.
Advising Notes
- *Major and Guitar Ensemble: Guitar students must participate in a major ensemble each fall quarter followed by a guitar ensemble each winter and spring. The assigned major ensemble for fall quarters is University Choir, MUS 271. If students play another instrument, they may audition for another choir, band, or orchestra.
- Fretboard Harmony and Guitar History: These courses are offered every so often when needed for students in the guitar studio. Please talk to the guitar instructor about when these courses are offered.
- 312 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
- 412 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 499 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
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Bachelor of Music in Performance: Piano
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Piano Area/Career Advising: Dr. Milica Jelača Jovanović
- Full Major Requirements
Planning Guide: Piano
The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner.
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including chamber music, upper-division/advanced theory, and history seminars.
Advising Notes
- *Ensemble and Piano Accompanying: Students must take one year of a major ensemble, this includes band, choir, or orchestras. Students who play another instrument can audition for a band or orchestra. Once students receive permission* from the piano area, they may enroll in piano accompanying and advanced piano accompanying for the remainder of the quarters until all major requirements are complete.
- Piano Literature and Piano Pedagogy: These courses are offered every other year in rotation. Students who are attempting the accelerated core sequence track may need to take these courses during their second and third years rather than the third and fourth years listed below.
- 312 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
- 412 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 499 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
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Bachelor of Music in Performance: Voice
- Major Coordinator: Lee Anne Frahn
- Voice Area/Career Advising: Dr. Richard Hodges
- Full Major Requirements
Planning Guide: Voice
The degree usually takes approximately four years to complete for the average incoming music student. However, students who qualify for assessments may be able to finish sooner.
The following is a general planning guide that includes only requirements assigned to a specific quarter. Please refer to the University Catalog >> Programs of Study and Degree Works to track degree progress and additional requirements including chamber music, upper-division/advanced theory, and history seminars.
Advising Notes
- *Vocal Diction: Students can take vocal diction (MUS 366A-C) starting their first year if they have room and time in their schedule. Since the prerequisite is currently music theory and aural skills students in their first year will need an override from the instructor.
- **Vocal Pedagogy: Students may take vocal pedagogy (MUS 466B and D) starting their second year. The current prerequisite is MUS 315, please ask the instructor for an override.
- 315 Lessons and Junior Recital: During year two, students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about an upper-division 300-level jury this year and a plan for their junior recital. Students will enroll in MUS 399 the quarter they complete their junior recital.
- 415 Lessons and Senior Recital: During year three or after their junior recital, students should talk to their instructor about an upper-division 400-level jury and a plan for their senior recital.
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Advising Contacts
Undergrad Music Advisor
Degree Coordinators
Overrides
Continuing students should contact their instructor of record for overrides.
Other Advising Options
*Specializes in advising first-generation, multicultural, non-traditional, and undocumented students
Forms and Links
Advising Tools
Academic Polices and Procedures
Below you will find academic policies and procedures that cover a broad range of topics. We strongly encourage you to review this section carefully and utilize it as a valuable reference throughout your academic career. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the undergraduate advisor.
Instrument Rentals
Instruments are available to rent for WWU-applied lessons, ensembles, and pedagogy labs only. Rental fees differ based on instrument type and can range between $40-60.
All wind and string pedagogy classes will be prompted to pay a fee after the instrument library has confirmed their rental.
Students in applied lessons or ensembles must talk to their instructor or ensemble conductor before requesting an instrument. Pedagogy students must be enrolled in the course before requesting an instrument and may be asked to show proof of enrollment.
Performing Groups and Lessons
The Music Department offers lessons at the 200, 300, and 400-level for undergraduate students and the 500-level for graduate students. Applied lessons are split into two sections: full lessons (previously called “one hour”) are approximately 50 minutes, and half lessons (previously called “half-hour”) are approximately 25-30 minutes.
Credit Requirements
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200-Level: Full lessons at the 200-level are set at two credits, half lessons are set at one credit.
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300-level: Full lessons are 1-4 variable credits. Students must enroll in three credits unless they exceed the 18-credit maximum for full-time tuition.
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400-level: Full lessons are 1-4 variable credits. Students must enroll in four credits unless they exceed the 18-credit maximum for full-time tuition.
Music Minors
Applied lessons are not required for the degree program and will be offered on a studio available basis. Students may use applied lessons towards elective credits needed for the degree if offered a studio space.
Music Majors
Music majors are required to enroll in applied lessons each quarter according to their major requirements regardless of lessons completed before attending WWU.
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Bachelor of Arts: Enrollment every quarter until finishing minimum degree requirements.
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Bachelor of Music Performance and History & Literature: Enrollment every quarter until all degree requirements are fulfilled. A majority of students will enroll every quarter until graduation unless finishing another degree.
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Bachelor of Music BMus Composition: Enrollment every quarter until the last year of study. If a student is completing another BMus concentration, they must continue to enroll in applied lessons according to the other major requirements.
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Bachelor of Music BMus Education P-12: Enrollment every quarter until they enroll in students teaching, SEC 495.
Major Ensemble
All students in applied lessons must additionally enroll in a major ensemble (see below for list). The only exception to this rule is piano minors or non-music majors/minors in piano lessons. Major ensembles include Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, String Sinfonia, Symphony Orchestra, University Choir, Advanced Treble Chorale, and Concert Choir. At this time, jazz ensembles do not apply major ensemble requirements. Piano and guitar students should refer to their major requirements for directives on when to enroll in piano accompanying and guitar ensemble. Jazz ensembles do not fulfill this requirement at this time.
Enrollment
All students must enroll to participate in an ensemble. Students cannot audit a participation-based course. The only exception to this rule is music majors that are being asked to enroll in an additional major ensemble and this enrollment will put them over the 18-credit maximum for full-time tuition. Students who are eligible to audit must talk to the Registrar's Office first and then submit the Special Enrollment Form.
Music Minors
Major ensemble participation is not required for music minors unless they are enrolled in applied lessons. Students may use major/large ensembles and chamber/small ensembles towards elective credits needed for the degree
Music Majors
Music majors are required to enroll in a major ensemble each quarter according to their major regardless of the ensemble work completed before attending WWU.
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Bachelor of Arts: Enrollment every quarter until finishing minimum degree requirements.
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Bachelor of Music Performance and History & Literature: Enrollment every quarter until all degree requirements are fulfilled. A majority of students will enroll every quarter until graduation unless finishing another degree.
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Bachelor of Music BMus Composition: Enrollment every quarter until the last year of study. If a student is completing another BMus concentration, they must continue to enroll in applied lessons according to the other major requirements.
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Bachelor of Music BMus Education P-12: Enrollment every quarter until they enroll in students teaching, SEC 495..
Major/Large Ensembles
Major ensembles include the following courses only. Pianists will substitute a major ensemble for Piano Accompanying (MUS 276 and/or 476) when permitted by the piano faculty and according to the major ensemble guidelines in the university catalog. Guitar students will substitute a major ensemble with Guitar Ensemble (MUS 282) each Winter and Spring quarter until all major ensemble requirements are fulfilled according to their major.
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MUS 271 - University Choir
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MUS 272 - Symphonic Band
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MUS 273 - String Sinfonia
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MUS 371 - Advanced Treble Chorale
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MUS 471 - Concert Choir
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MUS 472 - Wind Symphony
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MUS 473 - University Symphony Orchestra
Chamber groups, including Jazz Ensembles, are not a substitute for a major ensemble. Chamber music is an additional requirement for the BMus Performance, History & Literature, and BMus Composition degrees. Chamber music may also be used to fulfill elective credits for the music minor. The following courses are current chamber groups offered at WWU.
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MUS 275 - Chamber Jazz Ensembles
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MUS 278 - Opera Workshop
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MUS 280 - Collegium Musicum
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MUS 281 - Applied Chamber Music
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MUS 283 - Chamber Vocal Ensembles
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MUS 284 - Vocal Jazz Ensemble
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MUS 397K - Deep Listening and Improv*
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MUS 475 - Chamber Jazz Ensemble
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MUS 478 - Advanced Opera Production
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MUS 480 - Advanced Collegium Musicum
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MUS 481 - Advanced Applied Chamber Music
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MUS 483 - Advanced Chamber Vocal Ensembles
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MUS 484 - Advanced Vocal Jazz Ensemble
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MUS 485 - New Music Ensemble
*Temporary ensembles such as 397(A-F) or 497(A-F) will apply to this requirement but will not automatically populate in Degree Works.
Academic Policies and Procedures
Minimum Grade
Students must earn a minimum of a C - in all major or minor coursework. If students receive lower than a C - in academic coursework, it must be repeated when next offered. Any exceptions to this are based on the department and faculty discretion based on a number of factors including but not limited to, material learned/completed, time to degree, petition, or extenuating circumstances. 100-level aural skills students may be given an opportunity to continue in the sequence by taking an additional practice lab, check with your instructor for more information.
Students who earn lower than a C - in applied lessons or ensembles may be put on probationary status for their degree.
Three-Attempt Policy
We have a "three attempt" policy that allows students to attempt major/minor coursework up to three times. After this, students must continue with a degree that does not require the unsuccessful course(s). This is in accordance with the insufficient progress policy outlined in the University Catalog.
Petition Process
To petition enrollment past the three attempts, students email the department chair with the following information. Please note that petitions are not guaranteed and are contingent upon several factors including class sizes, sequencing, and overall progress in the degree program.
Students must include all of the information requested when emailing the department chair. Emails without the following information will not be processed. Students are not required to provide private information; please provide the level of detail you feel comfortable with. Please note, further information may be requested, and any information provided will be held within the strictest confidence.
- Full Name
- W#
- Area of study and primary instrument
- Current major or minor
- Reason for not passing the course(s) within three attempts
- Permission to view academic history
The Department of Music reserves the right to prioritize students on any class waitlist based on graduate date or program.
We directly accept transfer credits from ensembles, lessons, survey classes, and general music courses as the agreed transfer equivalency. While we directly accept credits, music majors must enroll and participate in lessons and ensembles at WWU regardless of previously completed credits.
Credits for music theory, aural skills, and keyboarding skills are initially transferred as general credits (1TT/1XX) until a music core equivalency assessment determines the appropriate equivalency.
Students without Transfer Credit
First-Quarter Course Challenge Assessment
During the first week of classes, new 100-level music theory and aural skills students will be given the option to take the final for music theory and aural skills to potentially test out of the first quarter of core music classes only. This is completely optional and there are no consequences for scoring low on this assessment.
Students with Transfer Credit
Music Core Equivalency Assessments are available for students with transfer credits in music theory, aural skills, and/or keyboarding. AP Music Theory students must earn a 3 or higher to take the assessments and are not eligible for keyboarding assessments unless they have transfer credit in that subject from a college or university. Students are not guaranteed placement at their preferred level and may be required to repeat courses previously taken at other institutions.
Students who opt out will begin at the 100-level of core music classes.
Assessments are offered online in May and in person in September for incoming fall quarter students. Winter and spring entrants can schedule appointments with the undergraduate music advisor. The music theory assessment is an overview of the two-year curriculum, the aural skills assessment is an individual appointment, and the keyboarding assessment is an individual appointment that includes the Keyboard Proficiency Exam. The accompanied piece included in the KPE is not required at core equivalency assessments and will be completed at another time
Assessment Study Guide and Topics
Download a detailed study guide intended to help you review music theory and aural skills alongside your previous institution's course materials or AP exam study guides. Download the Keyboarding Proficiency Exam (KPE) information. Eligible keyboarding assessment students will play what they can from the KPE, the accompanied piece will be played at a later date.
Concert attendance is no longer a graduation requirement but may continue to be a requirement within music courses. The policy for removing concert attendance as a major requirement does not supersede course requirements. Students must attend concerts if required through their course curriculum. Students are advised to pay close attention to course syllabi requirements.
Music Recital Policies and Procedures
Recital Checklist
- Review policies and procedures
- Pay recital fee and attach receipt to recital request form (for non-major/minor and graduate students)
- Request a recital
- Create a program draft using style guides and submit to instructor for approval
- Submit event details to CFPA (see recital publicity)
Minimum of 16 Days Prior
- Submit final program and translations at least 16 days prior to the event
Minimum of 14 Days Prior
- Submit Recital Set-Up and Equipment Form at least 14 days prior to the event
- Approve final program and translation draft.
Recital Policies and Procedures
Types of Recitals
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Performance Recitals: Bachelor of Music in Performance majors must complete a junior recital (MUS 399) and senior recital (MUS 499).
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Composition Recital: Bachelor of Music in Composition majors must complete a senior composition recital (MUS 498) as the culmination of their major. A composition student may also choose to complete a thesis instead, MUS 490. Admission to the 400-level of composition lessons is the prerequisite to scheduling a senior composition recital
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Non-Degree Recitals: Students in the following programs may perform a non-degree or “studio” recital with the permission of their applied instructor and area coordinator: Non-Music Majors/Minors, Music Minors, BA, BMus in History & Literature, BMus Education, and Graduate recitals that are not required for their degree.
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Graduate Recital: A required Master's recital for an MM concentration.
Recital Fees
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Junior Performance Recital: $ 30.00-course fee
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Senior Performance Recital: $ 60.00-course fee
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Senior Composition Recital: $ 60.00-course fee
- Non-Major/Minor and Graduate Recital: $60.00 paid online and attached to the recital request form
Junior performance, senior performance, and senior composition recitals pay a course fee that is billed to student accounts after registration. Non-degree and graduate recitals must pay the $60.00 recital fee before scheduling and attach a receipt of payment with the recital e-sign form.
Recital Times
Recitals are scheduled at 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 7:30 pm in the PAC Concert Hall and 2:00 and 6:00 pm in PAC 16 on weekends. On weekdays recitals are scheduled at 7:30 pm.
Deadlines
Deadlines for 2023-2024 recitals will be posted at the beginning of spring 2023.
All 2022-2023 recital requests are due by the following dates.
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Fall Quarter: October 15.
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Winter Quarter: November 1. Reservations Open October 1.
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Spring Quarter: January 6. Reservations will open on December 1
Non-degree recitals will be scheduled after the deadlines above in the order they were received. Requests received after the published deadlines will be scheduled with the Department Chair's approval.
Recital Dates
Spring 2023 held recital dates have been released back to the CFPA. Students should now use Mazevo to explore open evenings and weekends in the Concert Hall and PAC 16. How to use Mazèvo.
Please keep the following in mind while exploring dates:
- Spring quarter recitals are not permitted on the weekend of commencement or after.
- Finals week recitals must have chair approval. We cannot guarantee staffing or recording for finals week recitals if approved.
- Weekend recitals are scheduled at 12, 4, and 7:30 pm in the Concert Hall, 2 and 6 PM in PAC 16. It is possible to schedule PAC 16 recitals at 12, 4, and 7:30 pm if the Concert Hall is booked with other types of events.
- Weekday recitals are scheduled at 7:30 PM in the Concert Hall or PAC 16.
- Recitals need a minimum of a three-hour reservation block. We normally reserve four hours.
How to Schedule a Recital
Recitals are scheduled at 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 7:30 pm in the PAC Concert Hall and 2:00 and 6:00 pm in PAC 16 on weekends. On weekdays recitals are scheduled at 7:30 pm.
To schedule a recital, students must fill out the Student Recital Request E-sign form. Before submitting the form, they should check the availability of their instructor and collaborator(s). If the form is not filled out correctly, it will be returned to the student for corrections. Recital dates are scheduled based on the order of preference listed on the form. If all requested dates are unavailable, the form will be returned to the student with instructions. Once the date is confirmed, the student will receive an email from Music@wwu.edu with the details of their recital.
Off-Campus Recitals
- Non-Degree Recitals: Non-degree recitals can be held off-campus at any time. The department cannot provide programs or recording support for these events.
- Degree Recitals: Students can have an off-campus degree recital with the permission of the department chair. These students must still submit the Music Student Recital E-sign form once they receive approval from the Department Chair and schedule their off-campus event. Enter the off-campus recital date, time, and location under "Requested Performance Date" and indicate under "Additional Comments" that your recital is off campus and the date you received permission from the chair. Students must provide their own programs and recording support. We cannot guarantee a refund of the required course fee for off-campus degree recitals.
Cancellations
Students may submit the Student Recital Cancellation form up to seven business days prior to their event. Any cancellations later should adhere to the following guidelines.
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Less than One Week Prior: Cancellations less than seven business days before the event must be submitted via the Student Recital Cancellation form and by email to Lee Anne Frahn (frahnl@wwu.edu). Students are responsible for notifying all parties in their recital, the instructor, and the area coordinator
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Seven days or less, students who must cancel their recital within seven business days must submit this form and contact the department at Music@wwu.edu. Title the email Student Recital Cancellation.
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Emergency Cancellations: Cancelations are considered "emergency cancellations" when a recital must be canceled up to 72 hours before. These recitalists must contact both the applied instructor and area coordinator immediately, then notify all collaborations. Their instructor or area coordinator will contact the CFPA staff to cancel their event.
Programs and translations are due 16 full days before the event through the Music Program and Translations form. Only shared links to Word documents are accepted. To expedite processing, use your OneDrive through your Microsoft 365 MyWestern App. Translations are required for vocal recitals in languages other than English.
Content and Formatting Requirements
Refer to the Drake University Style Guide for Instrumental Recitals and Style Guide for Vocal Recitals to create your drafts.
Procedures
- Download and save the Recital Program Requirements and Recital Translation Requirements and read the instructions carefully. Submit the program and translation drafts to the area coordinator and instructor for approval, keeping in mind the 16-day deadline.
- Submit the program and translations as shared links only through the Music Recital Program and Translations Form.
- You'll receive a final PDF from the Music Office that requires approval, so pay attention to the deadline. At this stage, changes and additions to the program content won't be accepted; you should only proofread for content and formatting.
The Music Department will promote all student recitals on the CFPA website, and department Facebook, and will print recital programs and translations. The Music Department will not create Facebook event pages to invite guests, and will not create or print event posters.
Student Responsibility - Publicity
Event Posters
Posters are not required. If desired, students can print posters at the Print & Copy Services Center. The Student Technology Center may have help guides available to assist students in making a poster. Every poster must include the WWU logo and the disability accommodations statement, which reads "AA/EO. For disability accommodations, please call: 360-650-3130." Download the WWU logo and review appropriate logo usage guidelines.
Submitting Event Details
Once your recital is confirmed, the CFPA publicity team is prompted to create your event on the Music Events page. Please check the Music Concerts and Events page for your event. Scroll down and click "Is this your event? Submit updates" to add headshot and event bio/description. Refer to event description templates and performer's bio examples in the next section.
If you don't see your event listed after 2 weeks, email cfpa.publicity@wwu.edu with event details, headshot/theme photo, and description.
Event Description Templates
- Solo Recitals: {Student name}, in collaboration with {accompanist name}, will perform a {junior or senior} recital featuring works by {list composers}.
- Composition Recital: Student name will present a Senior Composition Recital featuring original works composed during their time of study in the Department of Music under the instruction of {faculty name}.
- Junior Piano Recitals: Student name will perform a junior accompanying recital featuring works by {list composers}. Featured collaborators include {list names}.
Event Bio Examples:
Sarah Potocki is a junior at Western Washington University earning her Bachelor of Arts in Music and minor in Psychology. She has been taking piano lessons since age four. Sarah grew up in Snohomish, Washington, where her parents and three older sisters encouraged her to play piano. Through an adjudication held at her former piano teacher Maria Sier’s studio, Sarah came in contact with Professor Gilliam. He shared insight about Western’s Music Department and inspired her to attend. Throughout Sarah’s time at Western, she has gratefully accepted scholarships from the Ada and Don Walter Endowment Fund, Dee Bergholz Music Scholarship, Ford Hill Piano Scholarship, William Sanford Piano Scholarship, and the Arthur C. Hicks Piano Scholarship. During her freshman year at Western, she was given the opportunity to play in a master class with her duo partner Nick Swanson for Anderson and Roe. She has also played in master classes for French pianist David Kadouch and most recently pianist Marija Ilic. Sarah is a performer as well as a teacher. She currently teaches eight students between ages four and ten. She has taken leadership in organizing semi-annual recitals for her students at the retirement home, St. Francis of Bellingham.
Fabian Nieto is in his third year studying clarinet performance and music education. He began his studies at Western Washington University in 2012. In 2013 he attended “El Conservatorio de las Rosas” in Michoacán, Mexico. But due to social and political instability, he returned to Western to continue with his studies. Fabian is a very active player in the community. He has been involved in multiple productions with Pacific Northwest Opera and serves as the clarinet coach for the Fidalgo Youth Symphony. He is also a private clarinet instructor in the WhatcomSkagit regions. Once Fabian completes his studies at WWU, he is eager to pursue his education further in graduate school and begin his career as an educator.
Yuliya Varavina is a junior majoring in Vocal Performance; she studies with Professor Kathryn Weld. Yuliya has received several honors, including the Oscar Olson Arts Scholarship, Don C. Walter Memorial Scholarship, and the R. Keagle Music Scholarship. Yuliya has performed for Erin Wall and Benjamin Smith in master classes at WWU has been a section leader in WWU Advanced Women Chorale 2013-2014 and had been a part of the Western Voices in the Spring of 2015. She is active as a soloist, choir accompanist, and string quintet director at her church. She had been a part of two opera scene productions, a full production of Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, and placed in Aria Competition in 2014 and 2015.
Quick Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Music students can double major with any degree outside of the department. Students who complete two majors are not necessarily awarded two diplomas or two degrees. If the two majors are the same degree type (B.A, BMus, BS, etc.) or overlap by more than 50% then one diploma is awarded and the second major is listed as completed in degree notes. Within the music department, students can complete multiple concentrations.
Students should be aware that scheduling conflicts are common when completing a double major. Students who decide to double major should plan to meet with each department advisor at least once a year to go over academic planning and coursework.
Within the music department students can complete multiple Bachelor of Music (BMus) concentrations, but these are not considered “double majors” as the degrees overlap by more than 50%. Students who complete multiple concentrations will be awarded one Bachelor of Music degree with multiple concentrations outlined in degree notes. Students cannot complete the Bachelor of Arts in Music along with a Bachelor of Music concentration.
Eligible students can take our music core equivalency assessments to place or “test out” of one or more core classes. Eligible students will have completed college courses in music theory, aural skills, and/or keyboarding skills, or earned a 3 or higher on the AP Music Theory Exam. Assessments are given to students after being accepted via an Entrance & Scholarship Audition. Most incoming students will complete these assessments before their summer orientation sessions. Students who join mid-year will schedule assessments on an individual basis.
The Department of Music offers HUM or AGCM GURs during the summer. At this time, we do not offer core music classes, ensembles, or lessons during the summer quarter.
Students at the 200-level of applied lessons must register for either 2 or 1 credit depending on your assigned lesson length.
Students at the 300 and 400 levels can and should change their credits. The system will automatically enroll you in the least credits possible. Review the applied lesson policies and change your credits accordingly.
Yes. The system automatically enrolls students in the least amount of credit possible. Students can change their MUS 281 chamber music course to 1-2 credits depending on their area policies.
Yes, for students completing music education and one of the other BMus concentrations. Composition, musicology, and performance students should enroll in only MUS 351, Basic Conducting unless they have an extenuating circumstance or have received instructor and advisor permission.
Due to changes during COVID-19, we are currently delayed in marking the KPE exams complete. The KPE completion on Degree Works is a manual process and will be completed during your Degree Evaluation if not taken care of sooner.
When students are admitted to another degree program, including Woodring, Degree Works creates another page. Please select the degree dropdown (next to your name) to select your other degree. If your major is still not showing under the dropdown, please contact the Undergraduate Music Advisor.
Collaborative Pianist Polices and Procedures
Please follow the link below to access the Collaborative Pianist Policies and Procedures information. We appreciate your patience while we retool the navigation of our website.
Questions or Concerns?
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Department of Music
Performing Arts Center 273
Mailstop 9107
516 High Street
Bellingham, WA, 98225
(360) 650-3130
Music@wwu.edu