Music
College of Liberal & Creative Arts
Dean: Paul Sherwin
School of the Arts
Music and Dance
CA 141
Phone: 415-338-1431
Website: musicdance.sfsu.edu
Chair: Dee Spencer
Undergraduate Advisers: Festinger, Ginwala, Hanna, Modirzadeh, Neve, Speight, Spencer, Suzuki, Todorov, Woodward
Graduate Coordinator: Cyrus Ginwala
Faculty:
Professors: Festinger, Modirzadeh, Neve, Spencer, Woodward
Associate Professors: Ginwala, Hanna, Suzuki, Todorov, Xiques
Assistant Professors: Brandes, Seggelke
Lecturers: Speight, Alexander String Quartet (Grafilo, Lifsitz, Walsh-Wilson, Yarbrough)
Programs
Minor in World Music and Dance
Program Scope
The School of Music and Dance offers both professional and liberal arts degree programs in music as well as courses that enrich the general education and cultural life of the University. The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a humanistic approach to the study of music as a significant part of human tradition and culture. The Bachelor of Music is an intensive curriculum for qualified advanced undergraduate students seeking to attain professional levels of expertise in a specialized music discipline.
The Master of Arts in Music and Master of Music degree programs provide an advanced education for students with an undergraduate degree in music who wish to gain additional expertise in specific areas of music. The Master of Arts in Music program is for students who have highly developed interest and achievement in specific areas of music study; an interest in teaching as music faculty in two- and four-year colleges; are K-12 teachers seeking additional expertise in specific areas of music that will enhance their skills and knowledge as music educators; or, are seeking preparation for professional careers in composition and arranging. The Master of Music provides graduate study for the superior performer with the goal of maximum development of specialized skills. Either the Master of Arts in Music or Master of Music degree programs can be appropriate for students who have the goal of advanced graduate study at the doctoral level.
The school also offers two minors in music: a liberal arts minor, that provides a planned sequence of musical development from which future enjoyment and learning can proceed, and a minor in World Music and Dance, which is interdisciplinary in character.
A wide variety of individual and ensemble music performance opportunities are available to all students at San Francisco State University. These include wind ensemble, Jazz Band, University Symphony, Chamber Singers, and Men’s and Women’s Choruses. There are numerous small and specialized vocal and instrumental ensembles that are part of the Chamber Music and Jazz and World Music programs. The school also participates in opera and musical-comedy productions in the School of the Arts.
The School of Music and Dance offers numerous scholarships. Scholarships in music are awarded based on musical and scholastic achievement, musical promise or need. Many of these scholarships are designated in specific fields of study while others are open to music majors in any field of study. Auditions for scholarships are held two to four times each year. You must schedule an appointment on one of these dates to audition for a scholarship. For further information and an application, contact the School of Music and Dance.
San Francisco State University has been an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music since 1963.
Faculty and Facilities
The faculty of the School of Music and Dance includes internationally recognized performers, composers, music educators, and scholars. Each faculty member has a strong commitment to students and brings that knowledge and expertise into the process of teaching and learning music. The world-renowned Alexander String Quartet is quartet-in-residence at San Francisco State University. The members of the quartet are faculty in the department and coordinate our unique Chamber Music program. To meet our faculty, please visit the School of Music and Dance website at: http://musicdance.sfsu.edu.
The Music Program is housed in the Creative Arts Building. Facilities include McKenna and Knuth Theatres, seating 701 and 322 respectively; three piano laboratories; choral and instrumental ensemble rehearsal space; classroom and practice facilities; a music materials resource center containing instruments and scores; an electronic music laboratory; and a music computer lab with more than 20 workstations.
The J. Paul Leonard Library provides music listening facilities; computer access; and extensive scores, recordings, and books on music. The Frank V. de Bellis collection of Italian culture, located on the sixth floor of the library, contains historic musical instruments, rare books, musical manuscripts, and scores and archival sound recordings.
Career Outlook
Career options for music majors are very diverse. The analytical, concentration and listening skills, collaborative experiences, and broad historical and cultural knowledge gained through the study of music prepare students to achieve in many professional arenas. Their individual achievements may lead them into specific professional fields of music, including performance, composition, scholarship, teaching, or into another profession that can benefit from the knowledge and skills gained in music study.
Graduates of San Francisco State University music programs currently perform as soloists or as members of as members of symphony orchestras, opera, chamber ensembles, choruses, rock groups, jazz combos, and a variety of intercultural consorts. They conduct Broadway musicals, church choirs, community choruses, commercial music, operas, and symphony orchestras. Some work as composers, arrangers and producers in a wide-variety of musical environments, write recording and program notes, serve as music librarians, design and work with music technology, and work as critics and lecturers. Others teach music at every educational level from pre-school through university in independent studios and in public and private schools and colleges. They occupy key positions as music administrators and provide leadership for professional music organizations. School of Music and Dance graduates have also gone on to careers outside of music in fields as diverse as medicine, business and law. Whatever their chosen career path, the education our graduates received has provided the educational foundation they needed to provide a life filled with meaning and professional accomplishment. Wherever their careers have taken them, they continue to create, perform, analyze, write about, lobby for, and listen to music both for profit and for pleasure.
Undergraduate Programs in Music
All students wishing to pursue a major in music must pass both a performance audition on an instrument or voice, and demonstrate competency in music theory, aural and piano skills sufficient for successful music study at a four-year university. The performance audition must establish that the individual possesses music achievement adequate to effectively engage in musical performance in the School of Music and Dance. Students who pass the performance audition may demonstrate competency in music theory, aural skills and piano either through passing placement examinations or completing specific coursework at San Francisco State University. Auditions and placement examinations are given at least twice each year. Students may only audition or take placement examinations twice.
Students who pass the performance audition but fail the placement examinations in aural skills and music theory must take MUS 130 Rudiments of Music Theory, during their first semester as music students in School of Music and Dance. A grade of C or better in MUS 130 is required to satisfy the aural skills and music theory standards required to proceed in either the Bachelor of Arts in Music or the Bachelor of Music degree programs. Students who fail the placement exam in piano may complete MUS 201. A grade of C or better in MUS 201 is required to satisfy the piano standards for admission to either the Bachelor of Arts in Music or the Bachelor of Music degree programs. While satisfying aural skills, music theory and piano degree program admissions standards, students who pass their performance audition are expected to enroll in other music courses that will apply toward university degree requirements. These courses include performance ensembles and MUS 150 Concert Music. Please consult with your assigned music adviser about appropriate choices.
Many music courses are available only to students admitted to the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Music degree programs. Certain music courses, taken to satisfy deficiencies identified by placement examinations in aural skills, music theory and piano, may not count as part of a Bachelor of Arts in Music or Bachelor of Music degree program.
All music majors are assigned a faculty adviser with whom they confer each semester to develop an appropriate program of study.
Individual instrumental and vocal applied lessons are restricted to music majors who have passed the performance audition and the aural skills and music theory placement examinations. Participation in an ensemble is required of all students enrolled in applied lessons. Students enrolled in individual voice or instrumental instruction are required to enroll in 1 unit of appropriate ensemble for each half-hour of private instruction received. Ensemble enrollments must be approved by the faculty adviser in order for them to satisfy this requirement. (Please see individual program requirements for the maximum number of ensemble units, MUS 371-390, applicable to degree requirements.) Students must also maintain full-time enrollment in order to qualify for individual instruction. There is a limit to the total number of individual lessons each student may receive, depending on the degree program in which the student is enrolled. Students who fail or withdraw from required pre-requisite or co-requisite
musicianship, theory or ensemble courses, will lose eligibility for individual applied lessons until academic requirements in those pre-requisite or co-requisite courses have been satisfied.
Bachelor of Arts in Music
The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a humanistic approach to the study of music as a significant part of human tradition and culture. This degree program provides a broad liberal arts preparation with significant study in music. The structure of the degree program offers students several avenues to pursue individual interests in music as preparation for careers in music or music-related fields. Students may choose the recommended Emphases in Classical, Jazz, Electronic Music, or World Cultures (which also includes Dance). Students with other music-related career interests may also design and complete an elective emphasis more appropriately focused, with the approval of the School of Music and Dance.
The curriculum for this degree consists of the lower division preparation for the major (15 units), an upper division core (12 units) and elective courses (18 units). The preparation for the major involves competency and/or course work requirements in theory, ear training, and piano. The lower division preparation for the Bachelor of Arts in Music should be completed during the first two years of study at San Francisco State University. The lower division preparation in music must be completed prior to enrollment in upper division music coursework.
Performance achievement in one applied area (voice, piano, or instrumental major) is an expected component of the Bachelor of Arts degree program. Students must develop, with their faculty adviser, a school approved program that will provide for clear demonstration of musicality and musicianship appropriate to a liberal arts degree in music in their area of emphasis. Students whose major performance medium is voice are strongly recommended to take Class Voice in order to achieve performance competence.
The Bachelor of Arts in Music degree requires completion of the University General Education requirements, 45 units of requirements in music appropriate to the degree emphasis, which includes concert attendance (MUS 150), and additional elective units for a total of 120 units. Additional elective units may be taken in music, but a maximum of 60 units in music may be counted towards the 120 units required for graduation. Note: To receive credit toward completion of the degree requirements, a grade of C or better is required for all music courses in the Bachelor of Arts in Music major.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Lower Division Core Courses
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 150 | Concert Music [each semester in residence up to and including 8 semesters] | 0 |
| MUS 201-202 | Class Piano (1 each) | 2 |
| MUS 221 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship I | 2 |
| MUS 222 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship II | 2 |
| MUS 231 | Contrapuntal Analysis and Synthesis | 3 |
| MUS 232 | Diatonic Analysis and Synthesis | 3 |
| MUS 233 | Chromatic Analysis and Synthesis | 3 |
Total for Lower Division Core: 15
Upper Division Core Courses
Students may not enroll in upper division courses in music until MUS 201, 202, 221, 222, 231, 232, and 233 have been completed with a grade of C or better. These courses must be completed no later than the end of the first semester of the junior year.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 420* | 20th Century Techniques *Jazz Emphasis students must take MUS 440 instead of MUS 420 |
3 |
| MUS 542 GW | Seminar in Ethnomusicology - GWAR | 3 |
| MUS 598 | Senior Thesis | 3 |
Units selected from the following: 3
- MUS 508: Modern Music: American Iconoclasts
- MUS 520: Seminar in Music Literature
- MUS 558: Seminar in Jazz History
Total for Upper Division Core: 12
Total Units for Core Courses: 27
Units from Area of Emphasis (see below): 18
Total for major: 45
Emphasis Areas
In order to fulfill the requirements of the major in the Bachelor of Arts in Music, students must complete an additional 20 units of course work upon advisement. With a faculty adviser, students select an area of emphasis based on interests and areas in which to build expertise. Recommended areas of emphasis from which students may choose are listed below. For other possible emphases, please see a School of Music and Dance adviser.
Classical Emphasis
History/Literature/Theory
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 405 | Tonal Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUS 415 | Orchestration | 3 |
Units selected from the following: 6
- MUS 550: Music from the Middle Ages to 1750
- MUS 551: Classic and Romantic Music
- MUS 552: 20th Century Music
Major Instruction/Ensembles: 6 units
A minimum of 2 units must be major instruction in one instrument or voice.
Total for emphasis: 18
Jazz Emphasis
History/Literature/Theory
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 430 | Improvisation | 1 |
| MUS 431-432 | Jazz Improvisation I or II | 2 |
| MUS 441 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
Units selected from the following: 6
- MUS 506: Survey of Jazz
- MUS 530: Musics of the Middle East and India
- MUS 531: Musics of North and Southeast Asia
- MUS 532: Musics of Central and South America
- MUS 558: Seminar in Jazz History
Major Instruction/Performance: 6 units
Major instruction in one instrument or voice: 2 units required Jazz and/or world music performance class: minimum 2 units Large classical ensemble (symphonic winds, orchestra, choir) for students studying orchestral instruments or voice: 2 units required
Total for emphasis: 18
Electronic Music Emphasis
History/Literature/Theory
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 415 | Orchestration | 3 |
| MUS 504 | Survey of Electronic Music | 3 |
| MUS 552 | 20th Century Music | 3 |
Units selected from the following on advisement: 3
- MUS 550: Music from the Middle Ages to 1750
- MUS 551: Classic and Romantic Music
Major Instruction/Performance Laboratories:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 438 | Computer Music | 2 |
- Units selected from MUS 303, Piano Major; MUS 313, Voice Major; or MUS 353, Instrumental Major (1 each on advisement). Units used to fulfill this requirement must be from one performance medium. 2 units
- Units of concurrent enrollment in MUS 371-390, Ensemble Series (1 each on advisement). 2 units
Total for emphasis: 18
World Cultures
History/Literature/Theory
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 430 | Improvisation | 1 |
| MUS 440 | Jazz Harmony | 3 |
Units selected from the following: 6
At least 3 units must be in Music
- MUS 505: Music of the World’s Peoples
- MUS 530: Musics of the Middle East and India
- MUS 531: Musics of North and Southeast Asia
- MUS 532: Musics of Central and South America
- DANC 350: Dance Aesthetics: Cultural/Historical Perspective
- DANC 415: Dance in Religion
- DANC 657: Ethnology of Dance
Minimum 2 units selected in DANCE
Major Instruction/Performance
- MUS 313/353: Major instruction in one instrument or voice: 2 units
- MUS 386: World Music Ensembles: 2 units
- MUS 371-390: Ensemble Series: 2 units
Total for emphasis: 18
Note: A minimum of 40 upper division units must be completed for the degree (including upper division units required for the major, general education, electives, etc.). A student can complete this major yet not attain the necessary number of upper division units required for graduation. In this case additional upper division courses will be needed to reach the required total.
Bachelor of Music
The Bachelor of Music is an intensive curriculum for students wishing to study music for specific professional purposes or for students seeking professional levels of attainment in music. Bachelor of Music emphases within the program provide specialized study in piano, vocal, and instrumental performance; composition; jazz; history and literature; and music education (credential preparation). These specializations prepare students for graduate study or for various professional opportunities. In addition to possessing musical ability and motivation, every candidate for the professional degree program must demonstrate, in an audition before a faculty panel, a significant technical and artistic level of accomplishment in at least one area of performance before being admitted to this major. Candidates for the Bachelor of Music major may apply either before or after enrolling at San Francisco State University.
A maximum of 73 units in music may be counted toward this degree. Note: To receive credit toward completion of the degree requirements, a grade of C or better is required for all music courses in the Bachelor of Music major.
Students in a performance emphasis may receive up to eight semesters of individual lessons with the distinguished artist faculty in the School of Music and Dance, many of whom are members of the San Francisco Symphony, Opera, and Ballet Orchestras, and maintain active professional careers. The degree program culminates in a formal senior recital.
Students in the composition emphasis have early and continued opportunities through private lessons, Composers' Workshop, and other specialized classes to study with nationally recognized faculty composers and to have their works publicly performed. Students are expected to qualify for this emphasis at the end of the second year of study at San Francisco State University.
Students in the history/literature emphasis complete core courses in music history as well as courses in such topics as keyboard literature, jazz, ethnic music, and the works of individual composers. The culminating project for the history/literature emphasis, a senior thesis of an analytical or historical nature, gives each student an opportunity to work closely with a member of the music history faculty in developing research and analytical skills.
The Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in music education prepares students to teach in the elementary and secondary schools. Completion of this curriculum satisfies the pre-professional academic requirements for the Single Subject Teaching Credential in Music, leaving only the professional education sequence to be completed in the College of Education.
Bachelor of Music students must complete 27 units of core courses which includes concert attendance and one of the following emphases: Piano, Instrumental, or Vocal Performance; Composition; Jazz; History and Literature; or Music Education. Students who select the Music Education Emphasis must complete one of the three options listed under Music Education.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Core Courses
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 150 | Concert Music [each semester in residence up to and including 8 semesters] | 0 |
| MUS 221 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship I | 2 |
| MUS 222 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship II | 2 |
| MUS 223 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship III | 2 |
| MUS 231 | Contrapuntal Analysis and Synthesis | 3 |
| MUS 232 | Diatonic Analysis and Synthesis | 3 |
| MUS 233 | Chromatic Analysis and Synthesis | 3 |
| MUS 420 | 20th Century Techniques | 3 |
| MUS 542 GW | Seminar in Ethnomusicology - GWAR | 3 |
| MUS 550 | Music from the Middle Ages to 1750 | 3 |
| MUS 551 | Classic and Romantic Music | 3 |
| MUS 552 | 20th Century Music | 3 |
Total for core: 30
In order to fulfill the requirements of the major in the Bachelor of Music, students must complete an additional 42-43 units of course work upon advisement. With a faculty adviser, students select an area of emphasis based on interests and areas in which to build expertise. Several areas of emphasis from which students may choose are listed below.
Area of Emphasis (select one of the emphases listed below): 42-43
Total for major: 72-73
In addition to the core requirements, all candidates must pass the junior qualifying examination in one instrument or voice.
Piano Performance Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 210 | Keyboard Harmony | 1 |
| MUS 303 | Piano Major (1) | 8 |
| MUS 360 | Major Repertoire—Piano (1) | 8 |
| MUS 371, 372, 373, 375, 379, 381-385 |
Ensemble Series (1 each)* *Two semesters of enrollment in a large, conducted ensemble is required. |
4 |
| MUS 378 | Chamber Music (1) | 2 |
| MUS 383 | Piano Accompaniment (1) | 1 |
| MUS 384 | Piano Ensemble | 1 |
| MUS 391 | Piano Sight reading (1) | 1 |
| MUS 392 | Piano Performance Practicum (1) | 5 |
| MUS 405 | Tonal Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUS 510 | Keyboard Literature | 3 |
| MUS 614 | Piano Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUS 640 | Ensemble Conducting | 2 |
Related performance area to be selected from MUS 311, 312, 321, or 341: 1 unit
Senior Recital is required
Total for Piano Performance Emphasis: 42
Vocal Performance Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 201- 202-203 |
Class Piano (1 each) | 3 |
| MUS 224 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship IV | 1 |
| MUS 301-302 | Class Piano (1 each) | 2 |
| MUS 313 | Voice Major (1) | 8 |
| MUS 360 | Major Repertoire—Voice (1) | 6 |
| MUS 371-390 | Ensemble Series (1 each) | 8 |
| MUS 560 | Lyric Diction I | 2 |
| MUS 561 | Lyric Diction II | 2 |
| MUS 565 | Vocal Literature | 3 |
| MUS 612 | The Voice | 3 |
| MUS 640 | Ensemble Conducting | 2 |
Music electives on advisement: 2 units
Senior Recital is required
Total for Vocal Performance Emphasis: 42
In addition, reading proficiency in French, German, or Italian must be demonstrated no later than the first semester of the junior year.
Instrumental Performance Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 201- 202-203 |
Class Piano (1 each) | 3 |
| MUS 353 | Instrumental Major (1) | 8 |
| MUS 360 | Major Repertoire (1) | 8 |
| MUS 371-390 | Ensemble Series (1 each) | 12 |
| MUS 405 | Tonal Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUS 415 | Orchestration | 3 |
| MUS 640 | Ensemble Conducting | 2 |
Music electives on advisement: 3 units
Senior Recital is required
Total for Instrumental Performance Emphasis: 42
Composition Emphasis
Students wishing to qualify for the composition emphasis file an "Intent to Apply" form at the completion of MUS 232, and make their actual application to the program at the completion of MUS 425 (normally at the end of the sophomore year). The application consists of an application form, a transcript, and a portfolio of compositions. A portfolio of scores and recordings of works written for a variety of ensembles must also be submitted and approved before graduation from the program.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 201- 202-203- 301-302 |
Class Piano (1 each) | 5 |
| MUS 224 | Fundamentals of Ear-training and Musicianship IV | 1 |
Units on advisement from MUS 303, 313, or 353: Piano, Voice, or Instrumental Major (1 each): 4
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 371-390 | Ensemble Series (1 each) | 5 |
| MUS 405 | Tonal Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUS 415 | Orchestration | 3 |
| MUS 416 | Theory Seminar | 3 |
| MUS 425 | Workshop in Composition (1) | 1 |
| MUS 436 | Introduction to the Electronic Music Studio | 2 |
| MUS 450 | Projects in Theory and Composition (1) | 4 |
| MUS 460 | Repertoire for Composers (1) | 4 |
| MUS 504 | Survey of Electronic Music | 3 |
| MUS 640 | Ensemble Conducting | 2 |
One of the following selected upon advisement: 3 units
- MUS 530: Musics of the Middle East and India
- MUS 531: Musics of the East and Southeast Asia
- MUS 532: Musics of Central and South America
- Or other adviser approved elective
Music electives on advisement: 2 units
Total for Composition Emphasis: 45
In addition, candidates must pass the junior qualifying examination in one instrument or voice.
Jazz Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 201- 202-203 |
Class Piano (1) Choose two | 3 |
| MUS 206 | Beginning Jazz Piano | 1 |
Upon advisement, for MUS 201-203 and 206, jazz piano majors may substitute from the following three courses:
- MUS 382: Keyboard Harmony (1)
- MUS 383: Piano Accompaniment (1)
- MUS 391: Piano Sight reading (1)
MUS 303, 313, or 353: Piano, Voice, or Instrumental Major (1)
(2 semesters of applied classical lessons are required before admission to the major): 8 units
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 360 | Major Repertoire (1) | 6-8 |
| MUS 371-390 | Ensemble Series (1) [2 units must be in large classical ensembles.] | 8-10 |
| MUS 430 | Improvisation | 1 |
| MUS 431 | Jazz Improvisation I | 2 |
| MUS 432 | Jazz Improvisation II | 2 |
| MUS 440 | Jazz Harmony | 3 |
| MUS 441 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
| MUS 558 | Seminar in Jazz History | 3 |
| MUS 615 | Jazz Pedagogy | 2 |
Music electives on advisement: 3 units
Required performance and passing of a Senior Recital
Total for Jazz Emphasis: 44-51
History and Literature Emphasis
Units on advisement from MUS 303, 313, or 353 [Piano, Voice, or Instrumental Major] (1 each): 4
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 201- 202-203- 301-302 |
Class Piano (1 each) | 5 |
| MUS 371-390 | Ensemble Series (1 each) | 5 |
| MUS 405 | Tonal Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUS 415 | Orchestration | 3 |
| MUS 598 | Senior Thesis | 3 |
| MUS 640 | Ensemble Conducting | 2 |
Units selected on advisement from the following: 12
- MUS 520: Seminar in Music Literature
- MUS 530: Musics of the Middle East and India
- MUS 531: Musics of East and Southeast Asia
- MUS 532: Musics of Central and South America
- Or other adviser approved elective
Music electives on advisement: 5 units
Total for History and Literature Emphasis: 42
In addition, candidates must pass the junior qualifying examination in one instrument or voice and demonstrate basic reading knowledge of French, German, or other appropriate language.
Music Education Emphasis
All Music Education Emphasis students complete the Music Education emphasis core courses and choose one option from Instrumental Music, Vocal Music, or the Diversified Program as shown below. Students must also pass the senior comprehensive performance examination or present a recital.
Music Education Emphasis Core Courses
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 351 | Class Percussion I | 1 |
| MUS 433 | Introduction to Music Technology | 2 |
| MUS 608 | Early Field Experience in Music Education | 2 |
| MUS 610 | General Music | 3 |
| MUS 616 | Woodwinds | 2 |
| MUS 618 | Strings | 2 |
| MUS 620 | Brass | 2 |
| MUS 640 | Ensemble Conducting | 2 |
Total for Music Education Emphasis Core: 16
Instrumental Music Option
Units on advisement from MUS 203, 301, 302 Class Piano (1): 2
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 270 | Improvisation | 1 |
| MUS 311 | Class Voice I | 1 |
| MUS 353 | Instrumental Major (1 each) | 8 |
| MUS 371-390 | Ensemble Series (1 each) 1 | 7 |
| MUS 415 | Orchestration | 3 |
| MUS 644 | Advanced Instrumental Conducting and Literature | 3 |
Music elective on advisement: 1 unit
Total for Instrumental Option: 26
Vocal/Choral Music Option
Units on advisement from MUS 301, 302 Class Piano (1): 1
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 313 | Voice Major (1) | 6 |
| MUS 360 | Major Repertoire—Voice (1) | 2 |
| MUS 560 | Lyric Diction I | 2 |
| MUS 561 | Lyric Diction II | 2 |
| MUS 612 | The Voice | 3 |
| MUS 645 | Advanced Choral Conducting and Literature | 3 |
Units selected from the following: 1,2,3: 6
- MUS 430: Improvisation (1)
- MUS 371-390: Ensemble Series (1 each)
- MUS 394: Vocal Performance Practicum (0)
Music elective on advisement: 1 unit
Total for Vocal/Choral Option: 26
Diversified Program (Keyboard/Choral) Option
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 303 | Major Instruction—Piano (1) | 8 |
| MUS 382 | Keyboard Harmony | 1 |
| MUS 612 | The Voice | 3 |
| MUS 645 | Advanced Choral Conducting and Literature | 3 |
Units selected upon advisement: 3
- MUS 311: Class Voice I (1)
- MUS 313: Voice Major (1) [by audition]
Units selected from the following: 1,2,3,4: 7
- MUS 430: Improvisation (1)
- MUS 371-390: Ensemble Series (1)
- MUS 394: Vocal Performance Practicum (0)
Music elective on advisement: 1 unit
Total for Diversified Program (Keyboard/Choral) Option: 26
Minor in Music
The program is designed to provide students with a planned sequence of musical experiences that will provide opportunities for life-long learning and future enjoyment. The minor may be designed, in consultation with a music faculty adviser, to include other courses that more appropriately meet the particular goals and educational attainment in music of the individual student.
12 of the total units must be in upper division work and taken in residence at San Francisco State University.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 120* | Basic Music I 5 | 3 |
| MUS 121* | Basic Music II 5 | 3 |
| MUS 501
or MUS 505 |
Music, The Listener's Art
Music of the World's Peoples |
3 |
Units on advisement from the following (a minimum of 1 unit each in voice and piano is required): 6
- MUS 201-203*: Class Piano (1 each)
- MUS 309-311: Class Voice (1 each)
- MUS 371-390: Ensemble Series (1 each)
Music units on advisement: 6
Total: 21
*Students with more developed piano skills may substitute other piano classes, with the approval of the music minor advisor. These classes may include: MUS 206, 301, 302, or 303.
Minor in World Music and Dance
Consult Minor in World Music and Dance for information on World Music and Dance.
Graduate Programs in Music
The School of Music and Dance offers a Master of Arts in Music with emphases in composition, music education, or music history; and a Master of Music in Performance with emphases in vocal or instrumental performance, chamber music, or conducting (choral or instrumental).
Admission to Program
Students should apply by April 1 for the following fall or October 1 for the following spring. Applicants are required to file two applications, one with the University and one with the School of Music and Dance. Admission to conditionally classified status requires acceptance by both the University and the School of Music and Dance. A departmental application form may be obtained by writing to the School of Music and Dance, or by calling (415) 338-1431. University applications may be requested from the graduate admissions office or online at www.sfsu.edu/~gradstdy/.
Requirements for admission to conditionally classified status in music are as follows.
- A baccalaureate degree, with a major in music or equivalent musical experience.
- A minimum 3.0 grade point average in the last 60 units of undergraduate study.
- A completed Application form for graduate study in music.
- A 200-500 word narrative statement of purpose. This statement should include a description of the applicant's previous accomplishments.
- An official copy of the applicant's undergraduate transcripts, and graduate transcripts if the student has been previously enrolled in a program of graduate study.
- Two letters of recommendation from current or former teachers or professionals who are familiar with the applicant's qualifications.
- Completion of Graduate Classification Examinations in Music History, Theory, Aural Skills and, for music education candidates, the Music Education Master's Advisory Exam. These examinations must be taken prior to entry into the program. Students who demonstrate deficiencies in one or more areas may be accepted into the program contingent upon remediation of all deficiencies within one academic year of entry into the program. Undergraduate course work taken to remove deficiencies may not be used as part of the 30 units required for the master's degree in music.
- Additional requirements for specific programs are:
- For applicants to the Master of Music program: a live audition before members of the Music faculty or, for applicants unable to travel to San Francisco, a CD, videotape or DVD 30-45 minutes in duration demonstrating the student's current level of accomplishment. A repertoire list is also required, including an indication of those works on the list which have been performed in recital. (Please contact the School of Music and Dance to schedule an audition.)
- For applicants to the Master of Arts in Music with an emphasis in Music Education: a written description of the nature and extent of teaching experience. Applicants must also provide evidence of a valid teaching credential.
- For applicants to the Master of Arts program with an emphasis in Music History: representative examples of student analytical papers.
- For applicants to the Master of Arts program with an emphasis in Composition: representative scores and, if possible, tapes of recent musical compositions.
Written English Proficiency Requirement
Level One: Applicants to the MM and MA programs are required to submit writing samples, demonstrating graduate level, discipline-specific proficiency in music research. Samples may include writing assignments submitted to satisfy requirements in undergraduate history courses. Applicants with substandard writing may be considered not admissible. Students who have recently earned an undergraduate degree from SF State may be exempted from this requirement. Level Two: satisfactory completion of the Music History seminar from the 750 series.
Advancement to Candidacy
Advancement to candidacy occurs when an Advancement to Candidacy (ATC) form has been completed by the student and approved by the major adviser, college graduate coordinator, and the Dean of the Graduate Division. Prior to completion of the ATC form, the student must have been granted fully classified status (see #7 above); have satisfactorily completed both Written English Proficiency Requirements; have completed at least 12 semester units applicable to the degree with a B average or above; and have successfully completed review of the student's program with the faculty adviser.
Master’s Examination All candidates for Master of Arts in Music or the Master of Music degrees must pass a comprehensive examination that demonstrates their ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, their command of music theory, history, research and analytical skills, and musical repertoire. (This examination must be taken during the semester in which the student completes all course work.)
Master of Arts in Music
This program provides advanced study for students with highly developed interest and attainment in specific areas of music; prepares teachers for certain types of college music positions; provides prospective doctoral aspirants with a sound foundation for advanced graduate study; provides advanced academic qualifications for public school teachers; and prepares students for professional careers in composition. All emphases require either a culminating creative project or a master's thesis.
All students must complete a 9 unit core requirement and complete an emphasis as designated below. Enrollment is required during the semester of graduation.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Core Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 700 | Introduction to Graduate Study | 3 |
| MUS 710 | Advanced Analysis | 3 |
One graduate seminar in Music History (MUS 750-755): 3 units
Total for core: 9
Emphasis (listed below): 21
Minimum total: 30
Music Education Emphasis
This program is open to students who are either enrolled in the music teaching credential program or are credentialed music teachers seeking advanced qualifications. All candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university and have satisfied the requirements for the San Francisco State University approved subject matter program in music education or equivalent in the candidate's home state or country.
Music Education Courses
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 821 | Research in Music Education | 3 |
| MUS 822 | Designing Curricula in Music | 3 |
Choose from the following on advisement: 3 units
- MUS 761: Curriculum and Instruction in Music II
- MUS 852: Directed Experiences in Music (1-3)
Non-music electives on advisement: 9 units
Students enrolled in the music teaching credential program may fulfill these units with S ED 751 Classroom Environment and S ED 752 Professional Perspectives and Practices.
One of the following on advisement: 3 units
- MUS 894: Creative Work Project
- MUS 898: Master's Thesis
Students preparing for advanced study at the doctoral level should complete a master's thesis as a culminating project.
Total for emphasis: 21
Music History Emphasis
Music History Seminars (selected from MUS 750-755): 6 units
MUS 899: Special Study (2) 6: 4 units
Non-music electives on advisement: 6 units
Electives in music on advisement: 2 units
MUS 898: Master's Thesis: 3 units
Foreign Language Competency Examination 7 (French, German, Italian, or other approved language)
Total for emphasis: 21
Composition Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 716 | Graduate Theory Seminar | 3 |
| MUS 720 | Directed Projects in Theory or Composition 7 (1) | 4 |
| MUS 725 | Practicum in Composition 7 (1) | 4 |
| MUS 894 | Creative Work Project (Composition) | 3 |
Non-music electives on advisement: 6 units
Approved elective in music: 1 unit
Foreign Language Competency Examination 7 (French, German, Italian, or other approved language)
Total for emphasis: 21 units
Master of Music
This program provides graduate study for the superior performer and allows for maximum development of specialized skills in the candidate's particular area of documented achievement. Students may emphasize classical solo performance, chamber music, or conducting. This degree is particularly appropriate for students intending to perform or conduct music professionally, to teach applied performance in college/university settings or private studio, or to pursue doctoral studies in performance. The program culminates in a formal graduate recital.
All students must complete a 9 unit core requirement and complete an emphasis as designated below. Participation in a large conducted classical ensemble in the area of study is required of all graduate students (orchestral instruments and voice) enrolled in applied lessons. Enrollment is required during the semester of graduation.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Core Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 700 | Introduction to Graduate Study | 3 |
| MUS 710 | Advanced Analysis | 3 |
One graduate seminar in Music History (selected from MUS 750-755): 3 units
Total for core: 9 units
Emphasis (listed below): 21 units
Total for major: 30 units
Solo Classical Performance Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 776 | Graduate Piano, Voice, or Instrumental Major (2) (Maximum of 6 units allowed) |
4 |
| MUS 780 | Graduate Major Repertoire (2) (Maximum of 6 units allowed) | 4 |
| MUS 894 | Creative Work Project | 3 |
Music electives on advisement: 10 units
Total for emphasis: 21 units
Chamber Music Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 701 | Chamber Music Literature | 3 |
| MUS 776 | Graduate Piano, Voice, or Instrumental Major (2) (Maximum of 6 units allowed) |
4 |
| MUS 780 | Graduate Major Repertoire (2) (Maximum of 6 units allowed) |
4 |
Music electives on advisement: 7 units
[Must include 1 unit each of MUS 778, Chamber Music Performance; advanced score reading and transposition (MUS 852); and keyboard instruction. Performance ability in another instrument or voice is strongly encouraged.]
Total for emphasis: 21 units
Conducting Emphasis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MUS 701 or MUS 701 |
Choral Literature Symphonic Literature |
3 |
| MUS 781 or MUS 782 |
Choral Conducting (2) Instrumental Conducting (2) |
8 |
| MUS 894 | Creative Work Project | 3 |
[Concurrent enrollment in major ensembles is required each semester. Students will normally elect 3 semesters of their particular emphasis (instrumental or choral).]
Music electives on advisement. (Must include graduate/undergraduate major instruction as appropriate): 7 units
Total for emphasis: 21 units
Footnotes
- MUS 371, 372, 373, and 379 fulfill General Education requirements; therefore, an additional 3 units may be taken for GE and are not counted in the emphasis total.
- At least 1 unit must include MUS 270.
- At least 2 units must include MUS 388 or MUS 390.
- For the Diversified Concentration a minimum of 6 units must be in choral ensembles.
- Students with extensive background in music may substitute more advanced courses.
- Unit totals indicate the minimum requirement. Additional instruction may be required before the thesis/composition is undertaken.
- To be successfully completed prior to advancement to fully classified status in the program.
