MUS 101 - Theory of Music

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://catalog.nmc.edu.

Course Description

Theory of Music is a four-semester/two-year sequence of coursework designed for students who are pursuing music as an academic major or minor. The first year includes the basic materials of music: the structures of tonality, harmonic progression, and the technique of harmonization. Students are required to complete and analyze music using practices listed above. Group 2 course.

Credit Hours

3

Contact Hours

3

Lecture Hours

3

Corequisites

MUS 103, MUS 106

Recommended Prerequisites or Skills Competencies

An understanding of music fundamentals.

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge:
  • Identify basic elements of music notation such as clefs, pitches, and elements of rhythm.
  • Identify chord notation systems such as figured bass and lead sheets.
Application:
  • Analyze musical elements within short excerpts.
  • Construct scales, key signatures, intervals, chords, and cadences.
Integration:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of musical elements.
Human Dimension:
  • See themselves as artists.
  • Collaborate with others in a creative environment.
  • Recognize the personal and societal importance of self-expression and creativity.
Caring - Civic Learning:
  • Express interest in music from other cultures and genres.
  • Value differences in cultural expressions of creativity.
  • Recognize the role music plays as an expression of social concerns.
Learning How to Learn:
  • Read study effectively.
  • Frame useful questions.
  • Develop educational goals.
  • Direct/regulate their own learning.
  • Learn through collaboration.