Program Design
The Music Studies associate degree program provides students with the knowledge and skills required for direct employment in music-related careers (i.e., music retail, faith-based music worship services) or with a transfer-orientated course of study towards a baccalaureate degree in the music profession.
The Music Studies program also serves an ever-expanding population of diverse students seeking personal enjoyment in the study of music. Students may enroll in the program full- or part time. The credentialed music staff brings an understanding of the community college student to their teaching approach.
Curriculum
The curriculum has been revised as part of the process in seeking national accreditation as a school of music. Additions to the curriculum in the areas of music theory, ear training, piano and history align the program offerings with the first two years of a four-year accredited music degree program.
Specific changes include the following.
- Music theory has been expended to four levels-Music Theory I, II, III, IV.
- Private music instruction allows students to study with assigned private music teachers as part of the applied music course offerings on campus.
- Vocal and instrumental ensembles provide students with performance experiences in a variety of musical styles (i.e., Classical, contemporary, jazz).
- Music history courses include European Classical, American contemporary and jazz. •Music electives include music technology, beginning vocal and guitar, introduction to conducting and diction for singers.
- Voice students are required to complete one semester of foreign language as a humanities requirement in the fourth semester.
- Students completing the fourth semester of applied music will be required to perform in a group recital for the music faculty and the college community.
Admission Process
Proper advisement prior to entering the music studies program guarantees success in completing the degree. In compliance with the National Association for Schools of Music (NASM) accrediting standards, students interested in pursuing the MCC’s Music Studies A.A. Degree Program are required to audition with a member of the music faculty to determine their level of instrumental or vocal music proficiency. Auditions are scheduled for 15-minutes, and students will be required to perform, in person, two contrasting compositions.
The audition process, application and scheduled dates can be found on the Music Studies webpage in the left hand column under Audition Information. Students who indicate prior theory instruction may have the option to be tested and receive credit for MUS* B115: Music Theory I.
For any questions, please contact Dr. Deborah Simmons, Program Coordinator. (dsimmons@manchestercc.edu or 860-512-2674)
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