Music, A.A.

The Northwest College music curriculum offers student the courses and activities needed to begin a career in music. These include the study of music theory and history, the development of personal artistry, the use of music technology, group performance and those courses specific to careers in teaching, performance, or audio production. Students must earn a “C-“ or better in core courses, to fulfill the program requirements. With any discipline, students should consult the catalog of their transfer institution and work with their advisor in planning an appropriate course of study.

All courses in the music department are open to students regardless of their major area of study. Students from across campus are encouraged to participate in the many performing ensembles offered by the department.

Students declaring themselves as music majors must fulfill the following requirements:

• Pass an entrance exam in music theory and performance
• Major performing ensembles. For the AA degree, one major performing ensemble is required each semester enrolled as a music major. These ensembles include: College Band, Collegiate Choir, or Orchestra. For the AAS Music Technology degree two semesters selected from the following ensembles are required: College Band, Collegiate Choir, and Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble I, Vocal Jazz I, or Guitar Ensemble.
• Declare a major instrument or voice
• Enroll in applied music lessons (1 credit hour minimum for music education or music technology majors, 2 credit hours for music performance majors)
• Enroll in MUSC 0200 Convocation each semester
• Students must take the class piano sequence until MUSC 2395 (piano proficiency exam) is passed
• Fulfill the concert attendance requirements as stated in the music department handbook
• Successfully complete a jury examination at the end of each semester in applied music study

Students enrolling in applied lessons should obtain permission from the instructor prior to enrolling to assure appropriate the level of performance placement. Each credit hour of lessons requires a one-half hour private lesson per week in addition to individual practice. Students are responsible for meeting with the instructor during the first week of classes to schedule the lesson.

For other department information please refer to the music student handbook which can be found at the current student link on the music website at: www.northwestmusic.org

Northwest College is a fully accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).