Bachelor of Arts in Music

The Music department is not a music school; because Dartmouth College is a liberal arts institution, the department does not hold auditions nor are applications made directly to the department. If a matriculating student wishes to pursue a major or minor in music, concentration can be on any of the following: composition, theory, history, ethnomusicology, or performance. General music major: MUS 20 (unless exempted by a grade of 5 on the AP Music Theory exam or by an equivalent exam administered by the Music Department) and MUS 25. Two courses numbered between 21 and 29 exclusive of the prerequisites (theory). Two courses numbered between 40 and 49 (time, place, and culture). Five additional courses, of which three or more must be numbered 21 or above, and including: a) at least one course in the Individual Instruction Program (MUS 53–58), b) one course that represents the Non-Western Cultures category within the World Cultures Requirement (these courses include: MUS 4; MUS 17.1, MUS 17.2, 17.3, MUS 45; and MUS 51). (MUS 45 may be used to fulfill 2 above; and MUS 51 may be used to fulfill 3b above.) MUS 1 and MUS 7 may not be used to fulfill any requirements for the music major. Enrollment for credit in MUS 50 or three terms of documented participation in a Hopkins Center ensemble. Culminating Experience: participation in the Department of Music’s culminating experience program during the senior year. Demonstration of proficiency on keyboard instruments either by enrolling in MUS 53 (individual piano lessons) or by passing a keyboard proficiency exam administered by the department. Students taking the keyboard proficiency exam must do so no later than the spring term of their third year. Major with a concentration on composition & sonic arts: Students who follow this pathway will focus on gaining the necessary skills for making music in contemporary styles. Major with a concentration on performance: Students who follow this pathway will focus on the development of their artistic and technical skills as performing musicians within the context of studying music history and culture, literature, and theory. Major with a concentration on time, place, and culture: Students who follow this pathway will focus on the ways that history and culture have shaped music in particular times and places, and develop their ability to interpret, analyze, and critique music as a key element of culture, history, and social life.