Music Education Course Descriptions

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

An experience-based project in music developed in consultation with a designated supervisor and a conservatory faculty member, comprising a work component and an academic component. The academic component of the internship, carried out under the supervision of the faculty member, may include readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty member, and a written report or other culminating project appropriate to the discipline. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

An introduction to the philosphy of music education and the principles of learning theory and pedagogy, and improvisation as applied to the private lesson, instrumental and choral ensembles, and the general music classroom. In addition, the course includes observation of experienced teachers, in-class teaching, and improvisation.

An introduction to singing technique, voice use, and health. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

An examination of various approaches to designing music instruction for general music environments. The course provides future teachers with strategies and learning theories for improving large group teaching and motivating all learners to succeed. Instructional skills and evaluation techniques needed for classroom application in diverse school settings will be addressed. PREREQUISITES: Prior completion or concurent enrollment in MUEP 336, and MURP 223, or consent of instructor.

An introduction to individualized instrumental instruction. Directed reading and discussion concerning instrumental technique and pedagogy, learning theory, and lesson planning. Includes supervised teaching of private lessons and observation of experienced teachers. May be repeated for credit. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing and consent of instructor

An introduction to cello teaching. Directed reading and discussion concerning technique and pedagogy, learning theory, and lesson planning. Includes supervised teaching of private lessons and observation of experienced teachers.

An introduction to individualized brass instrument instruction. Directed reading and discussion concerning brass instrument technique, pedagogy, and lesson planning.

An introduction to teaching the flute. Directed reading and discussion concerning technique and pedagogy, learning theory, and lesson planning. Includes supervised teaching of private lessons and observation of experienced teachers. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

An intensive study and direct application of pedagogical principles related to clarinet instruction at all levels. Students will consider and discuss traditions and trajectories of global clarinet instruction, develop materials necessary for a career in applied education, establish a pedagogy authentic to their own lived experience, and use their skills in evaluated hands-on teaching experiences and to generate materials for usage moving forward.

Students will explore the world of percussion literature through listening, performing, and visual learning. By listening to recordings of seminal pieces and watching master performers, students will gain insights into various styles, techniques, and performance practices. Each class will delve into the historical context, compositional techniques, and traditions of percussion music, enriching students' appreciation and understanding of the art form. PREREQUISITES: Instructor Approval

Students will study the pedagogical and performing principles of instruments such as the tambourine, triangle, bass drum, cymbals, shaker, and more. Through the study of ensemble repertoire, students will develop understanding of common practices essential for the successful performance of these instruments. The skills learned in this class benefit students’ performance in large ensembles, auditions and professional endeavors. This course may be repeated. PREREQUISITES: Instructor Approval

Students will explore the world of percussion literature through listening, performing, and visual learning. By listening to recordings of seminal pieces and watching master performers, students will gain insights into various styles, techniques, and performance practices. Each class will delve into the historical context, compositional techniques, and traditions of percussion music, enriching students' appreciation and understanding of the art form. PREREQUISITES: Instructor Approval

An introduction to piano teaching. Study of learning process and teaching methods and materials. Work with lesson and curriculum planning and instructional techniques for both groups and individuals, from average-age beginners through intermediate-level students. Required observation of experienced teachers and supervised teaching. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor

An introduction to piano teaching. Study of learning process and teaching methods and materials. Work with lesson and curriculum planning and instructional techniques for both groups and individuals, from average-age beginners through intermediate-level students. Required observation of experienced teachers and supervised teaching. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 301

An introduction to piano teaching. Study of learning process and teaching methods and materials. Work with lesson and curriculum planning and instructional techniques for both groups and individuals, from average-age beginners through intermediate-level students. Required observation of experienced teachers and supervised teaching. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 302

An introduction to class guitar and individual guitar instruction. Includes reading and discussion, lesson and curriculum planning, observation of experienced teachers and a survey of pedagogical materials. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

Structured to prepare teachers of elementary, middle school, and high school students. Jazz education philosophies, teaching improvisation/aural skills/interaction, fostering composition/arranging in the school program, small group development, large ensemble rehearsal techniques, repertoire/ programming, and public presentation. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing or consent of instructor

An overview of woodwind, brass, string, and percussion instrument families, with discussion of solutions to common problems encountered when dealing with these instruments. PREREQUISITES: MUTH 301

An introduction to the teaching of brass instruments, with emphasis on teaching principles and their application to school music. Theoretical and practical playing knowledge of all brass instruments required. Discussion and evaluation of method, materials, and literature. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

An introduction to the teaching of percussion instruments, with emphasis on teaching principles and their application to school music. Theoretical and practical playing knowledge of all percussion instruments required. Required observation, discussion, and evaluation of method, materials, and literature. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

A study of the woodwind instruments, with emphasis on teaching principles and their application to school music. Laboratory fee. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

A study of the woodwind instruments, with emphasis on teaching principles and their application to school music. Laboratory fee. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 321 or consent of instructor.

Class instruction in all bowed string instruments, with emphasis on teaching principles and their application to string classes in elementary and secondary schools. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing; recommended that string majors take this course during the sophomore year

Class instruction in all bowed string instruments, with emphasis on teaching principles and their application to string classes in elementary and secondary schools. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 331 or consent of instructor.

A concentrated course encompassing a wide range of pedagogical approaches and principles involved in teaching and playing the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Topics include the study of major pedagogues, including Galamian, Suzuki, Rolland, and others. Offered even years only.

Beginning guitar and recorder instruction providing practical application of basic performance techniques to the elementary music classroom for the purpose of teaching.

This course centers Indigeneity by exploring how we may practice and enact decolonization at institutions through ethnographic analyses and studying talk and symbolic practice. We will equip students with the skills to identify and assess how colonialism currently affects them today in an effort to create innovation around systemic structural change. Using an interdisciplinary lens students will investigate the topic through music, art, literature, and ethnographic research. Field experiences and guest presenters from Indigenous communities will be an important component of this course. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

This course is designed to equip future educators with a basic understanding of the various details and responsibilities involved in mounting a musical theatre production. Topics include: choosing a musical, rehearsal schedules, finances, stage direction/blocking, lighting, sound, choreography, and pit orchestra. Offered every other year, fall term (even years). PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

Application of teaching strategies, learning theory, and lesson planning to private lesson instruction. Directed teaching and discussion of journal articles and texts addressing issues relevant to studio teaching. Students enrolled in the course are assigned a student from outside the university and teach an observed private lesson each week. May be repeated for credit. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 201 or MUEP 245

This course is designed to develop pedagogical competencies necessary for teaching general music in grades pre-K to 12. This course will strengthen understanding of culturally relevant pedagogy, Kodaly, Orff, and Dalcroze methodologies through solfège, improvisation, theory and movement. A practicum at a diverse area school is a key feature of this course. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 240, MUEP 336 and MURP 223

A pre-student-teaching opportunity to integrate coursework in general music with practical teaching experience in grades K-12. Two and one-half hours of teaching per week with weekly conferences with instructor. Teaching hours will count toward the 100 practicum hours required prior to student teaching. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 232, MUEP 335, MUEP 350, and MURP 212; or consent of instructor

An introduction to the science and pedagogy of singing, emphasizing the physiology and pedagogy of respiration for singing, the voice source, vocal acoustics, and registration. The application of voice science to pedagogy, issues of pedagogical philosophy and psychology, vocal line, vocal vibrato, and vocal hygiene also are introduced. 3 units awarded upon completion of MUEP 372. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing or consent of instructor; credit awarded upon completion of MUEP 372

A continuation of MUEP 371. Supervised student teaching with weekly lab discussions on issues arising from the teaching experience. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 371

An introduction to choral and instrumental conducting: baton and rehearsal techniques, and score-reading (utilizing aural and keyboard skills). Lab required. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing, MUTH 301 and BKS

Advanced study arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

An experience-based project in music developed in consultation with a designated supervisor and a conservatory faculty member, comprising a work component and an academic component. The academic component of the internship, carried out under the supervision of the faculty member, may include readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty member, and a written report or other culminating project appropriate to the discipline. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Students considering an honors project should register for independent study for one or more terms.

Concepts and techniques appropriate to effective leadership of musical ensembles in the 6th-12th grade band, choir, or orchestra setting. Topics include programming and repertoire, rehearsal planning, assessment, community leadership, strategies for working with wind, brass, string, percussion instruments and vocalists, adaptive strategies, and curriculum design with incorporation of national standards for learning. PREREQUISITES: Junior Standing, MUEP 380

This course for students seeking certification to teach music (choral, general, and/or instrumental) focuses on adapting music instruction to learners with disabilities. Practicum of 10 hours required in a music class that includes learners with special needs. PREREQUISITES: EDST 180, junior standing, and declared major in music education

A continuation of instrumental conducting studies; rehearsal technique; aural, vocal, and written score analysis; and improvisation. Specific topics pertinent to the student’s emphasis addressed. Required participation in instrumental lab. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 403

Students will transfer ensemble techniques from MUEP 403 to the choral setting. Includes more intensive formal score analysis, lesson planning, vocal modeling, and listening. Students will begin to develop inner hearing, demonstrate an ability to play and sing the score, refine rehearsal efficiency, and demonstrate effective nonverbal skills as well while conducting. Students will also teach in a high school or middle school choral classroom. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 403 Corequisite: MUEP 307

A course in how to teach the advancing pianist, with a survey of piano literature for the pre-college student. Readings on style, technique, form, and practice techniques. Required observation of conservatory piano faculty. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 303

Study of different types of group teaching situations: in the schools, independent studios, different age and special-interest groups, repertoire classes. Techniques for teaching in the electronic piano laboratory. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 303

Internship in independent studio teaching. Opportunity to integrate coursework in piano pedagogy with practical experience in an independent piano studio. Exploration of the business and professional aspects of establishing an independent teaching studio. Studio placement must be approved by instructor. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 303

Supervised teaching in the Lawrence Community Music School. Includes weekly conferences with the pedagogy instructor. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 303

Supervised teaching in the Lawrence Community Music School. Includes weekly conferences with the pedagogy instructor. PREREQUISITES: MUEP 303

Advanced study arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

An experience-based project in music developed in consultation with a designated supervisor and a conservatory faculty member, comprising a work component and an academic component. The academic component of the internship, carried out under the supervision of the faculty member, may include readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty member, and a written report or other culminating project appropriate to the discipline. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Students considering an honors project should register for independent study for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

The seminar will engage students in critical reflection upon their teaching experience. Concrete and theoretical problems having to do with teaching and learning will be explored (e.g., classroom management, assessment of pupil performance, curriculum design, instructional methods), as will issues having to do with educational policy and school organization. PREREQUISITES: Concurrent enrollment in MUEP 680 or consent of the instructor

Student teaching is a full-day, full-semester (18-week) experience combining observation with practice teaching in K-12 schools within a 45-mile radius of campus. Concurrent registration in MUEP 660 Advanced Methods in Teaching Music is required. PREREQUISITES: Senior standing and admission to student teaching program; contact department chair about specific prerequisites and co-requisites

This is an overseas student teaching option in music. After nine weeks of student teaching in the greater Fox Valley, students will be placed in one of 16 countries to complete the student teaching practicum. International student teaching is available during 13th term. For students in the five-year double-degree program, a 16th term of student teaching is available under the same policy. Students must have been admitted to the student teaching program and have met all requirements for domestic student teaching. Contact the department chair for additional admission and fee requirements. PREREQUISITES: Senior standing and admission to student teaching program; contact the music education department chair about specific prerequisites, co-requisites, admission and fee requirements

Advanced study arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

An experience-based project in music developed in consultation with a designated supervisor and a conservatory faculty member, comprising a work component and an academic component. The academic component of the internship, carried out under the supervision of the faculty member, may include readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty member, and a written report or other culminating project appropriate to the discipline. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Students considering an honors project should register for independent study for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.