This is an archived copy of the 2017-2018 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.sierracollege.edu.

Contact Information

Contact Information
Division
Liberal Arts
Dean
Anne Fleischmann (Interim)
Associate Dean
Lynn Medeiros (Interim)
Location
Division Office
W 107, Rocklin Campus

Overview

It is the mission of the Music Department to provide for every level of student and community member an affordable and accessible musical education in an atmosphere that embraces academic excellence, diversity and innovation. Whether students are interested in musical career and technical training, transfer to a four year institution, or lifelong learning, the Music Department will help foster a deeper awareness of the value that music plays in our students and in our community. The Sierra College Music Department encourages students and community members alike to follow their musical passion by developing their musical skills so they can make significant musical contributions to their lives and communities.

TRANSFER MAJOR REQUIREMENTS in Music are available in the Counseling Center. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for specific transfer requirements.

Faculty

Greg M. McLaughlin

Professor, Music

B.M., California State University, Sacramento
M.A., California State University, Sacramento

Jane L. Stave Viemeister

Professor, Music

B.M., Cornell University
M.A., University of Iowa
M.F.A., University of Iowa
Ph.D., University of Iowa

Degrees/Certificates

Associate Degree for Transfer

Associate Degree

Music for Transfer

AA-T Degree

The Associate in Arts in Music for Transfer program provides students with an opportunity to pursue their transfer goals through coursework in music theory, ear-training, sight-singing, applied music, and performance.

The Associate in Arts in Music for Transfer degree (AA-T) prepares students to transfer into the CSU system to complete a bachelor’s degree in Music, or a major deemed similar by a CSU campus.  Students earning an associate degree for transfer and meeting the CSU minimum transfer admission requirements are guaranteed admission with junior standing within the CSU system. Students are also given priority admission consideration to their local CSU campus but not to a particular campus or major. Upon transfer, students will be required to complete no more than 60 additional prescribed units to earn a bachelor’s degree.

To earn the Associate in Arts in Music for Transfer degree, students must complete 60 CSU-transferable semester units with a minimum grade point average of 2.0, including both of the following:

The exact wording of the law pertaining to associate degrees for transfer may be found in Education Code Section 66746.

It is highly recommended that, prior to transferring, students complete courses that satisfy the CSU United States History, Constitution and American Ideals graduation requirement. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for more information on university admission and transfer requirements.

RESTRICTION: International coursework from non-United States regionally accredited institutions cannot be applied to associate degrees for transfer.

Required Courses
MUS 0003AEar Training I1
MUS 0003BEar Training II1
MUS 0004AAdvanced Ear Training I1
MUS 0004BAdvanced Ear Training II1
MUS 0006AMusic Theory I3
MUS 0006BMusic Theory II3
MUS 0009AMusic Theory III3
MUS 0009BMusic Theory IV3
MUS 0051Applied Music (4 semesters, 1 unit each semester)4
Select 6 units from the following (4 semesters, 1.5 units each semester):6
Chamber Singers
Jazz Ensemble
Vocal Jazz Ensemble
Concert Choir
Jazz Improvisation Performance Ensemble
Wind Ensemble
Symphonic Band
Total Units26

Music

AA or AS Degree

The Music degree includes vocal and instrumental components, as well as courses in music, history and theory. The general program is designed to provide students with a foundation in music theory and history. Performance opportunities in both vocal and instrumental music enhance a student’s understanding and skill level. The Music degree prepares students for careers in music performance, education, composition, conducting, retail music industry, music publishing and music therapy. The degree also prepares students for further study at a four-year institution. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for more information on university admission and transfer requirements. Students must fulfill the following major requirements with grades of “C” or better, complete a minimum of 60 degree-applicable semester units (12 of which must be completed at Sierra College) with a grade point average of at least 2.0 and complete one of the following three general education patterns:

Required Courses
MUS 0003AEar Training I1
MUS 0003BEar Training II1
MUS 0006AMusic Theory I3
MUS 0006BMusic Theory II3
MUS 0009AMusic Theory III3
MUS 0009BMusic Theory IV3
MUS 0012ASurvey of Music History and Literature to 17503
MUS 0012BSurvey of Music History and Literature from 1750 to Present3
Select 4 units from the following:4
Beginning Piano I
Beginning Piano II
Intermediate Piano I
Intermediate Piano II
Select 3 units from the following:3
Chamber Singers
Jazz Ensemble
Vocal Jazz Ensemble
Concert Choir
Wind Ensemble
Symphonic Band
Total Units27

Courses

Understanding course descriptions

MUS 0002. Music Appreciation

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Foundation course recommended for all students seeking a basis for the understanding and enjoyment of music. Discussion of music elements, orchestral instruments, vocabulary, and historical styles and periods using time-proven masterworks. (C-ID MUS 100) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0003A. Ear Training I

Unit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 10 with grade of "C" or better or equivalent knowledge of music notation
Advisory: Concurrent enrollment in MUS 6A and MUS 40A
Hours: 44 (18 lecture, 26 laboratory)
This course applies and develops materials of MUS 6A used for musical analysis and dictation of rhythms, intervals, chords and melodies plus sight singing of short, simple diatonic melodies. (C-ID MUS 125) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0003B. Ear Training II

Unit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 3A with grade of "C" or better
Advisory: Concurrent enrollment in MUS 6B and MUS 40B
Hours: 44 (18 lecture, 26 laboratory)
This course applies and develops the rhythmic, melodic and harmonic materials of MUS 6B through ear training, sight singing, analysis and dictation. (C-ID MUS 135) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0004A. Advanced Ear Training I

Unit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 3B with grade of "C" or better
Advisory: Concurrent enrollment in MUS 9A and MUS 40C
Hours: 44 (18 lecture, 26 laboratory)
This course applies and develops the rhythmic, melodic and harmonic materials of MUS 9A through ear training, sight singing, analysis and dictation. (C-ID MUS 145) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0004B. Advanced Ear Training II

Unit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 4A with grade of "C" or better
Advisory: Concurrent enrollment in MUS 9B and MUS 40D
Hours: 44 (18 lecture, 26 laboratory)
This course applies and develops the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 9B through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. (C-ID MUS 155) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0006A. Music Theory I

Units: 3
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 10 with grade of "C" or better or equivalent knowledge of music notation
Advisory: Completion of MUS 40A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent piano skill; completion with grade of “C” or better or concurrent enrollment in MUS 3A
Hours: 54 lecture
Through guided composition and analysis, incorporates the following concepts: rhythm and meter; basic properties of sound; intervals; diatonic scales and triads; diatonic chords, basic cadential formulas and phrase structure; dominant seventh; figured bass symbols; and non-harmonic tones. Develops skills in handwritten notation. (C-ID MUS 120) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0006B. Music Theory II

Units: 3
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 6A with grade of "C" or better or passing score on examination
Advisory: Completion of MUS 40B with grade of "C" or better or equivalent piano skill; completion with grade of “C” or better or concurrent enrollment in MUS 3B
Incorporates the concepts from MUS 6A. In addition, through guided composition and analysis, includes: an introduction to two-part counterpoint; voice leading involving four-part chorale writing; diatonic harmony; and an introduction to secondary/applied chords and modulation. (C-ID MUS 130) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0007. Composition with Electronic Media

Units: 3
Advisory: Completion of MUS 10 and 40A with grades of "C" or better, or equivalent keyboard skills and ability to read music notation
Hours: 72 (54 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Introduction to electronic music creation, audio synthesis, sequencing, MIDI technology, and computer–aided music notation. Areas of coverage include signal flow, creation of sound patches and tracks, computer-aided score notation, and hardware/computer-aided sequencing. (CSU)

MUS 0009A. Music Theory III

Units: 3
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 6B with grade of "C" or better
Advisory: Completion of MUS 40C with grade of "C" or better or equivalent piano skill; completion with grade of “C” or better or concurrent enrollment in MUS 4A
Hours: 54 lecture
Incorporates the concepts from MUS 6B. In addition, through writing and analysis, includes: introduction to chromatic harmony; secondary/applied chords; modulation; borrowed chords; introduction to Neapolitan and augmented-sixth chords. (C-ID MUS 140) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0009B. Music Theory IV

Units: 3
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 9A with grade of "C' or better
Advisory: Completion of MUS 40D with grade of "C" or better or equivalent piano skill; completion with grade of “C” or better or concurrent enrollment in MUS 4B
Hours: 54 lecture
Incorporates the concepts from MUS 9A. In addition, through writing and analysis, includes: post-Romantic techniques such as borrowed chords and modal mixture, chromatic mediants, Neapolitan and augmented-sixth chords, 9th, 11th and 13th chords, altered chords and dominants; and 20th century techniques such as: Impressionism, tone rows, set theory, pandiatonicism and polytonalism, meter and rhythm. (C-ID MUS 150) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0010. Music Fundamentals

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
An elementary course designed to provide the basic musical skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary for reading or listening to music. Covers elements of music, scales, notation, rhythm, and sight reading. No prior musical training necessary. Note: Not open to students who are taking or have successfully completed MUS 3A-3B or MUS 6A-6B. (CSU, UC-with unit limitation)

MUS 0011. Introduction and History of Jazz

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to the history of jazz from traditional European, African and Latin origins to various contemporary and fusion styles. Contributions of great jazz artists studied. Focus placed on developing critical skills applicable to listening to jazz arrangements and improvisation. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0012A. Survey of Music History and Literature to 1750

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Study of the history of Western art music from antiquity through the Baroque Era including the influences of the Catholic Church, contributions of various personalities and cultures with selected readings, recordings, and score study. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0012B. Survey of Music History and Literature from 1750 to Present

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Study of the history of Western art music from the end of the Baroque era to the present, including contributions of other cultures with selected readings and recordings. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0013. Introduction to Music: History of Rock and Roll

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
History of Rock and Roll music in social, political, cultural, and economic context. Includes guided listening and video presentations to show the evolution of Rock from its roots to current stylistic trends. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0014. Introduction to Commercial Music Production

Units: 3
Advisory: Completion of MECH 10 with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (54 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Emphasis on audio concepts including basic and essential audio theory, development of critical listening skills, and perception of audio in the form of acoustic and electrical energy. Discussion and exercises in signal flow, recording facility configuration, sound reinforcement system set-up and working within different acoustic environments. Introductory training in equipment selection and placement as well as basic tracking techniques are offered. (CSU)

MUS 0015. Audio Recording

Units: 3
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 14 with grade of "C" or better
Advisory: Completion of MECH 10 with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (54 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Studio production techniques with added training on close miking of individual instruments. Coverage of analogue and digital multitrack recording techniques. Increased opportunity for practical implementation of signal processing techniques and use of related equipment such as multi FX and dynamics processors. Small group multitrack projects required. (CSU)

MUS 0025. Introduction to Music Business

Units: 3
Advisory: Completion of BUS 20 with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 54 lecture
Focus on the business side of the music industry including marketing, publishing, copyrights and licensing, and dealing with unions, guilds, artists and managers. Following a song from inception to production including recordings, contracts and merchandising. Exploration of non-performance career options in music. (CSU)

MUS 0028. Independent Study

Units: 1-3
Designed for students interested in furthering their knowledge at an independent study level in an area where no specific curriculum offering is currently available. Independent study might include, but is not limited to, research papers, special subject area projects, and research projects. See Independent Study page in catalog. (CSU, UC-with unit limitation)

MUS 0039A. Beginning Voice

Units: 2
Formerly known as MUS 39
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 activity)
Introductory study of efficient vocal production and performance. Beginning exercises for breath management, extending the vocal range, increasing vocal resonance and volume, and singing in an expressive manner introduced. Vocal exercises and solos are performed to demonstrate these skills. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0039B. Intermediate Voice

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 39A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 activity)
In-depth study of specific elements of efficient vocal technique and performance. Includes vowel purity, belt singing, and managing stage fright. Vocal exercises and songs from various music styles are performed, including selections made by students. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0039C. Advanced Voice I

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 39B with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 activity)
In-depth study of specific elements of efficient vocal technique and performance. Includes breath management in relation to posture, expressive singing via physical movement, unifying the register and range extension, resonance and vocal registers, expressive singing, stage presence, and the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to sing Italian songs. Vocal exercises and songs from various music styles are performed including selections made by students. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0039D. Advanced Voice II

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 39C with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 activity)
In-depth study of specific elements of efficient vocal technique and performance. Includes breath management using an efficient onset and release, managing the performance, resonance balancing using consonants, and song analysis to prepare a vocal piece for performance. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0040A. Beginning Piano I

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Eligibility for ENGL 50 or ENGL N or equivalent
Hours: 54 (36 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Beginning instruction in the fundamentals of playing piano. Note reading and basic playing techniques are introduced. Designed to develop musicianship and facility. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0040B. Beginning Piano II

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 40A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent piano skill with permission of instructor
Hours: 54 (36 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Continuation of MUS 40A using more advanced materials. Developing skills in harmonizing a melody, playing scales, sight-reading, chord inversions and repertoire. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0040C. Intermediate Piano I

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 40B with grade of "C" or better or equivalent with permission of the instructor
Hours: 54 (36 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Continuation of MUS 40B, with music drawn from intermediate levels. Ensemble playing, sight-reading and harmonization skills and knowledge. Individual needs and interests considered. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0040D. Intermediate Piano II

Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 40C with grade of "C" or better or equivalent with permission of instructor
Hours: 54 (36 lecture, 18 laboratory)
Continuation of MUS 40C, with music drawn from intermediate, late intermediate to early advanced levels. Ensemble playing, sight-reading, harmonization and improvisation developed. Individual needs and interests considered. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0042. Chamber Singers

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class, and include sight singing, preparation of a short musical excerpt, and an aural skills assessment
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Explores the literature and performance practices of vocal ensembles from the Renaissance to the present. Public performances, festivals, and field trips required. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0046. Jazz Ensemble

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class and require demonstrated ability to play at least one instrument commonly used in jazz ensemble
Advisory: Three to four years experience on instrument
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Rehearsal and performance of literature written for instrumental jazz ensemble, with emphasis on current musical trends. Study of improvisation. Public performances required. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0047. Vocal Jazz Ensemble

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class, and include sight singing, improvisation and preparation of a short musical excerpt, and an aural skills assessment
Advisory: Previous choral experience
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Study and performance of modern and vocal jazz styles, tone production, and rhythms. Public performances and field trips required. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0048. Concert Choir

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class, and include ability to match pitch and produce a good tone
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
A variety of choral experience performing repertoire, both sacred and secular, from the medieval, baroque, classical, romantic and modern periods of music history. Focuses on performance practice, musical style and poetic interpretation. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0049. Jazz Improvisation Performance Ensemble

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class and require demonstrated ability to play a melodic instrument and read music in the treble or bass clef
Advisory: Three to four years experience on instrument
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Fundamentals of jazz improvisation, including chord-scale application. Analysis of diverse styles of the great jazz artists through recordings and transcriptions. Development of a unique improvisational style as applied to performance. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0050. Wind Ensemble

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class and require demonstrated ability to play a melodic instrument and read music in the treble or bass clef
Advisory: Three to four years experience on instrument
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Training in the interpretation and performance of standard band literature, with emphasis on sight reading new band music. Advanced students given the opportunity for solo work. At least one public performance given each semester. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0051. Applied Music

Unit: 1
Formerly known as MUS 51A
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition before music faculty of level appropriate repertoire demonstrating technical and interpretive skills and ability to read music; limited to declared music majors only
Advisory: Three to four years experience on an instrument or voice prior to enrollment. Concurrent enrollment in an appropriate ensemble: MUS 42, 46, 47, 48, 50, or 54
Hours: 40 (7 lecture, 33 laboratory)
Individualized study of departmentally approved fine art performance curriculum. Emphasis on the progressive development of skills needed for solo performance. Student evaluated through a juried performance and a departmental recital. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 160) (CSU, UC-with limitation)

MUS 0054. Symphonic Band

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Enrollment Limitation: audition required; auditions generally occur the first week of class, and include demonstrated ability to play a symphonic band instrument
Advisory: Three to four years experience on instrument
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 laboratory)
Training in the interpretation and performance of standard band literature, with emphasis on sight reading new band music. Advanced students given the opportunity for solo work. At least one public performance each semester. May be taken four times for credit. (C-ID MUS 180) (CSU, UC)

MUS 0057A. Beginning Guitar

Unit: 1.5
Hours: 36 (18 lecture, 18 activity)
Learning fundamentals of the guitar: components of instrument, reading music notations, key structure and chord structure (open position), and finger picking. Students required to supply own instruments. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0057B. Beginning Guitar

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 57A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent with permission of instructor
Hours: 36 (18 lecture, 18 activity)
Further study of guitar fundamentals, including advanced finger picking and strumming techniques; two and three part note reading; and expanded notation and rhythmic development. Students required to supply own instruments. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0058A. Intermediate Guitar

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 57B with grade of "C" or better or equivalent with permission of instructor
Hours: 36 (18 lecture, 18 activity)
Learning chromatics, chord structure in closed positions, harmony as applied to songs, and major and minor scales. These techniques applied to songs in group performance. Students required to supply own instruments. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0058B. Intermediate Guitar

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 58A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent with permission of instructor
Hours: 36 (18 lecture, 18 activity)
Further study of chord melody construction. Learning moveable chords and application to song types, including 9th, 11th, and 13th chords. Students required to supply own instruments. (CSU, UC)

MUS 0810. Selected Topics in Music

Units: 0
Hours: 8 to 54 lecture as scheduled
Course designed for older adults. Study of selected styles and periods of music. Includes discussion of musical elements, composition, orchestration, vocabulary and history for the selected topics. May be repeated. (noncredit)

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

• Through the study of scale construction and key signatures, play major and minor scales in flat and sharp key signatures and scales in two octaves with both hands at a steady tempo.
• Apply solfege and/or counting techniques to an example of rhythmic notation in simple and compound meters in all keys and modes.
• Take melodic and rhythmic dictation with diatonic melodies that have some altered notes in simple and compound meters.
• Identify various intervals for their qualities (perfect, major, minor, augmented and diminished) in all major and minor keys and modes in notational form as well as aural form.
• Compare and contrast instrumental and vocal music of the major music periods from Ancient to 21st Century describing the historical origins and developments, socioeconomic influences and representative instruments and musical ensembles.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         • Define and identify five properties of music sound: pitch, dynamics, timbre, meter and rhythm.                                                                                                                                                                                       • Acquire physical, interpretive, and technical skills to perform level-appropriate repertoire.