This course is designed for the student who has basic musical literacy (ability to read music notation). In addition to the writing of melody, two-part counterpoint and four-part harmony, some attention will be given to the analysis of form and style. Because it is important that theoretical understanding be coordinated with musical application, time will be devoted to the development of musicianship. Consideration will be given to individual skills and abilities, hopefully allowing for the maximum development of each student. (Elementary music reading ability)

This course explores the composition, arrangement, mixing, and mastering of modern electronic music. Topics include aesthetics of formal song structure and melodic and harmonic construction techniques, synthesis and sound design, using a digital audio workstation (DAW) to program musical elements using audio or MIDI, sound processing using effects such as equalization and compression, and introductory mastering techniques.

This course will survey the development of American jazz music, highlighting representative composers and performers and significant works. Particular attention will be drawn to the multi-racial influences on the creation of jazz music and its relationship to American culture as a whole.

An audio professional working in the gaming industry is required to possess not only musical and audio talent, but also knowledge and experience with typical audio workflow. Composing for Video Games and Interactive Media prepares the student for a career in the industry by covering the many facets of sound production and engineering that are particular to game music and other forms of interactive media.

This course examines the theoretical foundations of jazz and popular music, focusing on advanced harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic concepts. Key topics include extended harmony, chord-scale relationships, chord substitution, reharmonization, melodic embellishment, counterpoint, voice leading, meter, rhythm, and syncopation. Students will explore these concepts within standard 12-bar blues forms, 32-bar song forms, and modern pop song arrangements. Through aural analysis, ear training, transcription, and model composition exercises, students will deepen their understanding of chord progressions, melodic development, and song structure, with special emphasis on interpreting and writing chord symbols and lead-sheet notation. The course also examines the historical and social impact of influential jazz and popular music composers and performers, highlighting how these artists shaped the evolution of music. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze a wide range of repertoires and create original compositions that demonstrate a deeper understanding of jazz and popular music theory.