This course will cover the basic skills needed for building new musical interfaces. The first skill, and the primary topic of this course is Sound Synthesis. We will learn about the most common ways for digitally generating (synthesizing) musical sounds. This includes various concepts from musical acoustics and psychoacoustics. But it also includes the practical details of how to actually synthesize sound on a digital computer.

Introductory keyboard skills; includes sight-reading, improvisation, and accompaniment at the keyboard in a variety of styles. No previous knowledge of music required. Satisfies the performance requirement for music majors. Prerequisite: Instructor permission by audition.

Studies in computer music studio techniques, sound synthesis using a variety of software packages based on the Macintosh platform, and the creation of original music using new technologies. Prerequisite: MUSI 3390 or instructor permission.

Technosonics is an introduction to the history, theory, and practice of electronic music and sound art. We will focus on the role of new technology in shaping musical thought, production, and culture from the turn of the century through today. Listening examples are drawn from a broad range of styles and genres, including experimental computer music, ambient and dance music, sound art, and multimedia.

A practical, hands-on course focusing on several music/dance forms from West Africa (Ghana, Togo) and Central Africa (BaAka), with the intention of performing during and at the end of the semester. Traditions include drumming, dancing, and singing. Concentration, practice, and faithful attendance are required. May be repeated for credit.

This course focuses on critical analyses of and questions concerning the "Black Voice" as it pertains to hip-hop culture, particularly rap and related popular musics. Students will read, analyze, discuss a wide range of thinkers to explore many conceptions and definitions of "Blackness" while examining popular artists and the statements they make in and about their art.

We often wonder about an artist's immense creativity, seemingly harnessed with ease. Each of us has tremendous resources of creativity, often under-explored. In this course, students learn to unlock their own potential. No previous artistic experience is required. Activities include readings & discussions; weekly responses; two reflective papers; a presentation on a "found" resource; & one creative project in a medium of the student's choice.

Symphonic Listening focuses on the sounds and forms of symphonic music. Listening skills are emphasized, with no prior musical knowledge required. We will learn to recognize orchestral instruments by their timbre, discern levels of consonance and dissonance, identify types of textures, and think critically about how musical content expresses cultural context. Students will gain a framework for understanding symphonic music of any genre.

When we think about knowing the world through the senses, we are likely to think of the visible world. But sound, hearing, and listening are crucial too. How do sound art, technology, and design create the world we inhabit and our everyday social and political experience? How can vibrations both heal and destroy? We will ponder such questions through theoretical, experiential, and creative explorations.

To develop intermediate and advanced guitar skills. For students who have taken MUSI 2307 or who have appropriate skills for the course.