Course Descriptions
Scroll down to read descriptions of the Master of Music courses offered at Carthage.
Voice Pedagogy: Anatomy and Function
MUS 5100 / 4 credits
This course examines respiration, phonation, resonance and articulation in speech and song as well as pedagogical strategies for working with voices of various age levels and experiences. Students will explore practical approaches to evaluating voices and remedying inefficiencies in voice production. Students will develop a familiarity with traditional and modern writings in voice pedagogy, and utilize this research in applied voice settings. This course will include the use of technology in pedagogical settings.
Contemporary Vocal Pedagogy and Styles
MUS 5200 / 4 credits
Students will develop an in-depth understanding of the technical recipes for music theatre vocal styles, including resonance and articulation interaction as well as musical style. This course will focus on efficient vocal technique that is grounded in a secure understanding of musical style elements as well as the integration of these elements with dramatic storytelling.
Prerequisite: MUS 5100
The Voice Profession: Readings and Issues
MUS 5300 / 4 credits
Through readings, discussion, and application, course participants will develop an understanding of the issues in music theatre voice training and the role of the voice teacher in the studio setting. Students in this course will develop a personal identity as a voice teaching professional with a focus on developing individual learning plans for students in private and educational settings.
Prerequisite: MUS 5200
Supervised Teaching Practicum
MUS 5400 / 1 credit
Students in this course will apply theoretical knowledge to develop their own unique teaching style. Students will have a practicum cohort for discussion and reflection on teaching practices. Students will be expected to teach 2 – 3 private students throughout the course of the term as assigned by the instructor.
Prerequisite: MUS 5100 or MUS 5200
Advanced Applied Music Study
MUS 5500 / 1 credit each; repeatable
This course provides opportunities for advanced, applied music study. Through technical exercises, repertoire study, and research of performance practice, participants will develop musical and artistic skills for the purpose of education and performance.
Movement and Voice Integration
MUS 5600 / 1 credit, repeatable
This course provides opportunities for music theatre students to explore the interrelation of voice and body as tools for creative expressions. Students in this course will develop skills in music theatre movement while developing advanced understandings of the implications for singers through seminar discussion and readings.
Literature and Coaching
MUS 5900 / 1 credit, repeatable
Students in this course will explore performance literature through individual coaching and biweekly group master class format.
Seminar in Analysis and Interpretation of Music Theatre
MUS 6000 / 4 credits
Students in this course will develop a thorough understanding of performance practices and stylistic characteristics of American music theatre through this variable content course. This course explores the interdisciplinary art form of music theatre through the integration of musical analysis with traditional performance-based textual analysis.
Music Theatre Collaboration: Music Theatre Directing/Rehearsal Techniques
MUS 6100 / 4 credits
This course prepares the music theatre voice specialist to collaborate as part of an integrated team with other music theatre specialists including stage directors, designers, and choreographers. This course focuses on the unique roles of the collaborative team as well as tools for integrating and developing effective practices. This course will also address rehearsal techniques, musical arrangements, licensing, auditions, and rehearsal planning.
Prerequisite: MUS 6000
Master of Music Competency Exams
MUS 6300 / 0 credits
Written competency exam to demonstrate broad knowledge as well as specific expertise related to the thesis project or performance.
Capstone Thesis Project or Performance
MUS 6310 / 4 credits
Successful performance project or thesis project, supervised by a faculty mentor, and evaluated by a faculty panel of at least three.
Prerequisite: Completion of at least 28 graduate credits in Music