SAMC’s Orchestra is dedicated to the exploration and sharing of the vast literature of symphonic music, presented on and off-campus to the glory of God. The core repertoire of this large ensemble is the masterworks of the eighteenth through twentieth centuries. In keeping with the School’s spirit of collaboration, the Orchestra also performs newly created works by SAMC faculty and student composers. Membership in this ensemble is open to students of all majors by audition.

An introduction to the historical, philosophical, sociological, and psychological foundations of music education. Topics covered include: program development, teaching methods, administration, supervision, and evaluation.

A continuation of MUSI 329, with emphasis on major works for larger ensembles. The study of composition with an emphasis on the student producing pieces in a variety of genres and styles (generally more extended works for a variety of ensembles or digital media). The course format involves weekly sessions of a private or semi-private nature, with the instructor guiding the student in his or her work. The workload expectations vary with the credit assigned (2 or 3 sem. hrs. credit).NB: May not be available every semester.

A continuation of MUSI 329, with emphasis on major works for larger ensembles. The study of composition with an emphasis on the student producing pieces in a variety of genres and styles (generally more extended works for a variety of ensembles or digital media). The course format involves weekly sessions of a private or semi-private nature, with the instructor guiding the student in his or her work. The workload expectations vary with the credit assigned (2 or 3 sem. hrs. credit).NB: May not be available every semester.

A continuation of MUSI 329, with emphasis on major works for larger ensembles. The study of composition with an emphasis on the student producing pieces in a variety of genres and styles (generally more extended works for a variety of ensembles or digital media). The course format involves weekly sessions of a private or semi-private nature, with the instructor guiding the student in his or her work. The workload expectations vary with the credit assigned (2 or 3 sem. hrs. credit).

An examination of representative musical literature spanning the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, including compositional practice, analysis, and approaches to history. Analytical issues are examined in response to questions of structural integrity, pitch and temporal organization, and the relationship of recent musical discourse to the tradition of the common practice. Students develop critical interpretive tools through engagement with musicological literature that addresses issues of history, the relationship of music and culture and aesthetic value.

An introduction to choral arranging techniques. Materials are taken from classical music, popular melodies, carols, and original melodies. Student arrangements are performed and discussed in class as often as possible.

The study of conducting techniques required for difficult examples using traditional compositional techniques and contemporary compositions, including aleatory music. Topics include the refinement of patterns and gestures, score preparation, and the psychology of musical organizations. Students from the class may be selected for performances with the campus ensembles.

An introduction to the principles and techniques of choral and instrumental conducting. The acquisition of fundamental conducting skills, facility in score reading and analysis, and rehearsal techniques are emphasized.

A continuation of the local church field placement of MUSI 402, typically in the same church. The field placement covers the entire semester, with scheduled involvement to be determined early in the semester in cooperation with the ministry leadership of the local church. It is expected that hands-on responsibilities in this semester are increased over those of MUSI 402. The student works under the immediate supervision of a staff or qualified lay leader in the local church, and within the general supervision of a TWU instructor.