Musical Studio (MUST)

This course presents the history of music theater on stage and how that influenced the development of film musicals in the United States. Through the study of iconic pieces and composers, students develop the ability identify, analyze, and critique music theater trends and genres from the early 18th century to the contemporary era.

The art of singing at sight is essential for all students pursuing careers in which music plays a vital role and is an important skill in the pursuit of a professional level of musicianship. This course applies the fundamentals of music theory to developing a “hearing eye”, the ability to look at music and determine from sight alone how it sounds. Rhythmic and pitch exercises are investigated systematically starting with simple to compound meters and major to minor keys and modes. Both Solfège and Scale Degree systems are employed, and class activities include a variety of aural and written exercises. No vocal training is required and exercises are limited to a one-octave range.

This course introduces students to the skills necessary to craft an interpretation of the songs that fall within the repertoire of American musical theater. The course is highly experiential, and students are expected to integrate the material through a series of in-class performances. Students are exposed to an extensive repertoire of musical theater and begin to build a portfolio of songs that has range, is personal and is thus suitable for auditions. Through examples and analysis, students learn to experience singing in a discerning manner and with a critical ear.

In this course, students learn and perform material from selected shows. Scenes are examined with respect to the music’s dramatic function and full context. The course emphasizes character work and the art of crafting the performance of a song within a scene. Students work in ensembles, and the scenes cover a broad cross section of repertoire.

This course concentrates on developing self-marketing skills, finding auditions and agents, and then preparing and executing skills specific to the audition process: finding material appropriate for the performer and the situation; covering different styles, periods and genres of musical material; and learning audition etiquette and good performance practices. Students practice acquired skills in a series of simulated auditions throughout the quarter.