Music (MUS Courses)
MUS 100 Music Appreciation
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An overview of the music of Western (European) civilization including analysis of
its common forms, examination of its basic elements, survey of its development, and
discussion of its relationship to the other arts and to general cultural history.
Designed for the general student; music majors should enroll in Music 101 and 102.
MUS 101 Music History Ancient-Baroque
3.0 units.
Advisories: ENGL 101 - Freshman Composition: Exposition
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A study of the development of the music of Western civilizations from the ancient
Greeks and early Christian periods through music of the eighteenth-century Baroque
period. Recommended course for the music major.
MUS 102 Music History Classical-Modern
3.0 units.
Advisories: ENGL 101 - Freshman Composition: Exposition ; MUS 101 - Music History Ancient-Baroque
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A study of the development of music from the Classic and Romantic periods through
the contemporary period. Recommended course for the music major.
MUS 104 Roots of Pop, Rock, Jazz
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A general survey course tracing the roots and special idiosyncrasies of the American
popular music tradition from medieval Europe and Africa to the commercial and non-commercial
world of today.
MUS 106 World Music Appreciation
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A study of the music of many cultures around the world. Includes an overview of the
cultures and social situations that gave rise to these varied musical forms of expression.
MUS 110 Music Fundamentals
2.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A basic and elementary approach to reading music, writing musical notation, and singing
simple songs. Designed for the non-music major and the Elementary Teaching Credential
candidate.
MUS 111 Music Theory 1
4.0 units.
Advisories: MUS 110 - Music Fundamentals ; or The ability to read music.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
C-ID Course Number: MUS 120, MUS 125
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A comprehensive course dealing with the fundamentals of traditional music theory and
its applications in classical, commercial and global music. Course concepts include
rhythm, meter, basic properties of sound, intervals, scales, modes, triads, seventh
chords, 4-part voice leading, phrase structure, cadential formulas, figured-bass and
non harmonic tones. These topics will be studied through guided composition and analysis
as well as ear training, sight singing, aural analysis and dictation.
MUS 112 Music Theory 2
4.0 units.
Prerequisite: MUS 111 - Music Theory 1
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
C-ID Course Number: MUS 130, MUS 135
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A continuation of Comprehensive Music Theory 1. In addition, through guided composition
and analysis, the course will include: an introduction to two-part counterpoint; voice
leading involving four-part chorale writing; diatonic harmony; and an introduction
to secondary chords and modulation. These rhythmic, melodic and harmonic materials
will be applied and developed through ear training, sight singing and dictation.
MUS 113 Music Theory 3
4.0 units.
Prerequisite: MUS 112 - Music Theory 2
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
C-ID Course Number: MUS 140, MUS 145
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A continuation of Comprehensive Music Theory 2, dealing with sight singing, ear training,
one and two-part melodic dictation, advanced materials of musicianship and rhythmic
notation, advanced modulation techniques, tertian extensions of the triad including
9th, 11th and 13th chords, augmented sixth chords, Neapolitan sixth chords, advanced
four-part harmonic writing, and analysis as well as Sonata form.
MUS 114 Music Theory 4
4.0 units.
Prerequisite: MUS 113 - Music Theory 3
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
C-ID Course Number: MUS 150, MUS 155
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A continuation of Comprehensive Music Theory 3 dealing with sight singing, ear training,
melodic dictation, complex rhythmic notation, and materials of musicianship, Post-Romantic
harmony, quartal and quintal harmony, Impressionist harmonic procedures, Jazz, Atonality,
the 12-tone method, integral serialism, aleatorism, Post-Serialism and minimalism.
MUS 115 Introduction to Sound Recording & Mixing
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Course Offered:
Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the equipment, terminology and procedures of sound engineering.
Combines lectures and demonstrations with hands-on use of equipment. Students will
have the opportunity to use professional sound recording and processing equipment
in various recording and mix-down situations. This course is not open to students
who are enrolled in or have received credit for Film 120.
MUS 116 Sound Production Techniques
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Explores the digital audio software for recording music and computer-based multi-track
sound recording for producing audio for video projects, as well as the use of digital
signal processors for mixing and mastering recordings. This course is not open to
students who have received credit for or who are currently enrolled in FILM 121.
MUS 117 Electronic Music MIDI Recording
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Course Offered:
Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the use of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI). Includes
working with synthesizers, sequencing and music notation in a MIDI-controlled environment.
This course is intended for music majors and non-majors.
MUS 118 Intro to Electronic Music
3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the various areas of electronic music, including the history of
electronic music, sound synthesis techniques and the use of digital and analog synthesizers
in a recording studio. Designed for both music majors and non-majors.
MUS 119 Electronic Music Studio Technique
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: MUS 118 - Intro to Electronic Music
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Provides the opportunity for the student to apply and refine the sound synthesis skills
introduced in Music 118.
MUS 120 Piano 2
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: MUS 128 - Piano 1
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Summer
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A basic piano course covering music reading, playing scales and arpeggios, simple
chords, sight reading, and two handed elementary level pieces. Recommended for perspective
elementary classroom teachers and music majors who have had little or no piano training.
MUS 121 Piano 3
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: MUS 120 - Piano 2
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A continuation of Music 120, covering technical problems, scales, arpeggios, chording,
sight reading, fundamentals of technique, and the interpretation of piano literature
within the ability of each student. Recommended for prospective elementary classroom
teachers and music majors who have had an introduction to piano playing.
MUS 122 Piano 4
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: MUS 121 - Piano 3
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A study of standard piano repertoire from style periods ranging from the Baroque period
to modern works. Students will continue the study of scales, arpeggios, and correct
performance practices.
MUS 123 Voice 2
2.0 units.
Prerequisite: MUS 129 - Voice 1
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the fundamental techniques of vocal performance. Topics include
warm-up techniques, proper breathing, phrasing, vocal production diction, as well
as an introduction to the vocal repertoire and associated performance practices.
MUS 124 Voice 3
2.0 units.
Prerequisite: MUS 123 - Voice 2
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A continuation of the development of vocal performance techniques introduced in MUS
123. Topics include exercises for the extension of the vocal range and improvement
of diction and tone, as well as the study and performance of more difficult works
from the vocal repertoire.
MUS 125 Beginning Guitar
1.0 unit.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introduction to the techniques of guitar performance including reading music and
performing scales, chord patterns and beginning level pieces. The course is intended
for music majors and non-majors. Students must provide his/her own acoustic guitar.
MUS 126 Intermediate Guitar
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: MUS 125 - Beginning Guitar
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A continuation of Music 125 covering technical problems, scales, chording, sight reading,
fundamentals of technique, and the interpretation of guitar literature within the
ability of each student.
MUS 127 Voice 4
2.0 units.
Prerequisite: MUS 124 - Voice 3
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A study of standard vocal repertoire with an emphasis on solo and small ensemble literature.
Students practice correct tone production, diction, stage presence, and style interpretation.
MUS 128 Piano 1
1.0 unit.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introductory lecture/lab course designed for the first time piano student, with
instruction focused on good hand and finger position, learning the notes on the keyboard
and music staff, and counting simple rhythms accurately. No prerequisites required.
MUS 129 Voice 1
2.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An introductory singing lecture/lab course designed for the aspiring singer with little
or no knowledge of vocal and music fundamentals. Emphasis Is placed on good vocal
habits and instruction will include group lessons as well as private coaching, opportunities
to work with a piano accompanist, and a recital performance. No prerequisites required.
MUS 130 Mixed Ensemble
2.0 units.
Limitations on Enrollment: Audition at first class meeting.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Designed to give singers with varying degrees of musical experience the opportunity
to rehearse and perform standard choral literature in a broad range of styles, including
a cappella and instrumentally accompanied works. Public appearances are scheduled
throughout the semester with an emphasis on community outreach.
MUS 132 Masterworks Chorale
2.0 units.
Limitations on Enrollment: Audition at first class meeting.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Study and performance of standard choral literature of the later Baroque and early
Classical periods. Includes the study and performance of selected larger, accompanied
works. Public concert appearances presenting repertoire in a wide range of styles.
MUS 133 Chamber Voices
2.0 units.
Limitations on Enrollment: Audition at first class meeting.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Provides the opportunity to study and perform standard choral literature of the Baroque
and Classical periods. A cappella performance is emphasized. Public concert appearances
will include repertoire in a wide range of styles, including accompanied works. Audition
at first class meeting.
MUS 137 Concert Chorale
2.0 units.
Limitations on Enrollment: Audition at first class meeting.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Designed to give singers the opportunity to rehearse and perform standard choral literature
with emphasis on large choral works.
MUS 140 Symphonic Band
1.0 unit.
Limitations on Enrollment: Audition.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
The study of band literature, techniques of ensemble playing, and concert performance.
Numerous public performances.
MUS 143 Jazz Band
1.0 unit.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Designed for members of the Allan Hancock College Jazz Band, which will perform a
variety of traditional and contemporary jazz works. The band will make several appearances
during the semester.
MUS 144 Jazz Improvisation
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: Ability to play appropriate instrument and read music.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Focuses on the development of various improvisational techniques in both small ensemble
and Big Band Jazz situations. There will be several performances during the course
of the semester.
MUS 145 Big Band Jazz
1.0 unit.
Prerequisite: Ability to play an appropriate instrument and read music
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A performance ensemble that specializes in the Big Band and Swing Music of the 1930s
and 1940s.
MUS 146 Jazz Ensemble
1.0 unit.
Advisories: ability to play an appropriate instrument and read music
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
A performance ensemble that specializes in the music of Jazz composers and arrangers
from the second half of the 20th century. The ensemble will have several performances
each semester.
MUS 151 Concert Band
1.0 unit.
Limitations on Enrollment: Audition
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Repeatable: 3.00
Course Offered:
Fall, Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
The study of concert band literature, with an emphasis on ensemble performance and
rehearsal techniques. There will be several public performances.
MUS 160 Music Business
2.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer CSU
Course Offered:
Spring
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
An overview of business concerns that affect musicians and composers in the fields
of live performance and sound recording. Topics include copyright; royalties; the
roles of managers, agents, and attorneys; as well as Internet issues.
MUS 189 Independent Projects
1.0 - 3.0 units.
Acceptable for credit: Transfer to UC, CSU
Grading Method: Letter Grade or Pass/No Pass
Courses for students capable of independent work who demonstrate the need or desire
for additional study beyond the regular curriculum. Enrollment allows students to
pursue activities such as directed field experience, search or development of skills
and competencies under faculty advisement and supervision. Independent Projects may
be earned in most disciplines.
Students wishing to enroll in Independent Projects should contact the appropriate
Academic Dean, or an instructor identified in the class schedule. If the project proposed
is acceptable to that instructor, a contract will be developed. All contracts for
these classes must be completed and approved by the appropriate dean before the last
day of enrollment.
Units are awarded depending upon satisfying performance and the amount of time committed
by the students to the course. Allowable units vary according to discipline, and are
based on the following formula:
1 unit - 48 hours per semester
2 units - 96 hours per semester
3 units - 144 hours per semester