Music Fundamentals & Theory
Music Fundamentals and Theory Courses
Music theory allows students to understand music arrangement principals that can be used in educational settings and ultimately performances.
VanderCook College of Music provides candidates of conferring degree programs with an in-depth study of the principles of music theory, harmony, arranging, composition, aural perception and formal musical analysis.
While the basis of learning music theory depends on skills from each of these categories, VanderCook prides itself as one the best music composition schools in the country. Students learn to create masterful, complex and unique musical arrangements through the process.
An advanced music theory curriculum allows students to expand upon basic theories and nurture creativity in a first-class music education program.
Music Theory Program Structure and Graduation Requirements
Music theory courses that focus on music fundamentals are among five core learning areas for all undergraduate students.
Consistent with other program requirements for undergraduate degrees, all candidates must select either a vocal or instrumental track to follow. However, students in all degree programs are required to complete 16 credit hours as part of the Music Fundamentals and Theory Program.
What Music Theory classes are part of VanderCook's degree programs?
All undergraduate students have the opportunity to receive instruction in the following courses that make up the Music Fundamentals and Theory program:
- Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Formal Musical Analysis – I, II, III & IV
- Arranging and Composition – Instrument and Choral Arranging and Jazz Harmony
Need information about other undergraduate requirements? Learn more about additional courses of study.
Continued Music Theory Education Courses
Music theory and its applicability continues far past the undergraduate level. If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge base, consider advanced music theory education courses through VanderCook’s Music Education Center of America (MECA) Continuing Education program. You can even accumulate credit hours and use them towards an advanced degree.
Enroll in MECA courses.