2026-2028 Catalog

music.calpoly.edu

The Bachelor of Arts in Music introduces a student to the role of music in today's world, helps form personal goals, and provides the discipline, skills and knowledge to accomplish those goals. The program develops musical skills, encourages creativity, and cultivates vision for the future. The University's polytechnic emphasis also provides an excellent opportunity to explore music in conjunction with a wide range of other fields. Graduates are prepared to begin specialized study at the graduate level and to enter a wide variety of professional careers.

The Music Department is a valuable resource for the non-music major. Its courses and performing ensembles are open to all students who wish to enrich their lives through music. Qualified students may explore the subject in depth by minoring in music.

The Music Department also serves as a cultural center for both the university and the community through a program of public performances by student and faculty groups and through clinics, workshops, concerts, and lectures by outstanding individuals from outside the university.

Acceptance into the music major program requires a demonstrated ability on an instrument or in voice, or talent through other musical media, plus the ability to read music at a fundamental level. An audition is required before admission to evaluate whether a student meets the program's expected level of musical ability.

Undergraduate Programs

Undergraduate Minors

How to Read Course Descriptions

MU Courses

MU 1100 Introduction to Music Studies (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Music major or minor.

Introduction to the requirements of the music major, practical methods and cultural objectives of music, available resources, strategies for academic and performance success, and career options in music and related fields with an emphasis on career options and planning. 1 lecture.
MU 1101 Music Fundamentals (3 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
2026-28 or later catalog: GE Area 3A
2020-26 catalogs: GE Area C1

Introduction to materials and structures of music and their use by composers and performers in diverse cultural contexts. Notation of dynamics, pitch, rhythm, scales, key signatures, intervals, and chords. Analysis of musical syntax based on these elements. Concert attendance required. 3 lectures. Fulfills GE Area 3A (GE Area C1 for students on the 2022-26 catalog).
MU 1103 Materials and Structures of Music I (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Placement exam, MU 101, or MU 1101 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor.

Introduction to species counterpoint, structure of tonality, figured bass, harmonic progression, composition in four parts, diatonic triads and seventh chords, secondary dominants and leading tone chords, harmonic sequences, melodic organization and phrase structure, harmonization of a melody, nonchord tones, and variation forms. Composition project. 4 lectures.
MU 1104 Musicianship I (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 101 or MU 1101; or Music majors and corequisite: MU 1101 or placement exam.

Sight-singing in major and minor modes; rhythmic performance and dictation in simple and compound meters; identification and performance of melodic and harmonic intervals and triads; dictation of major and minor diatonic melodies and harmonic progressions using diatonic triads; structured melodic and rhythmic improvisation. Course may be offered in classroom-based or hybrid format. 2 activities.
MU 1106 Musicianship II (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 104 or MU 1104 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor. Corequisite: MU 103 or MU 1103.

One- and two-part sight singing and melodic dictation; alto and tenor clefs. One- and two-part rhythmic performance and dictation including syncopation and triplets. Harmonic dictation including diatonic triads in all positions and dominant and supertonic seventh chords. Aural identification of cadences and phrase structure. Course may be offered in classroom-based or hybrid format. 2 activities.
MU 1114 Introduction to Composition (3 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 101 or MU 1101.

Fundamental concepts in music composition. Creative projects. Compositional techniques, development, and structure. Analysis of examples from the literature. 3 lectures. Formerly MU 114.
MU 1120 Music Appreciation (3 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
2026-28 or later catalog: GE Area 3A
2020-26 catalogs: GE Area C1

Explores the elements of music with emphasis on orchestral, operatic, liturgical, and chamber music traditions. Language of music, the role of music in society. Historical context and major composers from the Middle Ages to the present. 3 lectures. Crosslisted as HNRS/MU 1120. Fulfills GE Area 3A (GE Area C1 for students on the 2020-26 catalogs). Formerly HNRS/MU 120.
MU 1122 Ethnomusicology and World Music I (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 101 or MU 1101; or placement exam.

Introduction to ethnomusicology and survey of world music cultures. History, aims, and methods of ethnomusicology as well as cultural context, aesthetics, and practices of selected music traditions. Course may be offered in classroom-based or hybrid format. 3 lectures, 1 activity.
MU 1150 Applied Music I (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Individual instruction in performance with emphasis on repertoire, technical skills, style, and interpretation. Repeatable up to 4 units. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Formerly MU 150.
MU 1151 Beginning Class Piano (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F

Beginning piano for students with no background in keyboard instruments. Fundamentals of notation, keyboard techniques, tone production, sight-reading, and facility. 1 lecture, 1 activity. Formerly MU 151.
MU 1152 Intermediate Class Piano (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 151 or MU 1151.

Continuation of Class Piano. Piano for students with intermediate skill level. Not open to Music majors. Repeatable up to 2 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 152.
MU 1154 Beginning Voice (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP

Beginning study of vocal and performance technique for the untrained singer, including the beginning study of the vocal mechanism and the fundamentals of notation. 1 activity. Formerly MU 154.
MU 1155 Beginning Guitar (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP

Fundamentals of guitar technique and performance. Elements of classical, pop, and folk styles. Basics of staff and chord notations. No previous experience necessary. Students may provide their own guitar or borrow one from the music department for a nominal fee. 1 activity. Formerly MU 155.
MU 1161 Piano Skills I (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Music major.

Initial preparation for Piano Proficiency Examination. Beginning study of piano repertoire, sightreading, transposition, harmonization of a melody, accompanying, improvisation of a melody, score-reading. 1 activity.
MU 1162 Piano Skills II (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 161 or MU 1161.

Continuation of Piano Skills series. Preparation for Piano Proficiency Examination. Beginning to intermediate study of piano repertory, sight reading, transposition, harmonization of a melody, accompanying, improvisation of a melody, score-reading. 1 activity.
MU 1168 Piano Accompanying (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Corequisite: One of the following courses: MU 253, MU 2251, or piano topic in MU 150, MU 1150, MU 250, MU 2250, MU 350, MU 3350, MU 450, or MU 4450.

Preparation and performance of vocal and instrumental music written with piano accompaniment for lower-division credit. Choral rehearsal accompanist techniques. Open to students who are proficient on piano at a collegiate level. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 168.
MU 1170 Instrumental Ensembles (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Faculty-supervised small ensembles (e.g., string quartets, brass quintets) for lower-division credit, as permitted by departmental staffing. Performances take place in student recitals, large-ensemble concerts, and/or other university events. Open to students concurrently participating in large ensembles. Interested students should contact instrumental ensemble directors. Audition required. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 171.
MU 1171 Jazz Band (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Rehearsal and public performance of big band jazz repertory for lower-division credit. Open to qualified students who sing or who play trumpet, trombone, saxophone, piano, guitar, vibes, bass, drums, or congas. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 170.
MU 1172 Symphonic Band (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Study and public performance of music written for large wind band for lower-division credit. Open to all qualified students who perform on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 172.
MU 1173 Wind Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Study and public performance of music written for wind band with limited doubling and flexible instrumentation for lower-division credit. Open to all students who perform on woodwind, brass and percussion instruments at a collegiate level. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 173.
MU 1174 Symphony Orchestra (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Preparation and performance of orchestral music for lower-division credit, including both standard repertory and current works in various genres. Open to all qualified students who perform on string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 174.
MU 1175 New / Electronic Music Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP

Rehearsal and performance of music with electronic instruments, extended techniques, multimedia, improvisation, and other forms of contemporary music composition for lower-division credit. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory.
MU 1176 Mustang Band (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Public performance of music and specially-designed shows written for marching band for lower-division credit: woodwinds, brass, percussion, and flag team auxiliary. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 176.
MU 1177 Methods Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Study and performance of music written for woodwinds, brass, percussion, or strings, for lower-division credit and for students interested in teaching music. Content emphasis for music students performing on secondary instruments to further their proficiency on another instrument. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 177.
MU 1178 Mustang Band Field Show (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Study and application of advanced field show marching techniques for lower-division credit used in performance by the Cal Poly Mustang Band. Audition required. Field trip required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 178.
MU 1180 Vocal Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Open to qualified singers for lower-division credit. Rehearsal and performance of specialized vocal music. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 183.
MU 1181 PolyPhonics (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Advanced study and public performance of music for mixed chorus for lower-division credit. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 181.
MU 1182 Cantabile (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Advanced study and public performance of music for soprano and alto chorus for lower-division credit. A variety of styles of choral literature specifically intended for treble voices from various time periods is explored. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 182.
MU 1183 University Singers (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Study and public performance of music for large mixed chorus for lower-division credit. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 185.
MU 1184 Chamber Choir (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Advanced study and public performance of music for small ensemble for lower-division credit. Focus on music of the Renaissance, Baroque and Modern Eras. Exploration of a variety of styles of choral literature, specifically intended for a small performing ensemble. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 186.
MU 1187 Vocal Jazz Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Rehearsal and public performance of small or large vocal jazz ensemble repertory for lower-division credit. Open to qualified students who sing or play piano, guitar, bass, or drums. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory.
MU 1188 Arab Music Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Rehearsal and performance of vocal and instrumental music of Arabic-speaking societies and historically related cultures for lower-division credit. Study of associated music theory, performance practice, and improvisation with presentation of seminal works in public concerts. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 188.
MU 1189 Vocal Practicum (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Corequisite: Vocal topic in one of the following: MU 150, MU 1150, MU 250, MU 2250, MU 350, MU 3350, MU 450, or MU 4450.

Study and implementation of performing techniques used by vocalists in a recital or concert setting for lower-division credit. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 189.
MU 2200 Special Problems for Undergraduates (1-2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Individual investigation, research, studies, or surveys of selected problems. Repeatable up to 4 units. Formerly MU 200.
MU 2203 Materials and Structures of Music II (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: MU 103 or MU 1103 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor.

Construction and resolution of augmented sixth and Neapolitan chords. Modal mixture and modulation to closely-related keys. Chromatic third-related harmony, linear chromaticism, and extended tertian chords. Chromatic and enharmonic modulation to distantly-related keys. Binary, ternary, sonata, and rondo forms. Introduction to 18th-century counterpoint. Composition project. 4 lectures.
MU 2221 Jazz Styles (3 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
2026-28 or later catalog: GE Area 3A
2020-26 catalogs: GE Area C1
USCP

Survey of jazz as a significant art form in the United States from 1900 to the present. Historical background and development in the United States. Key musical characteristics, leading performers, and significant compositions in each style. 3 lectures. Fulfills GE Area 3A (GE Area C1 for students on the 2020-26 catalogs) and USCP. Formerly MU 221.
MU 2222 Ethnomusicology and World Music II (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 121 or MU 1122.

Study of ethnomusicology and survey of world music cultures. Covers additional world music traditions, and deepens and broadens engagement of ethnomusicological and interdisciplinary scholarship. 3 lectures, 1 activity.
MU 2227 Popular Music of the United States (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: TBD
2026-28 or later catalog: GE Area 3A
2020-26 catalogs: GE Area C1
USCP

Survey of popular music of the United States with focus on the historical context of the twentieth century and associated listening examples. Issues of diversity, race, ethnicity, sexuality, class, appropriation, political dynamics, technological innovation, mass media, and aesthetic development. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Fulfills GE Area 3A (GE Area C1 for students on the 2020-26 catalogs) and USCP. Formerly MU 227.
MU 2250 Applied Music II (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: 2 units of MU 1150 and consent of instructor.

Individual instruction in performance with emphasis on repertoire, technical skills, style, and interpretation. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Repeatable up to 4 units. Formerly MU 250.
MU 2251 Advanced Class Piano (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: TBD
Prerequisite: MU 152 or MU 1152.

Continuation of Class Piano series. Advanced level piano techniques with emphasis on style, interpretation, sight-reading, basic performance practices, and solutions to general musical problems. Repeatable up to 2 units. Not open to Music majors. 1 activity. Formerly MU 253.
MU 2255 Intermediate Guitar (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 155 or MU 1155.

Development of intermediate guitar techniques and performance. Elements of classical, pop, and folk styles. Intermediate note reading and chord chart reading. Students must provide their own guitar. Repeatable up to 2 units. 1 activity.
MU 2259 Beginning Jazz Improvisation (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 101 or MU 1101.

Development of fundamentals of jazz improvisation including scales, arpeggios, patterns, swing feel, expressiveness, and motifs through in-class performance of written materials and improvisations with play-along recordings. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 2 activities. Formerly MU 259.
MU 2261 Piano Skills III (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 162 or MU 1162.

Continuation of Piano Skills series. Preparation for Piano Proficiency Examination. Intermediate study of piano repertory, sight-reading, transposition, harmonization of a melody, accompanying, improvisation of a melody, and score-reading. 1 activity.
MU 2262 Piano Skills IV (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 261 or MU 2261.

Continuation of Piano Skills series. Final preparation for Piano Proficiency Examination. Intermediate to early advanced study of piano repertory, sight reading, transposition, harmonization of a melody, accompanying, improvisation of a melody, score-reading. 1 activity.
MU 2265 Accelerated Piano Skills (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: TBD
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Preparation for Piano Proficiency Examination. For students with an extensive piano repertory background but needing focused preparation in sight reading, transposition, harmonization of a melody, accompanying, and score reading. Repeatable up to 2 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 265.
MU 2270 Special Topics (1-4 units)
Term Typically Offered: TBD
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Directed group study of special topics. The Class Schedule will list topic selected. Repeatable up to 8 units. 1 to 4 lectures. Formerly MU 270.
MU 3301 Counterpoint (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 105 or MU 2203.

Counterpoint as a compositional technique. Modal, tonal, and post-tonal practices. Composition project. 4 lectures. Formerly MU 301.
MU 3303 Materials and Structures of Music III (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 105 or MU 2203 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor.

Examination of 20th- and 21st-century compositional practices including impressionism, developments in rhythm, polytonality, non-serial atonality, serialism, timbre and texture, form, neoclassicism, chance and choice, minimalism, and beyond. Composition project. 4 lectures. Formerly MU 303.
MU 3304 Musicianship III (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 106 or MU 1106 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor. Corequisite: MU 105 or MU 2203.

Sight singing and melodic dictation using chromatic tones; rhythmic performance and dictation in changing and asymmetric meters; harmonic dictation including seventh chords, secondary dominants, Neapolitan triads, augmented sixth chords, modal mixture, and modulation to closely-related keys; and aural identification of binary, ternary, and variation forms. 1 activity. Replaces MU 210.
MU 3306 Musicianship IV (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 210 or MU 3304 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor.

Advanced chromaticism, modulation to distantly-related keys, asymmetric meters and cross-rhythms, tempo modulation, two-part melodic dictation, and aural identification of sonata form, rondo forms, and contrapuntal techniques. 1 activity. Replaces MU 211.
MU 3311 Introduction to Music Technology and Composition (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: One of the following: MU 101, MU 1101, MU 120, or MU 1120.

Fundamental tools of electroacoustic music and production. Concepts and application of music studio procedure, recording, synthesis, and MIDI. Studio projects. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 311.
MU 3312 Sound Art and Advanced Production Techniques (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 311 or MU 3311.

Exploring creative and interactive uses of recording, synthesis, and handmade electronics. Analysis and creative projects. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 312.
MU 3320 Writing About Music (3 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Completion of GE Area 1A with a grade of C- or better (GE Area A2 for the 2020-26 catalogs); and MU 105 or MU 2203 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor.

Synthesis and development of written communication skills in the discipline of music. Course may be offered in classroom-based or online format. 3 lectures. Formerly MU 320.
MU 3324 Music and Society (3 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
2026-28 or later: Upper-Div GE Area 3
2020-26 catalogs: Upper-Div GE Area C
Prerequisite: Junior standing; completion of GE Area 1 with grades of C- or better (GE Area A for the 2020-26 catalogs); completion of one course in GE Area 2 with a grade of C- or better (GE Area B4 for the 2020-26 catalogs); and completion of one lower-division course in GE Area 3 (GE Areas C1 or C2 for the 2020-26 catalogs).

Exploration into the role of music historically and culturally. Emphasis on deeper understanding and appreciation of the context of music through topics of special interest. The Class Schedule will list topic selected. Repeatable up to 9 units. Course may be offered in classroom-based, online, or hybrid format. 2 lectures, 1 activity. Fulfills GE Upper-Division 3 (GE Area Upper-Division C for students on the 2020-26 catalogs). Formerly MU 324.
MU 3325 Music of the United States (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
USCP
Prerequisite: MU 105 or MU 1103.

Explorations of many styles of music created in the United States, including how it reflects the different cultural heritages, social contexts, and philosophies of its creators. Lectures, readings, sound recordings, musical scores, and performance. Includes Native American, folk, popular, and fine art traditions. 4 lectures. Fulfills USCP. Formerly MU 325.
MU 3326 World Music Theory and Practice (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 2222.

Comprehensive integrated investigation of selected music cultures outside of Euro-American art music traditions through development of combined skills in ethnomusicological scholarship, music theory, musicianship, composition, and performance. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 326.
MU 3331 Historical Musicology I (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: Completion of GE Area 1A with a grade of C- or better (GE Area A2 for the 2020-26 catalogs); and MU 105 or MU 2203 with a grade of C- or better, or consent of instructor.

Musical literature, styles, composers, theory, genres and notation of the Middle Ages through Baroque eras. Relationship to historical trends. 4 lectures.
MU 3336 Jazz History and Theory (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 105 or MU 2203.

Survey of jazz harmonic concepts and techniques. Emphasis upon historical context and development of jazz through study and analysis of scores and historical performances. 4 lectures. Formerly MU 336.
MU 3340 Conducting: Fundamentals (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 103 or MU 1103.

Principles and techniques of conducting with experience in score reading and conducting an ensemble. 2 activities. Formerly MU 340.
MU 3341 Conducting: Choral (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 340 or MU 3340.

Continuation of Conducting series. Emphasis on choral literature. Score reading, rehearsal techniques, and musical details associated with vocal music. 2 activities. Formerly MU 341.
MU 3342 Conducting: Instrumental (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 340 or MU 3340.

Continuation of Conducting series. Emphasis on band and orchestra conducting. Score reading, rehearsal techniques, and musical details associated with instrumental music. 2 activities. Formerly MU 342.
MU 3350 Applied Music III (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: 2 units of MU 2250 and consent of instructor.

Individual instruction in performance and composition. Repeatable up to 4 units. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Formerly MU 350.
MU 3351 Jazz and Popular Music Arranging (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 105 or MU 2203.

Arranging for small and large jazz ensembles, vocal ensembles, and popular music ensembles. Score and part preparation. 2 activities. Formerly MU 351.
MU 3352 Orchestration (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 105 or MU 2203.

Ranges, transposition, technical capabilities, and scoring of vocal ensembles, band, and orchestra instruments. Creative project. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 352.
MU 3360 Music for Classroom Teachers (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 101, MU 1101, or MU 1103.

Development of skills for fostering creative music experiences in the classroom. Exploration of various approaches to motivating children musically. Study of folk songs for singing, playing instruments, and learning about music as well as for their cultural significance. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 360.
MU 3361 Instruments (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Fundamentals of playing and teaching woodwind, brass, string, and percussion instruments. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 361.
MU 3368 Piano Accompanying (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Preparation and performance of vocal and instrumental music written with piano accompaniment for upper-division credit. Choral rehearsal accompanist techniques. Open to students who are proficient on piano at a collegiate level. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 368.
MU 3370 Instrumental Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Faculty-supervised small ensembles (e.g., string quartets, brass quintets) for upper-division credit, as permitted by departmental staffing. Performances take place in student recitals, large-ensemble concerts, and/or other university events. Open to students concurrently participating in large ensembles. Interested students should contact instrumental ensemble directors. Audition required. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 371.
MU 3371 Jazz Band (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Rehearsal and public performance of big band jazz repertory for upper-division credit. Open to qualified students who sing or play trumpet, trombone, saxophone, piano, guitar, vibes, bass, drums, or congas. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 370.
MU 3372 Symphonic Band (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Study and public performance of music written for large wind band for upper-division credit. Open to all qualified students who perform on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 372.
MU 3373 Wind Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Study and public performance of music written for wind band with limited doubling and flexible instrumentation for upper-division credit. Open to all students who perform on woodwind, brass and percussion instruments at a collegiate level. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 373.
MU 3374 Symphony Orchestra (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Preparation and performance of orchestral music for upper-division credit, including both standard repertory and current works in various genres. Open to all qualified students who perform on string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 374.
MU 3375 New / Electronic Music Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing.

Rehearsal and performance of music with electronic instruments, extended techniques, multimedia, improvisation, and other forms of contemporary music composition for upper-division credit. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory.
MU 3376 Mustang Band (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Public performance of music and specially-designed shows written for marching band for upper-division credit: woodwinds, brass, percussion, and flag team auxiliary. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 376.
MU 3377 Methods Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor. Recommended: MU 361 or MU 3361.

Study and performance of music written for woodwinds, brass, percussion, or strings, for upper-division credit and for students interested in teaching music. Content emphasis for students performing on secondary instruments to further their proficiency on another instrument. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 377.
MU 3378 Mustang Band Field Show (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Study and application of advanced field show marching techniques for upper-division credit used in performance by the Cal Poly Mustang Band. Audition required. Field trip required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 378.
MU 3380 Vocal Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Open to qualified singers for upper-division credit. Rehearsal and performance of specialized vocal music. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 383.
MU 3381 PolyPhonics (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Advanced study and public performance of music for mixed chorus for upper-division credit. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 381.
MU 3382 Cantabile (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Advanced study and public performance of music for soprano and alto chorus for upper-division credit. A variety of styles of choral literature specifically intended for treble voices from various time periods is explored. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 382.
MU 3383 University Singers (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Study and public performance of music for large mixed chorus for upper-division credit. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 385.
MU 3384 Chamber Choir (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Advanced study and public performance of music for small ensemble for upper-division credit. Focus on music of the Renaissance, Baroque and Modern Eras. Exploration of a variety of styles of choral literature, specifically intended for a small performing ensemble. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 386.
MU 3387 Vocal Jazz Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of instructor.

Rehearsal and public performance of small or large vocal jazz ensemble repertory for upper-division credit. Open to qualified students who sing or play piano, guitar, bass, or drums. Audition required. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory.
MU 3388 Arab Music Ensemble (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior Standing and consent of instructor.

Rehearsal and performance of vocal and instrumental music of Arabic-speaking societies and historically related cultures for upper-division credit. Study of associated music theory, performance practice, and improvisation, with presentation of seminal works in public concerts. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 laboratory. Formerly MU 388.
MU 3389 Vocal Practicum (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing. Corequisite: Vocal topic in one of the following: MU 150, MU 1150, MU 250, MU 2250, MU 350, MU 3350, MU 450, or MU 4450.

Study and implementation of performing techniques used by vocalists in a recital or concert setting for upper-division credit. Repeatable up to 4 units. 1 activity. Formerly MU 389.
MU 4400 Special Problems for Advanced Undergraduates (1-2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Junior standing and consent of department chair.

Individual investigation, research, studies, or surveys of selected problems. Repeatable up to 4 units. Formerly MU 400.
MU 4411 Music Technology and Multimedia Performance (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 312 or MU 3312.

Performative and compositional applications of synthesis and recording techniques in making a live multimedia production. Creative projects. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 411.
MU 4412 Composing and Producing a Multimedia Performance (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 312 or MU 3312.

Production of electroacoustic music and multimedia. Program analysis, technical planning, composition, and product development. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 412.
MU 4431 Historical Musicology II (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: F
Prerequisite: MU 331 or MU 3331 with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of instructor. Recommended: MU 120 or MU 3303.

Musical literature, styles, composers, theory, and genres of the Classic through Modern eras. 4 lectures.
MU 4450 Applied Music IV (1 unit)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: MU 350 or MU 3350 and consent of instructor.

Individual instruction in performance and composition. The Class Schedule will list subtitle selected. Repeatable up to 4 units. Formerly MU 450.
MU 4461 Senior Project (2 units)
Term Typically Offered: F, SP
Prerequisite: Senior standing and consent of department chair.

Selection and completion of a project under faculty supervision. Results presented in a recital, creative work, formal report, or a combination of all three. Formerly MU 461.
MU 4465 Choral Literature and Rehearsal Techniques (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: MU 341 or MU 3341.

Survey of choral literature especially suited for secondary schools. Philosophy and strategy for developing a school program. Musical as well as non-musical techniques for effective rehearsal. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 465.
MU 4466 Instrumental Literature and Rehearsal Techniques (4 units)
Term Typically Offered: SP
Prerequisite: One of the following: MU 101, MU 1101, MU 103, or MU 1103; and one of the following: MU 172, MU 1172, MU 173, MU 1173, MU 174, or MU 1174.

Survey of instrumental literature written for orchestras, bands, solo instrument, and chamber ensembles. Philosophy and strategy necessary for developing a professional, semi-professional, or school instrumental music program. Musical as well as non-musical techniques for effective rehearsal. 3 lectures, 1 activity. Formerly MU 466.
MU 4470 Special Advanced Topics (1-4 units)
Term Typically Offered: TBD
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

Intensive study of special topics. The Class Schedule will list topic selected. Repeatable up to 8 units. 1 to 4 lectures. Formerly MU 470.

David A. Arrivee
B.A., Princeton University, 1993; M.Mu., Boston University, 1995; D.M.A., Northwestern University, 2004.

Jamaal Baptiste
B.M., Indiana University, 2014; M.M. Indiana University, 2016; M.A., Indiana University, 2018, Ph.D. Indiana University, 2025.

Meredith Brammeier
B.A., Princeton University, 1992; M.M., Eastman School of Music, 1995; D.M.A., University of Southern California, 2000.

Alicia M. Doyle
B.M., University of Southern California, 1991; M.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1997; Ph.D., 2000.

Scott Glysson
B.M., George Mason University, 2007; M.M., University of Arizona, Tucson, 2012; D.M.A., University of Arizona, Tucson, 2014.

Kenneth Habib
B.A., University of California, Los Angeles, 1983; M.A., University of California, Santa Barbara, 1995; Ph.D., 2005.

Julie Herndon
B.A., St. Mary's College of Maryland, 2008; M.A., Mills College, 2015; D.M.A., Stanford University, 2022.

Alyson McLamore
B.A., University of California at Los Angeles, 1982; M.A., 1985; Ph.D., 1991.

Nicholas P. Waldron
B.M.E., Indiana University, 2011; M.M., Indiana University, 2016; D.M.A., University of Kansas, 2019.

Christopher J. Woodruff
B.M.E., Louisiana State University, 1991; M.M., Northwestern University, 1996.