Frequently Asked Questions
Learn about different areas/careers in music:
Theory/Musicianship
- Start with Music 1 & Music 5 (or Music 66 & Music 5)
- Continue the sequence with Music 2 & 6, 3 & 7, 4 & 8
Piano
- Start with either Music 60A or Music 66 (or other appropriate level)
- Continue the sequence with up to 3 additional piano classes chosen from: Music 60B, 60C, 60D, 61A, 61B
Ensembles
- Choose an ensemble based on your primary interest within music:
- Vocal: Music 40, 42, 45, 52, 53, 55, 59
- Instrumental: Music 64, 73B, 74, 77, 78
Most ensembles (performing groups) can be repeated up to 4 enrollments. For example, you may have a combination of up to four semesters' enrollments in Concert Chorale (Music 55) or Chamber Choir (59). Another example: you can enroll in Jazz Vocal Ensemble (Music 53) a total of four times. Ensemble participation after maxing-out enrollments is encouraged and possible through participating in the ensemble as a "community member." Other than ensembles, most music classes cannot be repeated. Please see an academic counselor for details.
Most ensembles require an audition. The audition times and requirements can vary depending on the class. Please email the ensemble director for more information about auditions.
Private lessons are only available through the Applied Music Program. See below for program application and audition details.
Yes, we offer tutoring for many of our music classes including theory, musicianship, piano classes and more! Please check your Corsair Connect (tutoring link) to sign-up for an appointment. Tutoring services are subject to change.
For an Associate of Arts (AA degree) in Music, we offer two options:
- Music - a broad musical training that can be the foundation for the pursuit of various musical careers
- Applied Music - Students must first apply, audition and be accepted into this special program. Once admitted, the program includes the same as above, plus private instruction (Music 92) in a specialized area of study (Composition, Voice, Instrumental; European Classical and Jazz) and performance classes (Music 94) in a supportive multi-cohort peer environment
Both program options include group music instruction, history, vocal and instrumental ensembles, piano, and theory and musicianship.
Please note that the "Applied" descriptor does not appear on transcripts or diplomas.
Once in the program, Applied Music students are required each semester (Fall and Spring) to enroll in Music 92 (Applied Lessons), Music 94 (Concert Music Class), an SMC performance ensemble, a Piano Class (60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 61A and 61B), and the appropriate theory and musicianship classes (Music 1 {or 66} & 5, 2 & 6, 3 & 7, 4 & 8)
Applied students are also required to spend at least five hours per week practicing in the SMC practice rooms.
Sample Schedule
Class |
Meeting Time |
Room |
Instructor |
Bg-End |
Units |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Music 5 |
2:15 – 3:35 p.m. MW |
PAC 105 |
Aguiar JA |
1 – 18 |
2.0 |
Music 66 (equivalent to Music 1 and Music 60A) |
8 – 9:20 and 9:30 – 10:50 a.m. MW |
PAC 310 |
Takesue SA |
1 – 18 |
5.0 |
Music 92 |
Arrange-Time |
N/A |
Driscoll BS |
1 – 18 |
2.0 |
Music 94 |
12:45 – 2:05 p.m. TTh |
PAC 110 |
Cheesman JM |
1 – 18 |
1.0 |
Music 55 |
6:45 – 9:50 p.m. W |
PAC 107 |
Selvy JD |
1 – 18 |
2.0 |
Applications are accepted twice a year (Fall and Spring). For information regarding application, audition, and deadlines for the Applied Music Program, please click on the following link.
- Music Counseling is offered during the Fall and Spring semesters. Book an appointment with Music Counselor, Arpi Kumuryan.
- For general questions, please contact the Music Department.
- For general counseling assistance, please contact the General Counseling & Transfer Services (GCTS) Department.
- For international student counseling, please contact the International Education Counseling Center (IECC).
- Additional counseling services.