Music, Associate of Arts (AA)

Program Overview

The Music program at SBCC offers a comprehensive curriculum in music theory, history, musicianship, and performance. It caters to both aspiring musicians and casual learners, providing a solid foundation in music and opportunities for creative engagement. The program also offers courses in commercial music, preparing students for careers in the music industry. With exceptional facilities and a dedicated faculty, the Music program at SBCC fosters a vibrant and supportive learning environment for students to develop their musical skills and knowledge.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Music Department at SBCC provides a diverse program for both aspiring musicians and casual learners.
The program offers a solid foundation in musical theory, composition, interpretation, performance, history, and appreciation. It also caters to students interested in commercial music, with courses covering jazz, sound recording, electronic music, songwriting, and arranging. The department prides itself on its exceptional facilities, including performance and rehearsal spaces, free use of musical instruments, practice rooms, and cutting-edge equipment to support students' musical endeavors.
• Objectives: The Music program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for both creative and practical engagement with music.
The curriculum is designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of musical concepts, develop performance abilities, and nurture an appreciation for music's cultural and historical significance.
• Program Description: The Music Department's curriculum blends theoretical and practical components to provide students with a well-rounded musical education.
Students engage in foundational courses in musicianship, theory, and history, alongside performance-oriented classes in various instruments and ensembles. The department encourages students to participate in a range of musical activities, including concerts, performances, and masterclasses.

Outline:

• Program Content: The Music program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers the following areas:
• Music theory: Students study fundamental principles of music, including scales, intervals, chords, and harmonic progressions.
• Music history: Students explore the evolution of music from ancient times to the present, examining diverse genres and styles.
• Musicianship: Students develop their aural and analytical skills, including sight-reading, ear training, and performance techniques.
• Performance: Students choose a primary instrument or voice and receive private instruction in technique, repertoire, and performance practices.
They also participate in various ensembles, such as choirs, orchestras, and jazz bands.
• Commercial music: Students interested in commercial music can pursue courses in jazz, sound recording, electronic music, songwriting, and arranging.
• Program Structure: The Music program consists of a series of core courses and electives that allow students to tailor their studies to their individual interests.
The core courses provide a foundation in music theory, history, musicianship, and performance. Electives enable students to explore specific areas of music, such as composition, jazz, or commercial music.
• Course Schedule: The Music Department offers a variety of courses each semester, providing students with flexibility in scheduling their coursework.
Courses meet at various times throughout the day and evening to accommodate students' schedules. The department also offers online and hybrid courses to increase accessibility.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: Students' progress in the Music program is evaluated through a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Written assignments and exams
• Performance evaluations
• Participation in class and ensembles
• Projects and presentations
• Assessment Criteria: The Music Department uses the following criteria to assess student learning:
• Accuracy and depth of musical knowledge and understanding
• Ability to analyze and interpret musical works
• Performance skills and techniques
• Effective communication skills in written and verbal formats

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The Music Department employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles.
These methods include:
• Lectures and discussions
• Hands-on instruction
• Collaborative learning
• Technology-enhanced learning
• Private instruction
• Faculty: The Music Department has a dedicated faculty of experienced musicians and educators.
The faculty members are actively involved in teaching, performance, and research, and bring a wealth of expertise and passion to the classroom.
• Unique Approaches: The Music Department offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning:
• Individualized instruction: Students receive personalized guidance and support from their instructors, tailored to their specific needs and goals.
• Ensemble-based learning: Students have the opportunity to learn and perform in a variety of ensembles, fostering collaboration and teamwork.
• Community engagement: The Music Department actively engages with the community through performances and outreach programs, providing students with real-world experience.

Careers:

• Career Paths: The Music program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the music industry, including:
• Performance: Students can pursue careers as musicians, singers, or conductors.
• Education: Graduates can become music educators in schools and other educational settings.
• Music production and engineering: Students can work as sound engineers, music producers, or recording artists.
• Music therapy: Music therapy programs combine the power of music with clinical practice, providing therapeutic benefits.
• Opportunities: SBCC's Music program provides students with opportunities to:
• Enhance their performance skills through ensembles and recitals
• Gain hands-on experience in music production and recording
• Participate in masterclasses with renowned musicians
• Network with professionals in the music industry
• Prepare for transfer to four-year music programs or conservatories
• Outcomes: Graduates of the Music program have successfully gone on to:
• Perform with professional orchestras, choirs, and ensembles
• Teach music at all levels of education
• Work as music producers and engineers in the recording industry
• Pursue advanced degrees in music