1999-2001 Undergraduate Catalog

Music History and Literature

Admission as a music history and literature major

Music students who have developed a strong interest in music history and have demonstrated a high standard of academic achievement may apply to the chair of the music composition/history department for acceptance as a major in music history. It is also possible to add music history to an existing major for a double major. Application for admission to the music history program is made prior to the end of the sophomore year.

Applicants should submit sample papers to the department chair. These will be reviewed by the music history faculty. For full acceptance into the program a student must have achieved a 3.0 average in each of the following groups of courses: Music Theory and History (MUCH 151, 152, 251, 261); World Music or Jazz (MUCH 233, 234 or 235; MUSP 219 or 237), and Aural Skills (MUCH 141, 142, 241). Students with an average of 2.5 to 2.9 may be accepted as majors on probationary status. Students accepted on this status must achieve a 3.0 average in major area courses within two semesters (summer is not included). Failure to do so will result in discontinuation as a music history and literature major.

MUCH small ensembles

The department offers small ensembles as a training ground for performance practice and a showcase for music of a particular genre. These are the Afro-Caribbean Ensemble, Balinese Gamelan Ensemble, Early Music Ensemble and New Music Ensemble.

College of Musical Arts
Participation in these ensembles by music history and literature majors beyond the required four hours is strongly encouraged. All music majors are expected to participate in ensembles throughout their undergraduate program at Bowling Green State University.

Keyboard proficiency requirement

Functional keyboard proficiency tests I and II are required. See Music education: Functional keyboard requirements and pertinent course descriptions.

Degree requirements

The bachelor of music degree in music history and literature requires 122-133 total credits, distributed as follows:

  • 1. 30-36 credits in general education;
  • 2. 43-48 credits in basic musicianship, including performance and piano proficiency;
  • 3. 30 credits in advanced courses in music theory, history and literature;
  • 4. 3 credits in ENG 112;
  • 5. 8 credits each in two foreign languages.
  • For specific information consult the music history and literature coordinator of the music composition/history department.

    Electives outside of music

    One additional course from the approved general education list and at least two of the following: one fine arts elective, one English literature elective, one English literature/composition elective and one philosophy elective. Total general education plus electives: 30-36 hours.

    Foreign language

    Two courses in the same foreign language and two courses in a second language.
    Total: 16 hours.

    Music requirements

    All history and literature majors are required to complete the following music courses. Minimum total: 73 hours.

    Music performance

  • Large ensembles 4 hours; MUCH small ensembles 4 hours; major instrument/voice 4 hours; MUSP 305 and 306
  • 4 hours. Total: 16 hours.
  • Piano proficiency

  • MUED 150 and 151, plus 250 or 252 (may be waived by exam). Experienced pianists may be eligible for accelerated courses in Class Piano. Keyboard proficiency exams I and II required for all music history majors. Total: 4 hours.
  • Music theory

  • MUCH 308 and 309 plus 315, 320 or 325. Total: 6 hours.
  • Music history and literature courses

  • MUCH 318, 406 (6 hours), 407, 408, 412, electives (10 hours). Total: 24 hours.
  • Completion requirements

    Candidates for the bachelor's degree in music history and literature are required to submit scholarly papers which demonstrate an understanding of historical issues and basic research techniques. This is accomplished through MUCH 406, Problems in Music History.


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