Study Music at DMACC

"The DMACC Music Department offers an individualized program with caring and expert faculty that inspire me to do my best."

Curriculum

The DMACC Music Department offers a comprehensive 2-year music curriculum in which foundational music courses are interwoven within the AA Liberal Arts framework. This structure enables students to seamlessly transfer and finish a 4-year degree, or move directly to the workforce.

Outcomes of AA Liberal Arts Degree with Music Emphasis

Professional musician
- Private lesson instruction (owner/operator)
- Music Director
- Performance
K-12 Music Teacher
Music non-profit
Transfer and complete bachelor's degree

Academic Core Courses

Music Appreciation, MUS100
A survey of the development of Western art music through study of representative compositions of many periods and styles. Includes definitions of musical terminology and a major emphasis on listening.
This course is offered face-to-face and online.
(3 Humanities Credits)

Music Fundamentals, MUS102
Students will develop music literacy skills through learning and applying foundational elements of music. This course will prepare students for the Music Theory sequence.
(3 Humanities Credits)

World Music, MUS202
This course is a survey of musical styles from countries whose music is primarily based on concepts that are not part of the Western music tradition. Students will study the cultural music of Africa, China, Japan, India, the Near East region, and indigenous Americas.
This course is offered face-to-face and online.
(3 Humanities Credits)

Academic Elective Courses

Music Theory 1, MUS106
All aspects of music theory will be introduced and explored. Coursework includes ear training, sigh singing, keyboard training, and written theory assignments.
(4 Elective Credits)

Music Theory 2, MUS107
As a sequel to Music Theory I, this course will examine music theory in greater complexity and will emphasize the harmonic aspects of music. Coursework includes ear training, sight singing, keyboard training, and written theory assignments. PREREQUISITE: MUS 106
(4 Elective Credits)

The History of Rock and Roll, MUS204
This course is a survey of the development of Rock & Roll music from the mid-1950's to the present, with emphasis on its development from other music styles, its place in the culture, and influential promoters, producers, composers, and performers
(3 Elective and Diversity Credits)

Jazz History and Appreciation, MUS205
This course is a survey of the development of American jazz from the late 19th century to the present, with emphasis on its ethnic origins, cities where jazz developed, styles that evolved and the influential composers and performers who created the various jazz styles.
(3 Elective and Diversity Credits)

Applied Lessons

MUA101 Voice
MUA120 Piano
MUA147A Guitar
MUA147B Woodwinds and Double Reeds
MUA147C Strings
MUA147E Brass

Performances and Ensembles

Concert Choir, MUS140
There is no audition for this choir, however singers are expected to be able to learn and sing well the choral parts to which they are assigned. Concert Choir meets MWF from 11:15-12:10 and performs two major concerts each semester and at DMACC Commencement in May.

Chamber Ensemble, MUS275
This choir is open by audition to all DMACC students. Chamber Ensemble meets MWF from 12:50-1:45 and performs two major concerts each semester and at DMACC Commencement in May. Please contact Dr. James Thompson to schedule the audition jlthompson25@dmacc.edu

Instrumental Jazz Ensemble, MUS502-100
This is a DMACC Continuing Education course and does not carry regular academic credit. As a result, the tuition is lower for this course compared to credit-bearing courses. This ensemble rehearses Monday evenings on the Ankeny Campus. For more information, please contact Prof. Scott Davis sedavis7@dmacc.edu.