+ The Core Curriculum in Music Theory
An important component of the Conservatory’s B.Mus. degree program is the five-term course sequence in Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Sight Singing. The core theory curriculum is a foundational exploration of the materials of tonal and non-tonal Western music, integrating the study of harmony, counterpoint, form, analysis, ear training and sight singing. While the curriculum is geared toward developing your skillful use of musical materials, its larger goal is to guide you toward a deeper understanding of Western musical structure and process—of how music is organized and why.
The core music theory sequence is required of all B.Mus. students (including those in the double-degree program) as well as any B.A. students who wish to take the core music theory sequence. It is not required of B.A. - Music students, nor is it required of students enrolled in the B.M.A. program in Jazz and Contemporary Improvisation.
Students normally begin the core theory sequence in the fall term of their first year at Lawrence and complete it by the end of winter term of their second year. Timely completion of the sequence is important not only because music theory courses are prerequisite to other required courses in the B.Mus. degree program but also because the skills you develop in them apply directly to your activities as a performer, composer, theorist, or music educator.