Music & Theatre (MTF)

MTF 141 Guitar Class for Beginners (1 credit)

This class is intended as an introduction to acoustic and classical guitar techniques employed in contemporary guitar styles. The focus of this course will involve learning basic open chords, learning to read and play music on the guitar, bar chords, and basic fingerstyle technique. The course will also cover the fundamental music theory necessary for playing songs and basic fret board knowledge. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 142 History of Rock and Pop (3 credits)

This course examines the history of popular music in the English-speaking world from the mid twentieth century to the present day. Genres examined include swing, doo-wop, rock and roll, soul, funk, disco, heavy metal, and punk. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 143 Music in Film (3 credits)

This course focuses on the ways music functions in narrative film. In the first weeks, students will develop analytical skills to describe the ways music can enhance, comment on, undermine, and direct a viewer's interpretation. The remainder of the semester will follow a generally chronological structure, focusing on influential composers and directors, theoretical writings, and the wide variety of twentieth-century and twenty-first musical styles used in soundtracks. Class discussions and writing assignments will guide students in the study of the interlocking histories of music, film, politics, and culture. This course is designed for all students. Previous musical training is not required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 144 Introduction to Music Therapy (3 credits)

This course is an introduction to the field of music therapy. Students will study the history, theory, practice, and applications of music therapy for a variety of clinical populations. They will learn about ongoing research in the field, acquiring a broad understanding of the current state of practice and research. The course is open to all students who are interested in learning more about the field of music therapy. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 150 First Year Seminar (3 credits)

The First-Year Seminar is designed to introduce students to learning in a college context. First-Year Seminars focus in depth on a question or topic of disciplinary or interdisciplinary interest. By means of its specific focus, the seminar will explore the thinking, research, and writing practices in a particular field. Topics vary according to individual instructors.

Attributes: First-Year Seminar, Undergraduate

MTF 151 Music Fundamentals (3 credits)

A study of elements of music including notation, rhythm, scales, intervals, melody, harmony, and form. To facilitate reading skills, class exercises in ear training are included. Previous musical training unnecessary. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 152 Music Appreciation (3 credits)

This course is a survey of music from the Middle Ages to the Twentieth Century. Emphasis is placed on the elements of music, styles of major historical periods, and the lives and works of representative composers. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 153 Vocal Performance (1 credit)

In this course you will learn to professionally train your singing voice through breath management, phrasing, diction, performance practice, and accurate musicianship. Students will receive one individual sixty minute lesson each week. This course may be repeated for credit. Students should be able to read music. An audition and permission of the instructor is required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 154 Piano Performance (1 credit)

Students will receive one individual piano lesson each week, between 30 and 60 minutes in length. This course may be repeated for credit. Students must be able to read music. An audition and permission of the instructor are required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 155 Instrumental Performance (1 credit)

Students will receive one individual instrumental lesson each week, between 30 and 60 minutes in length. This course may be repeated for credit. Students must be able to read music. An audition and permission of the instructor are required. Registration by permission of the instructor only. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 156 Intro to World Music (3 credits)

This course introduces students to the traditional music of cultures around the world, including music of India, Indonesia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. Students will learn to listen critically and to articulate their observations about the music of numerous regions and societies. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, CCC: Mission: Global Citizenship, GEP: Diversity Course, GEP: Art/Literature, Irish Studies Course, Undergraduate

MTF 157 Westrn Music Hist: MidAge-1750 (3 credits)

This course considers the history of Western music from the Middle Ages to the end of the Baroque Period, focusing on the relationship between historical, social, and cultural currents and the development of music. Students will acquire a framework for thinking critically about music and articulating their observations, and they will learn to recognize the musical characteristics of important styles, genres, and historical periods. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: ENG 101

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, CCC: Writing Intensive, GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate, GEP: Writing Intensive

MTF 158 Western Music Hist: 1750-Pres (3 credits)

This course considers the history of Western Music from the second half of the eighteenth century to the present day, focusing on the relationship between historical, social, and cultural currents and the development of music. Students will acquire a framework for thinking critically about music and articulating their observations and learn to recognize the musical characteristics of important styles, genres, and historical periods. This course welcomes students who have not taken MTF 157, Western Music History: The Middle Ages to 1750. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 159 Contemporary Music (3 credits)

An investigation of the chief developments in the concept and style of music which have occurred in the Twentieth century. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 161 Introduction to Theatre (3 credits)

This course examines major traditional and modern plays with emphasis upon the styles and conventions which govern the relationship between drama and its audience; relevance of these styles to the work of actors, directors, and designers. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: ENG 101

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, CCC: Writing Intensive, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate, GEP: Writing Intensive

MTF 162 History of Broadway Musical (3 credits)

This course provides a basic overview of the historical developments of musical theatre as an uniquely American art form, and the study of the structures and genres from early Twentieth Century influences through the "Golden Age" of musicals to contemporary musical theatre. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 163 Stagecraft (3 credits)

An introduction to technical theater, this course will provide the student with a background in the tools, materials, techniques, and processes used in the execution of theatrical designs. Scenery, lighting, props, sound, rigging, and scenic construction and painting will be covered. This course includes a production/crew component as a means of applying the course material in a production setting. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 170 Special Topics & Indep Study (3 credits)

Student majors may pursue investigation of topics beyond those listed in the catalog. Prior approval by the chair and faculty mentor is required. Course number dependent on relevant level of coursework. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 186 Acting for the Camera (3 credits)

This course provides on-camera experience for students in order to develop their technique for on - camera acting for film, television and commercials. Special emphasis on audition techniques for on-camera auditions and creating an individual reel for audition purposes. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 241 Basic Conducting (3 credits)

This course will focus on the basic technical aspects of conducting a musical ensemble. Emphasis will be placed on learning how to communicate musical ideas to an ensemble using traditional conducting gestures. Included in the course will be the study of patterns, phrasing, and rehearsal techniques. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 251

MTF 251 Music Theory I (3 credits)

This course introduces the student to the practice of tonal harmony. Students will learn the principles of chord construction and voice leading, examine the ways in which chords function in tonal music, and be able to compose effective progressions in four-part vocal style. Students must demonstrate to the instructor a familiarity with treble and bass clef notation and basic rhythmic notation. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 151

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 252 Music Composition I (3 credits)

In this course students will complete structured projects in instrumental composition. Contemporary and traditional approaches to melody, harmony, rhythm, form and timbre will be explored. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 351

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 253 Choral Music (3 credits)

A study and performance of choral music with emphasis on vocal development and performing technique. Prior choral experience unnecessary. Participation in concerts and a term paper required. Prerequisite: Participation for one semester in University Singers prior to enrollment. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 254 Jazz in Performance (3 credits)

A study and performance of the repertoire of the contemporary jazz ensemble with emphasis on the history of contemporary "BIG BAND" jazz and the mastery of its performance technique and stylistic interpretation. Participation in the fall and spring concert series and several short papers required. Participation in three semesters of the one credit MTF 255 Jazz Band course, including the fall semester prior to enrollment, along with approval from the instructor and department chair are required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 255 Ensemble Performance (1 credit)

Students are placed in ensembles with other instrumentalists (making duos, trios, etc). Their ensemble learns at least one substantial musical work, practicing independently and as a group, and receives weekly in-depth coachings from the professor. The ensemble performs in a recital at the end of the semester. Registration by permission of the Instructor only. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 256 Intro to Music Technology (3 credits)

An introductory course leading to an understanding and creative application of the elements of music technology, including MIDI, digital audio recording and editing, notation software, and sound design. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 251

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 257 American Music (3 credits)

This course examines music produced in the United States from the early Colonial period to the present day. Students will consider a variety of styles, with an emphasis on folk, art, and African-American music. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: American Studies Course, CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 258 Major Composers (3 credits)

Major composers courses are semester-long studies of a single composer and their contributions to music history. Students read a biography of the composer and study several of their pieces in detail. Examples of courses in the Major Composers series include Ludwig van Beethoven and Johann Sebastian Bach. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: ENG 101

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, CCC: Writing Intensive, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 261 Theatre Performance Practicum (3 credits)

Rehearsal and performance of a campus theatre production (produced by SJU Theatre Company and directed by a faculty director) with the student in the role of actor or stage manager. Comprehensive study of both the rehearsal and performance processes. In order to register for the course, the production must be the third campus production in which the student has served as cast member or stage manager. Departmental approval is required in order for the student to register for the course. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 262 Theatre Production Practicum (3 credits)

A practical application of theatre production studies where the student works as a stage manager or run crew chief on a production produced by the Department of Music, Theatre & Film under the guidance of a faculty Director. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 263 Acting I (3 credits)

Study of the fundamentals of the acting process based upon Stanislavsky's system of acting. Course culminates in scene study preparation and performance of contemporary scenes. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 264 Acting II (3 credits)

Exploration of various methods and styles of acting; further development of techniques of voice, movement, characterization, script analysis, emotion memory, comic timing, and monologues. Extensive laboratory work in scene performance. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 263

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature

MTF 265 Directing for the Stage (3 credits)

Study of the basic techniques of play direction, including composition, picturization, play selection, auditions and casting, blocking and staging, including historic perspectives on notable directors. This course culminates in student-directed scenes from modern and contemporary plays. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 266 Theatre History (3 credits)

This course examines the history of theatre from the Ancient Greek period through contemporary theatrical forms of the 21st century, focusing on major periods of theatre development including the Italian Renaissance, the Elizabethan age, Restoration Drama as well as the modern European and American theatre movements. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 267 Prod Design: Theatre & Film (3 credits)

Students study the basic elements of theatrical/ film production in scenery and lighting. An intensive hands-on lab is required as part of completion of the course. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 268 Musical Theatre Performance (3 credits)

Practice in performance techniques used in musical theatre auditions as well as practice in scene study from the musical theatre repertoire. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 269 Musical Theatre Dance Styles (3 credits)

A performance/studio course in dance in which a variety of basic technique in musical theatre dance styles are examined including basic jazz as well as stylistic interpretations of select prominent music theatre choreographers (Jerome Robbins, Bob Fosse, Michael Bennett, etc.). Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature

MTF 270 Special Topics & Indep Study (3 credits)

Student majors may pursue investigation of topics beyond those listed in the catalog. Major GPA of 3.0 required, as is prior approval by the chair and faculty mentor. Course number dependent on relevant level of coursework. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 351 Music Theory II (3 credits)

This course serves as a continuation of MTF 251 Music Theory I. Topics include diatonic harmony, formal design, and an introduction to chromatic harmony. Students will further develop their skills in both written theory and ear-training. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 251

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 352 Music Composition II (3 credits)

In this course students will complete structured projects in both vocal and instrumental composition. Students will engage in analysis of selected works as well as the study of instrumental resources. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 252 and MTF 351

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 353 Advanced Vocal Performance (3 credits)

In this course, advanced vocalists take weekly lessons with a member of the studio faculty, learning four-six solo works from three different historical periods, including the twentieth or twenty-first century. They also participate in University Singers. In addition to their lessons, individual practice, and choir, students are required to give an outreach performance in a community venue, such as a nursing home or hospital. MTF 359 is open only to advanced singers who have already completed three semesters of studio lessons at SJU and who have the permission of the instructor to enroll. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature

MTF 354 Advanced Piano Performance (3 credits)

In this course, which is open to advanced pianists who have already completed three semesters of lessons in a piano studio at SJU, students dedicate themselves to concentrated piano study. They study works from at least three historical periods, which they present formally at their end-of-semester jury, and take one or more private lessons each week, practicing an average of fourteen hours per week. Students perform in the studio recital at the end of the semester and give one off-campus, outreach performance in a hospital, nursing home, local school, or similar community venue. Prerequisites: Enrollment in MTF 154 Piano Performance for 3 semesters and permission of the instructor are required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature

MTF 355 Adv Ensemble Performance (3 credits)

In this course, advanced instrumentalists or vocalists participate in three chamber groups, coached by member(s) of the music faculty. They learn three different musical works, including at least one from the twentieth or twenty-first century, and participate in the studio recital. In addition, students are required to give an outreach performance in a community venue, such as a nursing home or hospital. Prerequisites: Advanced performers who have already completed 3 semesters of Ensemble Performance at SJU and who have the permission of the instructor to enroll. Registration by permission of the Instructor only. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 356 Music Production (3 credits)

In this course, students will learn the skills necessary for recording, editing, and mixing. Building on technologies they encountered in Introduction to Music Technology, they will complete a number of creative projects in electronic music production throughout the course. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 256

Attributes: Undergraduate

MTF 357 Music Theory III (3 credits)

This course serves as a continuation of MTF 351 Music Theory II. Topics include borrowed chords, modulation to distant keys, enharmonic relationships, and chromatic harmony. Emphasis on part-writing, composition, and analysis. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 351

Attributes: CCC: F&P Arts, Design & Creative, GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 359 Adv Instrumental Performance (3 credits)

In this course, advanced instrumentalists take weekly lessons with a member of the studio faculty, learning three solo works from three different historical periods, including the twentieth or twenty-first century. They also participate in a collaborative ensemble with another student musician. In addition to their lessons and individual practice, students are required to give an outreach performance in a community venue, such as a nursing home or hospital. Prerequisites: Advanced instrumentalists who have already completed 3 semesters of studio lessons at SJU and who have the permission of the instructor to enroll. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 363 Styles of Acting (3 credits)

An advanced acting course that explores scene study performance of complex scenes including classic works (Shakespeare, Moliere) and plays from the modern period (August Strindberg, Tennessee Williams and Sam Shepard). Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: (MTF 263 or MTF 264)

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 370 Special Topics (3 credits)

Special Topics courses are upper-level classes on a variety of subjects in Music History. These courses synthesize score analysis, close reading of musicological literature, critical listening, and discussion in a stimulating seminar environment. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Prerequisites: MTF 251 and MTF 351 and MTF 157 and MTF 158

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, GEP: Writing Intensive

MTF 470 Special Topics & Indept Study (3 credits)

MTF 491 Internship (3 credits)

Junior and Senior MTF majors may broaden their perspective by completing an approved internship in Music, Theatre, or Film/TV. Students are expected to spend six to eight hours per week on site, and to maintain a weekly journal of their experiences and to secure a report by their immediate supervisor at mid semester and upon completion of the work. Prior approval by the chair is required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 492 Internship: Music/Theatre/Film (3 credits)

MTF 493 Indep Prj: Mus, Theat, Film I (3 credits)

Students pursuing advanced independent projects, especially those in connection with departmental or university honors, may register for these courses under the direct mentorship of department faculty. Prior approval of both faculty mentor and chair required. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Music Industry Course, Undergraduate

MTF 494 Indep Prj: Mus, Theat, Film II (3 credits)

Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

MTF 495 Senior Project Development (3 credits)

A student majoring in either Music or Theatre & Film must execute a supervised senior project with acts as a capstone experience on their work in the department. Working closely with their faculty mentor, the student will prepare a major piece of creative or critical work (composition, performance, film, screenplay, or thesis) inclusive of a public presentation in an appropriate venue. Depending on the scope and nature of the project, students will complete the work in either one or two semesters decided in consultation with the faculty mentor and with permission of the chair. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate

MTF 496 Senior Project (3 credits)

A student majoring in either Music or Theatre & Film, must execute a supervised senior project which acts as a capstone experience on their work in the department. Working closely with their faculty mentor, the student will prepare a major piece of creative or critical work (composition, performance, film, screenplay, or thesis) inclusive of a public presentation in an appropriate venue. Depending on the scope and nature of the project, students will complete the work in either one or two semesters decided in consultation with the faculty mentor and with permission of the chair. Music, Theatre, & Film fee of $150.00 applies to this course.

Attributes: GEP: Art/Literature, Undergraduate