F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music
Department website: https://www.odu.edu/music
Emily Ondracek-Peterson, Executive Director
Nancy K. Klein, Director and Chair
Bianca Hall, Chief Departmental Advisor
Douglas T. Owens, Graduate Program Director
Old Dominion University is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music and offers applied music instruction and coursework leading to the following degrees:
- the Bachelor of Music with a major in Performance (interest areas in Orchestral Instruments, Voice, and Piano, Organ, Harpsichord or Guitar);
- the Bachelor of Music with a major in Composition;
- the Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in Sound Recording Technology;
- the Bachelor of Arts with a major in Music (interest areas in Music History, Music Theory, or Jazz); and
- the Bachelor of Music with majors in PreK-12 Instrumental Music Education and PreK-12 Vocal Music Education.
For admittance to the Diehn School of Music, prospective students seeking a Bachelor of Music degree or the Bachelor of Arts in Music degree with an interest in Jazz must pass a music audition process. Students with prior experience in music theory/aural skills are encouraged to take a placement assessment. See the Diehn School of Music Undergraduate Auditions page for more information.
In addition to full degrees in music, the minor in music is available, with emphases in Composition, Performance, or Music History. Additional offerings include courses in history, methods, appreciation, and literature of music; participation in the Concert Choir, Madrigal Choir, Diehn Chorale, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Marching Band and other ensembles; and individual instruction in piano, organ, voice, guitar, harpsichord, and the orchestral and band instruments. See the School's ensembles page for more information.
The F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music offers the Master of Music Education (MME) degree. Please refer to the Diehn School of Music Graduate pages for more information.
Auditions and Placement Assessments in Music
All applicants for music curricula that require applied lessons are required to satisfy auditions in their major performance areas prior to approval for admission to these curricula. PLEASE NOTE: If placed in a half-hour applied lesson, students MUST audition again for placement into an hour lesson (i.e., MUSA 140 to 141).
Students transferring into the F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music are required to take placement assessments in music theory/aural skills and in any applied area, including voice or piano class, in which they wish to transfer credit.
For details regarding auditions, placement assessments, and ensemble auditions, please visit the F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music website.
Student Handbook
All music majors and minors are strongly encouraged to consult the Music Student Handbook for further information regarding juries, recital attendance policies, Student Performance Hour, general Student Recital performance requirements, and other information.
Financial Aid
Scholarship funds for incoming students are available based on merit and ensemble needs. Additional scholarship funds are available for continuing students providing significant contributions within the F. Ludwig Diehn School of Music. Refer to the Scholarships section of this Catalog for more information.
Community Music Division
The Community Music Division in the College of Arts and Letters offers the finest level of private music instruction, classes, and ensembles to people of all ages and abilities. Faculty members hold degrees in music and specialize in the instruments that they teach. Most are active performers or teachers in the Hampton Roads community and beyond, and all are encouraged to join and participate in national music organizations. The Community Music Division offers private and group instruction in most instruments and voice.
Programs
Bachelor of Arts Program
Bachelor of Music Programs
Minors
BA or BS to MBA (Master of Business Administration) Linked Program
The linked BA/MBA or BS/MBA program is an early entry to the MBA program of study. The early-entry program is designed for well qualified non-business undergraduate ODU students to start their MBA program prior to completing their undergraduate degree. Well qualified non-business undergraduate students may take MBA-level courses as early as three semesters prior to graduation and count up to 12 graduate credits toward their undergraduate degree. Students participating in the early-entry program must earn a minimum of 150 credit hours (120 discrete credit hours for the undergraduate degree and 30 discrete credit hours for the graduate degree). Early-entry program students should carefully consider their undergraduate degree program requirements when planning their course of study. Students in the early-entry program work in close consultation with the MBA Program Office and should refer to information in the Strome College of Business section in the graduate catalog to develop an individualized plan of study based on the required coursework.
BA or BS to MPA (Master of Public Administration) Linked Program
The linked BA/MPA or BS/MPA program provides qualified Old Dominion University undergraduate students with the opportunity to earn a master's degree in public administration while taking credits in the MPA program as an undergraduate student. The program is designed for highly motivated students with the desire to immediately continue their education after the bachelor's degree. The program is especially relevant to individuals seeking to work (or currently working) in the public or non-profit sectors, but is suitable for students from any undergraduate major. Graduate courses may be taken during the fall and spring semester of the student's senior undergraduate year. Up to 12 graduate credits can count toward both the undergraduate and graduate degree and can meet upper-level General Education requirements. After receiving the undergraduate degree, a student will continue with the MPA program, taking MPA courses until completing the required 39 credit hours. Students in the linked program must earn a minimum of 150 credit hours (120 discrete credit hours for the undergraduate degree and 30 discrete credit hours for the graduate degree).
Requirements for admission to the graduate program can be found in the School of Public Service section of the Graduate Catalog. For additional information, please contact the School of Public Service in the Strome College of Business.
Courses
Music (MUSC)
Introduction, practical training, and development of basic piano skills, including the playing of scales, arpeggios, chords, and simple songs; sight reading, transposition, harmonization of melodies, and improvisation. (For music majors only)
Introduction, practical training, and development of basic piano skills, including the playing of scales, arpeggios, chords, and simple songs; sight reading, transposition, harmonization of melodies, and improvisation. (For music majors only)
Continued practical training and development of basic piano skills. (For music majors only)
Introduction, practical training, and development of basic singing skills.
This course covers fundamentals of live audio engineering, rudimentary acoustics, auditory perception and psychoacoustical concepts. Students will learn to assemble sound reinforcement systems for small and large ensembles and examine how sound is perceived by the human ear. Topics such as signal flow, cabling, mixing, busing and monitoring will be addressed. Sound Recording Technology majors must earn a grade of C or better to progress to MUSC 115.
This course is designed specifically for non-music majors and focuses on the fundamentals of music theory. It introduces the basics of music – such as rhythm, melody, and harmony – and may progress into intermediate topics such as chord progressions and aural skill development.
This course provides the knowledge of and skills in music theory fundamentals necessary to prepare for upper levels of music theory. Non-music majors may take the course if there is room and with the permission of the instructor.
A survey of major composers and their works in the historical context of different style periods, including a discussion of the central philosophical and cultural issues of each period. Students will be required to attend at least three musical events and turn in written critiques.
Practical training and development of piano skills needed in the elementary, secondary choral, and private vocal studio setting. Focus will be placed on preparing for the piano barrier exam for music education majors (including technical skills, rehearsal skills, and sight reading). (For Music Education vocal/guitar/keyboard majors only.)
This course is designed to help students make the most out of their experience as a student at ODU, create a sense of community among music students, and prepare students for the expectations of being a college student in the Diehn School of Music. Musicians' health topics, among others, will be presented to enhance student rehearsal and performance practices.
This course is designed to cultivate a nuanced comprehension of the intellectual dimensions of music, equipping students with the analytical skills essential for critical engagement with diverse musical genres and concepts. Through the development of critical thought and the utilization of scholarly tools, students will explore intriguing questions, laying a foundation upon which they will construct additional musical knowledge and expertise during their tenure at the Diehn School of Music.
Music Theory 1 is a foundational course and topics within this course include the basics of music notation, clefs, simple and compound meters, major and minor scales and keys signatures, modes, intervals, triads, seventh chords, inversions, Roman numerals, and an introduction to species counterpoint. This course includes discussions of the pedagogy of music fundamentals.
Topics for this course include functionalizing two-part counterpoint, introduction to SATB part-writing, function theory, cadences, and connecting the tonic and dominant areas. Other topics include chordal harmonies, realizing figured bass, the submediant and mediant harmonies, motives and motivic analysis, twelve-bar blues, popular song forms/chord symbols/chord extensions/harmonic schemas, and an introduction to jazz theory.
Aural Skills 1 introduces melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic dictation. Other topics and skills that are both introduced and developed throughout the course include sight-singing, solfege, aural recognition, and writing of various intervals and chords.
Aural Skills 2 continues to develop melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic dictation as well as sight-singing/solfege, aural recognition, and writing of various intervals and triads.
This course is designed to be an introduction to the appreciation and understanding of music through music listening activities and a survey of music history. Basic principles and elements of music are discussed in relation to contexts within a variety of musical styles including classical, jazz, popular, and world music. Regular and repeated listening is an important part of the course in addition to required concert attendance.
Required for music majors. Available to qualified non-majors. Exploration of music and cultures of the world in terms of function, style, genre, instruments, performers, and individual works. This course offers an exploration of the global mosaic of musical expressions.
Special topics.
This course will introduce the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations and contemporary issues of American public education. Also included is an introduction to music education methods and learning theories as they relate to PreK-12 music education, the study of the Virginia Standards of Learning, the National Core Arts Standards for Music and an investigation into teaching for musical understanding, designing musical problems, lesson planning and assessment. In addition, the course will include reading and writing assignments and discussion with teachers and young musicians. All students will complete a 30-hour observation experience in an appropriate PreK-12 setting specific to music education. In order to receive the required school observation placement, students must complete the ODU Teacher Education background check/clearance process prior to the beginning of this course and register for the observation placement on the Teacher Education web pages. See the advisor for more information. Students are expected independently to register for and take the Praxis Core examination or equivalent while enrolled in this course.
Required of all instrumental music education students. Designed to develop basic skills of playing and teaching the trumpet and F horn. (offered fall semesters)
Required of all instrumental music education students. Designed to develop basic skills of playing and teaching trombone, euphonium, and tuba. (offered spring semesters)
Required of all instrumental music education students. Designed to develop basic skills of playing and teaching the clarinet and oboe, which serves as a foundation for the other woodwind instruments (offered fall semesters).
Required of all instrumental music education students. Designed to develop basic skills of playing and teaching flute, bassoon, and saxophone (offered spring semesters).
Required of all instrumental music education students. Designed to develop basic skills of playing and teaching the violin and viola and to explore instructional materials used with these instruments. (offered fall semesters)
Required of all instrumental music education students. The course is designed to develop basic skills of playing and teaching cello and string bass and to evaluate instructional materials used with these instruments. Introduces heterogeneous teaching and rehearsal techniques using all four stringed instruments. (offered spring semesters)
Required of all instrumental music education students. Class lessons on all percussion instruments and the study of teaching methods for these instruments. (offered spring semesters)
Students gain skills and experience related to the use of music in elementary school.
The development of basic skills and techniques necessary for conducting choral and instrumental ensembles.
Required of all instrumental music education students. Class lessons on all percussion instruments and the study of teaching methods for these instruments. (offered fall semesters)
This course is required of all music majors and music minors for six semesters of their enrollment as a music major or a music minor. The successful completion of the course requires attendance at a specified number of approved recitals, concerts, and events each semester.
This course covers the fundamentals of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) with a focus on Pro Tools. Students will learn basic editing techniques and gain proficiency in creating, arranging and comping tracks, workflow optimization through shortcuts, and basic mixing techniques Additionally, the course delves into the fundamentals of microphone choices and placement. This course emphasizes basic signal flow, the recording process, and troubleshooting skills necessary for a successful audio recording session.
This course focuses on the craft of songwriting. Covering contemporary song forms, techniques of lyric and melody writing as well as popular harmony and analysis, the course prepares students to write hit songs. Students will learn how to effectively demo their own songs, successfully collaborate, write jingles and copyright their own material.
Expanding on the digital audio workstation skills gained in MUSC 315, this course introduces the student to modern multitrack recording techniques. Topics include microphone choice and placement, recording studio signal flow, the use of a large-format console, precise and creative audio editing, file structure and organization, and the basics of signal processing. Students apply this knowledge through guided in-class activities and practical group studio sessions designed to enhance their problem-solving, communication, and critical listening skills. This course is for Bachelor of Music with Emphasis in Sound Recording Technology majors only.
Music Theory 3 further develops skills learned previously in the theory sequence and introduces new topics including: writing and identifying diatonic sequences, spelling and resolving secondary dominants and leading-tone chords of V and scale degrees other than V, modulatory techniques (sequences, pivot chord, direct, common-tone), common-tone chords, NS chromatic modulations. Musical forms including binary, ternary, variation, Baroque forms, Sonata Form, etc. will be introduced and identification skills developed.
Topics explored in this course include: part-writing advanced chromatic harmonies and modulations, altered and extended chords, twentieth-century rhythmic techniques, pitch-class sets, analyzing with modes, scales, collections, and set theory, primitivism, basics of twelve-tone theory, and composing with twelve tones. Other topics explored include theoretical elements of composing after 1945, such as graphic and text notation, chance and indeterminacy, minimalism, post-modern music, and more recent trends.
A continuation of MUSC 224 and in close connection with topics covered in MUSC 321. Topics covered include chordal and chromatic harmony as well as written and keyboard work emphasizing skill development in harmonic modulation.
A continuation of MUSC 323; recommended in conjunction with MUSC 322. Further development of skills learned in MUSC 323 with an additional focus on post-tonal techniques.
Musicians in the twenty-first century must be equipped to meet the ever-changing demands of the contemporary music industry through the development of an entrepreneurial mindset and the utilization of both musical and extra-musical skills, which will allow them to create and build sustainable careers. This course offers a foundation upon which students can develop the musical careers they seek and provides first-hand experience with some of the basic tools modern musicians need to succeed.
This introductory course will explore the impact of technology on music performance, composition, and education through in-class lecture, hands-on demonstration, and lab projects. Topics covered include but are not limited to: basic acoustics, basic audio signal flow for live performance and recording, microphone basics for live performance and recording, an introduction to sequencing and recording software and Digital Audio Workstations, MIDI and synthesis, basics of mixing, editing, an introduction to music notation software and uses, creation of 'music minus one' projects for pedagogical purposes, and an exploration of common file formats for distribution and publication.
This introductory course is designed to give students a historical overview of mechanical and electronic music through topical study and listening examples. Additionally, students will create their own electronic music compositions using analog, digital and virtual hardware/software.
This course will introduce students to the basic concepts of Jazz improvisation, including harmonic and melodic implications.
This course is a continuation of MUSC 337, and will delve further into more advanced techniques used in Jazz improvisation.
An introduction to the fascinating world of sound synthesis and sound design through practical hands-on assignments using industry-standard techniques and by exploring the technology and historical evolution. The course will focus on subtractive synthesis; a core knowledge for creating one's own sounds to use in music.
This course is designed for music and non-music majors interested in the fascinating world of film scoring. Through a combination of historical exploration and in-depth analysis of musical and narrative elements, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how music enhances storytelling in the world of film and television.
An introductory course dealing with correct principles of effective diction essential to the singing of English and Italian songs. (offered every fall)
An introductory course dealing with correct principles of effective diction essential to the singing of German and French songs. (offered every spring)
This course is designed to introduce students to the art of music notation through exploring the history of music engraving practices, hands-on experience writing music manuscript (hand-written) and the use of modern notation software (Finale, Sibelius, etc.) with MIDI implementation.
Students develop critical listening skills through aural analysis, ear training, drill and practice, and comparative analyses. Topics covered include spectral balance and equalization, spatial attributes and reverberation, dynamic range control, distortion and noise, audio clip edit points, analysis of sound, frequencies, effects and processing, delays and decays, and master frequencies. Students are expected to identify frequency ranges, specific audio signatures, distortion, edits, and digit manipulation through aural examinations.
This course is designed to give students hands-on experience working with both hardware and software in the modern MIDI Production studio. Topics covered include MIDI recording, sequencing, editing, and playback techniques, virtual instruments and hardware synthesizers, tracking and mixing in a DAW, and file formats and distribution.
A survey of the development of western art music, from Ancient Greece through the Baroque, highlighting the influence of historical events upon musical developments.
A survey of the development of western art music, from Classical through Modern, showing the influence of historical events upon musical development. This is a writing intensive course.
An opportunity to integrate service and applied learning experience with music industry perspectives.
This ensemble will explore Jazz literature, focusing primarily on the small group format. Previous experience with improvisation is necessary for all participants.
One to three rehearsal periods per week, depending on the ensemble. Students will participate in rehearsals and public performances.
Studio class ensemble for strings. Meets once a week.
This is a performance-based course. It is designed to train music majors and non-majors in small ensemble choral techniques. This choral ensemble is an audition-only group.
Extracurricular activities may be approved for credit based on objectives, criteria, and evaluative procedures as formally determined by the department and the student prior to the semester in which the activity is to take place. Credit is subject to review by the provost.
Extracurricular activities may be approved for credit based on objectives, criteria, and evaluative procedures as formally determined by the department and the student prior to the semester in which the activity is to take place. Credit is subject to review by the Provost.
Symphonic Band is a large ensemble for woodwind, brass and percussion players open to all university students with an audition for ensemble seating. Students will participate in rehearsals and concerts.
Participation in rehearsals and public performances of the Concert Choir.
Participation in rehearsals and public performances of the band. Three rehearsal periods per week.
Participation in rehearsals and public performances of the University Symphony Orchestra. Rehearsals two days per week and dress rehearsals TBA.
This instrumental group will explore and perform standard jazz literature for the Jazz Ensemble and the contemporary Jazz Orchestra.
Basketball band performs at all home Men's and Women's basketball games and selected tournament performances.
Vocal jazz ensemble, performing standard jazz choir literature.
Early music instrumental ensemble.
Small vocal ensemble focusing on a cappella classical music.
Brass Ensemble consisting of trumpets, horns, trombones, euphoniums, and tubas. Performing works written for brass as well as arrangements of choral, orchestral, jazz, pop, and show music.
The Monarch Marching Band will meet only during the fall semester and perform at all home and some away football games and other selected events. Students will participate in rehearsals and performances.
An ensemble comprised of a rhythm section and a few vocalists. Students will play musical covers and original songs in weekly rehearsals, and performs a live concert and/or records in the studio. Can be taken a maximum of 2 times for credit.
A study of selected topics designed for nonmajors, or for credit within a major. These courses will appear in the course schedule. Course descriptions and prerequisites for each course may be found in information distributed to all academic advisors.
A study of selected topics designed for nonmajors, or for credit within a major. These courses will appear in the course schedule. Course descriptions and prerequisites for each course may be found in information distributed to all academic advisors.
Independent reading and study on a topic to be selected under the direction of an instructor. Conferences and papers as appropriate.
Independent reading and study on a topic to be selected under the direction of an instructor. Conferences and papers as appropriate.
Required prior to student teaching for all students in music education. Focuses on materials and methods of vocal and general instruction for elementary music classrooms. (offered fall semesters)
Required prior to the Teacher Candidate Internship (student teaching) for all students in music education. Enables students to observe master classroom teachers and to test accumulated teaching practices in elementary school vocal and general classroom settings. 20 hours of music classroom observation required. Also, in order to receive the required school practicum placement, students must have completed the ODU Office of Clinical Experiences background check/clearance process prior to the beginning of this course. The clearance process takes eight weeks. Students must register for the practicum placement on the Office of Clinical Experiences web pages prior to the course drop/add deadline. Students should contact their advisor for more information. (offered fall and spring semesters)
Required prior to the Teacher Candidate Internship (student teaching) for all students in music education with voice, keyboard or guitar concentration. Focuses on methods of vocal instruction, materials and rehearsal methods for secondary vocal classroom settings. (offered spring semesters)
Required prior to student teaching for all students in music education with voice, keyboard or guitar concentration. Enables students to observe master teachers and to test accumulated teaching practices in secondary school vocal classroom settings. 20 hours of observation required. Passing score of 160 on the Praxis Subject assessment, music content knowledge examination (formerly Praxis II) and passing scores on the VCLA are requirements of this course. Also, in order to receive the required school practicum placement, students must have completed the ODU Office of Clinical Experiences background check/clearance process prior to the beginning of this course. The clearance process takes eight weeks. Students must register for the practicum placement on the Office of Clinical Experiences web pages prior to the course drop/add deadline. Students should contact their advisor for more information. (offered fall and spring semesters).
Required prior to the Teacher Candidate Internship (student teaching) for all students in music education with an instrumental music concentration. Focuses on methods of instruction, materials and rehearsal methods for secondary instrumental classrooms. (offered spring semesters)
Required prior to the Teacher Candidate Internship (student teaching) for all students in music education with instrumental music concentration. Enables students to observe master teachers and to test accumulated teaching practices in secondary school instrumental classrooms. Passing score of 160 on the Praxis Subject assessment, music content knowledge examination (formerly Praxis II) and passing scores on the VCLA are requirements of this course. Also, in order to receive the required school practicum placement, students must have completed the ODU Office of Clinical Experiences background check/clearance process prior to the beginning of this course. The clearance process takes eight weeks. Students must register for the practicum placement on the Office of Clinical Experiences web pages prior to the course drop/add deadline. Students should contact their advisor for more information. Offered fall and spring semesters.
Required prior to the Teacher Candidate Internship (student teaching) for all students in music education with the vocal, keyboard and guitar concentration. Focuses on development of vocal majors' ability to read instrumental scores; provides vocal majors an understanding of families of instruments.
This course is designed to assist students in enhancing their understanding of the aesthetic response to music in various settings. Students will learn to integrate their understanding of musical aptitude as it relates to human growth and development. In addition, students will study the psychological implication of personality types as they develop, implement, and assess their pedagogical approach.
Course deals with the analysis, interpretation, and conducting of varied choral literature.
Course deals with the analysis, interpretation, and conducting of varied instrumental literature.
In this course, students learn how to mix music that supports the emotion of the song and engages listeners. Topics include effective session preparation, advanced editing techniques, musical balancing, creative use of audio effects, and automation techniques. Students will work with pre-recorded multitracks, completing numerous mixes using plug-ins and outboard signal processors, and will receive in-depth critical feedback from their instructor and peers. Through this process, students will develop the critical listening and technical skills to confidently creatively shape sound. This course is for Bachelor of Music with Emphasis in Sound Recording Technology majors only.
Students learn how to arrange music for rhythm sections, vocals, and diverse ensembles, including brass, woodwinds and strings. This course uniquely addresses the evolving landscape of modern music production, bridging the gap between virtual instruments and recording musicians in the studio. As the recording process evolves, so do the demands on musical arrangement and orchestration. This course provides students with the essential tools and techniques to adapt their arrangements to meet the needs of contemporary recording processes.
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of record production, focusing on creative and technical aspects. Topics include pre-production, song arrangement choices, collaboration with artists, and advanced mixing skills. The final project involves planning, producing, and presenting a complete music production project, with peer feedback and analysis. Students in this course will develop essential skills for successful music careers, emphasizing creativity and technical proficiency.
A study of the contrapuntal techniques of sixteenth century composers and their influence upon composers of the eighteenth through twentieth centuries. (offered fall, even years)
Aural analysis study and analysis of the principal traditional musical forms. Stylistic and harmonic analysis as it related to score study will be discussed. (offered spring, even years)
A study of the range, musical functions, and technical characteristics of the instruments and their color possibilities in various combinations. Practical experience in scoring for small and large ensembles. (offered fall, odd years)
This course covers basic arranging techniques for traditional vocal ensembles. Students will develop the ability to reshape pre-existing melodies and chord progressions into successful arrangements for various groups.
Students will learn how to chart and arrange music for the marching band. In addition, basic vocal arranging techniques will be discussed. Students will be required to observe different styles of school marching bands.
This course builds upon the fundamentals experienced in the introductory MIDI course. Topics include: advanced sequencing techniques, looping, editing, data manipulation, patch and control changes through real-time recording, patch editing, storage and retrieval, incorporation of external hardware, sampling, and an introduction to the incorporation of digital audio.
This is a hands-on course in the art of film composition. Students will analyze iconic film scores from Bernard Herrmann to John Powell, exploring music's narrative impact, gain insight into the modern composer’s workflow and diverse skill sets, and apply the techniques learned in practical projects, transitioning from sketch to demo using a DAW. The course culminates in a recording session for the final project. This projects allows students to practice film spotting, thematic writing, sketch to demo production, arranging and music preparation for a live recording experience. Students elevate their skills in writing music that uniquely supports and enhances visual storytelling.
Teaching techniques, literature in the performing area. Seminar deals with resource materials. Laboratory: observation and teaching under supervision.
Teaching techniques, literature in the performing area. Seminar portion of the course deals with resource materials. Laboratory portion of the course includes observation and teaching under supervision.
This course will study the historical development of jazz as an American art form. The emotion and meaning of this style will be investigated as well as the historical and contemporary aesthetic response. Emphasis will include the defining role of African American artists. The influence of jazz on the development of contemporary American music will be discussed. Written critiques of live performances will be required.
The course covers how music has co-evolved with technology, the entertainment business, and cultural trends. The main theme is how recording technology has evolved, and with it, the music making and music listening experiences. Students will expand their musical vocabulary through the study of numerous musical genres, listening to and discussing the essential elements of impactful records, and learning about key artists, composers, producers, engineers, and other music professionals (both past and present). Students will gain a better understanding of the role music plays in the entertainment industry, including with film, TV, games, social media, live events, and more.
Hip-hop, from local roots to global dominance, has sparked extensive journalistic and academic exploration primarily focused on its social and cultural impacts. This course delves into the historical factors shaping hip-hop's origin and evolution, examines its global success and translation both musically and linguistically, and engages in contemplation regarding the essence and direction of hip-hop. No prior musical experience or knowledge of music notation is required, but students will develop a basic set of skills for discussing the structure and function of hip-hop songs.
A study of the techniques and styles in music in the twentieth and twenty-first century (offered spring).
This course is designed to assist music students to enhance their understanding of musicians' health issues in order to prepare them to achieve their desired performance potential.
Study of music history (specific topics vary) including historical perspective in relation to style and development of music, and the function of music in society and culture. Topics will be from the Ancient through the Baroque era (offered fall semester).
Study of music history (specific topics vary) including historical perspective in relation to style and development of music, and the function of music in society and culture. Topics will be from the Classical through Modern era.
A study of music history from the late works of Beethoven to Mahler and Strauss. A discussion of musical style within the context of cultural history. (spring semesters, even years)
These courses will appear in the course schedule. Course descriptions and prerequisites for each course may be found in information distributed to all academic advisors.
These courses will appear in the course schedule. Course descriptions and prerequisites for each course may be found in information distributed to all academic advisors.
Independent reading and study on a topic to be selected under the direction of an instructor. Conferences and papers as appropriate.
Independent reading and study on a topic to be selected under the direction of an instructor. Conferences and papers as appropriate.
Music Education (MUSE)
This course is designed to support the continued training and development of piano skills needed in the elementary, secondary choral, and private vocal studio setting. This course is only for Bachelor of Music, Music Education majors in the Vocal, Guitar, or Keyboard concentration.
This course is designed to help students make the most out of their experience as a student at ODU, create a sense of community among music education majors, and prepare students for the expectations of being a college student in the Diehn School of Music.
This course provides a professional community for emerging music educators. Discussion and fieldwork will focus on the application of instructional and learning strategies for guiding critical and creative music thinking, teaching and learning in a variety of music educational contexts.
Music, Applied (MUSA)
Applied lesson.
Half-hour applied lesson.
One hour applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances at Student Performance Hours or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances at Student Performance Hours or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour performance level applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances at Student Performance Hours or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour performance level applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class or Student Performance Hours or equivalents thereof are required.
One-hour applied lesson for music minors.
One-hour applied lesson for the music minor.
One hour lesson in composition.
One half-hour applied lesson.
One half-hour applied lesson.
One hour applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour performance level applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour performance level applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required. Completion of this level requires a half hour public recital for instrumental area students.
One-hour applied lesson for the music minor.
One-hour applied lesson for the music minor.
One hour composition lesson. Original work in composition starting with the smaller forms in both the vocal and the instrumental fields. At least one 10-minute lecture-performance at Student Performance Hours or an equivalent thereof is required.
One hour composition lesson. Original work in composition starting with the smaller forms in both the vocal and the instrumental fields. At least one 10-minute lecture-performance at Student Performance Hours or an equivalent thereof is required.
Hour lesson in composition for minors and non-majors.
Hour lesson in composition for minors and non-majors.
One hour applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour performance level applied lesson. One or more lecture-performances in Area Studio Class, Student Performance Hours, and/or equivalents thereof are required. Successful completion of a half hour recital is also required for vocal students only.
One hour performance level applied lesson.
One-hour applied lesson for the music minor.
One-hour applied lesson for the music minor.
One hour composition lesson. Original composition in larger forms. One or more lecture-performances at Student Performance Hours or equivalents thereof are required.
One hour composition lesson. Original composition in larger forms.
One hour composition lesson for minors and non-majors.
One hour composition lesson for minors and non-majors.
One hour applied lesson. Satisfaction of a degree requirement on this level includes successful performance of a one-half hour private or, at faculty discretion, public recital.
One hour applied lesson. Satisfaction of a degree requirement on this level includes successful performance of a one-half hour private or, at faculty discretion, public recital. Numbers may be repeated.
This course is designated only for music majors and/or minors. Music hardware and software to be studied includes, but is not limited to: K2500 Mackie 1604 VLZ 2 pro, Opcode MIDI 96 and Digital.
This course is designated for music majors and and/or minors. Music hardware and software to be studied includes, but is not limited to: K2500, Sound Designer, Oro Tools, and Finale. The participants are expected to compose a medium-length work (at least 4-5 minutes) using the above equipment. Grading is based on the knowledge of the electronic equipment and the quality of composing.
One hour performance level lesson.
One hour performance level lesson. Completion of this level includes successful performance of a one-hour public, lecture-style recital.
Each student will receive personalized mentorship, career guidance, and detailed project feedback in an applied lesson studio setting. Emphasizing the creation of a professional portfolio serving as a culminating project or experience, these individualized lessons ensure students are prepared for success in this competitive industry. These advanced projects, developed with faculty advisors, include (but not limited to) producing new songs and film scores, mixing an album, entrepreneurship, and/or conducting original research.