
Music
The process of
learning
music enhances the achievement
level in other
academic areas.
Studies indicate that
there is a significant
relationship between a
student’s music reading
ability and their
abilities in reading and
math. Music students
also tend to have a
higher overall grade
point average than the
non-music student.
Creativity is a major
component of music
and a musically artistic
experience promotes
creativity in other
areas of study.
Department of Music
B46 Kleinpell Fine Arts
(715) 425-3183
Undergraduate Catalog
Goals and Objectives
- to provide diverse educational opportunities in music and cultural enrichment programs for
the university, its students and the community
The department provides unique and comprehensive classes designed to develop student
expertise in theory, history, performance and teacher education. Many interesting and varied
classes are available to music majors and minors while others are designed specifically for students
majoring in other areas.
The music department’s many excellent large and small ensembles
are open to all students on campus. While some ensembles require auditions at the beginning
of each semester, most are open to all without an audition. All of the ensembles present
numerous on-campus concerts throughout the year and many take an annual tour either locally
or internationally.
Individual lessons are another important part of the music major and
minor degree programs. These private lessons help the student achieve technical excellence
while developing musicianship in their chosen area of study.
Teacher education is a primary focus of the music department. Courses are offered in this
degree program which enable the student to develop both musicianship and the ability to teach
music in elementary, middle school and senior high school programs. Music education classes,
instrumental or vocal techniques and conducting provide essential elements which are needed
to be an effective music teacher.
Program
- Bachelor of Music Education (BME) - Students may elect either a Choral/General Music (K-
12) emphasis (includes a piano-vocal option) or an Instrumental/General Music emphasis.
This degree is designed to train and certify public school music teachers and does not require
a minor.
- Broad Area Music Major (BS or BA) - The Broad Area Music Major includes 64 credits of
music courses and does not require a minor. This degree program is often chosen by those
students who plan a performance career or want to attend graduate school.
- Liberal Arts Music Major (BS or BA) - The Liberal Arts Music Major includes 46 credits of
music courses and requires a minor. Many students who choose this program double major
in another area of interest such as business, math or physics.
Faculty
The UWRF music department is staffed with nine full-time and sixteen part-time
faculty members. The diverse faculty provide expertise in the areas of brass, woodwinds, percussion,
strings, guitar, piano, organ, voice and composition. Exceptional faculty leadership is
also evident in the quality of the numerous student music ensembles. Three members of the faculty
are music education specialists who oversee the student teaching experience and provide
invaluable insights into the pedagogical process.
When music majors enter UW-River Falls, they are assigned a faculty advisor who assists each
student in developing a program of study and monitors their progress through its completion.
The congenial faculty members are interested in and dedicated to all university students who
become involved in the departmental activities.
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