The Mead Witter School of Music offers the Music major for students earning a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree and want to study music in addition to another major. This program has the fewest credit requirements of all the Music programs. Students who have completed this major have gone on to pursue careers in music as well as taking advantage of the skills music taught them to pursue an array of other career paths.
This major offers several options for students including Performance, Composition, or an Individualized Music Curriculum. Students focusing on Jazz Studies can also pursue the Performance option.
Facilities
Mead Witter School of Music - Facilities
Concerts & Events
We offer concerts and events throughout the year that are open to everyone.
How to Get in
Admission Procedures
To be admitted to the Mead Witter School of Music a student needs to apply to and be admitted by both UW-Madison and the Mead Witter School of Music:
- Prospective (new or transfer) and re-entry students should apply to UW-Madison through the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.
- All students must also complete an application and pass an audition. See the Mead Witter School of Music website for more information. Questions about the Music application and audition process should be directed to the Music Undergraduate Audition and Admissions Coordinator.
- Students declared in the Music major are not eligible to declare Music: Performance or Music: Education.
Declaring a Music Major
Students admitted to UW-Madison and the Mead Witter School of Music will be declared in their music major or music degree program. All students must make satisfactory progress, as described below, to continue in their major or degree program. Students not meeting these requirements should meet with the Undergraduate Music Advisor to discuss their options for continuing in the Mead Witter School of Music.
Music Major Continuation Requirements
Students must meet all of the requirements below to continue in the program. Students not meeting any one of these requirements will be removed from the program and must choose a new major. Contact the Undergraduate Music Advisor for consideration of extenuating circumstances or if the student is considering a leave of absence (such as family emergency, personal wellness, study abroad, or approved accommodations)
(1) Enrollment Requirements
- Enroll every fall and spring semester in a course that meets the Performance Study Requirements, until that requirement is completed.
- Enroll in MUSIC 121 and MUSIC 171 to begin the music theory/history sequence in the first possible fall semester after declaration.
(2) Performance Study Jury and Progress Report
At least once a year, students must pass a performance jury with their major instrument. The purpose of this jury will be to evaluate performance study progress and to set goals for the coming year. Students who do not pass will receive guidance about making improvements and a warning letter and will have a semester to work with their professor to make improvements needed to remain in the program.
(3) Progression to 400-Level Performance Study
At the end of the fourth semester of enrollment in Performance Study, students will be evaluated for permission to advance to 400-level performance study. Students who do not meet progression requirements to advance to 400-level performance study may be given an additional semester to meet those requirements.
University General Education Requirements
All undergraduate students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are required to fulfill a minimum set of common university general education requirements to ensure that every graduate acquires the essential core of an undergraduate education. This core establishes a foundation for living a productive life, being a citizen of the world, appreciating aesthetic values, and engaging in lifelong learning in a continually changing world. Various schools and colleges will have requirements in addition to the requirements listed below. Consult your advisor for assistance, as needed. For additional information, see the university Undergraduate General Education Requirements section of the Guide.
| General Education |
* The mortarboard symbol appears before the title of any course that fulfills one of the Communication Part A or Part B, Ethnic Studies, or Quantitative Reasoning Part A or Part B requirements. |
College of Letters & Science Degree Requirements: Bachelor of Science (BS)
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in the College of Letters & Science must complete all of the requirements below. The College of Letters & Science allows this major to be paired with either the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science degree requirements.
Bachelor of Science Degree Requirements
| Mathematics | Complete two courses of 3+ credits at the Intermediate or Advanced level in MATH, COMP SCI, or STAT subjects. A maximum of one course in each of COMP SCI and STAT subjects counts toward this requirement. |
| Language | Complete the third unit of a language other than English. |
| L&S Breadth | Complete: • 12 credits of Humanities, which must include at least 6 credits of Literature; and • 12 credits of Social Science; and • 12 credits of Natural Science, which must include 6 credits of Biological Science and 6 credits of Physical Science. |
| Liberal Arts and Science Coursework | Complete at least 108 credits. |
| Depth of Intermediate/Advanced Coursework | Complete at least 60 credits at the Intermediate or Advanced level. |
| Major | Declare and complete at least one major. |
| Total Credits | Complete at least 120 credits. |
| UW-Madison Experience | Complete both: • 30 credits in residence, overall, and • 30 credits in residence after the 86th credit. |
| Quality of Work | • 2.000 in all coursework at UW–Madison • 2.000 in Intermediate/Advanced level coursework at UW–Madison |
Non–L&S students pursuing an L&S major
Non–L&S students who have permission from their school/college to pursue an additional major within L&S only need to fulfill the major requirements. They do not need to complete the L&S Degree Requirements above.
Requirements for the Major
Students must complete at least 44 total credits in the Music major or a Named Option. Students who do not declare a Named Option must complete the requirements below.
Named Options
Student must work with a School of Music faculty member to create a cohesive plan to meet requirements; the plan must be approved by the appropriate faculty area committee(s) and by the Curriculum Committee.
Performance Study
Complete three semesters in one of the following areas.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Study | ||
| Bass | ||
| MUS PERF 237 | Elementary/Intermediate Double Bass | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 437 | Advanced Double Bass | |
| Bassoon | ||
| MUS PERF 215 | Elementary/Intermediate Bassoon | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 415 | Advanced Bassoon | |
| Cello | ||
| MUS PERF 235 | Elementary/Intermediate Cello | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 435 | Advanced Cello | |
| Clarinet | ||
| MUS PERF 211 | Elementary/Intermediate Clarinet | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 411 | Advanced Clarinet | |
| Euphonium | ||
| MUS PERF 223 | Elementary/Intermediate Euphonium | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 423 | Advanced Euphonium | |
| Flute | ||
| MUS PERF 207 | Elementary/Intermediate Flute | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 407 | Advanced Flute | |
| Guitar | ||
| MUS PERF 240 | Elementary/Intermediate Guitar | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 440 | Advanced Guitar | |
| Harp | ||
| MUS PERF 239 | Elementary/Intermediate Harp | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 439 | Advanced Harp | |
| Horn | ||
| MUS PERF 217 | Elementary/Intermediate Horn | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 417 | Advanced Horn | |
| Jazz | ||
| MUS PERF 241 | Elementary/Intermediate Jazz Studio Instruction | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 441 | Advanced Jazz Studio Instruction | |
| Percussion | ||
| MUS PERF 227 | Elementary/Intermediate Percussion | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 427 | Advanced Percussion | |
| Piano | ||
| MUS PERF 201 | Elementary/Intermediate Piano | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 401 | Advanced Piano | |
| Oboe | ||
| MUS PERF 209 | Elementary/Intermediate Oboe | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 409 | Advanced Oboe | |
| Saxophone | ||
| MUS PERF 213 | Elementary/Intermediate Saxophone | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 413 | Advanced Saxophone | |
| Trombone | ||
| MUS PERF 221 | Elementary/Intermediate Trombone | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 421 | Advanced Trombone | |
| Trumpet | ||
| MUS PERF 219 | Elementary/Intermediate Trumpet | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 419 | Advanced Trumpet | |
| Tuba | ||
| MUS PERF 225 | Elementary/Intermediate Tuba | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 425 | Advanced Tuba | |
| Viola | ||
| MUS PERF 233 | Elementary/Intermediate Viola | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 433 | Advanced Viola | |
| Violin | ||
| MUS PERF 231 | Elementary/Intermediate Violin | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 231 | Elementary/Intermediate Violin | |
| Voice | ||
| MUS PERF 205 | Elementary/Intermediate Voice | 2 |
| or MUS PERF 405 | Advanced Voice | |
Music Theory, Music History, and Piano Skills
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Music Theory, History, and Piano Skills | ||
| Core Requirements: Complete all the following: | ||
| MUSIC 121 & MUSIC 171 | Musica Practica 1 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 1 | 4 |
| MUSIC 122 & MUSIC 172 | Musica Practica 2 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 2 | 4 |
| MUSIC 211 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 212 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUS PERF 102 | Beginning Class Piano (Students who enroll in MUS PERF 201 or MUS PERF 203 are exempt from this course requirement.) 1 | 2 |
| Additional Music Theory | 4-6 | |
| Musica Practica 3 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 | ||
| OR | ||
| Jazz Theory & Composition and Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Additional Music History. Complete one of the following: | 3 | |
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Jazz Histories | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Total Credits | 23-25 | |
- 1
A student may complete a proficiency exam in piano, instead of completing this course.
Music Emphasis
Complete electives to meet 44 credits in the Major. A maximum of 16 credits can be taken from courses numbered below 100.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 40 | Wind Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 41 | Concert Band | 1 |
| MUSIC 50 | Concert Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 52 | Treble Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 56 | Chorale | 1 |
| MUSIC 58 | Madrigal Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 62 | University Symphony Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC 102 | Jazz in 20th-Century America | 3 |
| MUSIC 107 | Music & Film | 3 |
| MUSIC 201 | Music and Society | 2 |
| MUSIC 221 | Musica Practica 3 | 3 |
| MUSIC 222 | Musica Practica 4 | 3 |
| MUSIC 229 | Jazz Theory & Composition | 3 |
| MUSIC 252 | Introduction to Conducting and Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 253 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 254 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 256 | University Opera | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 257 | Opera Workshop | 2 |
| MUSIC 262 | Jazz Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 265 | Ensemble-Woodwind | 1 |
| MUSIC 266 | Resistance Music Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 267 | Ensemble-Brass | 1 |
| MUSIC 268 | Ensemble-Percussion | 1 |
| MUSIC 269 | Ensemble-String | 1 |
| MUSIC 270 | Ensemble-Guitar | 1 |
| MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 | 1 |
| MUSIC 272 | Musica Practica: Aural Skills 4 | 1 |
| MUSIC/AFROAMER/DANCE 318 | Cultural Cross Currents: West African Dance/Music in the Americas | 3 |
| MUSIC 319 | Topics in Music and Ethnicity in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 331 | Jazz Improvisation | 3 |
| MUSIC 332 | Jazz Improvisation | 3 |
| MUSIC 340 | Pedagogy | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 346 | Repertoire | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 405 | Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 411 | Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | 3 |
| MUSIC 412 | Survey of Music in the Renaissance | 3 |
| MUSIC 413 | Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 414 | Survey of Music in the Classic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 415 | Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 416 | Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | 3 |
| MUSIC 417 | Jazz Histories | 3 |
| MUSIC 419 | Music in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 461 | Collegium Musicum | 1 |
| MUSIC 466 | Diction for Singers | 2 |
| MUSIC 467 | Language Diction for Singing I | 2 |
| MUSIC 468 | Language Diction for Singing II | 2 |
| MUSIC 497 | Special Topics in Music | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 499 | Directed Study | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 502 | Figured Bass and Basso Continuo | 3 |
| MUSIC 511 | Historical Performance Practices | 3 |
| MUSIC 513 | Survey of Opera | 3 |
| MUSIC 523 | Orchestration I | 3 |
| MUS PERF 101 | Beginning Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 102 | Beginning Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 103 | Elementary Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 104 | Intermediate Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 108 | Jazz Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 143 | Introduction to Performance: Voice | 1 |
| MUS PERF 144 | Vocal Instruction for Non-Voice Majors | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 148 | First Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 200 | Elementary/Intermediate Piano for Non-Piano Majors | 2 |
| MUS PERF 201 | Elementary/Intermediate Piano | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 205 | Elementary/Intermediate Voice | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 207 | Elementary/Intermediate Flute | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 209 | Elementary/Intermediate Oboe | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 211 | Elementary/Intermediate Clarinet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 213 | Elementary/Intermediate Saxophone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 215 | Elementary/Intermediate Bassoon | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 217 | Elementary/Intermediate Horn | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 219 | Elementary/Intermediate Trumpet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 221 | Elementary/Intermediate Trombone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 223 | Elementary/Intermediate Euphonium | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 225 | Elementary/Intermediate Tuba | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 227 | Elementary/Intermediate Percussion | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 231 | Elementary/Intermediate Violin | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 233 | Elementary/Intermediate Viola | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 235 | Elementary/Intermediate Cello | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 237 | Elementary/Intermediate Double Bass | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 239 | Elementary/Intermediate Harp | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 240 | Elementary/Intermediate Guitar | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 241 | Elementary/Intermediate Jazz Studio Instruction | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 242 | Accompanying | 2 |
| MUS PERF 247 | Second Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 248 | Second Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 251 | Keyboard Skills | 2 |
| MUS PERF 311 | Advanced Techniques: Clarinet | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 333 | Advanced Techniques: Viola | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 339 | Advanced Techniques: Harp | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 342 | Piano Accompanying Lab | 1 |
| MUS PERF 347 | Third Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 348 | Third Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 401 | Advanced Piano | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 405 | Advanced Voice | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 407 | Advanced Flute | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 409 | Advanced Oboe | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 411 | Advanced Clarinet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 413 | Advanced Saxophone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 415 | Advanced Bassoon | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 417 | Advanced Horn | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 419 | Advanced Trumpet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 421 | Advanced Trombone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 423 | Advanced Euphonium | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 425 | Advanced Tuba | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 427 | Advanced Percussion | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 431 | Advanced Violin | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 433 | Advanced Viola | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 435 | Advanced Cello | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 437 | Advanced Double Bass | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 439 | Advanced Harp | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 440 | Advanced Guitar | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 441 | Advanced Jazz Studio Instruction | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 447 | Fourth Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 448 | Fourth Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 457 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
| MUS PERF 458 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
Residence & Quality of Work
- 2.000 GPA in all MUSIC, MUS PERF and other courses counting in the major
- 2.000 GPA on 15 upper-level major credits in the major, taken in Residence (see below)
- 15 credits in MUSIC or MUS PERF, taken on the UW-Madison campus
Music
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 40 | Wind Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 41 | Concert Band | 1 |
| MUSIC 50 | Concert Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 52 | Treble Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 53 | Choral Union | 1 |
| MUSIC 55 | Masters' Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 56 | Chorale | 1 |
| MUSIC 58 | Madrigal Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 62 | University Symphony Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC 211 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 212 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 221 | Musica Practica 3 | 3 |
| MUSIC 222 | Musica Practica 4 | 3 |
| MUSIC 229 | Jazz Theory & Composition | 3 |
| MUSIC 252 | Introduction to Conducting and Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 253 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 254 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 256 | University Opera | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 257 | Opera Workshop | 2 |
| MUSIC 262 | Jazz Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 265 | Ensemble-Woodwind | 1 |
| MUSIC 266 | Resistance Music Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 267 | Ensemble-Brass | 1 |
| MUSIC 268 | Ensemble-Percussion | 1 |
| MUSIC 269 | Ensemble-String | 1 |
| MUSIC 270 | Ensemble-Guitar | 1 |
| MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 | 1 |
| MUSIC 272 | Musica Practica: Aural Skills 4 | 1 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 301 | Music Learning and Teaching 1 | 2 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 304 | Composition, Arrangement, and Orchestration for the Music Teacher | 2 |
| MUSIC 317 | Musical Women in Europe and America: Creativity, Performance, and Identity | 3 |
| MUSIC/AFROAMER/DANCE 318 | Cultural Cross Currents: West African Dance/Music in the Americas | 3 |
| MUSIC 319 | Topics in Music and Ethnicity in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 331 | Jazz Improvisation | 3 |
| MUSIC 332 | Jazz Improvisation | 3 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 337 | Practicum in Teaching Music | 1 |
| MUSIC 340 | Pedagogy | 1-2 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 344 | Teaching Vocal Styles in the Music Classroom | 1 |
| MUSIC 346 | Repertoire | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 405 | Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | 3 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 409 | Student Teaching in General and Vocal Music | 6-12 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 410 | Student Teaching in General and Instrumental Music | 6-12 |
| MUSIC 411 | Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | 3 |
| MUSIC 412 | Survey of Music in the Renaissance | 3 |
| MUSIC 413 | Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 414 | Survey of Music in the Classic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 415 | Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 416 | Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | 3 |
| MUSIC 417 | Jazz Histories | 3 |
| MUSIC 419 | Music in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 420 | Teaching Popular Instrumental Music 1 | 1 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 421 | Teaching Popular Instrumental Music 2 | 1 |
| MUSIC 461 | Collegium Musicum | 1 |
| MUSIC 463 | Acting for Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 465 | Marching Band Techniques | 1 |
| MUSIC 466 | Diction for Singers | 2 |
| MUSIC 467 | Language Diction for Singing I | 2 |
| MUSIC 468 | Language Diction for Singing II | 2 |
| MUSIC 497 | Special Topics in Music | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 499 | Directed Study | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 502 | Figured Bass and Basso Continuo | 3 |
| MUSIC 511 | Historical Performance Practices | 3 |
| MUSIC 513 | Survey of Opera | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 515 | Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | 3 |
| MUSIC 523 | Orchestration I | 3 |
| MUSIC 540 | Advanced Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 541 | Seminar in Choral Literature | 2 |
| MUSIC 546 | String Literature | 2 |
| MUSIC 621 | Renaissance Polyphony | 3 |
| MUSIC 622 | Baroque Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUSIC 623 | Form and Analysis | 2-3 |
| MUSIC 624 | Form and Analysis II | 2-3 |
| MUSIC 629 | Jazz Theory and Analysis | 3 |
| MUSIC 681 | Senior Honors Thesis | 3 |
| MUSIC 682 | Senior Honors Thesis | 3 |
Music Performance
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUS PERF 311 | Advanced Techniques: Clarinet | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 333 | Advanced Techniques: Viola | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 339 | Advanced Techniques: Harp | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 342 | Piano Accompanying Lab | 1 |
| MUS PERF 347 | Third Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 348 | Third Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 401 | Advanced Piano | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 405 | Advanced Voice | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 407 | Advanced Flute | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 409 | Advanced Oboe | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 411 | Advanced Clarinet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 413 | Advanced Saxophone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 415 | Advanced Bassoon | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 417 | Advanced Horn | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 419 | Advanced Trumpet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 421 | Advanced Trombone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 423 | Advanced Euphonium | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 425 | Advanced Tuba | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 427 | Advanced Percussion | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 431 | Advanced Violin | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 433 | Advanced Viola | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 435 | Advanced Cello | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 437 | Advanced Double Bass | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 439 | Advanced Harp | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 440 | Advanced Guitar | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 441 | Advanced Jazz Studio Instruction | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 447 | Fourth Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 448 | Fourth Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 457 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
| MUS PERF 458 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
| MUS PERF 499 | Senior Recital | 2 |
Honors in the Major
To participate in the Honors in the Major program, students must:
- Notify the School of Music undergraduate advisor of their intention to become a candidate for Honors in the Major. This will usually occur in the sophomore year.
- Present a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.300 in all courses taken at UW–Madison and maintain this average throughout the degree.
- Present a minimum 3.500 GPA in all music coursework
- Engage a faculty member and plan 12 credits of honors curriculum coursework; submit this plan to the undergraduate music advisor.
- Prior to beginning work on the Senior Honors Thesis sequence, confirm a faculty advisor for this sequence (who may be the same person as for the 12 credits above) and submit a prospectus outlining in detail the planned work including (a) the topic, (b) plans for research, and (c) a clear substantive written component, although it may also include oral and/or performance components. The faculty advisor must sign the prospectus indicating approval.
- Students may also complete Honors in the Major for the Music: Performance and Music: Composition options by completing the requirements for the option in addition to the requirements for Honors in the Major.
To complete and earn Honors in any Music major, students must satisfy the requirements for the major and these additional requirements:
- Earn a minimum 3.300 University GPA
- Earn a minimum 3.500 GPA in the major
- MUSIC 681–MUSIC 682 for a total of 6 credits
- 12 credits of Honors coursework in music: 6 of the 12 credits must be numbered 300 or above and only 6 credits can be taken in any one of the three music areas of theory, history, and performance.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 40 | Wind Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 41 | Concert Band | 1 |
| MUSIC 50 | Concert Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 52 | Treble Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 56 | Chorale | 1 |
| MUSIC 58 | Madrigal Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 62 | University Symphony Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC 102 | Jazz in 20th-Century America | 3 |
| MUSIC 107 | Music & Film | 3 |
| MUSIC 201 | Music and Society | 2 |
| MUSIC 221 | Musica Practica 3 | 3 |
| MUSIC 222 | Musica Practica 4 | 3 |
| MUSIC 229 | Jazz Theory & Composition | 3 |
| MUSIC 252 | Introduction to Conducting and Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 253 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 254 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 256 | University Opera | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 257 | Opera Workshop | 2 |
| MUSIC 262 | Jazz Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 265 | Ensemble-Woodwind | 1 |
| MUSIC 266 | Resistance Music Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 267 | Ensemble-Brass | 1 |
| MUSIC 268 | Ensemble-Percussion | 1 |
| MUSIC 269 | Ensemble-String | 1 |
| MUSIC 270 | Ensemble-Guitar | 1 |
| MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 | 1 |
| MUSIC 272 | Musica Practica: Aural Skills 4 | 1 |
| MUSIC/AFROAMER/DANCE 318 | Cultural Cross Currents: West African Dance/Music in the Americas | 3 |
| MUSIC 319 | Topics in Music and Ethnicity in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 331 | Jazz Improvisation | 3 |
| MUSIC 332 | Jazz Improvisation | 3 |
| MUSIC 340 | Pedagogy | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 346 | Repertoire | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 405 | Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 411 | Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | 3 |
| MUSIC 412 | Survey of Music in the Renaissance | 3 |
| MUSIC 413 | Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 414 | Survey of Music in the Classic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 415 | Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 416 | Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | 3 |
| MUSIC 417 | Jazz Histories | 3 |
| MUSIC 419 | Music in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 461 | Collegium Musicum | 1 |
| MUSIC 466 | Diction for Singers | 2 |
| MUSIC 467 | Language Diction for Singing I | 2 |
| MUSIC 468 | Language Diction for Singing II | 2 |
| MUSIC 497 | Special Topics in Music | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 499 | Directed Study | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 502 | Figured Bass and Basso Continuo | 3 |
| MUSIC 511 | Historical Performance Practices | 3 |
| MUSIC 513 | Survey of Opera | 3 |
| MUSIC 523 | Orchestration I | 3 |
| MUS PERF 101 | Beginning Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 102 | Beginning Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 103 | Elementary Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 104 | Intermediate Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 108 | Jazz Class Piano | 2 |
| MUS PERF 143 | Introduction to Performance: Voice | 1 |
| MUS PERF 144 | Vocal Instruction for Non-Voice Majors | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 148 | First Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 200 | Elementary/Intermediate Piano for Non-Piano Majors | 2 |
| MUS PERF 201 | Elementary/Intermediate Piano | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 205 | Elementary/Intermediate Voice | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 207 | Elementary/Intermediate Flute | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 209 | Elementary/Intermediate Oboe | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 211 | Elementary/Intermediate Clarinet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 213 | Elementary/Intermediate Saxophone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 215 | Elementary/Intermediate Bassoon | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 217 | Elementary/Intermediate Horn | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 219 | Elementary/Intermediate Trumpet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 221 | Elementary/Intermediate Trombone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 223 | Elementary/Intermediate Euphonium | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 225 | Elementary/Intermediate Tuba | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 227 | Elementary/Intermediate Percussion | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 231 | Elementary/Intermediate Violin | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 233 | Elementary/Intermediate Viola | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 235 | Elementary/Intermediate Cello | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 237 | Elementary/Intermediate Double Bass | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 239 | Elementary/Intermediate Harp | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 240 | Elementary/Intermediate Guitar | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 241 | Elementary/Intermediate Jazz Studio Instruction | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 242 | Accompanying | 2 |
| MUS PERF 247 | Second Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 248 | Second Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 251 | Keyboard Skills | 2 |
| MUS PERF 311 | Advanced Techniques: Clarinet | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 333 | Advanced Techniques: Viola | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 339 | Advanced Techniques: Harp | 1-2 |
| MUS PERF 342 | Piano Accompanying Lab | 1 |
| MUS PERF 347 | Third Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 348 | Third Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 401 | Advanced Piano | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 405 | Advanced Voice | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 407 | Advanced Flute | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 409 | Advanced Oboe | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 411 | Advanced Clarinet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 413 | Advanced Saxophone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 415 | Advanced Bassoon | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 417 | Advanced Horn | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 419 | Advanced Trumpet | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 421 | Advanced Trombone | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 423 | Advanced Euphonium | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 425 | Advanced Tuba | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 427 | Advanced Percussion | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 431 | Advanced Violin | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 433 | Advanced Viola | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 435 | Advanced Cello | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 437 | Advanced Double Bass | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 439 | Advanced Harp | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 440 | Advanced Guitar | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 441 | Advanced Jazz Studio Instruction | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 447 | Fourth Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 448 | Fourth Year Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 457 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
| MUS PERF 458 | Jazz Composition and Arranging | 3 |
- 2
A maximum of 16 credits can be taken from courses numbered below 100.
- 3
Students who complete MUSIC 122, MUSIC 221, or MUSIC 222 without having taken the earlier courses in the theory sequence, or who achieve advanced placement in theory through department examination, may not be required to complete the prerequisite courses in the theory sequence. However, no retroactive course credit will be granted. All students must complete at least 42 credits in Mead Witter School of Music coursework.
University Degree Requirements
| Total Degree | To receive a bachelor's degree from UW–Madison, students must earn a minimum of 120 degree credits. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 degree credits. Students should consult with their college or department advisor for information on specific credit requirements. |
| Residency | Degree candidates are required to earn a minimum of 30 credits in residence at UW–Madison. "In residence" means on the UW–Madison campus with an undergraduate degree classification. “In residence” credit also includes UW–Madison courses offered in distance or online formats and credits earned in UW–Madison Study Abroad/Study Away programs. |
| Quality of Work | Undergraduate students must maintain the minimum grade point average specified by the school, college, or academic program to remain in good academic standing. Students whose academic performance drops below these minimum thresholds will be placed on academic probation. |
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate technical proficiency in the major performance medium.
- Demonstrate the ability to learn independently and collaboratively.
- Integrate knowledge across domains of music research and applied studies.
- Demonstrate artistry, creativity, and discipline in preparation and performance.
- Employ an advanced vocabulary to discuss music verbally and in writing.
Four-Year Plan
This Four-Year Plan is only one way a student may complete an L&S degree with this major. Many factors can affect student degree planning, including placement scores, credit for transferred courses, credits earned by examination, and individual scholarly interests. In addition, many students have commitments (e.g., athletics, honors, research, student organizations, study abroad, work and volunteer experiences) that necessitate they adjust their plans accordingly. Informed students engage in their own unique Wisconsin Experience by consulting their academic advisors, Guide, DARS, and Course Search & Enroll for assistance making and adjusting their plan.
Student must work with a School of Music faculty member to create a cohesive plan to meet requirements; the plan must be approved by the appropriate faculty area committee(s) and by the Curriculum Committee.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Elementary/Intermediate Performance Study | 2 | Elementary/Intermediate Performance Study | 2 |
| MUSIC 121 & MUSIC 171 | 4 | MUSIC 122 & MUSIC 172 | 4 |
| Communication A | 3 | Music Elective Credit | 1 |
| Elective Credits | 2 | MUS PERF 102 | 2 |
| World Language (if needed) | 4 | Ethnic Studies | 3 |
| Quantitative Reasoning A | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Elementary/Intermediate Performance Study | 2 | MUSIC 212 | 3 |
| MUSIC 221 & MUSIC 271 | 4 | Music Elective Credit | 3 |
| MUSIC 211 | 3 | Literature Breadth | 3 |
| Biological Science Breadth | 3 | Physical Science Breadth | 3 |
| Quantitative Reasoning Part B (if BA) or Intermediate/Advanced COMPSCI, MATH, or STAT (if BS) | 3 | Social Science Breadth | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Additional Music History | 3 | Music Elective Credits | 5 |
| Music Elective Credit | 3 | Communication Part B | 3 |
| Social Science Breadth | 3 | Literature Breadth | 3 |
| Science Breadth | 3 | Elective (Intermediate/Advanced level) | 4 |
| Intermediate/Advanced COMPSCI, MATH, or STAT (if bs) or Electives, Intermediate/Advanced level (if BA) | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Music Elective Credit | 2 | Social Science Breadth | 3 |
| Social Science Breadth | 3 | Science Breadth | 3 |
| Elective (Intermediate/Advanced level) | 10 | Elective (Intermediate/Advanced level) | 9 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
Advising and Careers
Advising Resources
All current UW-Madison undergraduate students majoring or interested in majoring in Music are welcome to schedule an advising appointment with the music advisor. Advising appointments can be scheduled using Starfish.
Questions from current and prospective Music students, or students interested in music classes or ensembles may also be email to the School of Music Undergraduate Advisor at ugradadvisor@music.wisc.edu
The Mead Witter School of Music recommends that Music students meet with their music advisor regularly to discuss their academic plans. School of Music Programs can be highly sequential and include required courses that are offered only one a year or once every other year. Students considering studying abroad are also recommended to meet with their music advisor early to determine the best way of fitting their experience abroad into their graduation plans.
Are you a prospective Music student?
The Mead Witter School of Music offers the opportunity to audition several times a year. Check out the School of Music website for more information about audition information. Prospective music majors are welcome to reach out to the Undergraduate Admissions Coordinator with an questions at: admissions@music.wisc.edu
Career Resources
A Music major or degree can offer students many opportunities for careers in music industry and music education, as well as provide valuable skills that can be applied to any career path.
Check out “What can I do with my Music Major?”
The Mills Music Library has resources to help musicians with their career search.
There are many campus resources to help students explore, plan for, and start their careers. Students who are undecided about their major plans and career can visit the Career Exploration Center. SuccessWorks at the College of Letters & Science offers Music students a wealth of resources to explore career options, build experience, prepare for the job market, and to find a job, internship, or graduate school opportunities. Music majors should be sure to explore the Communications, Media, & the Arts career cluster including signing up for their newsletter.
Music Education Career Resources
Music Education majors are also encouraged to work with the Mary T. Kellner Teacher Education Center for their licensure process and with the Career Center at the School of Education to assist with their job search.
SuccessWorks
SuccessWorks at the College of Letters & Science helps you turn the academic skills learned in your classes into a fulfilling life, guiding you every step of the way to securing jobs, internships, or admission to graduate school.
Through one-on-one career advising, events, and resources, you can explore career options, build valuable internship and research experience, and connect with supportive alumni and employers who open doors of opportunity.
- What you can do with your major (Major Skills & Outcomes Sheets)
- Make a career advising appointment
- Learn about internships and internship funding
- Try “Jobs, Internships, & How to Get Them,” an interactive guide in Canvas for enrolled UW–Madison students
Resources and Scholarships
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Music Students
The Mead Witter School of Music is able to offer some scholarships to its applicants based on the quality of the audition performance and the School of Music application. Continuing students are also considered for scholarship based on their progress in the School of Music. Please see the School of Music website for more information regarding music scholarships.
Students are also encouraged to fill out the FAFSA and consult the Office of Student Financial Aid to regarding other available grants and loans.
Hire a Musician
The School of Music maintains a blog for posting part-time job opportunities, gigs in the area, and other professional development opportunities at musicgigs.music.wisc.edu.
Musician Health
For more information on student resources and information on the prevention and treatment of music-related injuries, please check out our musician health page: music.wisc.edu/musician-health.
Accreditation
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) since 1966.
Accreditation status: Accredited. Next accreditation review: 2032-2033; final 2022-2023 report forthcoming.