VALUES AND EDUCATIONAL PRIORITIES
At the Mead Witter School of Music
- we teach by example, offering participatory, mentor-driven education;
- we provide individualized instruction and flexible curricula that encourage students to find their own musical pathways;
- we foster musical excellence and high academic standards;
- our faculty exhibit the best of their respective fields, are deeply engaged in artistic scholarship and research, and are committed to teaching at all levels;
- we whole-heartedly embrace the Wisconsin Idea;
- we have created a dynamic educational community, part of a large and vibrant research university within a city that values and supports the arts.
The Mead Witter School of Music enriches students' educational experience by hosting guest artists and scholars for master classes, recitals, colloquia, seminars, and festivals. Its performing organizations and ensembles perform more than 350 recitals and concerts every year, making a significant contribution to the cultural life of the university and the wider Madison community. Facilities specifically designed for music study and performance offer excellent resources for students to pursue their interests.
In addition to a thriving undergraduate student body, B.M.: Music Education students have the advantage of working side-by-side with students in master's-level and doctoral-level music programs. Working collegially in class and studio, making music together on stage and off, and building professional relationships across program boundaries all enable the sharing of expertise, experience, and perspectives and add immeasurably to every student's development.
The music degree programs are demanding and require care in taking courses in the proper sequence. Graduation can be delayed if a course is not taken in the appropriate semester. Refer to the Requirements tab for details on the coursework and sequences of study in specific majors.
The Music Education Major
The music education major consists of two certification programs; General and Instrumental Music, and General and Choral Music. Students choose one of the programs and will, upon completion, be certified to teach in two areas at the Early-Childhood-through-Adolescence level. Music Education is a program offered jointly by the School of Music and the School of Education. The Bachelor of Music: Education degree is conferred by the College of Letters & Science; teacher certification is earned through the School of Education.
The music education program was recently revised to:
- Award certification in two areas. Each graduate will receive certification in general music and also in vocal or instrumental music, thus increasing job marketability and better reflecting the current needs of K–12 schools. Graduates are certified to teach in elementary and secondary schools.
- Explore the relationships between popular culture and music education. Graduates will be prepared to teach multiple forms of musical literacy, not just the traditional band, orchestra and choral curriculum.
- Expand the number of musical styles studied in the curriculum. Students also participate in group performances that reflect the diverse array of musical activities in today's schools.
- Offer an introductory music education class to sophomores prior to admission into the program.
- Provide instruction and experiences so that graduates can teach in culturally responsive ways.
- Increase performance collaboration between students in the instrumental and vocal tracks.
- Create a more interdisciplinary program by requiring all music education students to complete a core set of courses.
Although these programs are designed with the goal of preparing teachers to work in K–12 schools, the programs also provide a good preparation for individuals seeking careers in continuing education or music education-related fields.
The student's principal performance area should be consistent with the chosen certification program. One or more additional performance areas may be required. Prospective music education majors must audition and be accepted into any additional performance areas at the music major level (200 level) of performance study prior to beginning the methods and practicum sequence. Mead Witter School of Music cannot guarantee admission to additional performance areas, nor can it guarantee that appropriate substitute coursework will be available. During the time a student is enrolled in degree work, all performance study is expected to take place at UW–Madison.
Admission procedures
To become a candidate for a School of Music degree, a student must first be accepted by the UW–Madison Office of Admissions and Recruitment and by the Mead Witter School of Music. Students interested in music education should consult with the audition and admission coordinator and apply as soon as possible. The music education program is highly sequential and takes a minimum of eight semesters from the semester of matriculation at Mead Witter School of Music.
Application material is available on the Mead Witter School of Music website. The music application process is handled by the Undergraduate Admissions Office, 3561H Mosse Humanities. The steps for applying to the School of Music are:
- Review the information available on the School of Music website. Any questions may be directed to the School of Music Undergraduate Admissions Office.
- Download and complete the music application. On the application form you will request an audition date.
- Download and provide the recommendation forms to two recommenders. These will be people who can attest to the applicant's musical background and ability.
- If there will be need for financial assistance, consult the Office of Student Financial Aid.
- Request that official transcripts be sent to the School of Music Undergraduate Admissions Office from all high schools and colleges attended.
- Prepare the appropriate repertoire and materials for the audition.
- Come to the campus for an audition, which includes a ten- to twenty-minute performance audition, music theory and piano placement examinations, and an introduction to Mead Witter School of Music faculty, students, and facilities.
Transfer Students
Students who have earned more than 24 course credits at another college or university follow the same application and audition procedures described above. Upon acceptance by UW–Madison and the School of Music, credits for music courses taken at another institution are interpreted by the UW–Madison Office of Admissions and Recruitment simply as elective music credits. These course credits, as they appear on the transcript(s), will be reviewed during a conference with the advisor upon enrolling at UW–Madison. Transfer credit for music courses will be reviewed only after all placement and proficiency examinations in theory and piano have been taken at UW–Madison and syllabi for academic music courses have been submitted.
Reentering the School of Music
Students previously enrolled in the School of Music and UW–Madison who desire to reenter to seek an undergraduate degree should apply for reentry to both the UW–Madison Office of Admissions and Recruitment and the School of Music Undergraduate Admissions Office. An audition will be required in most cases.
International Students
International students seeking admission to the university and the School of Music should contact International Student Services in addition to the UW–Madison Office of Admissions and Recruitment and the School of Music Undergraduate Admissions Office.
Expectations for new students
All new music majors are expected to enroll for the proper major coursework in the first semester at UW-Madison. Students on financial aid must also be enrolled as full-time students. Continuance as a music major is conditional upon achieving good progress and maintaining high standards based upon minimum GPAs in several categories. See the Requirements tab, Degree Progress and Declaring the Music Education Major for specific information.
Applying to the Music Education major
Before a student can declare a major in Music Education s/he must be admitted by the faculty to the program in order to take upper-level courses. During the second year in the core music curriculum, each student will sign up for an audition/interview with the music education faculty. The audition includes, but is not limited to, performance, sight-singing, and keyboard harmonization components. Minimum admission eligibility GPA requirements are:
- 3.000 in all music courses
- 2.750 cumulative (all courses)
- 2.500 in music theory and history courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 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 221 & MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica 3 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 | 4 |
| MUSIC 211 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 212 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
The number of students admitted to the music education program is contingent upon available space; enrollment limits may be necessary to ensure that students have reasonable and timely access to required Mead Witter School of Music courses.
Students who successfully pass the audition/interview process and are offered admission must complete the following steps to complete their admission into the program:
Submit a teacher certification program application with the School of Education. Include the completed program application form(s), transcripts, and all other related application materials specified on the School of Education's Apply to a Program page.
Submit a major declaration form to the School of Music. Students admitted into the music education certification program will thereafter enroll jointly with the School of Music (College of Letters and Science) and the School of Education.
Note: In previous years, applicants to teacher education programs were required to submit scores from one of the following exams: ACT, SAT, Praxis I/PPST, Praxis Core, or GRE. Under emergency rules announced by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, no applicants need to submit scores for any exam as a component of their application to this program. The exam requirement was officially removed by the School of Education on November 15, 2017.
- University General Education Requirements
- School of Education Liberal Studies Requirements
- Typical Music Course Enrollment—Year One and Year Two
- Choosing a Music Education Curriculum
- Requirements: General and Instrumental Certification
- Requirements: General and Choral Certification
- Continuation Requirements
- Honors in the Major
- Additional Certification Requirements and Applying for a License
- University Degree Requirements
Teaching music is critical to the life of every musical community. Mead Witter School of Music has developed a progressive curriculum that meets the need for music educators who are resourceful, creative, and well-prepared to engage with the exciting diversity of a global culture. Our alumni who hold teaching positions throughout Wisconsin and beyond have found that the investment of energy and time does not go unrewarded.
Mead Witter School of Music offers Bachelor of Music: Music Education majors with two concentrations that lead to General and Instrumental or General and Choral teaching certification in the State of Wisconsin. For the General and Instrumental concentration a student's program will fall into one of two categories: those whose principal instrument is a band or orchestral instrument will follow a specific course of study, and those with piano or guitar as their principal instrument will follow a different course of study. For the General and Choral concentration there are also two categories, determined by the principal performance medium: those who are principally vocalists will follow one course of study, and those with piano or guitar as their principal instrument will follow another. See Choosing a Music Education Curriculum below for detailed descriptions of specific coursework.
The Mead Witter School of Music, a department in the College of Letters and Science, adheres to all University requirements for general education and breadth. Since the Music Education major is tied closely to the School of Education, the major also meets the School of Education's requirements in liberal studies.
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. |
School of Education Liberal Studies Requirements
Music education students complete the School of Education's liberal studies (i.e., breadth) requirements. A limited number of music, art and dance credits may be applied toward this 40-credit requirement.
Typical Music Course Enrollment—Year One and Year Two
All Bachelor of Music students have the same core courses in music theory and music history during the first two years as music majors. The following table outlines the usual course schedule during the freshman and sophomore years. Take note of the following:
- Some courses are taken by all students
- Every student enrolls in either a performing organization (Band, Orchestra, Choir) or or Accompanying (students whose principal instrument is keyboard). This is required every the student is enrolled for performance study.
- Students whose principal instrument is not keyboard enroll in secondary piano study the first year to satisfy the major requirement.
- Each semester the students typically enroll in 5-6 credits of non-music coursework that satisfies Liberal Studies requirements.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| Music Theory | ||
| MUSIC 121 & MUSIC 171 | Musica Practica 1 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 1 (prerequisite course requirement) | 4 |
| MUSIC 122 & MUSIC 172 | Musica Practica 2 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 2 | 4 |
| Performance (applied) study | 4 | |
2 credits each semester | ||
| Performing Organization | 2 | |
1 credit each semester | ||
| Secondary piano study | 4 | |
for non-keyboard majors; 2 credits per semester as needed to meet requirement | ||
| Second Year | ||
| Music Theory | ||
| MUSIC 221 & MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica 3 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 | 4 |
| MUSIC 222 & MUSIC 272 | Musica Practica 4 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 4 | 4 |
| Performance (applied) study | 4 | |
2 credits each semester | ||
| Performing Organization | 2 | |
1 credit each semester | ||
Choosing a Music Education Curriculum
The music education major consists of two main curricula, both leading to certification at both the elementary and secondary levels. Students choose to complete the certification program in either General and Instrumental Music or General and Choral Music. The Bachelor of Music: Education degree requires a minimum of 130 credits. The music education faculty can advise you on which curriculum is most suited to your goals. Information on how to apply to the Music Education program can be found under the How to Get in tab.
Requirements: General and Instrumental Certification
Performance Study: Principal Instrument Band or Orchestral
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Study: Principal Instrument | ||
| FIRST YEAR AND SECOND YEARS: 200-level study in the major instrument, 4 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 8 | |
| Elementary/Intermediate Flute | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Oboe | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Clarinet | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Saxophone | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Bassoon | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Horn | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Trumpet | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Trombone | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Euphonium | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Tuba | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Percussion | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Violin | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Viola | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Cello | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate String Bass | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Harp | ||
| THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS: 400-level study in major instrument, 3 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 6 | |
| Advanced Flute | ||
| Advanced Oboe | ||
| Advanced Clarinet | ||
| Advanced Saxophone | ||
| Advanced Bassoon | ||
| Advanced Horn | ||
| Advanced Trumpet | ||
| Advanced Trombone | ||
| Advanced Euphonium | ||
| Advanced Tuba | ||
| Advanced Percussion | ||
| Advanced Violin | ||
| Advanced Viola | ||
| Advanced Cello | ||
| Advanced String Bass | ||
| Advanced Harp | ||
| Performing Organizations and Ensembles | ||
| Enrollment in a course from List A or List B is required each semester of enrollment in performance study. | ||
| LIST A (6 credits required) | 6 | |
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| Concert Band | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| LIST B (2 credits required) | 2 | |
| Jazz Ensemble | ||
| Black Music Ensemble | ||
| Ensemble-Percussion (lab 2, percussion majors only) | ||
Performance Study: Principal Instrument Piano or Guitar
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Study | ||
| FIRST AND SECOND YEARS: 200-level performance study in piano or guitar, 4 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 8 | |
| Elementary/Intermediate Piano | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Guitar | ||
| THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS: 400-level performance study in piano or guitar, 3 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 6 | |
| Elementary/Intermediate Piano | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Guitar | ||
| ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE STUDY: BAND OR ORCHESTRA INSTRUMENT | 8 | |
| Additional study on a Band or Orchestra instrument is required: 200-level study, 4 semesters, 2 credits each semester | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Flute | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Oboe | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Clarinet | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Saxophone | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Bassoon | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Horn | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Trumpet | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Trombone | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Euphonium | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Tuba | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Percussion | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Violin | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Viola | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Cello | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate String Bass | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Harp | ||
| Performing Organizations and Ensembles | ||
| Enrollment in an organization or ensemble is required each semester of enrollment in performance study. | ||
| LIST A (6 credits required) | 6 | |
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| Concert Band | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| LIST B (2 credits required) | 2 | |
| Jazz Ensemble | ||
| Black Music Ensemble | ||
Music Core
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Music Theory | ||
| MUSIC 121 & MUSIC 171 | Musica Practica 1 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 1 (co-requisite courses) | 4 |
| MUSIC 122 & MUSIC 172 | Musica Practica 2 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 2 (co-requisite courses) | 4 |
| MUSIC 221 & MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica 3 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 (co-requisite courses) | 4 |
| MUSIC 222 & MUSIC 272 | Musica Practica 4 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 4 (co-requisite courses) | 4 |
| Amer-European Music History | ||
| MUSIC 211 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 212 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| Select one of the following courses: | 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 | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Global Music Cultures | 5 | |
| 5 credits from any of the following courses: | ||
| Introduction to Music Cultures of the World | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Piano | 0-2 | |
| Complete the following course or pass a proficiency exam | ||
| Intermediate Class Piano | ||
| Jazz | 2 | |
| Select either of the following courses (both offered in fall semesters): | ||
| Jazz Class Piano | ||
| Jazz Improvisation (offered in fall semesters) | ||
| Conducting | 4 | |
| Conducting | ||
| Conducting (Lab 2) | ||
| Instrumental Fundamentals | 7 | |
| One semester selected from the following courses (woodwinds): | ||
| Fundamentals-Flute | ||
| Fundamentals: Double Reeds | ||
| Fundamentals: Single Reeds | ||
| One semester selected from one of the following courses (brass): | ||
| Fundamentals-High Brass | ||
| Fundamentals-Low Brass | ||
| One semester of the following course: | ||
| Fundamentals-Percussion | ||
| One semester selected from the following courses (strings) | ||
| Fundamentals-High Strings | ||
| Fundamentals-Low Strings | ||
| Remaining 3 credits from the following courses, as advised: | ||
| Fundamentals-Flute | ||
| Fundamentals: Double Reeds | ||
| Fundamentals: Single Reeds | ||
| Fundamentals-High Brass | ||
| Fundamentals-Low Brass | ||
| Fundamentals-Percussion | ||
| Fundamentals-High Strings | ||
| Fundamentals-Low Strings | ||
| Voice Fundamentals | 1 | |
| Introduction to Performance: Voice | ||
or MUS PERF 144 | Vocal Instruction for Non-Voice Majors | |
| Dance | ||
| Select a Dance course that pairs movement and music. | 1 | |
Professional Education Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Foundations | ||
| Human Development | 3 | |
Select one of the following courses: | ||
| Human Development in Infancy and Childhood | ||
| Human Development in Adolescence | ||
| Human Development From Childhood Through Adolescence | ||
| Learning | 3 | |
| How People Learn | ||
| Foundations of the Profession | 3 | |
Select one of the following courses: | ||
| School and Society | ||
| History of American Education | ||
| Literacy, including Reading | 3 | |
| Integrating the Teaching of Reading with Other Language Arts | ||
| Special Education | 3 | |
| Strategies for Inclusive Schooling | ||
| Music Education Courses | ||
| CURRIC/MUSIC 304 | Composition, Arrangement, and Orchestration for the Music Teacher (offered in fall semesters; prereq Mus Perf 104) | 2 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 420 | Teaching Popular Instrumental Music 1 | 1 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 421 | Teaching Popular Instrumental Music 2 | 1 |
| Music Education Professional Sequence | ||
| CURRIC/MUSIC 300 & CURRIC/MUSIC 303 | Introduction to Music Education and Fieldwork in Music Communities (co-requisite courses) | 3 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 301 & CURRIC/MUSIC 337 | Music Learning and Teaching 1 and Practicum in Teaching Music (co-requisite courses) 1 | 3 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 302 & CURRIC/MUSIC 337 | Music Learning and Teaching 2 and Practicum in Teaching Music (co-requisite courses) 1 | 3 |
| Student Teaching | ||
| CURRIC/MUSIC 410 | Student Teaching in General and Instrumental Music | 12 |
| Multicultural Education and Human Relations | ||
required for certification: must complete before student teaching | ||
| 50 hours field experience: fulfilled in conjunction with with Curric 506 and Music 337 | ||
| Conflict resolution workshop: fulfilled in conjunction with Music 300 | ||
| American Indian Studies and Education (Wis. Act 31): there are a variety of ways to earn certification. Consult with advisor and music education faculty. | ||
| 1 | MUSIC/CURRIC 337 should be taken under Fld 1 for this major. |
Requirements: General and Choral Certification
Performance Study: Principal Instrument Voice
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Peformance Study | ||
| FIRST AND SECOND YEARS: 200-level performance study, 4 semesters, 2 credits per semester | 8 | |
| Elementary/Intermediate Voice | ||
| THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS: 400-level performance study, 3 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 6 | |
| Advanced Voice | ||
| Performing Organizations and Ensembles | ||
| Enrollment in a choir or ensemble from List A or List B is required each semester enrolled in performance study. | ||
| LIST A (6 credits required): | 6 | |
| Concert Choir | ||
| Chorale | ||
| Madrigal Singers | ||
| LIST B (2 credits required): | 2 | |
| Jazz Ensemble | ||
| Black Music Ensemble | ||
| Piano | 0-8 | |
| Complete the following course or pass proficiency exam: | ||
| Intermediate Class Piano | ||
Performance Study: Principal Instrument Piano or Guitar
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Study | ||
| FIRST AND SECOND YEARS: 200-level study on the principal instrument, 4 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 8 | |
| Elementary/Intermediate Piano | ||
| Elementary/Intermediate Guitar | ||
| THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS: 400-level study on principal instrument, 3 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 6 | |
| Advanced Piano | ||
| Advanced Guitar | ||
| Additional Performance Study: Voice | ||
| FIRST AND SECOND YEARS: 200-level performance study in voice, 4 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 8 | |
| Elementary/Intermediate Voice | ||
| THIRD AND FOURTH YEARS: 400-level performance study in voice, 2 semesters, 2 credits each semester | 4 | |
| Advanced Voice | ||
| Performing Organizations and Ensembles | ||
| Enrollment in a choir or ensemble from List A or List B is required each semester enrolled in performance study. | ||
| List A (6 credits required): | 6 | |
| Concert Choir | ||
| Chorale | ||
| Madrigal Singers | ||
| List B (2 credits required): | 2 | |
| Jazz Ensemble | ||
| Black Music Ensemble | ||
| Piano | 0 | |
| For students with principal instrument as guitar: | ||
| Complete the following course or pass proficiency exam: | ||
| Intermediate Class Piano | ||
Music Core
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Music Theory | ||
| MUSIC 121 & MUSIC 171 | Musica Practica 1 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 1 (prerequisite course requirements) | 4 |
| MUSIC 122 & MUSIC 172 | Musica Practica 2 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 2 (prerequisite course requirements) | 4 |
| MUSIC 221 & MUSIC 271 | Musica Practica 3 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 3 (prerequisite course requirements) | 4 |
| MUSIC 222 & MUSIC 272 | Musica Practica 4 and Musica Practica: Aural Skills 4 | 4 |
| Amer-European Music History | ||
| MUSIC 211 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 212 | Survey of the History of Western Music | 3 |
| Select one of the following courses: | 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 | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Global Music Cultures | ||
| Select 5 credits from the following: | ||
| Introduction to Music Cultures of the World | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Jazz | 2 | |
| Select either of the following courses (both offered in fall semesters): | ||
| Jazz Class Piano | ||
or MUSIC 331 | Jazz Improvisation | |
| Conducting | ||
| MUSIC 253 | Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 254 | Conducting (Lab 1) | 2 |
| Diction | ||
| MUSIC 466 | Diction for Singers | 2 |
| Dance | ||
| Select a Dance course that pairs movement with music | 1 | |
Professional Education Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Foundations | ||
| Human Development | 3 | |
Select one of the following courses: | ||
| Human Development in Infancy and Childhood | ||
| Human Development in Adolescence | ||
| Human Development From Childhood Through Adolescence | ||
| Learning | ||
| ED PSYCH 301 | How People Learn | 3 |
| Foundations of the Profession | 3 | |
| Select one of the following courses: | ||
| School and Society | ||
| History of American Education | ||
| Literacy, including Reading | ||
| CURRIC 305 | Integrating the Teaching of Reading with Other Language Arts | 3 |
| Special Education | ||
| CURRIC/RP & SE 506 | Strategies for Inclusive Schooling | 3 |
| Music Education Courses | ||
| CURRIC/MUSIC 304 | Composition, Arrangement, and Orchestration for the Music Teacher (offered in fall semesters; prereq Mus Perf 104) | 2 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 420 | Teaching Popular Instrumental Music 1 | 1 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 421 | Teaching Popular Instrumental Music 2 | 1 |
| MUSIC/CURRIC 344 | Teaching Vocal Styles in the Music Classroom (offered spring semester of even-numbered years) | 1 |
| Music Education Professional Sequence | ||
| CURRIC/MUSIC 300 & MUSIC/CURRIC 303 | Introduction to Music Education and Fieldwork in Music Communities | 3 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 301 & MUSIC/CURRIC 337 | Music Learning and Teaching 1 and Practicum in Teaching Music 1 | 3 |
| CURRIC/MUSIC 302 & MUSIC/CURRIC 337 | Music Learning and Teaching 2 and Practicum in Teaching Music 1 | 3 |
| Student Teaching | ||
| CURRIC/MUSIC 409 | Student Teaching in General and Vocal Music | 12 |
| Multicultural Education and Human Relations | ||
| 50 hours field experience fulfilled in conjunction with Curric 506 and Music 337. | ||
| Conflict resolution workshop fulfilled in conjunction with Music 300. | ||
| American Indian Studies and Education (Wis. Act 31): There are a variety of ways to earn certification. Consult with advisor and music education facuity. | ||
| 1 | MUSIC/CURRIC 337 Practicum in Teaching Music should be taken under Fld 1 for this major. |
Continuation Requirements
In addition to meeting all course-related standards, students must receive a grade of B or higher in all music education practicum courses, and a grade of C or higher in all applicable music education methods courses (i.e., CURRIC/MUSIC 300 Introduction to Music Education/, CURRIC/MUSIC 301 Music Learning and Teaching 1/, CURRIC/MUSIC 302 Music Learning and Teaching 2/) in order to continue in the program.
Residence & Quality of Work
2.000 GPA in all MUSIC, MUS PERF and major courses
15 credits in MUSIC and/or MUS PERF, taken on the UW–Madison campus
15 credits of upper-level work in the major completed in residence1
1Courses that count towards this requirement are:
Music
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MUSIC 40 | Wind Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 41 | Concert Band | 1 |
| MUSIC 50 | Concert Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 52 | Women's Chorus | 1 |
| MUSIC 53 | Choral Union | 1 |
| MUSIC 55 | Masters' Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 56 | Chorale | 1 |
| MUSIC 58 | Madrigal Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 61 | Chamber Orchestra | 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 256 | University Opera | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 262 | Jazz Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 265 | Ensemble-Woodwind | 1 |
| MUSIC 266 | Black 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 273 | Contemporary Chamber Ensemble | 1 |
| 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 345 | Practicum in String Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC/AFROAMER 400 | Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 401 | Musical Cultures of the World | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 402 | Musical Cultures of the World | 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 419 | Music in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 461 | Collegium Musicum | 1 |
| 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 524 | Orchestration II | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 535 | American Folk and Vernacular Music | 3 |
| MUSIC/ANTHRO/FOLKLORE/THEATRE 539 | The Folklore of Festivals and Celebrations | 3 |
| MUSIC 540 | Advanced Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 541 | Seminar in Choral Literature | 2 |
| MUSIC 542 | Choral Literature and Performance Practices of Today | 2 |
| MUSIC 543 | Advanced String Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 544 | Advanced String Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 545 | Practicum in Advanced String Pedagogy | 2 |
| MUSIC 546 | String Literature | 2 |
| MUSIC 548 | Piano Pedagogy II | 3 |
| MUSIC 550 | Percussion Literature | 2 |
| MUSIC 551 | Class Piano Pedagogy | 3 |
| MUSIC 553 | Advanced Conducting Seminar | 2 |
| MUSIC 554 | Advanced Conducting | 2 |
| MUSIC 556 | University Opera | 1-2 |
| MUSIC 557 | Opera Workshop | 2 |
| MUSIC 558 | Madrigal Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 559 | Graduate Choral Union | 1 |
| MUSIC 560 | Practicum in Advanced Studio Teaching-Piano | 1 |
| MUSIC 562 | Jazz Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 565 | Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind | 1 |
| MUSIC 567 | Advanced Ensemble-Brass | 1 |
| MUSIC 568 | Advanced Ensemble-Percussion | 1 |
| MUSIC 569 | Advanced Ensemble-String | 1 |
| MUSIC 570 | University Symphony Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC 571 | Chamber Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC 572 | Advanced Ensemble-Classical Guitar | 1 |
| MUSIC 573 | Contemporary Chamber Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 574 | Wind Ensemble | 1 |
| MUSIC 576 | Concert Band | 1 |
| MUSIC 577 | Chorale | 1 |
| MUSIC 578 | Concert Choir | 1 |
| MUSIC 579 | Masters Singers | 1 |
| MUSIC 59 | University Chorus | 1 |
| MUSIC 591 | Organ Literature and Design | 2 |
| MUSIC 60 | All-University String Orchestra | 1 |
| MUSIC/L I S 619 | Music Research Methods and Materials | 3 |
| 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 681 | Senior Honors Thesis | 3 |
| MUSIC 682 | Senior Honors Thesis | 3 |
Music Performance
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 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 402 | Advanced Harpsichord | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 403 | Advanced Organ | 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 String Bass | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 439 | Advanced Harp | 2-4 |
| MUS PERF 440 | Advanced Guitar | 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 |
| MUS PERF 501 | Masters Level-Piano | 4 |
| MUS PERF 503 | Masters Level-Organ | 4 |
| MUS PERF 505 | Masters Level-Voice | 4 |
| MUS PERF 507 | Masters Level-Flute | 4 |
| MUS PERF 509 | Masters Level-Oboe | 4 |
| MUS PERF 511 | Masters Level-Clarinet | 4 |
| MUS PERF 513 | Masters Level-Saxophone | 4 |
| MUS PERF 515 | Masters Level-Bassoon | 4 |
| MUS PERF 517 | Masters Level-Horn | 4 |
| MUS PERF 519 | Masters Level-Trumpet | 4 |
| MUS PERF 521 | Masters Level-Trombone | 4 |
| MUS PERF 523 | Masters Level-Euphonium | 4 |
| MUS PERF 525 | Masters Level-Tuba | 4 |
| MUS PERF 527 | Masters Level-Percussion | 4 |
| MUS PERF 531 | Masters Level-Violin | 4 |
| MUS PERF 532 | Advanced Conducting | 3-4 |
| MUS PERF 533 | Masters Level-Viola | 4 |
| MUS PERF 535 | Masters Level-Cello | 4 |
| MUS PERF 540 | Masters Level-Guitar | 4 |
| MUS PERF 542 | Advanced Accompanying | 2-3 |
| MUS PERF 547 | Masters Level Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 548 | Masters Level Composition | 3 |
| MUS PERF 561 | Organ Improvisation and Liturgy | 2 |
| MUS PERF 562 | Organ Improvisation and Liturgy | 2 |
Honors in the Major
The School of Music is reviewing its requirements for Honors in the Major. Current music majors may contact the undergraduate advisor for more information.
To earn honors in any music major, students must satisfy the requirements below as well as all other requirements for their music degree and major:
- 6 credits of MUSIC 681 Senior Honors Thesis and MUSIC 682 Senior Honors Thesis
- 12 credits of honors coursework in music: 6 of the 12 credits must be at the 300 level or higher and only 6 credits can be taken in any one of the three music areas of theory, history, and performance.
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 3.3 in all courses taken at UW–Madison and maintain this average throughout the degree.
- Present a minimum 3.5 GPA in all music coursework and maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA in all music honors coursework.
- Engage a faculty member who will collaborate in planning the 12 credits of honors curriculum coursework; submit this plan to the undergraduate advisor. The course plan may change as students progress through their work.
- Prior to beginning work on the MUSIC 681/MUSIC 682 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.
Additional Certification Requirements and Applying for a License
In addition to completing UW–Madison's program requirements, students must also complete Wisconsin statutory requirements and certification requirements established by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. For example, all individuals seeking an initial Wisconsin state teacher's license after August 31, 2004, are required to take and pass an approved content examination in the subject area(s) of interest. These tests, the Praxis II: Subject Assessments/Specialty Area Tests, are offered through the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Teacher education student at UW-Madison must take and pass the exam for their program area(s) and submit scores to Education Academic Services before entering their final, full-time student teaching semester.
All graduating student teachers are also required by the School of Education to meet the UW–Madison teacher education standards. This is done via completion of the teaching portfolio. Student teachers within the music education certification program must also complete the edTPA.
Many of these certification and statutory requirements are embedded within the program's requirements and require no additional attention. The endorsement of the program coordinator/faculty is also required to receive certification through UW–Madison.
The State of Wisconsin requires that anyone wishing to teach in a public K–12 setting hold a valid teaching license issued through the Department of Public Instruction. In addition to completing a certification program, students must submit a separate application for this license.
Detailed information about certification requirements and applying for a license is available under Certification/Licensure.
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. |
- Describe and apply foundational music education concepts and information.
- Plan, deliver and assess music learning experiences within chosen certification area that address as necessary the following standards: UWMTES, edTPA, Wisconsin Music Teaching Standards, and National Music Education Standards.
- Develop a level of proficiency in describing and applying foundational concepts of music education, e.g. music learning and teaching, which will be reflected in an ability to communicate to multiple diverse constituencies, so as to interpret, investigate, understand, appreciate and work within the complex musical world.
- Integrate knowledge in music learning and teaching in order to bring novel perspectives to challenging social and technological problems.
- Develop the ability to think critically and creatively as a music educator to synthesize, analyze and integrate ideas for decision-making and problem-solving in the best interest of all students.
- Communicate effectively in order to share knowledge, wisdom, values and beliefs regarding music learning and teaching with others across multiple social and professional settings.
- Understand own learning processes regarding musical education and possess the capacity to intentionally. Seek and evaluate information; recognize and reduce bias in own thinking; and build new knowledge for application in performance and professional lives.
- Construct a worldview of music education in order to accept responsibility for civic engagement and to appreciate the need to live live so purpose and meaning.
- As music educators, develop and demonstrate a respect for truth, and appreciation for diverse views, and a strong sense of personal and professional ethics.
Undergraduate music majors may consult Alison Spencer in L&S Academic Advising Services (101 Ingraham Hall) about course enrollment and planning completion of their degree; appointments may be made through Starfish on the Student Center in My UW. Students who are interested in majoring in music should consult the undergraduate audition and admissions coordinator (admissions@music.wisc.edu; 608-263-5986; 5561 Humanities). If you have questions about a scholarship that you are receiving from the School of Music, please contact the associate director for Mead Witter School of Music.
General information about advising for undergraduates in the Mead Witter School of Music can be found at resources for undergraduate studies.
L&S career resources
SuccessWorks at the College of Letters & Science helps students leverage the academic skills learned in their major, certificates, and liberal arts degree; explore and try out different career paths; participate in internships; prepare for the job search and/or graduate school applications; and network with professionals in the field (alumni and employers). In short, SuccessWorks helps students in the College of Letters & Science discover themselves, find opportunities, and develop the skills they need for success after graduation.
SuccessWorks can also assist students in career advising, résumé and cover letter writing, networking opportunities, and interview skills, as well as course offerings for undergraduates to begin their career exploration early in their undergraduate career.
Students should set up their profiles in Handshake to take care of everything they need to explore career events, manage their campus interviews, and apply to jobs and internships from 200,000+ employers around the country.
- SuccessWorks
- Set up a career advising appointment
- INTER-LS 210 L&S Career Development: Taking Initiative (1 credit, targeted to first- and second-year students)—for more information, see Inter-LS 210: Career Development, Taking Initiative
- INTER-LS 215 Communicating About Careers (3 credits, fulfills Com B General Education Requirement)
- Handshake
- Learn how we’re transforming career preparation: L&S Career Initiative
Professors Cook (director), Blasius, Calderón, Chisholm, Crook, Dill, Di Sanza, Doing, Fischer, Fulmer, Hetzler, Hyer, Johnson, Karp, Koza, Leckrone, Perry, Rowe, Schaffer, Schwendinger, Stowe, Swack, B. Taylor, C. Taylor, Teeple, Thimmig, Vallon, Vardi; Associate Professors Dobbs, Grabois, Wallmann; Assistant Professors Altino, Lee, Ronis
The faculty of the Mead Witter School of Music is a distinguished group of educators, performing musicians, and active scholars. The backgrounds of performance faculty include rich experiences as professional musicians, researchers, recording artists, and entrepreneurs. Faculty in music education have particular insight into their field as a result of their backgrounds as school educators, performers, and scholars. In areas such as music theory and musicology, the musical community has high regard for the past and current contributions to the study of musical theory, historical perspectives on music, the role of music in societies around the world, and the unique contributions of American musicians. Teaching is a priority for the faculty, who are readily accessible to students for advice and support. Faculty, staff, and students cooperate in extraordinary ways with joint ventures that reach across disciplines both in research or instruction.
Additional Certification Requirements and Applying for a License
In addition to completing UW–Madison's program requirements, students must also complete Wisconsin statutory requirements and certification requirements established by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Many of these requirements are embedded within the program's requirements and require no additional attention. The endorsement of the program coordinator/faculty is also required to receive certification through UW–Madison.
Applying for a Teaching License
The State of Wisconsin requires that anyone wishing to teach in a public K–12 setting hold a valid teaching license issued through the Department of Public Instruction. In addition to completing a certification program, students must submit a separate application for this license. Students intending to complete a teacher certification program should monitor program requirements carefully. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) periodically implements regulations that affect all certification programs; teacher certification candidates are responsible for having up-to-date information about certification requirements.
Licensing Levels
The following licensing options are offered at UW–Madison.
- The Elementary Education program currently offers two licensing levels: Early Childhood and also Middle Childhood through Early Adolescence.
- The Special Education program certifies students at both the Middle Childhood through Early Adolescence level and also at the Early Adolescence through Adolescence level. The Special Education/Elementary Education dual major option certifies students only at the Middle Childhood through Early Adolescence level.
- Secondary Education programs certify students to teach their subject area at the Early Adolescence through Adolescence level. except for Mathematics and Social Studies. These program areas will certify students in grades 4-12.
- Students completing Language Education programs will be licensed at the Early Childhood through Adolescence level.
- Students in special fields such as Art, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Music, and Physical Education will be licensed at the Early Childhood through Adolescence level.
Wisconsin State Licensing
The State of Wisconsin issues an initial teaching license to certified teachers. The current fee is $125. An online license application is available through the Department of Public Instruction. A Criminal Background Investigation (CBI) will also be conducted by DPI. Information about fingerprint submission, when necessary, is available through the Department of Public Instruction.
Before applying for a license, DPI requires the electronic submission of “Endorsed Candidate for Licensure" (ECL) data by the certifying officer of the institution where the teacher preparation was completed. For UW–Madison teacher certification students, the endorsement will come from the School of Education, 139 Education Building, 1000 Bascom Mall. Once this information has been submitted to DPI, students are notified by email that they may begin the application online.
Before endorsing a student, UW–Madison requires that (1) all certification requirements are met; (2) student teaching (following the school district calendar) is completed; (3) final grades are posted and reviewed; (4) the degree is "posted" by the registrar's office (four to five weeks after graduation); and (5) a recommendation for certification is received from the program faculty. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction may require an additional 6 to 12 weeks for license processing. See Educator Licensing for additional information about the licensing process.
Licensing Outside of Wisconsin
To apply for a license in a state other than Wisconsin, first check out the application requirements of that state. The University of Kentucky has a website that provides links to teacher licensing agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
Many states have a verification form that needs to be signed by a UW–Madison certification officer. This form verifies that a state-approved licensing program has been completed. These forms should be sent to Education Academic Services at 139 Education Building, 1000 Bascom Mall, or by email (mlpatton@wisc.edu) to be completed. If the form requests information about practicum and student teaching assignments (names of schools, grade levels, dates, etc.), this information must be completed before sending the form to EAS.
Accreditation
National Association of Schools of Music
Accreditation status: Accredited. Next accreditation review: 2022-2023.