Policies
Sophomore Review
In compliance with National Association of Schools of Music guidelines, all students pursuing the Bachelor of Music degree are reviewed by the music faculty during the second year of study (normally in the fourth semester) to ensure satisfactory musical and academic progress. This review considers performance ability and attainment, growth in musicianship, commitment to the discipline, and evidence of compatibility with vocational goals.
Any student evidencing significant problems in the above areas of evaluation will be notified by his/her advisor and the Director of the School of Music, and will be place on probation for the fourth semester of study. Any deficiencies thus identified must be addressed and remedied by the time of the fourth semester jury or the student will not be allowed to continue as a BMus major.
Specialist Study
(Effective September 1985, updated Spring 2010)
In certain cases, there may not be a faculty member with doctoral-level credentials (or equivalent professional record) in a studio performance specialty. In such cases, an applied performance major may-with the permission of the Director or upon the recommendation of and in consultation with the appropriate full-time faculty member-be assigned to an appropriately-credentialed specialist in the relevant studio teaching specialty.
The above guidelines may be reviewed, revised, or rescinded at any time by the faculty and Director of the School of Music.
Ensemble Participation
One Major Ensemble (with or without credit) is required of all music majors (BMus and BA) during each semester of residence. All BA majors have a similar requirement. Music Majors will normally participate in formal rehearsal for major ensembles up to 5-7 hours per week. Major ensemble assignments are made by the appropriate ensemble director(s) with the concurrence of the associate dean for music. (Those whose principal instrument is woodwind, brass, or percussion will register for and participate as needed in both Philharmonia and Symphonic Winds unless excused by the director of one of these ensembles with the concurrence of the associate dean for music.) Credit is allowed for membership in a second ensemble. Those who elect the vocal curriculum are not required to participate in instrumental ensembles. Those who elect instrumental curricula are not required to participate in vocal ensembles.
All Bachelor of Music majors must also participate in at least one semester of chamber music, small or minor ensemble, or collaborative performance/accompanying (keyboard principal) during their program of study. Students whose major, concentration, or emphasis is keyboard will normally meet this criterion by studio or chamber accompaniment.
