Technology in Music and Related Arts Major

View the catalog page for the music and technology division.

Learning Goals

The major in technology in music and related arts is intended for those students who desire a career where traditional musical skills and understanding are combined with the exploration of the very latest techniques for musical expression. It is expected that students who qualify for this major will demonstrate musical proficiency comparable to that shown by applicants in other areas of the conservatory.

The major prepares a student for specialized graduate study in electroacoustic music, digital media, and interdisciplinary performance. For those who go directly into professional life, this major offers a structured course of study that stresses the application of technology as a special resource in composition, new media, and performance.

Course Requirements

For course requirements for the technology in music and related arts major, please see the grid .

Non-Course Requirements

Private Study Committee Examinations

At the end of the first and second years of study, the TIMARA faculty will review the progress of each student toward completion of the major.

The faculty will consider progress in the following areas:

TIMARA department classes (quantity and quality of work, and general participation in performing and critiquing)
Conservatory classes (music theory, aural skills, and musicology)
College classes (liberal arts electives)
Creative projects outside of class (performances, collaborations with dance or theater, etc.)
Overall progress

The faculty determines whether the student is performing at a better than satisfactory level, a satisfactory level, or a less than satisfactory level. If the department determines that a student is not making appropriate progress within the major, the student may be refused continuance in the program. It may also be recommended that the student redefine their relationship to the program and seek a TIMARA minor, an individual major, or a more liberal arts-based Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in musical studies.

Production Requirements

First-year TIMARA majors are required to assist departmental concerts and recitals. These activities may include: moving and connecting equipment for rehearsals and performances, attending software and hardware during rehearsals and performances, striking equipment after rehearsals and performances, etc. Assignments will be administered by the department.

Assisting on two departmental concerts is required by the end of the second year.

Performance Requirements

Note: Work included in the junior or senior recital/project must be approved by the TIMARA department 30 days in advance of the presentation date. Junior and senior recitals/projects may not be given in the same academic year, other than in exceptional cases with departmental approval.

Departmental Performances

Junior Recital or Project

The junior recital or project consists of a public presentation of work. This may take the form of a 30-minute recital of original works, a lecture/demonstration on a topic from the field, or some other form approved by the department.

Senior Recital or Project

The senior recital or project represents the culmination of the student’s work for the major. This may take the form of a 60-minute recital of original works, a senior thesis on a topic from the field, or some other form approved by the department.