Contents
- ADMINISTRATION
- BUILDING HOURS
- BULLETIN BOARDS
- CANTEENS
- COMPUTERS AND MUSIC TECHNOLOGY
- CONCERTO-ARIA COMPETITION
- COORDINATORS OF TEACHING DIVISIONS
- DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
- MUSIC MINORS
- DISCIPLINE
- INSTRUMENT RENTAL
- KEYS
- LOCKERS
- MUSIC LIBRARY
- MUSIC OFFICE
- PRACTICE PIANOS
- PRACTICE ROOMS
- PRIVATE TEACHING
- PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS, FRATERNITIES, SORORITIES, AND OTHER STUDENT-INTEREST GROUPS
- PUBLIC PERFORMANCES
- RECITAL HALL
- RECITALS
- SECURITY
- SMOKING, EATING, DRINKING
- STAFF
- STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCILS
- TELEPHONES
- "SMARTMUSIC" PRACTICE STUDIO
- XEROXING
- ABSENCE FROM APPLIED LESSONS
- ADMISSION
- ADVISEMENT
- APPLIED MUSIC (FOR THE MUSIC MAJOR)
- APPLIED MUSIC COURSE NUMBERS
- APPLIED MUSIC FEE
- APPLIED MUSIC REGISTRATION
- APPLIED STUDIES FOR NON-MAJORS
- CONCERT AND RECITAL ATTENDANCE
- COURSEWORK AT OTHER INSTITUTIONS
- ENSEMBLE REQUIREMENTS
- GRADES
- GRADE APPEAL PROCESS
- GRADUATE STUDY
- JURY EXAMINATIONS
- KEYBOARD PROFICIENCY EXAMINATIONS
- MASTERCLASS
- MUSC 100A-MUSIC ADVOCACY I
- MUSIC EDUCATION PRACTICUM (MUED 200)
- MUSIC EDUCATION AREA PROBATION/PETITION HEARING PROCESS
- PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE
- RECITAL CLASS LABORATORY (MUSC 100L)
- RECITAL CLASS (MUSC 100)
- PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
- SCHOLARSHIPS IN MUSIC
- STANDARDS AND PETITIONS COMMITTEE
- STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE
- TRANSFER STUDENT INFORMATION
Welcome to the USC School of Music. We have created this handbook so that you can be fully informed about the policies, procedures, and personnel of the School of Music. This handbook and the University of South Carolina Undergraduate Studies Bulletin include all the policies and regulations which govern your academic life. It is your responsibility to become familiar with the information on this webpage and to refer to it whenever necessary. Students who are well informed are invariably more successful. We are fortunate that our musical home is a state of the art facility. There are certain policies that we need to follow to keep the building and environment in good condition for as long as possible. In addition, the University of South Carolina system and state law mandates some regulations. Though it may not always seem so, these policies are intended to help everyone achieve our goals of educating musicians and achieving the highest possible levels of performance.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Associate Dean/Director of Undergraduate Studies, Associate Dean of Administration, or other appropriate faculty and administration. We are here to help you make your educational experience at the USC School of Music as pleasant and productive as possible.
ADMINISTRATION
Dean: Dr. Tayloe Harding
Associate Dean and Director of Graduate Studies: Dr. Clifford Leaman
Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Studies: Dr. Tina Stallard
Associate Dean for Administration: Professor Jacob Will
Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Dr. Birgitta Johnson
MUSIC BUILDING HOURS
Open 7:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Saturday and
Sunday.
Music students have access daily 6:00 a.m.- 12:00 a.m. with a valid Carolina Card.
Closed on holidays according to the University's academic schedule.
BULLETIN BOARDS
There are four types of bulletin boards in the music building: general information boards, ensemble information boards, classroom/rehearsal boards, and faculty studio information boards. Information about undergraduate and graduate academic matters appears on the bulletin board on the first floor across from the east end passenger elevators. Ensemble information is posted on bulletin boards in the main corridors on the basement level. Students should frequently check pertinent bulletin boards. Materials for posting on locked bulletin boards must be submitted to the Music Office for approval. Messages for faculty or graduate assistants should be deposited in the "School of Music" mail drop in the hallway of the first (administration) floor of the music building. Under no circumstances should notices or other types of information be taped to any painted surface in the building.
CANTEENS
There is one student canteen (023) that is equipped with snack and drink machines. The other student canteen (216) is equipped with a water fountain. Eating and drinking are not permitted in other areas of the building. Water fountains with refilling stations are available at the rear of the building on all floors.
COMPUTERS AND MUSIC TECHNOLOGY
The School of Music is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and software for both student and faculty use. The Music Technology Center (room 209) serves as a classroom as well as the primary center for general music computing. This facility is available to music students for word processing, classroom assignments, MIDI projects, and other such work. To report problems in the MTC please call the Music Computing Hotline at 777-0124. Other issues may be discussed with Jason Trenary, Director of Computing and Music Technologies (777-5360, room 212).
The Computer Music Studios on the basement level house special equipment for computer music projects and may be used only by students enrolled in approved classes or working under the direct supervision of a faculty member. Questions about these facilities should be directed to Dr. Reginald Bain, Director of the Computer Music studios. Departmental office computers and printers may not be used by students for personal computing needs. Misuse of equipment will be considered a misappropriation of University property (see under DISCIPLINE).
CONCERTO-ARIA COMPETITION
Each academic year the USC School of Music sponsors a Concerto-Aria Competition. Any student enrolled at the University of South Carolina and studying applied music on the Columbia campus may compete if approved for the contest by an applied faculty member. Winners will perform with the USC Symphony Orchestra or the USC Wind Ensemble. The names of the winners are engraved on the Concerto-Aria plaque, which is on permanent display in the School of Music. Former winners may not compete.
All categories will be eligible each year: Each category (Keyboard, voice, percussion, woodwind, brass and strings) will hold a preliminary competition and submit a maximum of One (1) graduate student; One (1) undergraduate student; and One (1) "at Large" student as area representatives to the orchestra and wind ensemble directors by October 1. Judges will be selected from multiple categories, but may not necessarily represent every category of student in the competition. Student winners will be selected as follows: One (1) graduate winner; One (1) undergraduate winner; and One (1) "at Large" winner. Teachers may not perform the accompaniments for their own students.
In order to ensure that a composition can be programmed for performance with the USC Symphony Orchestra or the USC Wind Ensemble, contestants must receive approval from the appropriate conductor prior to preparation of any specific work. The maximum amount of time for any work submitted for performance will be 20 minutes. Winners must perform the same work at both the competition and the concert, and must perform with accompaniment in all rounds of the competition. Memorization is at the discretion of the applied teacher.
COORDINATORS OF TEACHING DIVISIONS
| Undergraduate Studies | Professor Tina Stallard |
| Graduate Studies | Professor Clifford Leaman |
| Music History/Literature | Professor Kunio Hara |
| Music Theory | Professor Daniel Jenkins |
| Composition | Professor John Rogers |
| Jazz Studies | Professor Matt White |
| Music Education | Professor Gail Barnes |
| Piano/Keyboard | Professor Sara Ernst |
| Voice | Professor Tina Stallard |
| Strings and Guitar | Professor Craig Butterfield |
| Brass | Professor JD Shaw |
| Winds | Professor Joseph Eller |
| Percussion | Professor Scott Herring |
| Music Industry Studies | Professor Jeremy Polley |
Within each division the coordinator (with the assistance of the other teachers in the particular division) is usually responsible for:
- supervising graduate assistants
- chairing jury examinations
- assigning students to the various applied studios in the division
- other activities involving his or her particular division
In addition, the coordinator of the Piano Division is responsible for overseeing the tuning, repairing, replacement, and location of pianos.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
More specific degree information sheets are available from Jillian Carey, Academic Advisor to Undergraduate Students.
Attention is directed to the following:
A minimum grade of "C" is required for any course submitted for fulfillment of major requirements. Consequently, any music course in which a grade of "D" or "F" is recorded must be repeated until a "C" is attained, if it is to count toward degree requirements. Students will be prohibited from continuing in a music degree if grades below “C” are recorded in applied music for two consecutive semesters; a student will then be required to re-audition to continue as a music major in any degree.
In order to be admitted to the upper division, students must meet the following criteria:
1. Completion of piano proficiency requirements:
2. Completion of Aural Skills training sequence (MUSC 117, MUSC 118, MUSC 217,
MUSC 218); Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in Theory majors must achieve a minimum
grade of "B";
3. Completion of Music Theory sequence (MUSC 115, MUSC 215); Bachelor of Music
with an emphasis in Theory majors must achieve a minimum grade of "B";
4. For music education majors, completion of the Music Education Practicum (MUED
200);
5. For Bachelor of Music students, approval of the applied jury to progress to
the upper division courses (MUSC 311 or MUSC 411), as appropriate to the chosen degree
program;
6. Completion of at least 60 credits with a cumulative grade point average of
2.50 in MUSC and MUED courses and 2.00 in all courses.
In order to graduate, a student must achieve a minimum cumulative grade point ratio of 2.50 in music and music education courses.
In order to be accepted into the Professional Program and register for the directed student & teaching experience (MUED 477), music education students must achieve a minimum cumulative grade point ratio as follows:
- 2.5 or higher for students whose most recent admission to USC-Columbia was prior to Fall 2014.
- 2.6 or higher for students whose most recent admission to USC-Columbia was Fall 2014, Spring 2015 or Summer 2015.
- 2.75 or higher for students whose most recent admission date to USC-Columbia is Fall 2015 or any semester thereafter.
No additional course work may be taken during the Directed Teaching semester without permission of the School of Music Undergraduate Director. Students are discouraged from giving a recital during the student teaching semester. If necessary, students may request permission of the Undergraduate Director to give a recital during the first week of classes in the student teaching semester. No recitals will be approved beyond the first week of the term.
All candidates for degrees in music must continue instruction in applied music and participation in music ensembles until the degree requirements and/or scholarship responsibilities have been satisfied.
Bachelor of Arts in Music - 121 hours total
|
Carolina Core |
47-56 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
49 credits |
|
Cognate or Minor |
12-18 credits |
|
Nonmusic Electives |
0-13 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Arts in Music (Musical Theatre Concentration) - 121 hours total
|
Carolina Core |
47-56 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
49 credits |
|
Musical Theater Concentration |
18 credits |
|
Nonmusic Electives |
0-13 credits |
2022-2023 Course Details and Four-Year Degree Plan
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Composition Emphasis - 128 hours total
|
Carolina Core |
38 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Jazz Studies Emphasis - 128 credits total
| Carolina Core a) Aesthetic Interpretation and Understanding (AIU): MUSC 115 [3 credits] b) Analytical Reasoning and Problem Solving (ARP): any CC-ARP course [6 credits] c) Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Written (CMW): ENGL 101, 102 [passed with "C" or higher, 6 credits] d) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Social Sciences (GSS): any CC-GSS course [3 credits] e) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Historical Thinking (GHS): any CC-GHS course [3 credits] f) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Foreign Language (GFL): Language Proficiency through 122 [0-7 credits] g) Scientific Literacy (SCI): two CC-SCI courses (one with lab) [7 credits] h) Overlay Eligible Courses: Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Spoken Component (CMS); Information Literacy (INF); Values, Ethics and Social Responsibility (VSR); up to two of these requirements may be met in overlay courses [3-9 credits] i) Electives [0-7 credits] |
38 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Music Education Emphasis - 132 hours total
|
Carolina Core |
38 credits |
|
Music Requirements |
49 credits |
|
Music Education Requirements (23 credits) |
23 credits |
| Professional Education Requirements a) MUED 200 [1 credit]; EDTE 201 [3 credits]; EDRD 500 or EDEX 581 [3 credits]; EDPY 401 [3 credits] b) MUED 477 [12 credits] |
22 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Performance Emphasis - 128 credits total
|
Carolina Core |
38 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Performance Emphasis with concentration in Chamber Music - 128 credits total
| Carolina Core a) Aesthetic Interpretation and Understanding (AIU): MUSC 115 [3 credits] b) Analytical Reasoning and Problem Solving (ARP): any CC-ARP course [6 credits] c) Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Written (CMW): ENGL 101, 102 [passed with "C" or higher, 6 credits] d) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Social Sciences (GSS): any CC-GSS course [3 credits] e) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Historical Thinking (GHS): any CC-GHS course [3 credits] f) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Foreign Language (GFL): Language Proficiency through 122 [0-7 credits] g) Scientific Literacy (SCI): two CC-SCI courses (one with lab) [7 credits] h) Overlay Eligible Courses: Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Spoken Component (CMS); Information Literacy (INF); Values, Ethics and Social Responsibility (VSR); up to two of these requirements may be met in overlay courses [3-9 credits] i) Electives [0-7 credits] |
38 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Performance Emphasis with concentration in Music Entrepreneurship - 128 credits total
| Carolina Core a) Aesthetic Interpretation and Understanding (AIU): MUSC 115 [3 credits] b) Analytical Reasoning and Problem Solving (ARP): any CC-ARP course [6 credits] c) Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Written (CMW): ENGL 101, 102 [passed with "C" or higher, 6 credits] d) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Social Sciences (GSS): any CC-GSS course [3 credits] e) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Historical Thinking (GHS): any CC-GHS course [3 credits] f) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Foreign Language (GFL): Language Proficiency through 122 [0-7 credits] g) Scientific Literacy (SCI): two CC-SCI courses (one with lab) [7 credits] h) Overlay Eligible Courses: Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Spoken Component (CMS); Information Literacy (INF); Values, Ethics and Social Responsibility (VSR); up to two of these requirements may be met in overlay courses [3-9 credits] i) Electives [0-7 credits] |
38 credits |
| Major Requirements a) Applied Music 4 semesters of MUSC 211; 4 semesters of MUSC 411 [32 credits] b) Music Theory and Aural Skills: MUSC 117, 118, 215, 217, 218; two theory elective courses [13 credits] c) Music History and Literature: MUSC 353, 354; one history elective course [9 credits] d) Ensembles: specific to each area [8 credits] e) Conducting: MUSC 333 [2 credits] f) Music Entrepreneurship Concentration: MUSC 580 [3 credits], MUSC 582 [3 credits], MUSC 591 [3 credits], choice of 1 concentration elective (MUSC 592, 593 or 594) [3 credits] g) Music Electives: students must complete a pedagogy course in applied area when available (voice primary must complete MUSC 577); students in this concentration must take MUSC 399 [2 credits]; must take MUED 155 and 156, if needed; students whose primary medium is voice must complete MUSC570, 578 and 579; piano majors must complete MUSC 573, 573L, and 574 and 574L; guitar majors must complete MUSC 573 and 587 [13 credits] h) Recital Class: MUSC 100 [0 credits; 5 semesters] i) Music Advocacy: MUSC 100A [0 credits] j) Recital Class Lab: MUSC 100L [1 credit] |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Performance Emphasis with concentration in Music Technology - 128 credits total
|
Carolina Core |
38 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Music - Theory Emphasis - 128 hours total
|
Carolina Core |
38 credits |
|
Major Requirements |
90 credits |
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
Bachelor of Science - Music Industry Studies - 121 credits total
| Carolina Core a) Aesthetic Interpretation and Understanding (AIU): any CC-AIU course other than MUSC [3 credits] b) Analytical Reasoning and Problem Solving (ARP): any CC-ARP course [6 credits] c) Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Written (CMW): ENGL 101, 102 [passed with "C" or higher, 6 credits] d) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Social Sciences (GSS): any CC-GSS courses [3 credits] e) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Historical Thinking (GHS):any CC-GHS course [3 credits] f) Global Citizenship and Multicultural Understanding: Foreign Language (GFL): Language Proficiency through 122 [0-7 credits] g) Scientific Literacy (SCI): Two 4-credit hour CC-SCI courses [8 credits] h) Overlay Eligible Courses: Effective, Engaged and Persuasive Communication: Spoken Component (CMS); Information Literacy (INF); Values, Ethics and Social Responsibility (VSR); up to two of these requirements may be met in overlay courses [3-9 credits] i) Electives [0-7 credits] |
39 credits |
| Music Requirements a) Music Theory and Aural Skills: MUSC 115, 117, 118, 215 [8 Credits] b) Popular Music History: MUSC 113 or MUSC 140 [3 Credits] c) Applied Music Courses: must include MUSC 104; 3 courses selected from MUED 155, 156; MUSC 103, 105,165, 203, or 265; may also be satisfied via MUSC 101 (audition required) [8 Credits] d) Music Psychology: MUSC 210 [3 Credits] e) Digital Music: MUSC 230 or 231 [3 credits] f) Ensembles [4 credits] g) Music Electives [9 Credits] h) Recital Class: MUSC 100 [0 credits; 5 semesters] i) Music Advocacy: MUSC 100A [0 credits] j) Recital Class Lab: MUSC 100L [1 Credit] |
39 credits |
| Music Industry Courses a) ECON 224: Introduction to Economics [3 credits] b) MGMT 371: Principles of Management [3 credits] c) MUSC 305: Introduction to Music Industry Studies [1 credit] d) MUSC 365: An Introduction to Audio Recording Techniques [3 credits] e) MUSC 498: Music Practicum [2 semesters, 6 credits] f) MUSC 565: Advanced Audio Recording Techniques [3 credits] g) MUSC 566: Fundamentals of Sound Use for Media or MUSC 567 Recording Studio Techniques [3 credits] h) MUSC 580: Music & Arts Entrepreneurship [3 credits] i) MUSC 582: Music and Money [3 credits] j) MUSC 593: Arts Marketing [3 credits] k) SPTE 202: Introduction to Live Entertainment Management [3 credits] l) SPTE 240: Business Law [3 credits] m) SPTE 302: Artist Representation and Management [3 credits] n) SPTE 303: Live Entertainment Tour Management [3 credits] |
43 credits |
Course Details and Four-Year Degree Plan
Requirements for previous academic years may be found here.
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MUSIC MINORS
Minor in Music - 18 credits (plus prerequisite 3 credits)
|
Prerequisite Courses |
3 credits |
| Core Requirements a) Recital Class: MUSC 100 [2 semesters, 0 credits] b) Music Theory I: MUSC 115: [3 credits] c) Aural Skills I: MUSC 117 [1 credit] d) Aural Skills II: MUSC 118 [1 credit] e) Introduction to Music: MUSC 110 [3 credits] f) Music Ensembles [2 semesters, 1 credit each] |
10 credits |
| Electives a) Ensembles: maximum of four additional credits b) Applied music (private lessons): maximum of eight credits. A student may receive credit for two semesters of study at the MUSC 101 level, but must progress to MUSC 111 or 211 for more than two credits to be counted toward the minor. A qualifying audition is required to enroll in applied music. c) Music theory or music history/literature: MUSC 113, MUSC 140 or any course at 200 level or above d) Music Education: any MUED course with the approval of the Undergraduate Director |
8 credits |
Consultation with the Undergraduate Director in the School of Music is REQUIRED. For more information or to apply for the Music Minor, contact tstallard@mozart.sc.edu.
Special Note: The following courses may be used to satisfy the cognate requirements of undergraduate degrees offered by other schools and colleges on the USC-Columbia campus: MUSC 114, 115, and all MUSC and MUED courses 200 level and above.
Music Entrepreneurship Minor - 18 credits total
| MUSC 580: Music & Arts Entrepreneurship | 3 credits |
| MUSC 582: Music and Money | 3 credits |
| MUSC 591: Music Leadership Practicum | 3 credits |
| Select three elective courses, with at least one offered outside the School of Music | 9 credits |
| ECON 224: Introduction to Economics | |
| MGMT 371: Principles of Management | |
| MKTG 350: Principles of Marketing | |
| MUSC 588: Business of Music | |
| MUSC 590: Seminar in Music Entrepreneurship | |
| MUSC 592: 21st Century Musician | |
| MUSC 593: Arts Marketing | |
| SPTE 202: Introduction to Live Entertainment Management | |
| SPTE 402: Entertainment and the Law |
Consultation with the Undergraduate Director is REQUIRED. For more information or
to apply for the Music Entrepreneurship minor, contact tstallard@mozart.sc.edu.
Minor in Audio Recording - 18 credits total
|
Core Requirements |
18 credits |
Please note the Audio Recording Minor is open to students with majors in the School of Music only.
Minor in Music Industry Studies - 18 credits total
|
Required courses |
9 credits |
|
Elective courses (Three courses with at least one offered outside the music school) |
9 credits |
Students interested in this program should contact Coordinator of Music Industry Studies, Jeremy Polley, via email at polley@mailbox.sc.edu. Application requirements can be found in our undergraduate auditions area.
DISCIPLINE
The School of Music fully subscribes to the policies on student discipline as set forth in the University's Carolina Community: Student Handbook and Policy Guide. Cheating, plagiarism, inappropriate behavior and misuse of University property are incompatible with the academic environment and will be handled through the Student Discipline System.
INSTRUMENT RENTAL
String and wind instruments are available on a semester-by-semester basis, subject to the following conditions:
- Students requiring the use of an instrument must be registered for the appropriate course in which the instrument will be used.
- Students must receive written approval from a faculty member (either the teacher of the course in which the instrument is used or the applied faculty who teaches the instrument).
- Students must pay the rental fee.
- Instruments must be returned promptly in good condition when due. Late fees will apply.
All instrument rentals are reserved online.
In the event an instrument is stolen, lost, or significantly damaged beyond normal wear and tear, the student will be responsible for paying for the repair or replacement of the instrument. For information regarding instrument rental, contact Mr. Michael Gibson, Facilities Supervisor, at 777- 4279. Percussionists should contact Professor Scott Herring at 777-2155 for information regarding the use of percussion equipment.
KEYS
Keys to appropriate music facilities are available to School of Music students on a semester-by-semester basis. Classroom and large practice room keys are to be returned after each use, or at the end of the semester. Practice room keys are to be returned at the conclusion of your final semester of study.
To obtain a key, please complete a Key Request Form.
LOCKERS
Locks and lockers are available to music students at a charge of $20.00 per academic year. Please see the bulletin board adjacent to room 124 for pertinent information. All lockers come with a School of Music combination lock. Unauthorized use of locks or lockers in the music building will result in the removal of the lock and the locker's contents. If there is an issue with your combination lock, contact Michael Gibson.
All locker rentals are reserved online.
The School of Music assumes no responsibility for personal effects or for the security of the lockers. It is recommended that students carry insurance on personal instruments for which they have assumed responsibility. Students are urged to exercise great caution with regard to personal effects left in any University building.
MUSIC LIBRARY (777-5139)
A valid USC ID card is required to check out materials. Books and scores circulate for four weeks to undergraduates and to graduate students for the semester. Audio/visual materials circulate to undergraduate students for three days and to faculty and graduate students for four weeks, but may be used in-house by anyone. Though special hours will be posted for summer sessions, holidays and intersession periods, hours for the music library generally conform to the following:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday closed.
Music Library staff
| Ana Dubnjakovic | Head Librarian |
| Jessica Harvey | Music Cataloger |
| Joe Henderson | Library Specialist |
| Jennifer Wochner | Music Archivist |
MUSIC OFFICE
Normal office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Students are requested not to use the School of Music Office as a mailing address. The office staff cannot accept items for pickup or delivery.
PRACTICE PIANOS
Unauthorized practice is prohibited in the Recital Hall (Rm. 206), Rm. 006, Rm. 016, Rm. 040, Rm. 112, Rm. 201, and all classrooms. Students must restrict their practice to the assigned practice rooms on the basement level of the music building.
Problems with pianos should be reported by completing the Music Building Problem Report form and returning the form to the Music Office.
PRACTICE ROOMS
Practice Rooms are for the use of music majors and non-majors who are studying applied music. Practice rooms are identified, keyed, and reserved for the following use:
- General (rooms 014, 027-028, 065-067: any practice room key accesses these rooms)
- “Smartmusic” Practice Studio (room 013; key available from Music Library)
- Organ/Harpsichord (rooms 009-010)
- Percussion (rooms 057-061)
- Piano (rooms 041-048)
- Strings/Voice (rooms 030-038, 068-076)
- Winds (rooms 025-026, 049-056, 062-064)
Practice rooms reservations are handled via an online registration process during the first two weeks of classes. A schedule of sign-up times will be posted on the monitors prior to the sign-up period. The following prioritized schedule for practice room sign-up will normally be followed:
- Graduate music majors
- Undergraduate music majors
- Non-music majors
Practice room keys are available in the Music Office (see "Keys"). All students may sign up for daily practice time equal to the number of applied credit hours they are taking that semester. Thus, one hour of applied credit allows the reservation of one hour of daily practice time, two credits allows two hours of reserved practice time, and so forth.
If a student does not claim the reserved practice room within 10 minutes of the assigned time, the room will be available for use by another student until the next hour of reserved practice time. Practice times commence at 7:30 a.m. Valuables, music, and other personal items should not be left unattended in practice rooms at any time. Items left in a practice room may be removed by authorized personnel and placed in a secure storage area.
Food and drink are not permitted in practice rooms under any circumstances. Each practice room has a window. For personal security reasons, please do not cover these windows at any time. Please extinguish the lights and make sure that the door is completely closed when you leave the practice room. Violations of these policies may result in the loss of practice room privileges.
PRIVATE TEACHING
Unless specifically assigned as part of a USC instructional program, private teaching by students is not permitted in University buildings.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS, FRATERNITIES, SORORITIES, AND OTHER STUDENT-INTEREST GROUPS
- American String Teachers Association
- American Choral Directors Association
- Kappa Kappa Psi
- Music Educators National Conference
- Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
- Pi Kappa Lambda (by invitation only)
- Sigma Alpha Iota
- Tau Beta Sigma
- Graduate Student Association
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES
Students are reminded that public performances reflect upon their teachers, the School of Music, and the entire University. The highest standards of performance must therefore be maintained. Students should consult their applied teacher prior to any contemplated public performance on or off campus.
RECITAL HALL (Room 206)
Recital Hall is available only for scheduled recitals, not for general practice. Recital practice must be arranged by the applied teacher and may take place only immediately prior to the recital date.
The following guidelines are in effect for the use of the Recital Hall for rehearsal:
- Junior, Senior, or Graduate Recitals - one rehearsal of two hours
- Undergraduate Seminar performances - one rehearsal of 20 minutes
- Faculty recitals - two rehearsals of two hours each
RECITALS
Undergraduate recitals are presented at 4:30, 6:00, and 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Time slots for Saturdays and Sundays are 3:00, 4:30, 6:00, and 7:30. All dates and times, however, must be specifically approved in advance by the area faculty. All undergraduate student recitals are scheduled through the Music Office in the following manner:
- The recital feel of $100 (which includes the recording fee) is paid through the Touchnet Marketplace: http://tinyurl.com/RecitalFee
- The student and applied teacher, in consultation with the accompanist and area faculty, will select a date and communicate this date and time to Mrs. Gibson. Available dates/times are found on 25LIVE.
- Recital programs are the responsibility of the student and applied professor. Students must access the online degree recital processing system to submit recital information for approval at least 3 weeks in advance of their recital. Upon faculty approval of the submitted program info, recital programs are forwarded automatically to the music office for printing. Approved programs receive no further proofing, all accuracy of program information is the responsibility of the student and applied professor at the time of submission and approval.
- The decision to cancel a recital and the notification of all parties involved are responsibilities of the applied teacher (cancellations@mozart.sc.edu). Scheduling another recital date is free if cancelled within the first two weeks of classes, but it is $50 after the first two weeks of classes. If the cancellation occurs within two weeks of the recital, the fee is $100.
Half recitals should last 30 minutes. Full recitals should last 60 minutes. This includes reasonable pauses for stage changes as needed and, in the case of a full recital, may include an intermission lasting approximately 5-7 minutes. Students are ultimately responsible for the length of their recital programs and should understand that a program that is too short or too long may adversely impact their grade.
All undergraduate recitals will be adjudicated by a two or three member committee selected by area faculty, in accordance with individual area guidelines. A recital judged as unsatisfactory by the area faculty may be repeated once. The repeated material may contain any or all of the contents of the unsatisfactory program.
Students must be enrolled in the appropriate applied music course during the semester that the recital is given. Unless other arrangements are approved by the area faculty and the Associate Dean for Administration, all solo recitals are to be presented in the Recital Hall.
Students are discouraged from giving a recital during the student teaching semester. If necessary, students may request permission of the Undergraduate Director to give a recital during the first week of classes in the student teaching semester. No recitals will be approved beyond the first week of the term.
Post-recital receptions, which are to be scheduled through Mrs. Laveta Gibson, may be held in either the corridor outside the Recital Hall or in the Lobby. For further information please contact the Music Office.
SECURITY
Campus phones are located on the first floor across from the elevators in the Lobby (east) end of the building and on the east and west ends of the main corridor on the basement level. Campus security call boxes are located in the driveway area outside the lobby, outside the north entrance on College Street, and at the loading dock (west end of the building).
Several doors are for emergency use only and will sound an alarm when opened. Each of these doors is clearly identified by warning signs.
The following areas have been equipped with security alarm systems connected directly to the Campus Police Office: 1) Administration suite; 2) Music Library; 3) Music Technology Center; 4) Recording Control Room; 5) both Computer Music Studios; and 6) Instrumental Storage/Repair. Access to these spaces is limited to authorized personnel.
SMOKING, EATING, AND DRINKING
The music building is a nonsmoking facility and, therefore, smoking is not permitted anywhere within the facility. Except for post-recital receptions (see under "Recitals") eating and drinking is permitted only in the student canteens. Under no circumstance are food or drinks (opened or unopened) to be taken into classrooms, rehearsal rooms, practice rooms, the Recital Hall, or the Music Library.
NOTE: Fund-raising projects that involve food and drinks are to be approved by the Dean or Associate Dean for Administration. Normally these projects will be assigned to the Lobby, with consumption to take place only in that area or outside the building.
STAFF
Administrative
| Laveta Gibson | Executive Assistant to the Dean (777-4336) |
| Mary Peak | Assistant Dean for Finance (777-5418) |
| Jennifer Jablonski | Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management (777-6614) |
| Jennifer Mitchell | Assistant Director of Music Admissions (777-4281) |
| Audra Vaz | Assistant Dean for Advancement |
| Caroline Earp | Director of Alumni & Donor Engagement (576-5763) |
| Margee Zeigler | Undergraduate Studies Program Coordinator (777-4335) |
| Traci Hair | Graduate Studies Program Coordinator (777-4106) |
| Jillian Bigony | Academic Advisor/Undergraduate Students (777-5651) |
| Marlena Crovatt-Bagwell | Marketing Communications Director (777-7962) |
| Zach Harris | Finance Assistant (576-6374) |
| Brad Martin | Assistant Director of Development (777-0704) |
Ensembles
| Lisa Smith | Administrative Assistant (Choral/Opera) (777-5369) |
| Alexandra Fife | Administrative Coordinator (Bands/Orchestra) (777-4278) |
| Connor Burney | Administrative Assistant (Bands) (777-4278) |
Technical Staff
| Jason Trenary (777-5360) | Computing & Music Technologies |
| Michael LaRoche (777-0124) | Computing & Music Technologies |
| Michael Gibson (777-4279) | Facilities Supervisor |
| Jeff Francis (576-5639) | Audio Systems/Recording Technician |
| Paul Williams (777-4392) | Director of Piano Services |
STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCILS
The Student Advisory Council of the School of Music comprises representatives of the various degree programs, various years in school, and various student groups. This group meets with the Dean periodically. Other student committees may be formed at the discretion of the Dean.
TELEPHONES
Telephones in the Music Office and in faculty studios and offices may be used by students only in cases of EMERGENCY. A campus telephone is located on the first floor of the music building just across from the passenger elevators at the lobby (east) end of the building. Please limit all calls on these telephones to two minutes. Campus security call boxes are also located near the Music Building.
“SMARTMUSIC” PRACTICE STUDIO
An individual practice facility equipped to utilize the “Smartmusic Intelligent Accompanist” system is located in room 013. Music students may check out the key for this room, as well as the accompaniment disks and cartridges from the Music Library. The current inventory includes accompaniments for wind instruments and voice as well as jazz materials.
XEROXING
A card-operated (Carolina Card) copy machine is available in the Music Library for student use. Misuse of departmental copy machines will be considered a misappropriation of University property (see under "Discipline").
ABSENCE FROM APPLIED LESSONS
A student registered for applied music lessons who incurs more than two (2) unexcused absences will receive a failing grade.
ADMISSION
Please refer to the Apply section of this website for information about admission to the School of Music. Please note that a qualifying audition is required before registering for an applied music course.
ADVISEMENT
Music majors are assigned a staff academic advisor for academic advisement and music minors are assigned to our Director of Undergraduate Studies for academic advisement. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the advisor to arrange an advisement appointment. The advisors will have an online link to schedule an advising session prior to the start of the official advisement period. The student should review their curriculum information before arriving for the advisement appointment.
APPLIED MUSIC (FOR THE MUSIC MAJOR)
A qualifying audition is required prior to registration in applied music courses. Students who do not qualify for entrance into the music major sequence (MUSC 111 or 211) in their primary performance area may be placed into the MUSC 101 level. Students may study at the MUSC 101 level in their primary area for a maximum of two semesters. If, at the final examination of the second semester in MUSC 101, the area faculty finds that a student does not meet the performance standard to enter the major music sequence (MUSC 111 or 211), the student will be removed from the School of Music.
APPLIED MUSIC COURSE NUMBERS
- 101 Secondary Applied Music. (2) Repeatable for credit.
- 111 Lower Division Applied Music. (2-3) Repeatable for credit.
- 211 Lower Division Applied Music--Performance Track. (3-4) Repeatable for credit.
- 311 Upper Division Applied Music. (2-3) Repeatable for credit.
- 411 Upper Division Applied Music--Performance track. (3-4) Repeatable for credit.
Students in BM performance degrees (including piano pedagogy and accompanying options) register for 4 credits of MUSC 211/411. Students in the performance certificate program register for 3 credits of MUSC 211/411. Students in the BA or BM music education, theory, or composition degrees register for 2 credits in MUSC 111/311 and may register for 3 credits only with approval of the Dean and the applied teacher.
Lower division minimum requirements (including transfer credits) generally are as follows:
| BM performance | 4 semesters lower division (211) |
| BM music education | 4 semesters lower division (111 or 211) |
| BM theory/composition | 4 semesters lower division (111 or 211) |
| BM performance-jazz | 4 semesters lower division of classical (211) |
| BM performance-jazz [guitar and bass] | 4 semesters lower division (211/211Z) |
Upper division or concluding minimum requirements for graduation generally are as follows:
| BM performance | 4 semesters upper division (411) |
| BM music education | 2 semesters upper division (311 or 411) |
| BM theory/composition | 2 semesters upper division (311 or 411) |
| BA | 6 semesters lower division (111 or 211) |
| BM performance-jazz | 2 semesters upper division of classical instrument (411), 2 semesters of jazz (411Z) |
| BM performance-jazz [guitar and bass] | 4 semesters of 411Z |
Students must complete the number of hours and semesters in applied music required for their degree program. Students may continue applied study after degree requirements are met only with the approval of the applied teacher and Dean.
APPLIED MUSIC FEE
All students who register for applied music lessons will be assessed a Music Enrichment fee of $285 for a one half hour lesson (1 or 2 credits) or $570 for a one hour lesson (3 or 4 credits). These fees are subject to change each academic year.
APPLIED MUSIC REGISTRATION
All undergraduate music major advisors have access to the five-digit schedule code numbers used to register for applied music courses. The applied music class will be listed on the student schedule as TBA (to be arranged). It is the responsibility of the student to contact the applied teacher on or before the first day of class in each semester to determine when the lesson will be scheduled. In some cases the instructor may request that students leave a copy their class schedules with the instructor. The instructor will then contact the student by telephone or e-mail to inform them of the scheduled lesson time.
APPLIED STUDIES FOR NON-MAJORS
Students majoring in degree programs other than music may request private lessons by contacting the Director of Undergraduate Studies. Non-majors who perform in ensembles will be given preference in registration for applied studies. (See also JURY EXAMINATIONS and ENSEMBLE REQUIREMENTS.) A qualifying audition is required for applied study.
CONCERT AND RECITAL ATTENDANCE
Music majors are required to attend ten (10) concerts or recitals per semester as part of their applied study. A list of events from which students may choose will be posted on appropriate bulletin boards and copies will be distributed to all students. The student will present a signed copy, listing concerts attended, to the faculty member in charge of the Jury Examination or the applied Professor. Students who attend less than the required minimum number of recitals or concerts during any given semester will receive an incomplete in their primary applied area. The incomplete may be removed by attending additional concerts or recitals during the subsequent semester.
Of the ten (10) concerts, at least three (3) must be selected from the list of approved Faculty and Guest Artists Recitals. Attendance at faculty and guest artist events will be verified. Students may not count an event in which they are a performer. The applied teacher must approve off-campus events.
COURSEWORK AT OTHER INSTITUTIONS
Students who wish to take General Education coursework at another college or university and have it transferred to USC for degree credit must complete a “Transient Status-Special Enrollment Request" form available from the Music Studies Office (room 101K). Credit for summer school, correspondence, and extension work completed at other institutions by a regular University student will not be accepted by transfer if the student has previously been enrolled in an equivalent course at the University. All General Education transfer credit from other accredited institutions must be a grade of “C” or higher in order to be applied to the music degree.
ENSEMBLE REQUIREMENTS
Major Ensembles:
The major ensembles are: Marching Band, Symphonic Winds, Wind Ensemble, University Orchestra, Concert Choir, and University Chorus. Under certain conditions a major ensemble director, at his or her discretion, may allow a substitution for one of these ensembles. Jazz Ensembles are considered as major ensembles only for Jazz Studies majors. Some ensembles require an audition for membership. Regulations for attendance at ensemble rehearsals and performances are different from regulations for class attendance. Members of ensembles are expected to be present at every rehearsal and performance unless excused by the conductor.
Chamber Ensembles:
Two (2) credits of chamber music are required of each BM performance major, except Organists. One (1) credit of chamber music is required of each BM-Music Education, BM-Theory and BM-Composition major. Voice performance majors must count opera workshop for this requirement. The chamber ensemble requirement may be met through one of the approved MUSC 130 courses listed in Appendix A.
Each music major (BA or BM) will perform in at least one music ensemble per semester. Students who are completing directed student teaching or involved in internships will be excused from ensemble during the affected semester, but must still complete a total of 8 credits in ensemble for graduation. Summer ensembles can be used to satisfy degree requirements only with the approval of the applied teacher, area ensemble conductor, advisor, and Director of Undergraduate Studies. Students receiving music scholarships are required to participate in ensembles as assigned.
I. Bachelor of Arts
There must be at least 4 credits of participation in the major ensemble most closely related to the student's applied area included within the total of 8 credits. Major ensemble participation for BA keyboard and guitar majors will usually be in choral ensembles. There must be at least one credit of chamber music ensemble within the total of 8 credits.
II. Bachelor of Music
A. Performance
1) Voice
Voice majors must complete at least six (6) credits of major choral ensemble and at least two (2) credits of opera workshop.
2) Wind and Percussion
All wind and percussion majors must complete at least six (6) credits of a major ensemble and at least two (2) credits of chamber music.
3) String
All string majors must complete at least six (6) credits of a major ensemble and at least two (2) credits of chamber music
4) Keyboard
a) All piano performance majors (including pedagogy and accompanying options) must complete eight (8) credits of ensemble, to include at least two (2) credits of major ensemble, two (2) credits of accompanying, and two (2) credits of chamber music.
b) In accompanying, each student may be obligated for as much as three (3) hours of work per week. One (1) hour of studio time and two (2) hours of rehearsal time may be required. The applied teacher will assign the grade to the accompanist. It is the responsibility of the accompanist to learn the accompaniment on his or her own time.
c.) Organ majors must complete four (4) credits of a major ensemble (usually choral) and four (4) credits of accompanying.
5) Guitar
All guitar majors must complete at least two (2) credits of a major ensemble (usually choral) and another six (6) credits of guitar ensembles. Two (2) credits of guitar ensemble must satisfy the chamber music requirement; or, with the permission of their applied teacher, students may elect to substitute up to two (2) credits of mixed chamber music.
6) Jazz
Wind instrumentalists must complete at least six (6) credits of jazz ensemble (MUSC 131) and two (2) credits of jazz combo (MUSC 130). Bassists, drummers, guitarists, and pianists must complete at least two (2) credits of jazz ensemble (MUSC 131) and two (2) credits of jazz combo (MUSC 130), with the four (4) remaining credits to be earned in MUSC 131 or 130.
B. Theory and Composition
All theory majors must complete eight (8) credits of ensemble. At least six (6) credits must be in a major ensemble most closely related to the student's applied area and one (1) credit of chamber music and one (1) credit of any ensemble.
All composition majors must complete eight (8) credits of ensemble. At least six (6) credits must be in an advisor-approved major ensemble and one (1) credit of chamber music and one (1) credit of any ensemble.
III. Bachelor of Music in Music Education
A. Choral Majors
Each music education major (Voice-principal, Keyboard-principal, Guitar-principal), must complete at least seven (7) credits of a major choral ensemble, and one (1) credit of chamber music ensemble.
B. Instrumental Majors
1) Wind (Except Double-Reed principal), and Percussion (principal),
All music education majors, with the exception of students whose primary instrument is oboe or bassoon, must complete at least two (2) credits of Marching Band, four (4) credits of Symphonic Winds, Wind Ensemble or University Band for a minimum of six (6) credits of major instrumental ensemble, one (1) credit of chamber music, and one (1) credit of any ensemble.
2) Double-Reed (principal)
All music education majors whose principal instrument is oboe or bassoon must complete at least one (1) credit of Marching Band, five (5) credits of Symphonic Winds, Wind Ensemble or University Band for a minimum of six (6) credits of major instrumental ensemble, one (1) credit of chamber music, and one (1) credit of any ensemble.
3) Strings (principal)
All music education majors must complete at least six (6) credits of University Orchestra, one (1) credit of chamber music ensemble, and one (1) credit of any ensemble.
Appendix A
Courses which qualify for the Chamber Music requirement are as follows:
Voice:
MUSC 130G – (Grad) Vocal Ensemble
MUSC 130K – Opera Workshop
MUSC 130C – Opera Chorus
MUSC 130M -- Musical Theatre Workshop
MUSC 130P – Opera Production
MUSC 130Q – Gospel Choir
MUSC 130R – Madrigal Choir
MUSC 130S – Vocal Jazz (Carolina Alive)
MUSC 130X – Women’s Chorus (formerly MUSC 127)
MUSC 130H – Men’s Chorus (formerly MUSC 128)
MUSC 130Z – Jazz Combo (formerly MUSC 132)
String:
MUSC 130I – Piano and String
MUSC 130N – String
MUSC 130Z – Jazz Combo (formerly MUSC 132)
Percussion:
MUSC 130D – Percussion Ensemble
MUSC 130Z – Jazz Combo (formerly MUSC 132)
Wind:
MUSC 130A – Wind Chamber
MUSC 130Z – Jazz Combo (formerly MUSC 132)
Guitar:
MUSC 130L – Guitar ensemble
MUSC 130Z – Jazz Combo (formerly MUSC 132)
Keyboard:
MUSC 130I – Piano and String
MUSC 130U – Piano and Wind (newly created)
MUSC 130Z – Jazz Combo (formerly MUSC 132)
GRADES
The letter grades A, B, C, D, and F are employed to designate excellent, good, fair, poor, and failing work, respectively. B+, C+, and D+ also may be recorded. The grade of I, Incomplete, is assigned at the discretion of the professor when, in the professor's judgment, a student is prevented from completion of some portion of the assigned work in a course because of an unanticipated work-related responsibility, family hardship, illness, accident, or verified disability. The professor will determine, according to the nature of the interruption and the uncompleted requirements, what additional period of time will be allowed for completing the work before a permanent grade is assigned. After 12 months, an I, which has still not been replaced with a letter grade, is changed permanently to a grade of F unless the I was erroneously recorded, or to the backup grade if one was indicated by the faculty member on the Assignment of Incomplete Grade form. For further information about grades, see the most recent USC Undergraduate Studies Bulletin.
GRADE APPEALS PROCESS
Grievance Process
Chain:
- Instructor
- Associate Dean
- Ad Hoc Grievance Committee
- Dean
I. All student concerns about a grade for an assignment or a course should begin with contacting the instructor. All such questions should be presented clearly and professionally so that they can be addressed effectively by the instructor.
The instructor retains authority over the assignment of grades, and the faculty member’s judgment about the quality of a student’s work or grading standards is not subject to appeal. However, students may appeal concerns about whether actions were taken that are inconsistent with the course syllabus or university policies and guidelines. The student must initiate this conversation before the end of the following Fall or Spring semester.
II. If a student is not satisfied with the instructor’s response, they may contact the School of Music’s Associate Dean for Graduate or Undergraduate Studies, as appropriate. The student should clearly and professionally explain the following in their written narrative:
- What action or decision is being appealed and why?
- What elements in the syllabus were violated, or what university policy was violated?
- What is the basis for the appeal, if not a policy violation?
- When did the student communicate with the faculty member; and what response was received?
The student must meet with the Associate Dean for Graduate or Undergraduate Studies, as appropriate, and submit the written narrative describing the alleged violation. The Associate Dean will send to the student a written response within 10 regular working days following the meeting.
The Associate Dean will review the student's grievance and share the issues raised with the faculty member to get their response. The Associate Dean is not permitted to change a grade that has been assigned, but is permitted to recommend that a faculty member reconsider how the grade was assigned.
III. If, after receiving the Associate Dean’s response, the complaint is not resolved to the aggrieved student’s satisfaction, the student must notify the Associate Dean within 10 regular working days of receiving the letter and request a grievance hearing. The Associate Dean will appoint an Ad Hoc Grievance Committee of four School of Music faculty members, one of whom will serve as chair, and three students to conduct the grievance hearing. The grievance hearing will be held within 20 regular working days after submission of the student’s written narrative. Because some faculty members may not be available during the Summer months, student grievances filed between May 15 and August 15 will be acted upon within the first 20 days of the Fall semester. The Associate Dean will distribute the written narrative of the student’s grievance to the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee and the faculty member who assigned the grade when the Ad Hoc Committee is created.
The student must attend the grievance hearing and present the alleged violation(s) or the basis for the appeal to the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee and answer questions. The instructor(s) who assigned the grade has the right to be present during all presentations of evidence to the Committee. The student and the instructor may call witnesses. However, the Chair of the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee must be notified in writing at least 24 hours before the hearing of the names of all witnesses and the reason each witness has been called.
It is the responsibility of the student and the instructor, respectively, to arrange for the appearance of witnesses. The Associate Dean may not attend the grievance hearing. The Ad Hoc Grievance Committee must schedule a hearing; inform the instructor involved in writing and schedule appearances at the hearing; maintain accurate, confidential records of the case; conduct the hearing in a fair and impartial manner; and inform the student and the instructor(s) of the decision within two regular working days of the hearing.
Students should be aware that violations of USC’s honor code (e.g., lying or misrepresentation) when making statements within the grievance process will be reported to the Office of Academic Integrity.
Appeal
If a student is not satisfied with the outcome after communicating with the Associate Dean and Ad Hoc Grievance Committee, the Dean of the School of Music should be contacted via email. The student must include all prior email messages and other written correspondence regarding the grade grievance. The message should also explain why there is concern with the outcome achieved to this point in the process. As appropriate, the instructor, Associate Dean, and/or Chair of the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee will be contacted in order to receive their input. A grade cannot be overturned, but a recommendation can be made to the instructor that the grade be reconsidered.
- Undergraduate and Graduate students may file an appeal of the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee’s decision to the Dean of the School of Music within ten (10) working days of receipt of that decision.
- If the Dean finds merit to the appeal, the Dean will appoint an entirely new Ad Hoc Grievance Committee, which will conduct a new grievance hearing within 20 regular working days of the notice of appeal. If the Dean does not find merit to the student’s claims, the finding(s) of the Ad Hoc Grievance Committee will be upheld. The decision of the Dean is final.
- A faculty member who feels aggrieved as a result of student grievance proceedings has the right to appear before the University Faculty Grievance Committee and present their case to the Committee. The process is described in the Faculty Manual.
GRADUATE STUDY
For information concerning Graduate Study in Music contact the Director of Graduate Studies. Information about taking graduate courses through senior privilege can be found in the University of South Carolina Undergraduate Studies Bulletin.
JURY EXAMINATIONS
All students studying in the applied major sequence (MUSC 111-411) and all students receiving a music scholarship are required to play a jury examination. Students who are registered in the 101 level that are not on scholarship are not required to perform a jury. However, students studying in the 101 level must play a jury to move into the applied sequence (111 or 211) or may be required to play a jury at the request of the applied teacher. Students in the applied sequence, including those who have completed the applied music requirements, may not elect to study at the 101 level unless given approval by the applied teacher and the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
A student must complete the REPERTORY RECORD IN APPLIED MUSIC form (available in the Music Office) and have the form approved by his/her private teacher prior to the jury examination. The student should bring the REPERTORY RECORD IN APPLIED MUSIC to the jury examination where it will be completed by the applied teacher and turned in to the Music Studies Office for inclusion in the student file. Several areas utilize an online jury system. Students in those areas will receive instructions regarding the registration process.
If a student received an Incomplete in a course because of failure to take a jury examination, there are two ways to remove this incomplete: (1) A special jury examination may be given, or, (2) Since applied music courses are repeatable for credit, the student may enroll in the same course again the following semester for additional credit and take the semester jury. The jury grade earned in the subsequent semester will also be used by the teacher in determining the grade for the semester of the Incomplete.
An applied student is advanced to the upper division by performing a successful extended jury examination and completing all other progression requirements. Transfer students at the Junior level or above must perform an extended jury examination to validate the level of their placement and their transfer credits. An extended jury is approximately twice the length of a regular jury examination, and the content must be appropriate for the applied level being examined. An extended jury judged as unsatisfactory by the area faculty may be repeated once. The repeated material may contain any or all of the contents of the unsatisfactory extended jury. If two extended juries are judged as unsatisfactory, the student will not be allowed to advance to the upper division. At that time, the student may elect to pursue the BA in Music, which does not require upper division applied study.
Applied examinations may include the demonstration of such fundamental techniques as are appropriate to the performance medium concerned. The area faculty will determine the specific nature of such techniques.
Students who present degree or performance certificate required recitals that are evaluated by the area faculty are exempt from jury performances during the semester of the recital; the appropriate semester is to be determined by the applied teacher. The REPERTORY RECORD IN APPLIED MUSIC form should be completed by the applied teacher and turned in to the office for inclusion in the student's file.
The duration of the jury examination should be not less than 10 minutes, including time for jury discussion. The jury members (including the student's teacher) will determine the jury grade based on the jury performance only, either by consensus or by a written ballot. The teacher will determine the semester grade taking into consideration the jury grade, seminar performances and general progress during the semester in question. The semester grade given by the teacher may not differ from the jury grade by more than one (1) letter except that a failing grade given by the jury must be officially recorded as the final grade.
After the jury performance, the jury members will discuss whether the student will remain at the present level of applied study, advance to a higher level, or be placed into a lower level. A jury decision to advance a student or place them into a lower level will be determined by a simple majority vote of the faculty present. Whenever a student is not approved to advance at the expected time, or is placed into a lower level, the coordinator should complete the “Report of Jury” portion of the REPERTORY RECORD to reflect the jury decision and should forward a copy of the completed form to the Undergraduate Director. The decision on advancement need not be reflected in the final grade of the course.
PIANO PROFICIENCY EXAMINATIONS
To complete the Piano Proficiency Requirement, undergraduate music majors should enter the Group Piano course sequence at the MUED 155 level and remain in the sequence until degree requirements have been satisfied (see below). All courses required for the degree must be completed with a "C" or better. Students not earning a "C" or better must re-take the course before they can enroll in the next level. Completion of a Piano Proficiency Requirement at another institution does not transfer to USC.
Students who have studied piano (a minimum of three years) can audition with the Coordinator of Group Piano for advanced placement in or exemption from Group Piano. Auditions occur at the start of Fall and Spring semesters and during advisement periods. Students may only audition once. The audition must take place during the first two semesters of study. Students who do not audition within the first two semesters of study or do not receive advanced placement in or examption from Group Piano must begin the sequence with MUED 155. If the prior skill level is exceptional (ten years of prior study), the student may be exempt from Group Piano courses; the Coordinator of Group Piano may grant the student permission to independently prepare for the Basic or Advanced (BM Music Education Choral) Piano Proficiency Exam.
Piano Proficiency Examinations for students who are exempt from Group Piano courses will be heard during final examination week of Fall and Spring semesters. Two weeks prior to exams, students should see the Coordinator of Group Piano to obtain the Piano Proficiency Examination requirements. This examination must take place by the end of the third semester of study. If the exam is failed or if the exam is not completed by the end of the third semester, the student will be placed in a Group Piano course (MUED 156 or MUED 356) to satisfy the requirement.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS for BA, BM in Composition, Theory, Performance or Jazz Studies, and the BM with emphasis in Music Education (Instrumental)
Students pursuing a BA or a BM in Composition, Music Education (Instrumental), Theory, Performance or Jazz Studies must satisfy the Basic Keyboard Proficiency Requirement prior to advancing to upper division applied lessons. The student will do one of the following to meet the requirement:
- Complete MUED 155 and 156 with a minimum grade of "C"
- Receive advanced placement into MUED 156 through audition. Complete MUED 156 with a minimum grade of "C"
- Receive exemption from Group Piano through audition and independently prepare for the Basic Keyboard Proficiency Exam. The exam must be completed with a minimum grade of "C"
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS for BM Music Education Choral
Students pursuing a BM Music Education Choral degree must satisfy the Advanced Keyboard Proficiency Requirement prior to advancing to upper division applied lessons. It is recommended that students complete this requirement before enrolling in choral conducting classes. The student will do one of the following to meet the requirement:
- Complete MUED 155, 156, 355, and 356 with a minimum grade of "C"
- Receive advanced placement into MUED 156, 355, or 356 through audition. Complete the courses through MUED 356 with a minimum grade of "C"
- Receive exemption from Group Piano through audition and independently prepare for the Advanced Keyboard Proficiency Exam. The exam must be completed with a minimum grade of "C"
Choral music education majors who declare voice as their major instrument are expected to enroll in Group Piano the first semester of their freshman year and continue through the course sequence until the successful completion of the Advanced Keyboard Proficiency Requirement.
In cases of exceptional keyboard experience, the choral music education majors may be approved to take applied keyboard lessons. Those who declare piano as their major instrument are required to enroll in applied study the first semester of their freshman year and continue until the successful completion of required applied levels. These students must independently prepare and pass the Advanced Keyboard Proficiency Exam before beginning the student teaching experience.
I. Basic requirements for B.A., B.M., B.M. – Music Education (Instrumental) – Level I
- Major scales and arpeggios: 2 octaves, hands separately
- Harmonic minor scales and minor arpeggios: 2 octaves, hands separately
- Transposition
- Modal scales: transposed
- Major, minor, augmented, diminished triads in all keys
- Seventh chords: Major 7, minor 7, Mm 7, half-dim. 7, fully dim. 7 in all keys
- Primary and secondary chord progressions in all keys
- Harmonization: primary and secondary chords at sight
- Improvisation
- Sight reading
II. Requirements for the degree of B.M. - Music Education (Choral) – Level II
- Major scales and arpeggios: 2 octaves, hands separately
- Harmonic minor scales and minor arpeggios: 2 octaves, hands separately
- Transposition
- Modal scales: transposed
- Dominant 7th and diminished 7th arpeggios in all keys
- Secondary dominant and augmented sixth chords in all keys
- Chord progressions: Modulation to dominant, subdominant in all keys
- Accompaniment
- Score reading
- Improvisation
- Repertoire
MASTERCLASS
The period of 1:10 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays will be reserved for masterclass meetings of the various applied studios. Students may receive additional information from their applied music teachers.
MUSC 100A – MUSIC ADVOCACY I
A one semester class that will meet on Fridays in the Fall semester that will address “Understanding the Power of Your Music.” The emphasis of this class is geared to understanding advocacy in the context of the life of a professional musician, to present and gain experience with advocacy methods and techniques, and to develop understanding about the positive effects of music in American society.
MUSIC EDUCATION PRACTICUM (MUED 200)
Practicum in Music Education is required of all music education students. MUED 200 is normally completed in the sophomore year, and must be completed in order to advance to the upper division. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to, and observation of, current practices in public school music teaching.
MUSIC EDUCATION AREA PROBATION/PETITION HEARING PROCESS
Probation
An undergraduate student with a declared major in music education will be placed on
probation in one or more of the following instances:
- If the student earns a grade of ‘D’, ‘F’, or ‘U’ in courses designated as a benchmark course in music education.
- If the student has demonstrated significant levels of unprofessional behaviors such as repeated tardiness, excessive absences, inappropriate dress, inappropriate language in practicum settings, or any other behaviors determined as unacceptable by the music education area faculty.
If a student meets one or both of the criteria stated above, they will be notified in writing by the Director of Undergraduate Studies that they have been placed on probation by the music education faculty, effective on the date indicated in the written letter. Full details of the petition process will be included in the notice of probation. The student may petition for removal from probationary status to the music education coordinator.
A student who undergoes the probation process and, after being reinstated to the program, fails a benchmark course or does not meet the required dispositions will not be permitted to petition for probation a second time.
Designated Benchmark Courses in Music Education:
All Areas
MUED 200 Prerequisites: none.
Elementary
MUED 465 Prerequisites: MUED 200; MUSC 333
MUED 465P Prerequisites: MUED 200; MUSC 333
MUED 356
Choral
MUED 467 Prerequisites: MUED 200; MUSC 333; MUSC 335; MUED 335L
MUED 467P Prerequisites: MUED 200; MUSC 333; MUSC 335; MUED 335L
Instrumental (Band)
MUED 551 Prerequisites: MUED 200; one class from MUED 105/106
MUED 552 Prerequisites: MUSC 333; two classes from MUED 105/106
MUED 568 Prerequisites: MUSC 333
Note: Applied faculty who teach sections of MUED 105/106 may, if they so choose, refer students who have failed the specific section they teach to the Music Education Area Coordinator for placement on probation. In such cases, the instructor of the failed course will be allowed to participate on the review panel as a voting member.
Instrumental (String)
MUED 533 Prerequisites: MUED 200; MUED 104 (3 courses)
MUED 533P Prerequisites: MUED 200; MUED 104 (3 courses)
MUED 534 Prerequisite: MUED 533
MUED 534P Prerequisite MUED 533P
PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE
Purpose: (1) To recognize those undergraduate students majoring in degrees other than music performance who meet the quality standards of a performance major. (2) To allow gifted and highly motivated students to acquire additional credit and professorial guidance.
Eligibility and Procedures:
- Incoming students may demonstrate their fitness for the performance certificate during their qualifying or scholarship audition. Continuing students are eligible to enter this program by application to the coordinator of the appropriate area and upon recommendation of the jury.
- Students in this program register for 3 credits of applied study (MUSC 211 or 411) each semester and receive a 60-minute lesson.
- In order to enter the upper division and continue in the program, the student must pass an extended jury examination which is usually scheduled at the completion of the sophomore year. The semester grade is given by the candidate's regular jury members.
- The completion of the program is dependent upon the completion of six (6) semesters of applied study (minimum of two semesters of MUSC 411) and the successful performance of two (2) half recitals (MUSC 400) or one (1) full recital (MUSC 401). This recital will be graded by the same criteria as a performance degree recital.
- The candidate's program may be revoked by:
a.) request of candidate
b.) action of candidate's jury
c.) action of jury at half or full recital - After successful completion of the requirements, the candidate will receive a performance certificate signed by the Dean of the School of Music and the major professor. The awarding of the certificate will be recorded on the student's transcript.
RECITAL CLASS LABORATORY (MUSC 100L)
A one semester class that will meet on Fridays in the Spring semester that will address specific standard literature, composers, and compositional styles for all incoming freshman and transfers in an effort to develop critical listening skills and basic knowledge/vocabulary for musicians.
RECITAL CLASS (MUSC 100)
Recital Class gathers the School of Music community together on Fridays from 1:10-2:00pm for shared experiences regarding different aspects of Professional Skills and Entrepreneurship, Academic Integrity and Excellence, Wellness and Safety, Performance and Collaboration, and Global Engagement. Every music major is required to complete 5 semesters of MUSC 100 with a grade of "S".
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
Students seeking the following degrees:
Bachelor of Music in Performance
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies
| Applied Level | Semester | Performance(s) |
| 211 | 1 2 |
optional 1 |
| 211 | 3 4 |
1 2 |
| 411 | 5 6 |
2 half recital* |
| 411 | 7 8 |
2 full recital* |
* Half recitals should last 30 minutes. Full recitals should last 60 minutes. This includes reasonable pauses for stage changes as needed and, in the case of a full recital, may include an intermission lasting approximately 5-7 minutes. Students are ultimately responsible for the length of their recital programs and should understand that a program that is too short or too long may adversely impact their grade.
During semesters when students must present two (2) solo performances the following exceptions may apply:
- A major solo work (e.g., a concerto, operatic work, or a longer sonata movement) may be considered the equivalent of two (2) appearances. This decision is subject to the approval of the applied teacher.
- Difficult accompaniments (e.g., song cycles, sonata movements, or concerto accompaniments) may be considered the equivalent of appearance for keyboard majors. This decision is subject to the approval of the applied teacher
- Ensemble work of a more advanced nature (e.g., opera workshop, two (2) piano works, or chamber ensemble) may be considered the equivalent of one (1) appearance. This decision is subject to the approval of the applied teacher.
Candidates for the BM in Performance (Jazz Studies) may, by special arrangement with the applied jury for Jazz Studies, give either or both the half recital and full recital in a professional setting rather than at the School of Music. The half recital in the junior year may include standard repertoire.
Students Seeking the Performance Certificate and pursuing the following degrees:
Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Theory, or Composition
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Bachelor of Science in Music Industry Studies
Non-Music Majors
| Applied Level | Semester | Performance(s) |
| 211 | 1 2 |
optional 1 |
| 211 | 3 4 |
1 2 |
| 411 | 5 6 |
2 2 or half recital* |
| 411 | 7 8 |
2 half or full recital* |
* Half recitals should last 30 minutes. Full recitals should last 60 minutes. This includes reasonable pauses for stage changes as needed and, in the case of a full recital, may include an intermission lasting approximately 5-7 minutes. Students are ultimately responsible for the length of their recital programs and should understand that a program that is too short or too long may adversely impact their grade.
The completion of this program is dependent upon the successful performance of two (2) half recitals or one (1) full recital to be graded according to the same criteria as a performance major's recital.
During semesters when students must present two (2) solo performances the following exceptions may apply:
- A major solo work (e.g., a concerto, operatic work, or a longer sonata movement) may be considered the equivalent of two (2) appearances. This decision is subject to the approval of the applied teacher.
- Difficult accompaniments (e.g., song cycles, sonata movements, or concerto accompaniments) may be considered the equivalent of appearance for keyboard majors. This decision is subject to the approval of the applied teacher
- Ensemble work of a more advanced nature (e.g., opera workshop, two (2) piano works, or chamber ensemble) may be considered the equivalent of one (1) appearance. This decision is subject to the approval of the applied teacher.
Students Not Seeking Performance Certificate and pursuing the following degrees:
Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Theory, or Composition
Bachelor of Arts in Music
| Applied Level | Semester | Performance(s) |
| 111 | 1 2 |
optional 1 |
| 111 | 3 4 |
one performance either semester |
| 311 | 5 6 |
1 1 |
| 311 | 7 8 |
1 |
A music major not pursuing a B.M performance degree or the performance certificate who wishes to present a recital may receive a one (1) hour lesson for four (4) semesters. The student must be approved by his applied jury for this provision.
Performance requirements are linked to levels of study; students who have completed their applied requirements do not have further Performance requirements unless they continue to study privately.
SCHOLARSHIPS IN MUSIC
Scholarships are administered through the Music Scholarship Committee which are supervised by the Dean. A request for renewal of a music scholarship will be distributed to students by Margee Zeigler, Program Coordinator for Undergraduate Students, and must be returned to her by the end of the Spring semester. All recipients of music scholarships are evaluated for renewal after the conclusion of the Spring semester each year.
The following criteria will be used in the annual evaluation of scholarship recipients:
- Full-time student status (12 credit hours per semester).
- Music major (if required by original award letter).
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
- Enrollment in appropriate applied music class (lessons) earning a final grade of “B” or higher in both major semesters (minimum of six semesters for non-music majors).
- Enrollment in appropriate major ensemble, earning a grade of “B” or higher in both semesters.
- Other specific area requirements (piano, composition, etc.)
Scholarships will be renewed, renewed with one semester of probation, or rescinded on the basis of the annual evaluation. Renewal at a different monetary level than the original award is possible.
STANDARDS AND PETITIONS COMMITTEE
The School of Music Standards and Petitions Committee rules on exceptions to academic regulations. Students should contact Margee Zeigler, Program Coordinator for Undergraduate Studies, for the appropriate form. Grade appeals should follow the Grade Appeals Process, outlined above.
STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE
Standards of performance are established by the School of Music for each applied level of each instrument. A statement of these standards for each instrument may be obtained from the teacher in the applied area.
TRANSFER STUDENT INFORMATION
The following academic regulations are found in the University of South Carolina Undergraduate Studies Bulletin:
“The last 25% of semester hours must be completed in residence at the University, and at least half of the hours in the student’s major and in the student’s minor courses must be taken at the University.”