Minor in the Theory of Jazz and Popular Song

The minor in the theory of jazz and popular song affords students the opportunity to focus on music theory through 12 credit hours of specialized advanced study beyond the core music curriculum. At the heart of the minor are the three harmony courses:

  • Reharmonization Techniques HR-325 (2 credits);
  • Advanced Harmonic Concepts HR-335 (2 credits); and
  • Advanced Modal Harmony HR-345 (2 credits).

In these courses students explore historically important styles through listening, analysis, composition, and arranging. The remaining six credit hours may be chosen freely from a broad list of specified electives that span a wide variety of classic, popular and ethnic styles. Examples include Harmonic Analysis of Rock Music, Harmony in Brazilian Song, the Music of the Beatles, Music of the Yellowjackets, South Indian Rhythmic Solfege and Jazz/World Music, and Contemporary Application of 12 Tone Techniques. 

Entrance Requirements

There are no entrance requirements for this minor. Students must follow the regular declaration of minor procedure as outlined in the Registration Manual. This minor is managed by the Harmony Department. 

What the Program Gives You

Upon completion of a theory of jazz and popular song minor, students will:

  • transcribe increasingly advanced songs from various contemporary music styles;
  • analyze the underlying theoretical structures of various contemporary music styles;
  • synthesize advanced music theory and apply it to their own musicianship;
  • apply their enhanced theoretical knowledge as they develop an individual voice and enhanced creativity in both composition and performance; and
  • prepare for graduate work in the fields of ethnomusicology, jazz studies, music theory, or jazz composition.
Department: 
Harmony
Required Courses

Required Courses

  • HR-325: Reharmonization Techniques (2 credits)

  • HR-335: Advanced Harmonic Concepts (2 credits)

  • HR-345: Advanced Modal Harmony (2 credits)

Elective Courses (choose three from the following)

  • HR-231: Harmonic Analysis of Rock Music (2 credits)

  • HR-241: Harmony in Brazilian Song (2 credits)

  • HR-261: The Music of the Beatles (2 credits)

  • HR-351: The Solo Careers of the Beatles (2 credits)

  • HR-355: The Music of the Yellowjackets (2 credits)

  • HR-361: World Music Materials and Concepts for the Contemporary Musician (2 credits)

  • PSHR-321: Harmonic Considerations in Improvisation 1 (2 credits)

  • PSHR-322: Harmonic Considerations in Improvisation 2 (2 credits)

  • PSW-350: South Indian Rhythmic Solfege and Jazz/World Music 1 (2 credits)

  • CW-255: Contemporary Application of 12-Tone Concepts (2 credits)

  • PSW-235: World Percussion for Nonpercussionists (2 credits)

6 courses required for completion of the minor.