Music

Program Overview

Brock University's Music program offers undergraduate degrees in Music (BMus) and Arts (BA), providing a comprehensive foundation in music theory, history, and performance. Students can specialize in Performance, Music Education, Music Therapy Foundations, Community Music, or Choral Music, preparing them for careers in music performance, teaching, therapy, community outreach, or choral conducting. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through recitals, ensembles, and practicums, and is supported by experienced faculty and a vibrant music community.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Department of Music at Brock University offers a range of programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Undergraduate programs include the Bachelor of Music (BMus) and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Music (BA) degrees. The BMus degree is designed for students who wish to pursue careers as professional musicians, while the BA degree is more flexible and allows students to combine their music studies with other disciplines. Both degrees provide students with a strong foundation in music theory, history, and performance.

Outline:

• Year 1: Courses in music theory, ear training, music history, and performance (Students will also take courses in English, a second language and electives)
• Year 2: Continued study in music theory, ear training, music history, and performance.
Students may also begin to specialize in their chosen instrument or area of study.
• Year 3: Students take courses in their chosen concentration, as well as electives in other areas of music or related fields.
(Concentrations available in Music Education, Performance (BMus), Music Therapy Foundations, Community Music (BA), and Choral Music (BMus).)
• Year 4: Students complete their degree with further study in their chosen concentration and a capstone project.
• Performance (BMus): Prepares students for graduate studies in performance and possible professional work as concertizing musicians.
The program places a high emphasis on performing as students present three public recitals.
• Music Education Concentration: Prepares students for teaching music in schools.
Coursework focuses on the foundational skills of general music education, including music education principles and philosophies, and the development of techniques for teaching music in the classroom.
• Music Therapy Foundations Concentration: Designed for students seeking preparation for graduate studies and certification in Music Therapy.
The concentration includes coursework and practicums on topics such as music and the brain, music therapy assessment, and music therapy in clinical settings.
• Community Music Concentration (BA): For students seeking to make a social impact in music, the program emphasizes ensemble performance, music in community and community outreach.
• Choral Music Concentration (BMus): For those pursuing advanced choral conducting skills.
The concentration develops expertise in choral conducting, vocal pedagogy, and choral literature, while providing opportunities to conduct in various choral ensembles.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, papers, presentations, and performances. The weighting of each assessment may vary depending on the course and the level of study.

Teaching:

The Department of Music has a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members who are passionate about teaching and research. Faculty members use a variety of teaching methods to engage students and promote learning, including lectures, discussions, workshops, and performances. The Department also offers a number of unique opportunities for students to learn and perform, such as the Brock University Orchestra, the Brock University Chamber Choir, and the Brock University Jazz Ensemble.

Careers:

Graduates of the Department of Music have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including performance, teaching, music therapy, and music journalism. The Department also maintains close ties with the local music community, which provides students with opportunities for internships and networking.