Courses present the basic tools of music theory (counterpoint, harmony and analysis) and knowledge of music history and offer experience in composition.

Performance in chamber ensembles, chorus and/or jazz band is encouraged, and to that end, credit is offered to both majors and minors studying an instrument with a private instructor.

At Stern College, students must meet with the senior faculty member to discuss her area of concentration and plan an appropriate course of study: Theoryand Composition, Literature and Materials or Performance (ensembles and applied musical studies).