College of Visual and Performing Arts
Curriculum
The program provides a multidisciplinary bachelor of music (B.Mus.) degree with coursework in music, acoustics, sound production, new media design, computer science and mathematics. Particular emphasis is placed on audio engineering as a technical-artistic field, recognizing that audio professionals often serve as the interface connecting the technical and artistic personnel in the music industry.
- Demonstrate skills for functional and artistic self-expression at the appropriate level and demonstrate the ability to perform a cross-section of repertoire.
- Demonstrate functional keyboard skills to support musicianship at the appropriate level.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the common elements and organizational patterns of music and their aural and verbal analysis and a functional understanding of musical forms, processes and structures.
- Demonstrate the ability to complete aural dictation at the appropriate level.
- Demonstrate growth in artistry and technical skills in an ensemble setting and collaborative competency and knowledge of ensemble repertoire.
- Demonstrate a functional knowledge of music history and repertoire through the present time, including the study and experience of musical languages and cultures.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills sufficient to work as a leader and in collaboration on matters of musical interpretation.
- Demonstrate ability to solve technical and artistic problems while preparing recorded products for various purposes/settings and fundamental knowledge of recording equipment for proper use.
- Demonstrate the application of acoustical knowledge, the related scientific aspects of sound, and electrical manipulation of sounds in applicable recording situations and acquired aural skills.
Extracurricular Opportunities
VPA LA Semester
The VPA LA Semester is an immersive professional development program that provides you with the opportunity to work as an intern in Los Angeles while taking academic courses taught by LA professionals with expertise in their given disciplines. The program is designed to broaden your understanding of career opportunities and gain skills to network and succeed in your career.
Audio Engineering Society
Syracuse University has its own student chapter of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) that meets monthly and creates opportunities for education and advancement in the field of audio engineering. The chapter hosts many activities, including lectures by prominent guest speakers, industry-related tours and experiences, and annual trips to the AES convention held in Los Angeles and New York City.
The SENSES Project
The SENSES Project explores the impact of sound recording on students’ sense of belonging. The project focuses on two forms of sound recording specifically: podcasting and music creation. It offers the opportunity to build marketable skills in sound production while being a part of a unique and creative campus community. It is a diversity and inclusion project that encourages nuanced discussion across differences and uses music as way to emphasize our shared humanity.
Learn more about this program