The Department of Music in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences is offering courses during the summer sessions. Three courses are offered for non-music majors looking to gain fine arts electives: MLIT 1003, MUAC 1161 and MUAC 1321.

Additionally, two new courses are designed for music majors, but advanced non-majors may request permission to take the upper division courses: MUPD 477V and MUTH 477V. 

MLIT 1003 (Music Appreciation) is an introductory course that introduces ideas on music and its development in the Western tradition. Students will be presented with an historical overview of musical trends from early music to contemporary traditions. Additionally, students will learn about the basics of music understanding with introductory material in music theory, music terminology and ideals.

MLIT 1003 is offered in the May Intersession (May 15 - 26), Summer I (May 30 - June 30) and Summer II (July 3 - August 4).

MUAC 1161 (Group Piano) is a basic course in piano for non-music majors. The course is designed for student with little or no musical knowledge; the ability to read music is not necessary. Through the course, students will gain an introductory level of proficiency in reading music notation; the rudiments of playing the piano including scales, chords and melodies played with both hands; and a basic understanding of music theory.

MUAC 1161 is offered only in the Summer I session (May 30 - June 30).

MUAC 1321 (Group Guitar) is a basic course in guitar for non-music majors. The class introduces students to beginning technique, song styles, chords, accompaniment styles and several genres for accoustic guitar. The course will introduce basic guitar tab notation reading and will include simple songs and melodies for the guitar.

MUAC 1321 is offered only in the Summer II session (July 3 - August 4).

MUPD 477V (Jazz Conducting) focuses on conducting, rehearsal techniques and ensemble direction in a multitude of jazz and popular music styles. Aimed at music educators and those looking to gain a better understanding of jazz styles, students will work with small and large ensembles, scores, improvisation, music theory, popular music and a pedagogical approach to jazz at the middle school and high school levels. No prior jazz experience is needed.

MUPD 477V is offered only in the Summer II session (July 3 - August 4).

MUTH 477V (Songwriting) is not only an introduction to songwriting, but a guided tour throught the experiences of the writer, arranger, producer and performer in contemporary popular music. Students will write and perform original songs, examine production and arranging techniques, work with live musicians and study well-known tracks. Students will create a portfolio of original music including charts, lyrics and demos. No prior songwriting or vocal experience needed.

MUTH 477V is offered only in the Summer II session (July 3 - August 4).

For more information on these courses or courses offered throughout the year, please contact the music office at music@uark.edu or visit our website music.uark.edu.