General Education

First-Year Experience establishes and strengthens college-level writing and communication skills through foundational subject areas of CIM’s general education curriculum. The common element of shared learning is vital and the best class discussions extend into 1609 Hazel and CIM’s hallways. This two-semester course provides a base of skills you will use and cultivate further throughout your CIM experience. Topics covered will include community engagement, entrepreneurism, teaching artistry, and music from outside the Western European vein.

First-Year Experience establishes and strengthens college-level writing and communication skills through foundational subject areas of CIM’s general education curriculum. The common element of shared learning is vital and the best class discussions extend into 1609 Hazel and CIM’s hallways. This two-semester course provides a base of skills you will use and cultivate further throughout your CIM experience. Topics covered will include community engagement, entrepreneurism, teaching artistry and music from outside the Western European vein.

This class examines issues that classical music and the classical musician face within society and culture. Topics such as sexism, racism, "cancel culture," repertoire choices by major orchestras, government funding, activism and social media will be discussed, including their impact, how the modern musician navigates them and how musicians can leverage their skills to create a better world.

Fulfills an elective or the general education requirement for math/science/reasoning. Examine the fundamental physics of sound, acoustics and human hearing and how to apply these ideas to musical topics.

Fulfills an elective or the general education requirement for social science. Learn how to use research-based psychological practice in performance.

A one-credit seminar required of all BM students. The seminar is geared to help seniors plan for the business of a life in music. Preparation of a portfolio including photo, repertoire lists, biography, resume, curriculum vitae and sample cover letters. Issues of management, marketing, taxes, financial planning and auditioning are discussed with professionals. In addition, a review and assessment of theoretical skills is covered to help with preparation for graduate school auditions.

Classical musicians must often act as communicators, educators, advocates and researchers in order to advance their musical goals and visions. This course will provide opportunities to develop your research, writing and public speaking skills, and will help prepare you for the music history portion of your comprehensive exams, which involves submitting a recital program and annotated bibliography of resources consulted, in preparation for writing essays to assess your ability to integrate your knowledge of music history and literature.