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Music

The MCTC Music Department offers a variety of challenging experiences and learning opportunities for students at all ability levels, studying in any area of the college. Although a specific music major isn't offered, many have come here to ready themselves for a later music degree from a 4-year college or university. Whether you are a beginner or a gifted professional, you will most likely find a kindred spirit here in the Music Department. Check the catalog for academic courses in theory, music appreciation and history, as well as vocal and instrumental ensemble opportunities and private lessons.

Note: Starting Fall 2008, students who wish to take any applied music (i.e. voice or instrumental lessons, or instrumental ensembles and choirs) will need to go to "Applied Music" (and the new course designator MUSL) to find those courses.

For more information about the instrumental performing groups at MCTC check out their website or contact:
Yolanda Williams
612-659-6000, ex. 4442
Yolanda.Williams@minneapolis.edu

For more information about the choirs at MCTC check out their website or contact:
Dr. Elizabeth Pauly
612-659-6000, ex. 4098
Elizabeth.Pauly@minneapolis.edu

For general information about the music department, please contact:
Judith Mehaffey, Fine Arts Secretary
612-659-6118
Judith.Mehaffey@minneapolis.edu

For those interested in music using high technology (audio recording, synthesis, computer music, etc.,) please see also MCTC's Sound Arts program.

Faculty/staff listing

Name Office Phone
Bregman, Jacqueline F.1300 612-688-8878
Faculty
Cox, Nancy F.1300 612-379-2417
Cont Ed Faculty
Ferrier-Ultan, Jacqueline F.1300 612-659-6100
Faculty
Giddings, Lorelei F.1300 612-729-4413
Gilroy, Debra F.1300 612-374-3863
Faculty
Haskin, Steve F.1300 612-729-2984
Continuing Ed Inst
Hoover, Clinton F.1300 612-721-6579
Faculty
Keys, Jeffrey 612-384-2830
King, Jeffrey F.1300 651-328-9293
Faculty
Krislov, Donna F.1300 612-374-2353
Faculty
Ouska, Jim F.1300 612-827-0161
Faculty
Pauly, Elizabeth F.2405 612-659-6000
Faculty x4098
Solum, Stephen F.2403 612-659-6426
Faculty
Thompson, Floyd F.1300 612-332-3641
Faculty
Williams, Yolanda F.2404 612-659-6000
Faculty x4442

Frequently asked questions

What are the differences between the MCTC Chamber Vocal Ensemble and the MCTC Concert Choir?
The MCTC Chamber Vocal Ensemble (listed in the catalogue as Vocal Ensemble MUSC 1220 01) is a select ensemble that sings primarily unaccompanied music in styles ranging from Classical to World Music. The ensemble is designed to provide a performing opportunity for those interested in challenging and stimulating vocal repertoire. This choir performs publicly several times over the course of the academic year. The choir is open by audition or consent of the instructor. The MCTC Concert Choir (listed in the catalogue as the College Choir MUSC 1210 01) is a non-auditioned vocal ensemble designed to be a creative musical opportunity in an atmosphere that is enjoyable and non-competitive. The choir performs publicly at least once per semester. Music covers a wide range of styles from Classical to World Music. The MCTC Concert Choir is open to all those who enjoy singing and are willing and able to commit to consistent attendance at rehearsals and scheduled performances, and to working to create art as part of a group.
When and where do the choirs rehearse?
The Concert Choir (College Choir) rehearses Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:00 to 11:50 in F247. The Chamber Vocal Ensemble (Vocal Ensemble) rehearses Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:00 to 12:50 in F248.
Who can join these choirs?
The Concert Choir (College Choir) is open to anyone who enjoys singing and is willing and able to commit to the rehearsal and performance schedule. This includes students, faculty, staff, and anyone who lives in the metro area. The same is true for the Chamber Vocal Ensemble (Vocal Ensemble), with the addition that those who wish to sing in this ensemble should have some previous choral experience, and should arrange an audition with Dr. Elizabeth Pauly.
How do I join?
To join the Concert Choir (College Choir), simply enroll in MUSC 1210 01. To join the Chamber Vocal Ensemble (Vocal Ensemble) first contact Dr. Pauly (contact information given above) to schedule an audition. After the audition register for MUSC 1210 02.
Is there a place where I can continue to play Jazz or Classical Instrumental Music?
Yes! We have a Jazz Ensemble which meets on Monday evenings from 5-7 p.m. and an Instrumental Ensemble which meets on Tuesday evenings also from 5-7.
At what level do I have to be to be able to play in these groups?
For both ensembles you should at least be able to read at a Jr. High School level. Ability to improvise in Jazz is not immediately necessary as we work on those skills in class.
Do I have to audition?
No, but you will want to ask about the Jazz ensemble if you play a rhythm section instrument (guitar, piano, drums, bass) as those positions fill fast. Seats in the horn sections are always open.
How often do the ensembles perform?
Both ensembles perform at least once per semester in a evening concert. The Jazz Ensemble concerts usually include works from as many of the genres as we can play well (Swing, Bebop, Cool, Fusion, etc.) The Instrumental Ensemble play Classical works as well as native folk works.
Can I take lessons while at MCTC, for personal enjoyment, or do I have to be a music major to take private lessons?
All students are welcome to register for lessons. Your beginning ability level is not an issue. Just like in your lecture classes, you will enjoy your lessons more and progress faster if you put in the extra time it takes to be prepared for each lesson.
How do I register for private lessons?
1. Identify from the course schedule which instrument you would like to learn. With the exception of voice, drum trap set and piano, you will have to have your own instrument. 2. Contact the instructor for the instrument to asses whether you should take the course for 2 or for 4 credits and if the instructor has an opening in their schedule when you can both set up a lesson time. 3. Register for the course. DO NOT REGISTER BEFORE YOU HAVE SPOKEN WITH AN INSTRUCTOR!!! Because these are one-on-one private lessons, not class lessons, there is an additional fee attached to the course beyond the tuition. This fee is also found in your schedule.
What is the difference between the American Pop Music courses and the Fundamentals of Music course?
The American Pop Music course are survey courses in which the evolution of the musical style, i.e. Jazz or Rock and Pop is followed from its beginnings to its current sounds. In addition to lectures, guest performers and videos, the course includes written critiques of live performances, assigned listening in and out of class; reaction papers, and class discussion. The Fundamentals of Music course is for those who are interested in the "inner workings" of written music: notes, keys, etc. This class is like a combination of Math, Foreign Language and Music. You will learn vocabulary to identify part of music. You will learn how to write music. You will also learn how to read music and play simple melodies on a keyboard.
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