Students in the Theory program study the various analytical and compositional procedures of music. They take music theory courses every year, and at least one course in composition. Because of the connections between theory and performance, and the understanding of music gained in performance, theory majors also do practical study every year.
Focusing on musical design of tonal and non-tonal music, the program also deals with perceptual, aesthetic, and interdisciplinary studies in such fields as literary criticism, philosophy, and cultural studies.

In each year of the program, students are engaged in musical analysis, research paper writing, and/or criticism of the historical and theoretical literature dealing with music. A graduation project in musical analysis, aesthetics, or history of theory is an option in fourth year. The Music Theory program is designed to prepare students for further academic study at the graduate level.

Admission to the Music Theory program is normally considered at the end of second year. Students should complete the Music Theory Application form and return it to the Administrative Assistant to the Dean during the winter term of year 2.

Music Theory Faculty

Dr. Anna Ferenc

Prof. Terry Kroetsch

Prof. Cameron MCKittrick

Dr. Charles Morrison

Dr. Kevin Swinden

SAMPLE PROGRAM – Music Theory Program
This is one possible outline of courses for a piano student who wishes to major in Music Theory.