Fine Arts—Courses
Please note that not every course listed is offered each year and that students should consult the following sources for current course offerings:
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
FNAR-1021. Guitar Performance 1
This course explores classical guitar technique and interpretation across a wide range of styles, with an emphasis on 20th- and 21st-century repertoire and performance practices. The course is designed to improve student performance both within and beyond the classical tradition; to foster a deeper understanding and mastery of the technical, interpretive and pedagogical challenges underlying successful guitar performance; and to expand students? knowledge of the repertoire available to the contemporary guitarist. The course earns one credit per semester. A series of sequential courses follow this course and the prerequisite for each is the preceding course in the sequence.
FNAR-1023. Introduction to Music Theory and Performance
The course examines the basic elements of music (notation, intervals, keys, scales, chords, meter) from a practical, hands-on perspective and introduces music theory and performance. Assignments include recognizing notes and rhythms on the staff, singing, and playing instruments. Please note that previous music experience is welcome but not required for this course.
FNAR-1031. Ear Training & Sight Singing I
Ear Training and Sight Singing I and II are one-semester introductory courses to music notation and performance. As music is sound, it is notated and read from notes on a page. Sight singing deals with how to translate notes into sound, and ear training, the reverse process, with how to write down the sounds that we hear. Singing in tune is an absolute requirement to pass this class; aural and/or sight singing activities occur in each and every meeting. Aural skills' development include dictation of intervals, chords, scales, rhythmic exercises, single line melodic exercises and two-part diatonic exercises. Sight singing activities include both group and individual performances of melodies and rhythms. There is limited practice time in class, so students are expected to extensively practice these components outside of class time. The class meets three hours a week, but the course earns only one credit per semester. This class is eligible to earn performance credits towards the Minor in Music. Please note: Whereas helpful, no previous musical experience is necessary; it is suggested to take FNAR 1031 simultaneously with FNAR 1023 - Music Theory and Performance.
FNAR-1041. Ear Training & Sight Singing II
Ear Training and Sight Singing II is the continuation of Ear Training & Sight Singing I, which is one of its prerequisites. In special situations, a student may be authorized to register for this course without having passed FNAR-1031, but only with the permission of the instructor. As FNAR-1031, FNAR-1041 meets three hours a week, but the course earns only one credit per semester. This class is eligible to earn performance credits towards the Minor in Music. Prerequisites: FNAR-1031 Ear Training and Sightsinging I and FNAR-1023 Music Theory and Performance.
FNAR-1051. STU Singers I
The St. Thomas Singers is a no-audition choir, open to students and the academic community at large. Rehearsals take place once a week; with at least two concert performances per year towards the end of each term. The course earns one credit per year. A course fee may be required for the purchase of scores and other performance expenses. No previous knowledge of music is necessary.
FNAR-1113. Practical Introduction to Art Fundamentals
This course is a practical introduction to concepts, basic materials, processes and the vocabulary of art and design delivered through slide lectures, readings and assigned projects. The concepts introduced in this course are applicable to a wide range of art and design practices. There are special presentations including visiting artist presentations, film screenings and trips to art galleries.
FNAR-1121. Guitar Performance II
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-1021 Guitar Performance I or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-1203. Introduction to Choral Singing
This introductory class develops some aspects of choral singing, including vocal technique, the ability to blend the individual voice within the group, and rudiments of music notation and music theory. Each class starts with warm up exercises; the music is selected from different time periods and musical styles, and adapted to the skills of the group. Assignments include written homework, and learning music both by heart and from reading scores. Basic music theory is covered to meet the needs of the group, and constitute an important component of the final grade. The course concludes with a concert. Please note that previous music experience is welcome but not required for this course.
FNAR-1303. The Guitar in Western Music
This course offers an overview of and a wide-ranging appreciation for the guitar within the broad tradition of Western music, exploring the guitar in its many forms and across many genres of musical expression. The course examines the history of the guitar (including its antecedent forms-the lute, vihuela and bandora, for example), its design evolution, the approaches to technique which the evolving instrument has engendered, its repertoire, and the composers and performers whose contributions to guitar music have been particularly notable. No previous guitar-playing ability is required, but at least a basic practical knowledge will be encouraged.
FNAR-1333. Drawing and Sketching
A practical course in the fundamentals of two-dimensional art practice with an emphasis on outdoor drawing and sketching. Students are introduced to a variety of drawing media including the use of pencil, charcoal, and ink. Landscape, figure and non-representational drawing practice are addressed. No prior experience is necessary.
FNAR-1433. Made in Canada: An Architectural Adventure
This course will expose students to the breadth and scope of over 500 years of Canadian architecture, with a concentration of New Brunswick and the Atlantic provinces. The course will entail illustrated, interactive lectures as well as guided site visits to buildings in the Fredericton region, presenting a hands-on context in which to understand the built legacy we see around us. This course has no prerequisites.
FNAR-1633. Drawing and Sketching II
A practical course in the fundamentals of two-dimensional art practice with an emphasis on outdoor drawing and sketching in various media. Pre-requisite: FNAR 1333, Drawing and Sketching I or FNAR 1113, Practical Introduction to Art Fundamentals.
FNAR-2001. Piano Class I
Piano Master Class meets three hours a week to explore issues of piano technique and interpretation. Students are required to actively participate by regularly performing for the group and by developing and refining collaborative performance projects outside of class time. The course earns one credit per semester. A course fee may be required, and enrolment is limited to 18 participants. A series of sequential courses follow this course.
FNAR-2013. Understanding Music
This course is a selective chronological survey of Western Art Music. After exploring basic concepts, terms, and principles of design in music, this course examines the styles from the Middle Ages to the present, providing the tools for understanding and appreciating selected works of composers of all eras. Emphasis is placed on attentive listening, responses to realtime performances, analysis of representative works of the literature, and formally written responses to secondary sources. The course hopes to instill intelligent listening habits and the ability to recognize different forms and styles. Please note: this is not a music theory or music notation course; no previous musical experience is necessary.
FNAR-2016. Music in Western Civilization
Introduction to Music Literacy is a year-long selective chronological survey of Western Art Music. After exploring basic concepts, terms, and principles of design in music, this course examines the styles from the Middle Ages to the present, providing the tools for understanding and appreciating selected works of composers of all eras. Emphasis is placed on attentive listening, responses to real-time lectures and performances, analysis of representative works of the literature, study travel, and formally written responses to secondary sources. The course, which is offered every other year, hopes to instill intelligent listening habits and the ability to recognize different forms and styles. The course earns 6 ch. Please note: this is not a music theory or music notation course; whereas helpful, no previous musical experience is necessary.
FNAR-2021. Guitar Performance III
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-1121 Guitar Performance II or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-2043. Hot 100: Songwriting and Arranging
This course is a practical survey of the song as a genre, from John Dowland to Franz Schubert to The Beatles to Lady Ga - Ga to OneRepublic, with a particular focus on text setting, harmony, and arranging. Practical assignments include analysis, composition, and performance, both in group and individually. The final project comprises the composition, MIDI recording, and performance of an original song. Prerequisite: FNAR 1023, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-2051. STU Singers II
The St. Thomas Singers is a no-audition choir, open to students and the academic community at large. Rehearsals take place once a week; with at least two concert performances per year towards the end of each term. The course earns one credit per year. A course fee may be required for the purchase of scores and other performance expenses. No previous knowledge of music is necessary.
FNAR-2053. Music: Harmony and Counterpoint I
Offered in the Fall, Music Harmony and Counterpoint I is the first part of a year-long, hands-on study of the grammar of tonal music, with a particular focus on harmony and counterpoint. Assignments include exercises in four-voice harmony in choral and keyboard styles, exercises in two- and three-voice species counterpoint, the composition of original pieces for small chamber combinations, as well as frequent formal analyses of standard masterpieces from the literature. Students are required to sing and/or play their assignments in class. Prerequisites: FNAR 1023 with a grade of B or better, FNAR 1002 with a grade of B or better, FNAR 1203 with a grade of B or better, or permission by the instructor. Recommended co-requisite: FNAR 1031.
FNAR-2063. Music: Harmony and Counterpoint II
Offered in the Spring, Music: Harmony and Counterpoint II is the continuation of Music: Harmony and Counterpoint I. These two courses, which should be taken back-to-back, comprise a year-long, hands-on study of the grammar of tonal music, with a particular focus on harmony and counterpoint. Assignments include exercises in four-voice harmony in choral and keyboard styles, exercises in two- and three-voice species counterpoint, the composition of original pieces for small chamber combinations, as well as frequent formal analyses of standard masterpieces from the literature. Students are required to sing and/or play their assignments in class. Prerequisite: FNAR 1053 with a grade of B or better, or permission by the instructor. Recommended co-requisite: FNAR 1041.
FNAR-2101. Piano Class II
For a course description, see FNAR 2001. Prerequisites: FNAR-2001 Piano Class I or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-2113. Visual Art and Aesthetic Literacy
To better understand the impact of art on everyday life, this course investigates the nature and meaning of aesthetic experience. Students explore the history of mark making, philosophical approaches to art and beauty, and forms and uses of imagery from ancient to modern times. The language of art and the elements and principles of design are applied to critical analysis of art history iconography.
FNAR-2121. Guitar Performance IV
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-2021 Guitar Performance III or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-2123. Introduction to History of 20th Century 3-D Art and Architecture
This course is a survey of significant developments in the history of 20th century (1876-1996) sculpture, architecture and three-dimensional design through a series of slide lectures and directed readings. Sculpture is presented as a distinct practice as well as in relationship to contemporary architecture and three-dimensional design. Manifesto, expository and narrative texts are represented with an emphasis on the writings of practicing sculptors, architects, and industrial designers.
FNAR-2183. Ideas in Art
This course focuses on some major ideas in art, art theory, and aesthetics since 1945. Students explore subject matter through lectures, readings, projects, excursions and written assignments relating practical applications with theoretical ideas. Subject matter will consider major visual artists and movements such as Abstract Expressionism, Pop, Minimalism and Conceptual art.
FNAR-2193. Concepts in Painting
This course investigates some of the concepts, issues and developments crucial to understanding painting and its place in the arts. Notions of form, illusion, beauty, representation and abstraction are explored through slide lectures, readings, writing and assigned studio projects.
FNAR-2203. Vocal Ensemble
This class is an in-depth exploration of choral singing, including the development of vocal technique and the ability to blend the individual voice within the group. Each class starts with warm-up exercises; the music is selected from different time periods and musical styles, and adapted to the skills of the group. Assignments include learning music both by heart and from reading scores, and writing reports about other musical performances. The course concludes with a concert. Prerequisites: FNAR 1023 Music Theory and Performance, FNAR 1031 Ear Training I, or FNAR 1041 Ear Training II with a grade of B or better, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-2213. Music of the Church
This introductory course surveys the different styles and function of church music in the history of Christian music and worship, from the middle ages to the present. It provides the tools for understanding and appreciating liturgical music and its relationship to Western art music at large. Emphasis is placed on attentive listening, responses to real-time performances, analysis of representative works of the literature, and formally written responses to secondary sources. Please note: this is not a music theory or music notation course; no previous musical experience is necessary
FNAR-2333. History of Jazz
The course develops chronologically, moving from the roots of blues music in nineteenth century Spirituals through traditional West African musical and narrative forms in the twentieth century. Exploring the evolution of Jazz in America, it introduces its fundamental historical, theoretical, and critical elements, including a historical analysis of the most influential jazz composers and jazz performers. Please note: this is not a music theory or music notation course; no previous musical experience is necessary.
FNAR-2613. Music in Film and TV
This course will explore the ways in which music contributes to the overall audiovisual message. Films will be analyzed with a special focus on the relationship between the narrative, image, and sound; film will be understood both as a text and as an interpretive argument, with a special focus on the role that music, and sound in general, play in these discursive/rhetorical functions. The ultimate goal of the course is to develop an understanding of the technical and aesthetic issues involved in music-image synchronization and a critical aural and analytical habit for the soundtrack of films. Prerequisite: One of either FNAR 1023 or FNAR 2013, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3001. Piano Class III
For a course description, see FNAR 2001. Prerequisites: FNAR-2101 Piano Class II or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3003. Independent Study: Painting
Students interested in advanced concepts of painting, both theoretical and practical, may register for a three-credit independent study. The course will focus on the contemporary practice of painting with a variety of assignments, written and practical, as well as gallery visits and video screenings. Meetings will be held weekly and will include critiques, discussions and presentations of student work. Prerequisites: FNAR 1633, 2183, 2193 & permission of the instructor.
FNAR-3013. Music and Meaning
Is music a language? Do musical works have meaning? Is there universality in the semantics of music? Are there universal ways to represent love, anger, or sadness? This course explores various types of music (folk, classical, film, TV) and helps the student develop a critical aural and analytical habit. Prerequisites: Any 1000- or 2000-level course in music or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3021. Guitar Performance V
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-2121 Guitar Performance IV or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3033. Chamber Music Appreciation
Chamber music is performed by small ensembles, one player to a part, without a conductor. As such, it is the most intimate and interactive form of classical music. This course is a chronological survey of chamber music from the 17th century to the present. Students can expect to listen carefully to key chamber works and to engage the academic discourse concerning them. The course aims to develop intelligent listening practices and an understanding of the many styles and genres that characterize chamber music. Previous musical experience is helpful but not required. Suggested prerequisites (but not required): FNAR 1303. The Guitar in Western Music, FNAR 2023. Understanding Western Music (formerly, Introduction to Music Literacy), or FNAR 2213. Music of the Church.
FNAR-3051. STU Singers III
The St. Thomas Singers is a no-audition choir, open to students and the academic community at large. Rehearsals take place once a week; with at least two concert performances per year towards the end of each term. The course earns one credit per year. A course fee may be required for the purchase of scores and other performance expenses. No previous knowledge of music is necessary.
FNAR-3053. Analysis and Composition I
Analysis and Composition I is the continuation of FNAR 2063-Music Harmony and Counterpoint II. The course, ideally taken back-to-back with FNAR 3063, is a hands-on study of the grammar of tonal music, with a particular focus on harmony, counterpoint, form, and free composition. Assignments include exercises in four-voice harmony in choral and keyboard styles, exercises in two- and three-voice species counterpoint, the composition of original pieces for small chamber combinations, as well as frequent formal analyses of standard masterpieces from the literature. Prerequisites: FNAR 1041 and FNAR 2063, both with a grade of B or better. Prerequisite: FNAR 2063, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3063. Analysis and Composition II
Analysis and Composition II is the continuation of FNAR 3053-Music Harmony and Counterpoint II, and it currently completes the theory sequence at St. Thomas. The course is a hands-on study of the grammar of tonal music, with a particular focus on harmony, counterpoint, form, and free composition. Assignments include exercises in four-voice harmony in choral and keyboard styles, exercises in two- and three-voice species counterpoint, the composition of original pieces for small chamber combinations, as well as frequent formal analyses of standard masterpieces from the literature. Prerequisite: FNAR 3053, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3073. 20th C. Compositon Seminar I (1900 - 1950)
Composition Seminar I provides practical technical training in music composition. The course is ideally taken back-to-back with Composition Seminar II. Activities include the exploration of idiomatic writing for solo instrument and standard ensembles, the analysis of relevant works of the contemporary repertoire with a special focus on the first half of the 20th Century, and the composition and performance of original works. Prerequisites: FNAR 3063, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3083. 20th C. Composition Seminar II (1900 - 1950)
Analysis and Composition II is the continuation of FNAR 3073- Composition Seminar I, The course provides practical technical training in music composition. Activities include the exploration of idiomatic writing for solo instrument and standard ensembles, the analysis of relevant works of the contemporary repertoire with a special focus on the first half of the 20th Century, and the composition and performance of original works. Prerequisite: FNAR 3073, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3101. Piano Class IV
For a course description, see FNAR 2001. Prerequisites: FNAR-3001 Piano Class III or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3113. Reading and Writing Art
This seminar class introduces art, architecture and design (primarily over the course of the last century and the beginning of this century) through a series of readings and associated seminar discussions. The emphasis is on the writings of artists and designers themselves. Manifesto, expository, narrative, interview and personal correspondence texts are discussed. Students write and submit their own exhibition reviews to recognized art journals.
FNAR-3121. Guitar Performance VI
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-3021 Guitar Performance V or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-3213. Music History I: Baroque Through Romanticism
This course is designed as an introductory survey of the significant periods, styles, genres, composers, and musical works in Western tradition from the Baroque period to the end of the nineteenth century. Lectures and readings (in conjunction with audio and video materials) are directed at not only appreciation of the distinctive musical features of the works themselves but also at exploring the broader political, cultural, and social context of music and its composers, performers, and listeners. The listening component of the class will consist of listening to excerpts in class with use of listening guides to focus attention on the formal features, instrumentation, etc. of these musical works. Resources will be available for the students' further exploration of the music. An additional theme will be the social context in which we listen to and respond to music that has come down to us from various periods in the past and how they have shaped what we hear nowadays. Prerequisites: FNAR 1303 The Guitar in Western Music, FNAR 2013 Understanding Western Music, FNAR 2213 Music of the Church, FNAR 2016 Music in Western Civilization, FNAR 2133 Musical Theatre and Performance, FNAR 2053 and FNAR 2063 Music Harmony and Counterpoint I and II, or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-4001. Piano Class V
For a course description, see FNAR 2001. Prerequisites: FNAR-3101 Piano Class IV or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-4006. Level I Orff Schulwerk
Orff Schulwerk is an experiential approach to teaching music that draws out the students' inherent affinities for rhythm and melody and allows these to develop in holistic, experiential and process-oriented ways. Using simple instruments, the course explores the ways that children can make music in non-competitive environments using beginning speech patterns, poems, storytelling, songs and dances. Prerequisite: FNAR 2063 or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-4021. Guitar Performance VII
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-3121 Guitar Performance VI or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-4051. STU Singers IV
The St. Thomas Singers is a no-audition choir, open to students and the academic community at large. Rehearsals take place once a week; with at least two concert performances per year towards the end of each term. The course earns one credit per year. A course fee may be required for the purchase of scores and other performance expenses. No previous knowledge of music is necessary.
FNAR-4101. Piano Class VI
For a course description, see FNAR 2001. Prerequisites: FNAR-4001 Piano Class V or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-4121. Guitar Performance VIII
For a course description, see FNAR 1021. Pre-requisite: FNAR-4021 Guitar Performance VII or permission by the instructor.
Independent Study: Piano Private Lessons
FNAR-1001. Independent Study: Piano Private Lessons I
Students may register for a one-credit independent study focused on the practice of the piano. Half-an-hour lessons are held once a week for the length of the semester, earning one credit. Repertoire (beginner, intermediate or advanced) is specifically tailored for each student, and decided in consultation with the instructor. Prerequisites: FNAR 1023 Introduction to Music Theory and Performance and FNAR 1041 Ear Training and Sight Singing II.
FNAR-1101. Independent Study: Piano Private Lessons II
For a course description, see FNAR 1001. Prerequisites: FNAR-1001 Piano Private Lessons I or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-1201. Independent Study: Piano Private Piano Lessons III
For a course description, see FNAR 1001. Prerequisites: FNAR-1101 Piano Private Lessons II or permission by the instructor.
FNAR-1301. Independent Study: Piano Private Lessons IV
For a course description, see FNAR 1001. Prerequisites: FNAR-1201 Piano Private Lessons III or permission by the instructor.