Music - MUSC
61 courses · Bakersfield College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
MUSC B2 Basic Elements of Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 110
Designed for the student with little or no previous experience in the reading and writing of music. Development of beginning skills in music notation and basic elements of music theory. Course also serves as pre-requisite for Music B4A Elementary Theory.
MUSC B4 Music Theory I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Corequisite
- MUSC B15 (Musicianship I): Course co-requisite recommended by C-ID descriptor MUS 120
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course serves as the introductory music theory course for music majors. It serves as a pre-requisite for MUSC B4A Music Theory II.
MUSC B4A Elementary Theory
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B2 or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Corequisite
- MUSC B15A must be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 130
A study of common practice harmony. Course covers diatonic harmony including scales, key signatures, triad and seventh chord constructions and 4-part voice leading including phrase structure.
MUSC B4B Elementary Theory
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B4A or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Corequisite
- MUSC B15B must be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 140
A study of common practice harmony. Chromatic harmony from secondary dominants through augmented sixth chords including simple form analysis and modulation.
MUSC B4C Intermediate Theory-Contemporary Materials
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B4B or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Corequisite
- MUSC B15C must be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 150
Study of compositional styles and practices of Western art music since the late 19th century including practical application in composition: Covers advanced chromaticism, impressionism, serialism, basic set theory, and jazz harmony. Note: Not open to students who have successfully completed MUSC B4D. Formerly MUSC B4D.
MUSC B5A Piano I: Beginning Class Piano
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 170
This course is an introduction to beginning keyboard skills, including notation, basic technical exercises, sight reading, and repertoire study at the beginning level.
MUSC B5B Piano II: Intermediate Class Piano
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B5A or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 171
Continuing study of piano beyond beginning level (MUSC B5A). Includes instruction in elementary keyboard theory, technical exercises, sight reading, chord progressions, harmonization, transposition, and repertoire study of upper-beginning/early intermediate piano music.
MUSC B5C Piano III: Advanced Class Piano
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B5B or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 172
Continuing study of piano beyond intermediate level (MUSC B5B). Includes instruction in keyboard theory, technical exercises, sight reading, chord progressions, harmonization, transposition, and repertoire study of intermediate/advanced piano music.
MUSC B6A Class Voice I
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course provides elementary solo vocal training emphasizing breath control, tone placement, posture, and interpretive concepts of an English art song.
MUSC B6B Class Voice II
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course provides instruction on the basic understanding of solo vocal training emphasizing in smooth breath control, interpretation of an Italian and English art song, and a basic understanding of tone placement in voice.
MUSC B6C Class Voice III
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course provides instruction for an intermediate understanding of solo vocal training emphasizing in coordinated breath control, interpretation of an English, Italian, and Spanish or German art song, and an intermediate understanding of resonance factors in voice.
MUSC B6D Class Voice IV
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course provides advanced instruction of solo vocal training emphasizing in cooperative breath control, interpretation of an English, Italian, Spanish, and German, French, or other foreign language art song, and an advanced application of Appoggio to various vocal styles.
MUSC B7 Applied Music
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Corequisite
- MUSC B10A (Concert Band): Must be registered for one of the following. OR MUSC B11 (Jazz Combos): Must be registered for one of the following. OR MUSC B12A (College Orchestra): Must be registered for one of the following. OR MUSC B13A (Jazz Ensemble): Must be registered for one of the following. OR MUSC B14A (College Choir): Must be registered for one of the following.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 160
Individual and group instruction in solo performance for music majors culminating in a juried performance final. Includes instruction in technique, repertoire, and performance practice. Designed for students with significant prior experience/instruction with a particular instrument or singing.
MUSC B8 Jazz Improvisation
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is an introduction to the creative practice of improvisation for all instrumentalists and vocalists. Fundamentals of jazz theory are addressed through practical application, and musicianship skills are developed through dictation, transcription, analysis, and performance of standard jazz tunes, melodic patterns, rhythms, and chord progressions. Students will explore different stylistic and idiomatic approaches including motivic, harmonic, modal, and free improvisation.
MUSC B9A Beginning Class Guitar
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A beginning study of the guitar. Instruction in note reading, playing basic chords, strumming and fingerstyle, learning basic popular styles and a beginning classical repertoire. A suitable acoustic guitar is required.
MUSC B9B Intermediate Class Guitar
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B9A or equivalent with a grade of C better or demonstrated skill of at least MUSC B9A level as determined by the instructor.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Intermediate techniques of guitar playing. Emphasis on advanced chord positions, strumming and fingerstyle patterns, scales, arpeggios, and bar chords. The repertoire taught will include intermediate popular styles and classical repertoire. A suitable acoustic guitar is required.
MUSC B10A Concert Band
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
Rehearsal and performance of standard band literature: Participation in public performances such as concerts, assemblies, and additional rehearsals is required. Field trips may be required.
MUSC B11 Jazz Combos
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 185
This course is for the study, rehearsal, and public performance of literature for small jazz groups of three to seven players. Various styles and repertory projects are explored, including traditional and contemporary jazz, Latin jazz, and world music. Students will acquire training in jazz phrasing, ensemble playing, musicality, and creative improvisation. Special emphasis on original student compositions and arrangements.
MUSC B12A College Orchestra
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
Performance of standard works from the orchestra literature. An audition and field trips are required for this course.
MUSC B13A Jazz Ensemble
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
This course is for the study, rehearsal, and public performance of literature for big band, with an emphasis on the development of skills needed to perform within a large jazz ensemble including phrasing, ensemble playing, musicality, and creative improvisation. Different literature will be studied each semester.
MUSC B14A College Choir
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
Study of major choral literature of all the historical periods. Public performance required for credit. Field trips for performances are required. Enrollment subject to audition.
MUSC B15 Musicianship I
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B2 or equivalent with a grade of C or better or may be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 125
This course applies and develops the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of basic music theory through ear training, sight singing, analysis, keyboard exercises and dictation.
MUSC B15A Musicianship II
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B15 or equivalent with a grade of C or better..
- Corequisite
- MUSC B4A must be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 135
This course provides in-depth recognition and singing of intervals, scales, and melodies with solfege syllables using movable "do." Practice in rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic dictation. Practice in conducting and performing rhythms. Practice in keyboard harmony and sing and play exercises.
MUSC B15B Musicianship III
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B15A or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Corequisite
- MUSC B4B must be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 145
This course applies and develops the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUSC B4B Elementary Theory (chromatic harmony). Practice in harmonic and melodic dictation. Practice in conducting and performing complex rhythms. Practice in keyboard harmony and sing and play exercises.
MUSC B15C Musicianship IV
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B15B or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Corequisite
- MUSC B4C must be taken concurrently.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 155
Aural skill training in chromatic, post-tonal, and jazz oriented materials including exercises in singing, rhythm performance/conducting, keyboard, dictation (melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic), and scale/mode/chord aural recognition.
MUSC B17A Chamber Singers
- Units
- 1.5
- Hours
- 81 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
A select choral group, specializing in rehearsal and performance of all choral literature for all historical periods. Public performance required for credit. Enrollment subject to audition. Field trips for performances are required.
MUSC B18A Drum Line
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 54-162 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Rehearsal and performance of drum line literature suitable for field, parade, and competition. Field trips and performances required. NOTE: 54 hours of lab for each unit of credit.
MUSC B19 Percussion Ensemble
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is for the study and performance of music for Percussion Chamber Ensemble. Selected repertoire is representative of the best works that are appropriate for study and performance at the collegiate level. Students learn aspects of rhythm, intonation, articulation, expressive elements, blend and balance, improvisation, and standards of conduct when rehearsing and performing.
MUSC B21A History of Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 105
Historical survey of Western Music from the Ancient World to the end of the Baroque period. Students learn the development of the cultural, philosophical, theological contexts that led to musical ideas, styles, forms, and leading personalities who wrote the music. A lecture course with numerous musical examples, video performances, and demonstrations in class.
MUSC B21B History of Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Historical survey of western art music from the music of the Classical era to the present. Students learn the development of the cultural, philosophical, theological contexts that led to musical ideas, styles, forms, and leading personalities who wrote the music. Class lectures with slide shows, readings, video performances, recordings, and demonstrations inform students, leading them to learning.
MUSC B22 Music Appreciation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 100
Introduction to appreciation of music with an emphasis on Western art music: historical development is surveyed with recordings, videos, multi-media computer presentations, and live performances as illustrations for directed listening as a basis for appreciation
MUSC B23 Appreciation of Jazz
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MIS 130
Comparative survey of jazz styles, musicians, and representative works. Students learn core musical concepts, engage in directed listening activities, attend live concerts, and discuss the various theoretical, aesthetic, and philosophical ideas that inspire the creation of jazz music.
MUSC B24 A Survey of World Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introductory course surveying the dominant musical cultures of the new and non-western world with comparisons to European/western music. Emphasizes listening to and participation in world music through lecture, films, recording, live presentations, and class performance.
MUSC B27 History of Rock and Roll
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MIS 130
This course is an introduction to the historical and stylistic developments of rock music, from its roots in blues and country to its present day influence on pop, hip-hop, metal, electronic and alternative music. Musical innovation as a reflection of changes within society, politics, and the music industry will be explored.
MUSC B28 Drum and Bugle Corps
- Units
- 0.5-2
- Hours
- 27-108 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Rehearsal and performance of drum corps literature suitable for field, parade, and competition. Field trips and performances may required.
MUSC B30 Intro to Music Technology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- CMUS 100X
This course introduces the basics of how technology and music interact. There will be an emphasis on audio software and hardware, basic principles of sound, digital audio workstations, MIDI, synthesis, and sequencing. Particular attention will be paid toward making connections between analog and digital technological contexts. Lab activity consists of self-directed projects which make use of software and hardware found in the typical digital audio studio.
MUSC B31 Commercial Music Composition
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- CMUS 150X
This course explores the process of songwriting. Songs will be analyzed on chord structure, form, rhythm, melody, harmony, and lyrics. Original compositions and performances are expected from all students.
MUSC B32 Sound Design and Synthesis
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B30 or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- CMUS 110X
This course introduces and builds up properties of sound and how it functions acoustically and electronically. There will be an emphasis on digital and analog synthesis, sampling, MIDI sequencing, film sound design, and other multimedia applications. Crucial to this exploration are considerations of the widespread use of sound synthesis and design in entertainment industry. The course culminates with a sound design reel and portfolio consisting of original electronic music compositions, multimedia applications, and sound design treatments.
MUSC B33 Live Sound
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- CMUS 130X
Introduction to live sound systems and aspects of reinforcement and acoustical design. Emphasis on components and function of live sound systems including microphones, mixers, effects, power amplifiers, and speaker systems. Focus on setup, operation, maintenance, safety, health, and other workplace issue. Student will gain hands-on experience at local venues and/or events with opportunities to troubleshoot, sound check, and mix in live sound situations.
MUSC B34 Recording Techniques I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Successful completion of MUSC B30 or equivalent with a grade of C or better.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers the fundamental aspects of work in the modern recording studio. Emphasis on commonalities between project and professional studio contexts. Topics include microphone technique, recording consoles, signal chain, signal processors, patchbays, monitoring, mastering, producing, and synchronization.
MUSC B36 Music Business
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- CMUS 140X
An overview of the music industry including publishing, music merchandising, contracts and licenses, retail concerns, and live entertainment. Additional examination of duties and responsibilities of producers, agents, managers, promoters, and performing artists. Emphasis on new media marketing and exposure to diverse careers and streams of income within industry. Students build portfolio in preparation for career in music industry.
MUSC B37 Commercial Music Ensemble
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 36 activity hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
Participation in small ensemble concentrating on popular styles, improvisation, and other aspects of commercial music performance.
MUSC B40 Renegade Marching Band
- Units
- 1-2
- Hours
- 54-108 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
Rehearsal and performance of marching band literature suitable for field, parade, and competition. Field trips and performances may be required.
MUSC B41A Renegade Chorus
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The Bakersfield College Renegade Chorus is devoted to the exceptional repertory of music for tenor and bass voices of all styles and genres. Members come from diverse backgrounds, including music majors, non-music majors, faculty, staff, and members of the community from high school age and above. Specific attention will be given to proper vocal technique in regards to tenor and bass voices. Renegade Chorus performs a wide range of music and musical styles including folk songs, songs with sacred texts, songs in foreign languages and both serious and lighter music. The group generally performs in at least two concerts per semester. Field trips for performance may be required.
MUSC B41B Renegade Chorus
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The Bakersfield College Renegade Chorus is devoted to the exceptional repertory of music for tenor and bass voices of all styles and genres. Members come from diverse backgrounds, including music majors, non-music majors, faculty, staff, and members of the community from high school age and above. Specific attention will be given to proper vocal technique in regards to tenor and bass voices. Renegade Chorus performs a wide range of music and musical styles including folk songs, songs with sacred texts, songs in foreign languages and both serious and lighter music. The group generally performs in at least two concerts per semester. Field trips for performance may be required.
MUSC B41C Renegade Chorus
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The Bakersfield College Renegade Chorus is devoted to the exceptional repertory of music for tenor and bass voices of all styles and genres. Members come from diverse backgrounds, including music majors, non-music majors, faculty, staff, and members of the community from high school age and above. Specific attention will be given to proper vocal technique in regards to tenor and bass voices. Renegade Chorus performs a wide range of music and musical styles including folk songs, songs with sacred texts, songs in foreign languages and both serious and lighter music. The group generally performs in at least two concerts per semester. Field trips for performance may be required.
MUSC B41D Renegade Chorus
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The Bakersfield College Renegade Chorus is devoted to the exceptional repertory of music for tenor and bass voices of all styles and genres. Members come from diverse backgrounds, including music majors, non-music majors, faculty, staff, and members of the community from high school age and above. Specific attention will be given to proper vocal technique in regards to tenor and bass voices. Renegade Chorus performs a wide range of music and musical styles including folk songs, songs with sacred texts, songs in foreign languages and both serious and lighter music. The group generally performs in at least two concerts per semester. Field trips for performance may be required.
MUSC B42 Renegade Pep Band
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Rehearsal and performance of pep band literature suitable for campus and community events. Field trips and performances may be required.
MUSC B45A Bella Lux Treble Choir
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 185
This course is for the study, rehearsal, and public performance of literature appropriate to treble voices of all historical periods. Students will develop skills needed to perform with treble voices. Different literature will be studied each semester. Public performance required for credit. Field trips for performances may be required.
MUSC B48WE Work Experience Education
- Units
- 1-14
- Hours
- 54-756 activity hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
College credit for music related learning experiences obtained on the job in accordance with a training plan developed cooperatively between the employer, college, and student. One credit hour of community college work shall require a minimum of 54 hours of total student work. Work experience credit may accrue at the rate of 1 to 14 credits per enrollment term for a total of 14 credits. Repetition allowed per Title 5 55253.
MUSC B54A College Chorale
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
Select choral ensemble of mixed voices specializing in the rehearsal and performance of major choral works. Repertoire is selected from choral literature of all periods. Field trips for performances are required.
MUSC B60NC Instrumental Music Academy
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
Introduction to and development of essential vocational skills for professional instrumental musicians including ensemble playing, musicianship, critical listening, sight reading, repertoire building, audition preparation, technical facility, and performance experience.
MUSC B62NC Marching Arts Academy
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
Introduction to the marching arts activity, with an emphasis on the development of skills needed to audition for and be offered a position within a performing ensemble. Topics and techniques covered are also applicable to those seeking employment or maintaining technical skills as a marching arts coach.
MUSC B64NC Choral Music Academy
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
This course is designed as an introduction to and development of essential vocational skills for professional choral and vocal musicians including ensemble playing, musicianship, critical listening, sight reading, solfege, takadimi rhythmic system, repertoire building, audition preparation, basic conducting skills, leadership building, vocal technique, and performance experience.
MUSC B66NC Jazz and Commercial Music Academy
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
Introduction to essential vocational skills for professional musicians including ensemble playing, musicianship, arranging, creative improvisation, introduction to recording hardware and software, mixing, and audio production.
MUSC B70NC Instrumental Musical Theater 1
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
This course is an introduction to and development of essential vocational skills for professional musical theater instrumentalists, including ensemble playing, musicianship, sight reading, musical theater score analysis, musical theater vocabulary and terminology, repertoire building, technical facility, and rehearsal experience.
MUSC B71NC Instrumental Musical Theater 2
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
This course is a continuation of the development of essential vocational skills for professional musical theater instrumentalists, including rehearsal collaboration with vocalists, actors, and theater tech, as well as live performance with a full theatrical ensemble.
MUSC B82NC Community Orchestra
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
Performance of standard works from the orchestra literature. Field trips may be required for this course. Participation at public performances is required. This course is repeatable. This is a non-credit course designed for older adults.
MUSC B230A Music Laboratory
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
A computer-based, positive attendance course featuring self-pacing programmed system instruction in one of two self-directed music technology areas: reading, transcribing, and performing rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic elements of music A computer-based, positive attendance course featuring self-pacing programmed system instruction in one of two self-directed music technology areas: reading, transcribing, and performing rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic elements of music and/or generating, manipulating, editing, and producing digital audio content by gaining experience with digital audio workstations (DAWs). Offered on a Pass/No Pass basis.
MUSC B230B Music Laboratory
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
A computer-based, positive attendance course featuring self-pacing programmed system instruction in one of two self-directed music technology areas: reading, transcribing, and performing rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic elements of music and/or generating, manipulating editing, and producing digital audio content by gaining experience with digital audio workstations (DAWs). Offered on a Pass/No Pass basis.
MUSC B230C Music Laboratory
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 27 lab hours
A computer-based, positive attendance course featuring self-pacing programmed system instruction in one of two self-directed music technology areas: reading, transcribing, and performing rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic elements of music and/or generating, manipulating editing, and producing digital audio content by gaining experience with digital audio workstations (DAWs). Offered on a Pass/No Pass basis.