Music
42 courses · Golden West College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
MUS G101 History & Appreciation of Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC (with credit limitation)
- C-ID
- MUS 100
This course is designed to help students enjoy listening to all styles of music with an emphasis on learning the fundamentals of music. The course emphasizes a historical survey of European and American "classical" music and includes a brief introduction to jazz, world, Musical Theater, and film music.
MUS G103 World Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is a survey of music of selected cultures outside the tradition of Western classical and popular music. Emphasis is given to traditional and contemporary music from the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Audio recordings and filmed examples introduce the student to instrumental and vocal techniques, musical structures, and performance contexts.
MUS G105 Beginning Guitar I
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is for non-music majors interested in learning to play the guitar. Students must furnish their own guitars.
MUS G106 Beginning Guitar II
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is a continuation of Music G105 Beginning Guitar 1. Concentration on chords and correct finger-picking. Traditional and folk tunes will be studied and performed. Students must furnish their own guitars.
MUS G108 History and Appreciation of The Musical Theater
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is identical to THEA G108. This course explores all of the elements which make Musical Theater a major theatrical art form. Emphasis will be placed on the history of the musical and on examining the roles of the composer, librettist, lyricist, choreographer, director, performer, designer, and others relative to creating a musical theater production. Recorded materials and live performances will be utilized to enhance the student's knowledge of the subject. Enrollment Limitation: THEA G108; students who complete MUS G108 may not enroll in or receive credit for THEA G108.
MUS G111 Live Sound Reinforcement
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is an introduction to live sound for students who want to develop skills in designing and operating sound for live concerts, theatrical productions, and other venues requiring amplification. Emphasis will be placed on practical knowledge and techniques in operating sound equipment on all levels, using the technology from the recording studio and music department on campus.
MUS G113 Audio Recording 1
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and techniques, including microphone placement for various instruments, mixing consoles, and proficiency in digital audio workstation (DAW) workflows, with a focus on Pro Tools. Through a mix of lectures and project-based learning, students will gain an overview of audio recording.
MUS G114 Audio Recording 2
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G113.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and techniques, including microphone placement for various instruments, mixing consoles, and proficiency in digital audio workstation (DAW) workflows, with a focus on Pro Tools. Through a mix of lectures and project-based learning, students will gain experience with more advanced audio recording skills.
MUS G115 Basic Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is an introductory course exploring the primary elements of tonal music and incorporates the following concepts: staff notation in treble and bass clefs, rhythm and meter, basic properties of sound, intervals, diatonic scales and triads, and diatonic chords. The course will develop skills in handwritten notation, reading music, and aural perception.
MUS G116 Theory and Musicianship 1
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 72 lecture hours
- Advisory
- MUS G115.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 120; MUS 125
This course is the first in a four-semester sequence presenting the basic techniques and materials, principles and practice of diatonic harmony, integrated with musicianship. Topics cover a brief review of music fundamentals, introduction to four-part chorale writing principles, figured bass, primary-secondary triads, cadences, non-harmonic tones; integrated with aural skills development to include sight-singing, melodic, two-part, and rhythmic dictation.
MUS G117 Theory and Musicianship 2
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 72 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G116.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 130; MUS 135
This course is the second in a four-semester sequence that presents the basic techniques and materials, principles and practice of diatonic harmony, integrated with musicianship; compositional techniques, four-part harmony, secondary triads; introduction to modulation; analysis of selected forms and compositional devices, integrated with sight-singing and ear training; and melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic dictation.
MUS G118 Audio Post-Production
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G113 and MUS G114.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides experience in mixing and mastering recorded tracks using industry standard software and equipment. Through a mix of lectures and project-based learning, students will gain an overview of audio post-production.
MUS G121 College Choir
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Audition.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
A large choral group singing music in all styles. Open to beginning through advanced singers with an emphasis in the development of vocal technique and music reading. This course may be taken 4 times.
MUS G122 Chamber Choir
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- audition required.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
This course is a select vocal ensemble which performs choral music from all historical periods, with an emphasis on the development of skills needed to perform within a large ensemble. Participation includes group rehearsals, sectional rehearsals, concerts on campus, and possible field trips. Different literature will be studied each semester. The course is repeatable for credit the maximum times allowable by regulation.
MUS G127 Wind Band Skills 1
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 6 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Audition.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed for the student who is new to the collegiate band experience, but has had previous successful experiences performing on their chosen instrument. Introduction and implementation of wind band ensemble and performance skills including rehearsal etiquette, rehearsal techniques, individual practice skills, section performance skills, and musical interpretation.
MUS G128 Wind Band Skills 2
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 6 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G127.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is the second in a sequence for those students having minimal collegiate band experience who wish to develop their skills further. Development of fundamental wind band skills previously introduced will be explored in more depth, with emphasis on proper group rehearsal and individual practice techniques. Development of section rehearsal skills will also be emphasized, encouraging students to develop leadership roles within the group.
MUS G129 Wind Band Skills 3
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 6 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G128.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is the third of four in a sequence and is oriented toward those students with limited collegiate wind band experience who wish to further develop their musical and ensemble skills. Introduction of secondary and intermediate wind band skills are utilized as a continuation of the fundamental skills developed in the first two courses. Emphasis is placed on development of multi-faceted individual practice, intermediate level section rehearsal techniques, and intermediate performance skills with musical interpretation. Open Entry/Open Exit.
MUS G130 Wind Band Skills 4
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 6 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G129.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This is the fourth course in a sequence and is oriented toward those students with limited collegiate wind band experience who wish to further develop their musical and ensemble performance skills. Utilization of advanced wind band and musical skills is developed as a continuation of the techniques presented in the previous courses in the sequence. Development of advanced musical techniques as applied to individual and ensemble rehearsal and performance practices. Development of individual approach to musical interpretation with advanced performance skills. Open Entry/Open Exit.
MUS G139 History Of Rock Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course covers musical styles in rock and roll history from roots to contemporary music. Emphasis is placed on the cultural and ethnic roots of rock music styles, with emphasis on the African-American contribution to multiple sub-genres of rock music. Other multi-cultural influences in rock music will be explored, including Latin American, Mexican American, Afro-Cuban, and Caribbean influenced music. Exploration of American interpretation and presentation of the various rock musical influences throughout the twentieth and twenty-first century are central to the content of the course.
MUS G141 Beginning Piano 1
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Formerly: Piano 1. This course provides piano instruction for students with no previous keyboard experience or no previous formal music instruction. Course develops skills in sight reading, playing by ear, keyboard harmony, scales, and keyboard technique. One hour of practice daily is assumed. Access to piano lab and practice rooms are available for no fee.
MUS G142 Beginning Piano II
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours
- Advisory
- MUS G141.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is a continuation of Music G141 with emphasis on reading music, and piano keyboard harmony and scales in major keys. Regular daily practice is essential for success in this course.
MUS G143 History of Jazz
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is a survey of the social and musical characteristics of music in the Jazz era from the early 20th century to the present, with an emphasis on its impact on American culture and the world. The class traces the history and development of jazz, from its musical predecessors and beginnings to contemporary styles. Audio recordings and performances introduce the student to the techniques, styles, and performers of jazz.
MUS G145 Basic Voice
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Advisory
- Concurrent enrollment in MUS G115 or MUS G121 for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is for beginning singers. It prepares beginning singers' voices for solo and group singing by improving breathing, vocal tone, range, agility, volume, diction, health, expression, and self confidence. Students will sing memorized songs from musical theatre, film, folk, popular, and classical repertory in English, Italian, and students' first languages.
MUS G146 Intermediate Voice
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Advisory
- Concurrent enrollment in MUS G115 or MUS G121 for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is for singers with two years of choral experience or one semester of private lessons or voice class. It prepares for solo and group singing by improving breathing, vocal tone, range agility, volume, diction, health, expression, and self-confidence at the second semester level. Students will sing memorized songs from musical theatre, film, folk, popular, and classical repertory in English, Italian, and students' first languages.
MUS G147 Advanced Voice
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Advisory
- Concurrent enrollment in MUS G115 or MUS G121 for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is for singers with two semesters of private lessons or voice class. It prepares for solo and group singing at an advanced level by improving breathing, vocal tone, range, agility, volume, diction, health, expression, and self-confidence. Students will sing memorized songs from musical theatre, opera, film, folk, popular, and classical repertory in English, Italian, German, French, and students' first languages.
MUS G150 Voice for Musical Theater 1
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Advisory
- MUS G115, MUS G121, MUS G141, or MUS G142 recommended for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is identical to THEA G146. Formerly: Broadway And Opera Singing. This course teaches vocal technique, self-confidence in vocal performance and character development for singers, actors and dancers at an introductory level. Students sing songs from musical theater and/or opera in English and first languages. An audition is not required. Daily practice is required. A pianist accompanies the classes. Enrollment Limitation: THEA G146; students who complete MUS G150 may not enroll in or receive credit for THEA G146.
MUS G151 Voice for Musical Theater 2
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G150, THEA G146, or instructor permission.
- Advisory
- MUS G115, MUS G121, MUS G141, or MUS G142 recommended for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Formerly: Broadway and Opera Voice Class. This course is identical to THEA G148. This course teaches vocal technique, self-confidence in vocal performance and character development for singers, actors and dancers at a beginning level. Students sing songs from musical theater and/or opera in English and first languages. An audition is not required. Daily practice is required. A pianist accompanies the classes. Enrollment Limitation: THEA G148; students who complete MUS G151 may not enroll in or receive credit for THEA G148.
MUS G152 Voice for Musical Theater 3
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G151, THEA G148, or instructor permission.
- Advisory
- MUS G115, MUS G121, MUS G141, or MUS G142 recommended for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is identical to THEA G156. This course teaches vocal technique, self-confidence in vocal performance and character development for singers, actors and dancers at an intermediate level. Students sing songs from musical theater and/or opera in English and first languages. An audition is not required. Daily practice is required. A pianist accompanies the classes. Enrollment Limitation: THEA G156; students who complete MUS G152 may not enroll in or receive credit for THEA G156.
MUS G153 Voice for Musical Theater 4
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G152, THEA G156, or instructor permission.
- Advisory
- MUS G115, MUS G121, MUS G141, or MUS G142 recommended for those who do not read music.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is identical to THEA G158. This course teaches vocal technique, self-confidence in vocal performance and character development for singers, actors and dancers at an advanced level. Students sing songs from musical theater and/or opera in English and first languages. An audition is not required. Daily practice is required. A pianist accompanies the classes. Enrollment Limitation: THEA G158; students who complete MUS G153 may not enroll in or receive credit for THEA G158.
MUS G154 Singing Solo Pop Songs
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will explore solo vocal performances of contemporary pop and jazz songs with emphasis on the study and performance of the American popular song. The student will perform selected songs with accompaniment in class and in front of live audiences. Emphasis will be placed on artistic interpretation of the songs, utilization of microphones, vocal improvisation, appropriate stylistic performance practice, and choosing the best in popular song literature.
MUS G216 Theory and Musicianship 3
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 72 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G117.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 140; MUS 145
This course is the third in a four-semester sequence. Through writing and analysis, this course will include an introduction to chromatic harmony, secondary/applied chords, modulation, borrowed chords, introduction to Neopolitan and augmented-sixth chords. Additional development and application of the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials occurs through ear training, sight-singing, analysis, and dictation.
MUS G217 Theory and Musicianship 4
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G216 or may be waived by departmental exam.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 150
This is the fourth course in a four-semester sequence that incorporates the concepts from Theory and Musicianship 3. Through writing and analysis, this course will include: post-Romantic techniques such as borrowed chords and modal mixture, chromatic mediants, Neapolitan and augmented-sixth chords, 9th, 11th and 13th chords, altered chords and dominants; and 20th century techniques such as: Impressionism, tone rows, set theory, pandiatonicism and polytonalism, meter and rhythm. Additional development and application of the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials occurs through ear training, sight-singing, analysis, and dictation.
MUS G241 Intermediate Piano 1
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- MUS G142.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is a piano class for students who have completed two semesters of college level piano classes or the equivalent. Content includes development of essential piano skills, such as reading music at the keyboard, sight reading, playing by ear, and chromatic keyboard harmony in more advanced forms. Regular daily practice is essential for success in this course. Access to piano lab and practice rooms is available for no fee.
MUS G242 Intermediate Piano 2
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours
- Advisory
- MUS G241.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is a piano class for students who have completed three semesters of college level piano classes or the equivalent. Content includes development of essential piano skills, such as reading music at the keyboard, sight reading, playing by ear, and chromatic keyboard harmony in more advanced forms. Regular daily practice is essential for success in this course. Access to piano lab and practice rooms is available for no fee.
MUS G260 Symphonic Winds
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- C-ID
- MUS 180
This course is an instrumental ensemble emphasizing contemporary and standard wind band repertoire and performance practice. Skill sets covered include individual instrumental technique, sight reading, active listening, live performance practices, and ensemble concert preparation. Live concert performance with the ensemble is included as part of this course.
MUS G261 Wind Symphony
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- Placement in Wind Ensemble requires a successful audition on a wind or percussion instrument and consent of the instructor.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 180
This course is an advanced performance ensemble encompassing the exploration and public performance of wind ensemble literature, correct solo and ensemble performance practices, and the development of the highest level of musical sophistication. Students are expected to perform at a superior level of musicality, as well as develop advanced skills in score reading, section rehearsal techniques, and concert preparation.
MUS G290 Applied Music
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 9 lecture hours
- Prerequisite
- Audition.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- MUS 160
This course is designed to be for the student seeking individual instruction on piano, voice, guitar, or any standard band or orchestra instrument. A performance at Faculty Juries and Concert Hour is required for each semester. Vocal and instrumental students concurrently enroll in choir or band; pianist and guitarists should consult with faculty for an appropriate concurrent course. There are fifteen private lessons per semester, with level of proficiency determined by faculty adjudication. This course may be taken 4 times.
MUS G002N Symphonic Band for Lifelong Learners
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
This noncredit course is designed to further the skills of experienced musicians who play woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Students will explore new band literature as well as techniques and methods for improving and maintaining performance success oriented toward older adults. Open Entry/Open Exit. NOT DEGREE APPLICABLE.
MUS G003N Piano for Lifelong Learners
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours
This noncredit course is designed to develop the skills of older adults who want to learn to play piano or improve their piano skills. Students will practice technical skills and explore piano literature in a variety of styles. Students will also increase mental acuity through the memorization of song and practicing sight reading skills. This class will develop self-confidence, socialization skills, and provide an outlet for creative expression.
MUS G004N Guitar for Lifelong Learners
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours
This noncredit course is designed for older adults who want to play guitar. Students will work on guitar techniques in a class setting. Students will benefit from stretching exercises to develop hand and finger flexibility. Students will also increase mental acuity through practice of chords, finger-picking, and single line melodies. This class will develop self-confidence, socialization skills, and provide an outlet for creative expression.
MUS G005N Choral Singing for Lifelong Learners
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
This noncredit course is designed for older adults who want to sing in a choral ensemble. Students will work on songs in a class setting in preparation for concert performances. Emotional communication through song will be explored as students learn the ways that tone, pitch, and dynamics shape vocal expression. Students will benefit from breathing and stretching exercises to develop vocal flexibility and lung capacity. Students will also increase mental acuity through the memorization of songs and practicing sight reading skills. This class will develop self-confidence, socialization skills, and provide an outlet for creative expression.
MUS G012N Singing for Lifelong Learners
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 36 lab hours
This noncredit course is designed for older adults who want to sing. Students will work on songs in a class setting in preparation for performance for their peers. Emotional communication through song will be explored as students learn the ways that tone, pitch, and dynamics shape vocal expression. Students will benefit from breathing and stretching exercises to develop vocal flexibility and lung capacity. Students will also increase mental acuity through the memorization of song and practicing sight reading skills. This class will develop self-confidence, socialization skills, and provide an outlet for creative expression. Open Entry/Open Exit. NOT DEGREE APPLICABLE.