For additional information contact Mary Gerbi (Assistant to the Head Tutor) at 5-2791 or gerbi@fas.harvard.edu

Concentration in Music emphasizes the acquisition of a solid foundation in theory, analysis, history, and literature of music. It thereby provides an understanding of music in cultural and historical contexts as well as an introduction to composition, analysis, and criticism. The Department of Music also strongly encourages performance on the part of its students. The program is not directed primarily toward students planning careers in performance fields, but serves such students by deepening their intellectual involvement with the music they are to play.

The Department focuses on study in composition, theory, and musicology, including ethnomusicology.

Those considering a concentration in Music should consult as soon as possible with the instructor of Music 51. At a convenient time during the first semester, students should also meet with the Head Tutor or Assistant Tutor for the Department.

Students begin the concentration in Music with two foundational pillars: Music 97a, 97b, and 97c provide an extensive knowledge of the history and literature of Western music as well as the principles of ethnomusicology and world music repertories; Music 51a, 51b, 150a, and 150b teach skills important in musicianship, theory, and analysis. While it is possible to complete the concentration requirements within five semesters, we encourage potential concentrators to take Music 51 in their first year at Harvard, or to pass out of it by examination. A placement exam will be offered at the start of each academic year. (Students who enter with a significant background in theory may bypass portions of the theory sequence) More info on Music 51 and the placement exam will be posted on the course website.

Students are then offered a wide range of advanced, specialized electives that build on the foundations laid in Music 97 and Music 51/150.

The Department welcomes joint concentrations with other departments that allow them. Joint concentrators need to fulfill a reduced number of course requirements. A senior thesis is required on a topic in which both fields are represented.

Any students with an interest in music--even if they are not considering the concentration--are encouraged to take Music 1a, Music 1b, Music 2, or Core/GenEd courses in Music.

Further information about the concentration, secondary field, the Five-Year program, and more, please go to our undergranduate concentration pages or consult “Fields of Concentration” in the Handbook for Students.