Program Overview

Musicology

The study of musicology draws on historical investigation and various methods of criticism and analysis in the thoughtful consideration of music as both a liberal and a performance art. Coursework includes exploration and analysis of western and world music, coupled with guest lectures, demonstrations, concerts, and workshops.

historical instruments
Instruments from the Roderic C. Knight Musical Instrument Collection, which features roughly 300 instruments acquired from Africa, India, China, and North America.
Photo credit: Dale Preston ’83

Program Facts

  • Program Type: Major, Minor
    • Bachelor of Music (BM)
  • Division: Musicology

Director

Charles McGuire,
Professor of Musicology

Contact

Jeanne Rosecrans, Administrative Assistant
440-775-8297
jrosecra@oberlin.edu
performance group
Student ensembles, small and large, are essential to the conservatory’s music scene.
Photo credit: Roger Mastroianni

Performance Ensembles

Oberlin sponsors approximately 500 concerts on campus each year, including recitals and concerts by the more than 25 student ensembles. From jazz to contemporary guitar, classical to popular, computer-generated to acoustic, and from time-tested compositions to newer works, the college and conservatory present performances to satisfy any musical interest.
 

Performance Groups

Sample Courses

  • MHST 101 - Introduction to the History and Literature of Music (4 credits)
  • MHST 245 - Music in the Classic Era (4 credits)
  • MHST 301 - Introduction to Music Research and Writing (4 credits)
Curriculum and requirements

Musicology News

Writing to Be Read

June 8, 2020

An Oberlin collaboration with a Cleveland nonprofit helps students explore long-form writing—and expand their audience.
text overlaid next to a sculpture of Beethoven's head
View all Musicology news