traditional undergraduate on campus

Commercial Music

The Bachelor of Music in commercial music gives students a holistic approach with several career and service opportunities. Students receive foundational training in classical theory and performance and then learn to apply this knowledge in specific commercial contexts.

Turn your passion for music into a degree with Trevecca's Bachelor of Music in commercial music. Our accomplished faculty team consists of talented musicians who are dedicated to helping you expand your talents and find success in the music industry.

A Bachelor of Music in commercial music gives the student musician a holistic approach to higher education with several career and service opportunities. Graduates with a B.M. in commercial music have engaged in engineering aspects of the music industry, become published songwriters, worked as volunteer or paid worship leaders, and performed in commercial recording studios and various live performance venues.

At Trevecca, we define commercial music as music written to engage the culture, for entertainment, or for profit.

Highlights of this program include:

  • Foundational classical training and application of techniques into commercial styles.
  • Entrepreneurship and training related to signing contracts, self-promotion and getting and keeping studio jobs
  • Highly qualified professors and adjuncts

Students who pursue this degree will receive foundational training in classical theory and performance and then will apply this knowledge in specific commercial contexts. In addition, they will explore one or more of the four areas of concentration listed below:

  • Commercial Music Performance & Artist Development
  • Composer-Arranger
  • Songwriting (private study available)
  • Worship Leadership
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Course Descriptions

Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.

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Financial Aid & Costs

Financial Aid & Costs

Nearly every student at Trevecca receives some form of assistance in paying for college. Learn all about the affordability of a TNU education and options for receiving aid.

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"The Department of Music constantly brings me closer to my artistry… I wouldn’t change a thing."

Mane Hernandez Trevecca graduate

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Course Descriptions

Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.


Life, Calling, and Purpose
INT 1100
Students will begin a journey of self-awareness where they can identify their individual gifts and talents while considering how God can use their uniqueness within their field of interest. Goals of the course include building community, understanding leadership and service, and evaluating God's calling. Required of all first-time freshmen (those enrolling with less than 24 hours) who are younger than 24 years of age and have not taken a similar course at another accredited institution.
English Composition I
ENG 1020

Emphasizes the recursive writing process through appropriate determination of subject, audience, purpose, and style, with correct usage of grammar, punctuation, and logical organization. Students will use appropriate technologies for writing and learning.

English Composition II: Critical Reading, Writing, and Thinking
ENG 1080

Emphasizes intellectual and analytical reasoning through reading and writing assignments. Includes instruction in library and research technologies and the writing of a research project.

Speech Communication
COM 1010

A study of the principles and practices of effective human communication, with emphasis placed on public speaking. The course emphasizes the critical thinking and skill development necessary for effective speech. Listening skills are included in the study.

Financial Stewardship
BUS 2010

Provides the student with a basic understanding of his or her economic environment and the basic principles and tools of personal financial management. Emphasis will be placed on personal financial planning, including budgeting, managing personal debt, insurance, taxes, investments, and real estate. When possible, topics will be analyzed and discussed from a Christian perspective.

Introduction to Health and Wellness
HPE 1500

Designed to assist the student in their understanding and development of a healthy lifestyle. Emphasis is placed on the components and behaviors that promote lifelong, positive outcomes in the five dimensions of wellness: physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual. Includes a fitness laboratory component. Fee charged.

Issues in Science
SCI 2600

An introduction to themes in the natural sciences that have significantly impacted our world. Among the themes discussed are relativity, modern cosmology, evolutionary thought, biotechnology, advances in modern medicine, biodiversity, and the use of natural resources. Scientific discoveries will be approached with both a historical perspective and a consideration of current and future applications. Interactions of scientific thought and the Christian worldview are considered. Lecture.

World Literature
ENG 2000

Designed to engage students in dialogue with a variety of Western and Non-Western world literature, past and present. ENG 2000 is a recommended prerequisite for all upper-level literature courses.

Introduction to Biblical Faith
REL 2000

An introduction to Biblical faith and literature designed to help the student acquire a knowledge of the basic content of Scripture as well as be able to employ basic Bible study skills.

Christian Tradition
REL 3000

An introduction to theology as it has developed in the history of the church with a view to understanding the relation between faith and life. Special attention is given to understanding the doctrine of holiness.

Christian Life and Ministry
REL 4000

An integration of Christian spirituality, life, and ministry. Through a wide variety of readings and experiences, care is given to evaluate the spiritual structure of the student and to understand spiritual gifts, disciplines, and what it means for each individual to be a constructive influence in the Church and society.

Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
BUS 2300

Designed to teach the student concepts and skills needed to succeed in an entrepreneurial venture. It will include understanding unique characteristics an entrepreneur should possess, and it will view marketing, economics, finance, accounting, management, communication and legal issues from a small business perspective.

Theory I
MUS 2010

The study of music from Medieval Period to 1700. Students will be expected to compose and analyze music appropriate to the styles studied within the context of the era under investigation. Music notation software will be used to complete the requirements of this class; training on this software will be embedded in the class.

Theory II
MUS 2020

Continuation of Theory I. The study of music from 1700 to 1800.

Theory III
MUS 3010

Continuation of Theory II. The study of music from 1800 to 1900.

Aural Theory I
MUS 2060

The development of music notation literacy and musicianship skills through sight-singing, ear training, and tonal/rhythm dictation in varying meters and modalities.

Aural Theory II
MUS 2070
Continuation of Aural Theory I. Further development of music notation literacy and musicianship skills through sight-singing, ear training, and tonal/rhythm dictation in varying meters and modalities.
Aural Theory III
MUS 3060
Continuation of Aural Theory II. Further development of music notation literacy and musicianship skills through sight-singing, ear training, and tonal/rhythm dictation in varying meters and modalities.
Elementary Conducting
MUS 3100

A study of the fundamentals of conducting. Emphasis on beat patterns and methods of indicating meter, tempo, volume and style. Material drawn from sacred and secular choral music. Open to all students. Required of all majors and minors.

Survey of Music Business
MUB 1100

A study of the theoretical foundations of the music industry with special emphasis given to practical applications. An in-depth study of organizations and a general overview of the industry.

Commercial Music History
MCM 2150

A survey of the development of commercial music written in America from the early 19th century to the present. The term commercial refers to music written for consumable use and not primarily as a work of art.

The Working Musician
MCM 2780

A course dealing with musicianship as a vocation. The goal is to expose the student to the professional expectations of the recording studio environment, touring, symphonic performance, and church musician. Topics will include arranging, the 'Nashville Number System,' contracts, union membership, wages, tax implications, career opportunities, and planning. Included will be recording sessions, field trips, and guest professionals from various areas of the music industry.

Basic Concepts of Audio Technology
MCM 1050

Designed to familiarize the student with the basic concepts of real-time and recorded audio. Topics covered include: a brief history of recording, wave propagation, signal flow, analog and digital console operation, monitoring and amplification, cables, connectors, microphones, and a hands-on approach to mixing for live sound reinforcement, digital theory, and basic DAW operations.

Commercial Theory
MCM 2010

Chord progressions, the Nashville number system, song forms, harmonic techniques, listening skills, and charting are all addressed in this class.

INTERCULTURAL LITERACY (CHOOSE ONE)
Principles of Intercultural Communication
COM 2025

A study of how culture affects communication behavior and intercultural relationships. This course provides a broad theoretical and contextual base that emphasizes intercultural communication competency as it relates to Western and non-Western cultures.

American Sign Language I
COM 2060

A study of the use of American Sign Language in meaningful context, including the extensive building of sign vocabulary, the development of strategies used by a Deaf/hard-of-hearing person to communicate effectively, and the understanding of cultural issues facing members of the Deaf community. Students interact in a natural setting with Deaf/hard-of-hearing models.

English Acquisition (FE-10)
ESL 3150

Current approaches, methodologies, techniques, and materials for teaching English language learners primarily in K-12 setting. Designed to provide theoretical and practical experience in language acquisition. Fee charged. Course includes 10 hours of field experience in ESL classrooms, which must include a 6-12 setting.

French Language and Culture
FRE 1000

An introduction to French language and culture, with an emphasis on conversational skills in cultural contexts.

Spanish Language and Culture
SPA 1000

An introduction to Spanish language and culture, with an emphasis on conversational skills in cultural contexts.

Biblical Hebrew I
HEB 2200

An introduction to the basic grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of Biblical Hebrew. Primary emphasis upon grammatical construction, verbal forms, and translation.

New Testament Greek I
GRK 2200

An introduction to the basic grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of New Testament Greek. Primary emphasis upon grammatical construction, verbal forms, and advanced translation practices.

International Economic Development
ECO 3300

An introduction to the economics of development in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and in the nations of Eastern Europe that are undergoing transition from socialism to capitalism. Relevant economic theory will be combined with institutional and structural analysis and Biblical principles to explore problems such as poverty, income inequality, unemployment and rural stagnation. The impact on development of education, healthcare, capital formation, trade, foreign assistance, foreign investment and macroeconomic policy will be examined.

Fundamentals of World Geography
GGY 2050

An introduction to geography that explores the impact of geography on the world's major social, linguistic, religious, and economic systems.

World Music and Culture
MUS 2440

A study of the development of indigenous music of Eastern and Western cultures and how that music is both a product of and a contributor to those cultures. The class will be taught with an anthropological approach that views each particular culture through the lens of the music that each culture produces.

 
MATHEMATICS (CHOOSE ONE)
Problem Solving: A Quantitative Reasoning Approach
MAT 1080

This course is designed to promote students' understanding and appreciation of mathematics and to develop quantitative and problem solving skills. The course will further introduce students to a wide range of applications of mathematics to modern life. Topics will be selected from linear and non-linear models, logic, sets, probability, counting techniques, statistics, matrices, and game theory.

Concepts of Mathematics
MAT 1040

Considers the realm of mathematics as some of the greatest ideas of humankind-ideas comparable to the works of Shakespeare, Plato, and Michelangelo. This course will introduce students to several of these ideas, selected from topics in numerical patterns, infinity, geometry, topology, chaos, probability, and statistics. Study of these topics will not only demonstrate the beauty of mathematics but will also develop critical thinking skills. This course is designed for liberal arts majors to satisfy the general education requirement.

Calculus I
MAT 1510

A study of Cartesian and polar coordinates, parametric equations, vectors and vector-valued functions in 2 and 3 dimensions, limits, differentiation of functions with applications, integration of functions with applications, Taylor polynomials, and series. It is strongly recommended that students take PHY 2110 and PHY 2120 concurrently with MAT 1510 and MAT 1520, respectively.

Precalculus
MAT 1310

A brief review of polynomial and rational functions and systems, and of exponential and logarithmic functions. Study of trigonometric functions, graphs, formulas and identities; inverse functions, including inverse trigonometric functions; solutions to systems of equations; and polar coordinate systems.

 
INSTITUTIONAL (CHOOSE ONE)
World Civilizations: Ancient and Medieval World
HIS 1400

A course of study from ancient times to the 1500s dealing with persistent and recurring political, social, and economic issues in history that thinking people have examined and that have shaped our contemporary world. This course covers Western and non-Western cultures. Offered every semester.

World Civilizations: Early Modern and Modern World
HIS 1450

A course of study from the 1500s to the present dealing with persistent and recurring political, social, and economic issues in history that thinking people have examined and that have shaped our contemporary world. This course covers Western and non-Western cultures. Offered every semester.

Principles of Macroeconomics
ECO 2000

An introduction to the study of macroeconomics with an emphasis on the issues of inflation, unemployment and growth. Prerequisite to all advanced courses in the department except as noted.

Introduction to Anthropology
ATH 3010

A study of the meaning of culture, the diversity of cultures in both the contemporary world and the past, and the manner by which cultures have adapted and developed. Attention will be given to the work of anthropological theorists and to the four subdivisions of anthropology: cultural anthropology, physical anthropology, linguistics and archaeology.

United States History Survey I
HIS 2010

Survey of United States' social, political, economic, and military development to 1877. Offered annually.

United States History Survey II
HIS 2020

Survey of United States' social, political, economic, and military development from 1877 to the present. Offered annually.

American Political Institutions
POL 2020

The origins and development of American government, with emphasis on the concept of participatory democracy as practiced in our republican form.

The Family in Society
SOC 2500

A study of the functions of the institution of family and the inter-relationship of family and other major institutions in society including the ways in which current social conditions and cultural, ethnic, and economic diversity influence this relationship. Current sociological research on family behavior will be examined and a Christian perspective on family emphasized.

Social Problems
SOC 3200

A sociological description and analysis of some of the contemporary social problems in American Society with an emphasis on programs designed to help remedy these problems.

Urban Sociology
SOC 3300

An examination of urban lifestyles, problems, development, and change from a historical perspective, providing both theoretical and practical background for analysis of various urban conditions, and seeking to identify and apply practical solutions to these problems. A major experiential learning component is field work and ethnographic research in core urban Nashville neighborhoods. A section on urban planning and urban ministry is included.

Introduction to Social Work
SWK 1200

This course offers an introduction to the field of social work and its mission of social justice and equity at the micro (individual), mezzo (group), and macro (community and organization) levels of society. Students will explore the history, key theories, and diverse work of the profession with consistent focus on often oppressed and marginalized communities. Throughout this course, students will discover the core values, ethics, personal skills, and characteristics required of social work practitioners.

 
BEHAVIORAL (CHOOSE ONE)
Interpersonal Communication
COM 2010

A study of two-person (dyadic) communication. Topics include: human communication theory, verbal and nonverbal codes, development of self-concept, perception, impression formation, and relationship development. Preferred prerequisite for all courses leading to an Interpersonal Communication major.

General Psychology
PSY 2010

General introduction to major areas of psychology with emphasis on the psychological bases for understanding human behavior. A recommended prerequisite to other psychology courses except PSY 2175.

General Sociology
SOC 2010

The nature and functions of sociology, the development of social ideas and institutions and the processes of social interactions and social structure. A recommended prerequisite to courses in Sociology numbered above 2000.

Life Science
SCI 1500

A study of biological concepts including the chemistry of life, principles of inheritance, evolutionary theories, biological organization of various organisms, and relationships between organisms and their environment. Issues related to current advances in biotechnology and medicine are also considered. The process of scientific inquiry is emphasized and practiced in both the lecture and laboratory. Fee charged.

Introduction to Environmental Science
SCI 2000

An introduction to environmental science and the scope of environmental problems facing the world. The course focuses on the rapidly increasing rate at which these problems are occurring and the changes they are setting in motion in the biosphere and the interconnectedness of humans in the world ecosystem. This course can be used for the General Education laboratory science curriculum requirement. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

General Biology I
BIO 1510

An introduction to fundamental concepts in the biological sciences including the organization of living matter, cellular structure and function, food production by photosynthesis, energy harvest, mechanisms of cellular reproduction, genetics, and evolution. Discussions of current scientific issues will also be included. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

Physical Science
SCI 1600

Designed to convey the nature of matter and methods of study in the physical sciences and to study physical science concepts; issues and values related to the well-being of individuals, society and the environment are considered. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

Introduction to Astronomy
SCI 2300

Covers an overview of the solar system, extra-solar planets, stellar life cycles, galaxy morphology, and modern cosmology. Laboratory includes observational activities with solar and night telescopes. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

Earth and Space Science
SCI 2510
Principles of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
CHE 1010

Includes the basic principles of inorganic chemistry and an introduction to organic chemistry. General chemistry topics will include atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, equilibrium, phases of matter, solutions, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry. Organic chemistry topics will include functional groups and their properties, reactions, and nomenclature. Course does not apply to any science majors. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

General Chemistry I
CHE 1040

The first course in a one-year sequence for students planning further work in chemistry. Topics discussed include atomic structure, periodic relationships, bonding, molecular structure, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, solids, liquids, and gases. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

Basic College Physics I
PHY 1010

An introductory treatment of mechanics, vibration, wave motion, sound, and fluids. Emphasis will be placed on the conceptual aspects of these topics with many illustrative examples drawn from biology and medicine. This course does not require prior knowledge of calculus. Mathematics above high school algebra is not required. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

Basic College Physics II
PHY 1020

A continuation of PHY 1010 emphasizing heat, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, geometrical and physical optics, topics in atomic, quantum and nuclear physics. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.

The Physics of Sound
PHY 1040

A practical introduction to the basic principles of physics that govern the production, perception, recording and reproduction of music and sound. Topics discussed include simple harmonic motion, waves, resonance, spectral analysis, audio electronics, auditorium acoustics and hearing. The laboratory component of this course provides hands-on experiments that illustrate many of the topics covered in the class. Lecture and Lab. Fee charged.

General Physics I
PHY 2110
For students with an interest in science, engineering, and medicine. Includes mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, light, and modern physics. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.
 
WORLD CIVILIZATION (CHOOSE ONE)
World Civilizations: Ancient and Medieval World
HIS 1400

A course of study from ancient times to the 1500s dealing with persistent and recurring political, social, and economic issues in history that thinking people have examined and that have shaped our contemporary world. This course covers Western and non-Western cultures. Offered every semester.

World Civilizations: Early Modern and Modern World
HIS 1450

A course of study from the 1500s to the present dealing with persistent and recurring political, social, and economic issues in history that thinking people have examined and that have shaped our contemporary world. This course covers Western and non-Western cultures. Offered every semester.

 
CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING
Keyboard Proficiency
MUS 3600

Student required to demonstrate keyboard proficiency before graduation or student teaching. The following is representative of what is required: scales, playing from memory, playing by ear, harmonization and transposition of melodies, score reading. Student must begin the exam process at the time of the Fourth Semester Jury. Student will register and receive credit after passing the proficiency evaluation or successfully completing Class Piano I, II, III, and IV with an average of B- or higher.

 
OR
Class Piano I
MCM 1600

Beginning class piano for commercial music majors. Areas of study will include: (1) Aural transcription and dictation, (2) Scales and modes, (3) Harmonization by sight and ear; (4) Major and minor chord progressing, (5) Development of reading skills, and (6) Improvisation.

Class Piano II
MCM 1610

A continuation of MCM 1600. Beginning class piano for commercial music majors. Areas of study will include: (1) Aural transcription and dictation, (2) Scales and modes, (3) Harmonization by sight and ear, (4) Major and minor chord progressions, (5) Development of reading skills, and (6) Improvisation.

 
MUSIC HISTORY (STUDENT CHOICE) — 4 HOURS
History I
MUS 2410

Study of the development of Western music from ancient civilization through the Renaissance.

History II
MUS 2420

Study of the development of Western music during the Baroque and Classical periods.

History III
MUS 3410

Study of the development of Western music during the Romantic period.

History IV
MUS 3420

Study of the development of Western music during the 20th century and beyond.

History of Audio Recording
MUS 2100

Designed to familiarize students with a historical account of recording audio spanning from the 19th century to present. Topics include: recording devices, styles, methods, and historical figures who shaped the art of recording.

Jazz History
MUS 2420

Study of the historical development of Jazz as a commercial and artistic genre.

*MUS 1500, MUS 1515: Waive Fine Arts (MUS 1500) & add Art for the Music Major (MUS 1515) if at least 4 hours of traditional Music is taken.
*20 hours of Applied Study are also required.

*For a complete list of courses, tracks and other relevant information, view the program's course catalog.