Mission, Goals and Objectives

The music unit at Mesa State College seeks to develop and maintain the highest standards as a regional leader and provider in music teacher preparation and music performance. To graduate excellent teachers and performers, the music unit strives to offer excellent instruction both academically and musically, and to foster creativity. Establishing strong mentoring and advising relationships between music faculty and students is an integral focus. The music unit also provides opportunities for music learning, performance and training for students in other disciplines. As a cultural leader, the music unit serves the college, local and regional communities through public concerts and performances and by providing cultural and educational opportunities both on and off campus.

Goals of the music unit are:
1. To help students understand the history of music's cultural impact on civilization
2. To assist students in understanding and applying the principles of music theory and ear training
3. To ensure that students have a broad knowledge of musical literature
and styles
4. To assist students in achieving basic keyboard proficiency
5. To enable students to be well prepared to pursue additional studies or careers in music teaching or performance
6. To provide students the ability and opportunity to perform proficiently as a soloist and in ensemble settings
7. To aid students in achieving a foundational understanding of music technology
8. Foster strong working relationships with the music personnel in local, state and regional school districts.
9. Expand the music unit's recruiting base beyond the state and region levels to include the national and international levels.

Objectives for the music unit:
1. Recruit and retain students who excel in music and academics
2. Graduate students who demonstrate excellence as musical performers
3. Provide training for graduates to:
a. perform successfully in professional music organizations
b. teach music effectively in grades K-12 (MUED majors)
c. Gain entrance to graduate schools and conservatories
4. Graduate students in the time specified by the Colorado Commission of
Higher Education (4 years for BA in music; 4 1⁄2 years for BA in Music Education)
5. To serve the college and its students as well as the community and region through musical training and experiences