2015-2016 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog & Student Handbook 
    
    May 19, 2024  
2015-2016 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog & Student Handbook [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

School of Worship Leadership


Philosophy for the School of Worship Leadership

The School of Worship Leadership realizes that the purpose of all believers is to glorify God in all they do. Every believer is given gifts that should be developed for the purpose of ministering to the Lord and to others. Worship is more than music. Worship encompasses every aspect of our lives in an effort to bring praise to God, including music.

The School of Worship Leadership seeks to train students in a variety of creative areas in order that they might be agents of change for the gospel. The ever-changing worlds of church music and related industries require exposure to a broad range of styles, systems, and structures. Even though there is diversity in the media used for worship, the focus remains on the heart of the worshipper as the source for true worship.

School of Worship Leadership Statement

Excellence is the goal of all performance benchmarks set for classroom instruction, applied music lessons, ensembles, recitals and corporate music events. Each student is challenged to meet or exceed faculty expectations for musical excellence as an individual act of worship, thus integrating the university’s core values―faith, learning, and leadership.

Objectives

The student will demonstrate knowledge of:

  1. Theory, music history, current trends in worship arts;
  2. Theology of worship, leadership principles, Christian ethics;
  3. Technical requirements for worship leadership, using student’s primary and secondary applied instrument focus.

The student will demonstrate the ability to:

  1. Perform at an advanced level in one applied area;
  2. Perform in a variety of primary and secondary ensembles;
  3. Play a secondary musical instrument.

Purpose

The purpose of the worship leadership degree is to provide students with the knowledge and capability to develop a successful career in one of four key areas of concentration: 1) church ministry, 2) film and theatre, 3) music business or 4) technology.

Worship Leadership majors will earn a Bachelor of Science degree in worship leadership and music. Students majoring in worship leadership must complete the University’s basic course (general education) requirements, the specified courses in worship leadership and music as well as the additional specific curriculum for the selected concentration.

School of Worship Leadership Student Manual

Students are required to follow the policies and procedures outlined in the School of Worship Leadership Student Manual concerning the following:

  • applied instruction
  • mid-level review
  • piano proficiency exam
  • seminar/recital hour
  • junior and senior recitals
  • concert music
  • all matters related to the music program

The School of Worship Leadership Student Manual can be viewed on MyUM or in hard-copy form in the School of Worship Leadership office.

Programs

Major

Courses

Music Ensembles

  • MUE 161.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 162.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 261.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 262.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 361.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 362.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 461.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.
  • MUE 462.1 Tech Lab


    The Tech Lab is a hand-selected group focusing on the design, repair, and operation of sound and lighting systems. Students will learn the basics of sound engineering along with practical hands on training in diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and operation of these systems. Credit, one hour.

Theatre

  • TH 103 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 104 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 106 Beginning Ballet


    Principles, techniques and body alignment for ballet. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 107 Beginning Tap


    Basic principles, styles and steps of tap dancing. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 108 Beginning Jazz


    Principles, techniques and different styles of jazz dancing. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 202 Acting I


    Principles and techniques of acting as applied to the theatre, including improvisation, pantomime, theatre games and other exercises that develop creative awareness. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 203 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 204 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 205 Advanced Ballet


    Advanced principles, techniques and body alignment for ballet. Prerequisite(s): TH 106  or permission from instructor for years of previous dance lessons. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 207 Advanced Tap


    Advanced principles, styles and steps of tap dancing. Prerequisite(s): TH 106  or permission from instructor for years of previous dance lessons. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 208 Advanced Jazz


    Advanced principles, techniques and different styles of jazz dancing. Prerequisite(s): TH 108  or permission from instructor for years of previous dance lessons. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 213 History of Musical Theatre


    A study of the evolution of American musical theatre from the 20th century to the present, its landmark productions, songs and its place within the history of Western Music. Cross-listed as: MU 213  Credit, two hours.
  • TH 297 Study in Selected Topics


    Courses offered to provide opportunities for students to study in areas of interest other than those elsewhere defined. This series is primarily a classroom function, either seminar or lecture, permitting flexibility in course offerings. Credit, one to six hours.
  • TH 298 Study in Selected Topics


    Courses offered to provide opportunities for students to study in areas of interest other than those elsewhere defined. This series is primarily a classroom function, either seminar or lecture, permitting flexibility in course offerings. Credit, one to six hours.
  • TH 301 Theatre History


    A survey of the theatre and dramatic literature, with emphasis on technical innovations, architecture, dress and decor, plays and playwrights. English majors may take this course as an elective (EN 497 ). Credit, three hours.
  • TH 302 Acting II


    Theory and techniques in character analysis development and the process of creating a role through scene study. Prerequisite(s): TH 202 . Credit, three hours.
  • TH 303 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 304 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 306 Stage Movement/Combat


    Theory and practice in creating combat scenes for the stage, movement and warm-up exercises for the actor or actress. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 321 Theatrical Make-Up


    Basic principles and application of stage make-up including aging, beards, animals and clowns. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 330 Production Procedures


    Examines the chronological procedures in producing a play, including script selection, auditions, rehearsals, schedules, publicity and budgets. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 403 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 404 Dramatic Production Participation


    Laboratory experience that involves all aspects of producing theatrical performances. Credit, one hour.
  • TH 405 Shakespeare


    A study of selected Shakespearean comedies, histories and tragedies. Musical Theatre majors may take this course as an elective. Prerequisite(s): EN 101 , EN 102  and three additional semester hours in English beyond the freshman level. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 430 Directing


    Theories and techniques of stage direction, analysis of plays, preparation of production plans and practice in stage directions. Prerequisite(s): TH 202  and TH 330 , or consent of the instructor. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 431 Independent Study


    Courses offered to provide opportunities for students to pursue an independent study or research project in the major areas, with the approval of the advisor, instructor and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Prerequisite(s): Completion of eighteen semester hours with a 3.00 GPA or higher in the major. (See independent study contract for requirements and details.) Maximum credit, eight hours.
  • TH 432 Independent Study


    Courses offered to provide opportunities for students to pursue an independent study or research project in the major areas, with the approval of the advisor, instructor and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Prerequisite(s): Completion of eighteen semester hours with a 3.00 GPA or higher in the major. (See independent study contract for requirements and details.) Maximum credit, eight hours.
  • TH 488 Interdisciplinary Seminar


    Study of a selected theme or topic designed to synthesize and reveal the coherence of the undergraduate curriculum. Prerequisite(s): Normally limited to seniors with the approval of the course director. Credit, three hours.
  • TH 495 Theatre Production and Performance


    Theatre Production and Performance is a celebration of the Theatre as a unique form of art and entertainment. The foundation of this course is a practical study of the history, performance and production librettists, lyricists, directors, designers and choreographers who have been of great influence in shaping the development of theatre. Emphasis will be placed on structure, content, cultural influences and historical development featuring interactive lectures, guest performers, in-class improvisation and participation. All students are required to participate in three hours of shop time per week. Cross-listed as: MU 497.1 . Credit, three hours.

Worship Leadership

  • WL 011 Worship Experience and Concert Attendance


    This course is designed to introduce students to the wide range of worship and music through concerts, church services and events of both classical and contemporary styles. No credit (S or U).
  • WL 012 Worship Experience and Concert Attendance


    This course is designed to introduce students to the wide range of worship and music through concerts, church services and events of both classical and contemporary styles. No credit (S or U).
  • WL 021 Worship Experience and Concert Attendance


    This course is designed to introduce students to the wide range of worship and music through concerts, church services and events of both classical and contemporary styles. No credit (S or U).
  • WL 022 Worship Experience and Concert Attendance


    This course is designed to introduce students to the wide range of worship and music through concerts, church services and events of both classical and contemporary styles. No credit (S or U).
  • WL 031 Worship Experience and Concert Attendance


    This course is designed to introduce students to the wide range of worship and music through concerts, church services and events of both classical and contemporary styles. No credit (S or U).
  • WL 032 Worship Experience and Concert Attendance


    This course is designed to introduce students to the wide range of worship and music through concerts, church services and events of both classical and contemporary styles. No credit (S or U).
  • WL 101 Inside the Music Industry


    A survey of the history, structure, business practices, procedures, economics, technologies and career opportunities within the commercial music industry. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 110 Macintosh Literacy


    This course is designed to prepare students for the use of Mac computers. Mac proficiency is required for courses such as Finale, Pro-Tools Recording, Orchestration, Arranging, Graphic Design, and Presentation Software. Credit, two hours.
  • WL 201 Survey of Technology and Media


    An analysis of the history and present role of technology and media in the music industry. Topics include MIDI applications, sampling, sequencing and current trends in music and media-related software. Attention is given to the growing role of media in the local church. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 215 Survey of the Arts in Worship


    Introduces students to an overview of visual and performing arts used in the corporate worship setting. Emphasis will be placed on genres that increase the capacity for genuine worship and expression including, music, visual art, design, drama, theatre, dance and other creative forms. In addition, students will be required to plan and execute a worship service involving all areas of the creative arts. Credit, two hours.
  • WL 301 Copyright and Intellectual Property Law


    An introduction to the fundamentals of copyright law, its application to the protection of sound recordings, musical compositions, motion pictures and other creative works. The impact on the distribution of intellectual property, including record piracy, the delivery of music via the internet and the open-sourcing of music will be presented. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 351 Biblical Foundations of Worship (Worship Leadership)


    A study of biblical theology that provides the foundations of the praxis of worship in personal, community, and marketplace settings. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 352 Relational Issues in Worship (Worship Leadership)


    A study of biblical patterns affecting relationships as they pertain to leadership, including analysis of the roles and functions of the worship leader, personality types, communication styles, conflict management and staff and community relationships. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 353 Biblical Principles of Worship


    Introduces students to a survey of Old and New Testament principles of worship, special emphasis on the person and centrality of Jesus Christ and new covenant worship. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 354 History and Philosophy of Worship and Music


    This course is designed to explore the historical origins and philosophy of Christian Worship and Music. Beginning with the Old Testament and continuing with the New Testament teachings of Christ, the class will discuss the Biblical principles of genuine worship and the emerging call of musical worship on the modern church. Additional emphasis will be placed on historical worship styles and revivals and the importance of the God-centered worship experience. A survey of the history of music from renaissance to contemporary era will be covered. Prerequisite(s): WL 353 . (WI) Credit, three hours.
  • WL 355 Practical Skills in Worship (Worship Leadership)


    A survey of resources and techniques currently available to worship leaders, providing an overview of music theory, rehearsal techniques, vocal/choral/band techniques, event programming, preparation and flow of song lists, MIDI technology, sound reinforcement, use of drama and lighting and reading/conducting a musical score. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 360 Acting for TV and Film


    This course will focus on developing skills necessary for acting in film, television and video technology. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 364 Film Studio 1


    This course offers an overview of the editing software Final Cut Pro. Students will learn how to capture video, import, and edit for use in “live” worship applications. Students will learn skills and techniques for microphone placement, lighting, editing, story boarding, interviewing, script writing, and production of video projects. Students will gain experience in the application of video in worship with regard to IMAG, multi-site campus video production, streaming live to the web, and capturing content with extensive post-production edit time. Credit, three hours. 300 level class.
  • WL 365 Film Studio 2


    This course will instruct students in the creative process of film and digital video production. Students will be required to write a script, develop, produce and film several short video projects. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 371 Finale I


    In this introductory course, student will learn how to write professional-standard notation using Finale, the world’s best-selling music notation software. This course will help student notate arrangements and compositions, from basic notes and rhythms to more advanced markings. Through hands-on lessons and workshops, student will understand the subtleties of notation, as well as explore the fine points of lead sheets, vocal/choral notation, drum/guitar notation, fingerings, roadmaps, and lyrics. Cross-listed as: MU 371 . Credit, two hours.
  • WL 372 Finale II


    In this advanced course, students will continue their professional development in writing professional-standard notation using Finale, the world’s best-selling music notation software. Student will explore more complex techniques designed to speed up the notation process dramatically, and learn to control the nuances of one’s music’s look and feel to produce clear, professional-quality music. By the end of the course, student will have mastered the most powerful functions of this versatile tool, and learned the techniques used by the most experienced, accomplished music engravers and writers. Course includes creating and/or printing music with and without a MIDI keyboard. Students work in a hands-on environment. Cross-listed as: MU 372 . Credit, two hours.
  • WL 380 Sound and Lighting Design


    This course is designed to train the student in sound reinforcement in a “live” application. Students will gain experience on both digital and analog consoles. They will be trained in the areas of amplification, equalization, compression, mixing, signal routing, critical listening, and overall design of sound systems. This course will also cover the design and incorporation of conventional and intelligent lighting in the “live” worship setting. Fixture placement, dimming system design, and programming will be discussed in this course. Credit, three hours. 300 level class.
  • WL 411 The Entrepreneur Musician


    A survey of the nature and history of entrepreneurship in the music industry. Topics include: the basics of running a one-person business, recognizing and creating opportunity, personal and professional financial management, product/legal risks and benefits, establishing a business model and creating potential income streams. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 412 Christian Ethics and the Performing Arts


    An in-depth study of Christian ethics and its particular application to church music and the performing arts. Using contemporary case studies and student research, attention will be given to the history of ethics and to the processes of informed ethical decision-making for the musician/artist serving in the church, engaged in the arts community, or employed in the entertainment industry. Cross-listed as: MU 412 . PY 412  may be substituted. (WI) Credit, three hours.
  • WL 421 Introduction to Pro-Tools


    The application of principles necessary to complete a Pro-Tools project, from initial setup to final mix-down. Class involves recording of live instruments and vocals. Topics include creating first session, making first audio recording, importing media, introducing MIDI, selecting and navigating basic editing techniques, introducing mixing and finishing work. Lab Fee Applies. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 422 Recording Engineering Techniques


    An advanced approach to the fundamentals of the recording environment and its function in the music industry. Topics include basic studio electronics and signal flow, basic microphone design, studio acoustics, basic session procedures and the role of the engineer. Lab Fee Applies. Credit, three hours.
  • WL 441 Senior Project


    Student will demonstrate mastery of a chosen field of the music and media industry through public performance, market studies, consultations, composing/arranging, recording, engineering or a combination of these and other skills. This project is analogous to the senior recital. Credit, one hour.
  • WL 442 Internship


    A formal intern educational project in which the qualifying student gains practical experience. Students may utilize this course to explore particular areas of interest in music, ministry, and technology. Credit, one hour.