SoM Recruiting and Communications 

Recruiting & Communications Request Form MusicWindow Log-In

Visual Standards

  • Please contact Evan Ricker for help with WSU and SoM Visual Standards

Faculty Handbook

Faculty Information

Mission Statement

The Wichita State University School of Music is an applied learning community of musicians who fulfill professional goals and become lifelong advocates for the arts.

Absences and Leaves

Absences

  • Sick leave with pay is a feature of the faculty benefits package.  Sick Leave must be reported through the Web Leave Reporting.  On the Faculty/Staff page of myWSU, in the Employee Self-Service box, click on the Leave Report.
  • It is the responsibility of each faculty member to report sick leave when illness has prevented them from meeting scheduled class sessions or lessons, etc.  Sick leave must be submitted in 4-hour increments.
  • Please notify the School of Music Director and staff, by email, to report an absence so a note can be place on appropriate classroom and studio doors.
  • Please avoid scheduling any activities that will take you off campus or otherwise put you in conflict with the following: 
    -Music Scholarship Auditions - recruitment events staged by the School of Music; dates will be posted in the School of Music event calendar.
    -Pre-registration Advising (check with the University Calendar or with the Music Undergraduate Advisor for specific dates).
  • Sabbatical and Other Leaves
    -Sabbatical
    -Other Leave:  family, personal
Adjuncts

The School of Music will hire adjuncts as needed to teach applied lessons or teach an academic class.

Semester pay for adjuncts who teach applied will be paid $300 for per 30-minute lesson and $600 per 50 minute-lesson.

Semester pay for adjuncts who teach an academic class will receive $1,000 per credit hour.

Administrative Organization

The School of Music is a unit within the College of Fine Arts and operates under the general policies and procedures of the College of Fine Arts (CFA).

The Director

a. Appointment and reappointment
The Director of the School of Music is chosen by the faculty.  Annual reviews of the Director are conducted by the CFA Dean.
b. Duties
The Director Reports to the Dean of the College of Fine Arts.  As the chief executive officer of the School of Music, the Director is responsible for ongoing operations, programs, and objectives.  More specific duties include:
-Call meetings of the School of Music faculty; establish the agenda and chair those meetings.
-Establish the manner in which School business is handled.
-Prepare the budget and make recommendations pertaining thereto.
-Review continually the objectives, programs, and priorities of the School of Music; analyze the extent to which they are being achieved; and initiate or review proposals for changes.
-Make recommendations to the Dean for establishment and continuation of budget lines for faculty and staff positions.
-Monitor the conduct of searches for faculty and supervise the procedure by which faculty are evaluated for reappointment, promotion, and tenure.
-Recommend candidates for faculty appointment, reappointment, promotion, and tenure to the Dean of the College of Fine Arts.
c. Allocate existing space and facilities; formulate space and utility requests.
-Supervise the maintenance of School records and files.
d. Establish ad hoc committees to review or study special problems in the School of Music.
-Represent the School of Music as liaison between the School of Music and the WSU Foundation.
-Represent the School of Music to the rest of the University, to the public, and to the national scene in higher education in music.
-Develop the Summer Session budget.
-Supervise production of all unit reports with regard to instruction, including the annual NASM "HEADS" (Higher Education Arts Data Services) report.

Associate Director

a. Appointment and reappointment
-The Director of the School may nominate an Associate Director, in consultation with the CFA Dean, that will be approved by a majority vote of the electorate.
-The Associate Director serves for three-year renewable terms.  The Associate Director will be reviewed by the Director at the beginning of the third year in office.
-Reappointment should be the result of a positive reaffirmation of the confidence by the Director and the faculty.
-The Associate Director may represent the Director for the School, College, or University events as necessary.
b. Instructional Support
The Associate Director reports to the Director and duties are assigned based on the needs of the School.  They normally include the following:
-Chair/convener of Recruitment Committee
-Chair/convener of Undergraduate Scholarships
-Collaborate with Recruitment and Communications Specialist with regard to Audition Days and Recruitment events.

Graduate Coordinator

-Duties are assigned by the Director and normally include the following:
-Coordinate graduate student orientation.
-Supervise and certify transfer analyses.
-Oversee graduate area requirements.
-Oversee graduate catalog and internal graduate document revisions and editions.
-Oversee graduate curriculum information.
-Oversee advisory/diagnostic exams.
-Supervise comprehensive/recital/final exam committees and exam request procedures.
-Supervise graduation analyses.
-Create and manage SOM graduate exit surveys.
-Serve as chief graduate advisor for the SOM/liaison between graduate students and faculty.
-Serve as liaison with the Graduate School.
-Assign Graduate Assistantships/Fellowships in Coordination with the Director of the School of Music.

Area Coordinators
As provided in the College of Fine Arts Handbook, Coordinators of Program Areas are appointed by and at the discretion of the School of Music Director.  They carry the significant responsibility of curriculum, course scheduling, recruitment, graduate assistants, and budget management for the respective programs that constitute the framework of School of Music organization and administration.

Area Coordinators chair the faculty meetings of their program areas.  They serve the fundamental need of intra- and inter-program communication and respond to requests and needs forwarded through the University chain of command i.e., Vice-President of Academic Affairs (including University committees/councils), Dean, Director, Area Coordinator.

Load release is provided for these appointments, which include Area Coordinators for:
-Choral Activities
-Jazz
-Keyboard
-Music Education
-Musicology, Composition, Theory
-Strings/Orchestra
-Voice
-Winds-Percussion/Bands

Area Coordinator Responsibilities
Area Coordinators responsibilities are wide and varied.  In general they must accept responsibility and ownership of their area.  Area Coordinator basic responsibilities include (not all-encompassing but spells out some of the principal expectations):

Schedule Courses
Area Coordinators are responsible for reviewing the class schedule drafts on behalf of the entire area and returning them to the Schedule Builder in a timely manner, indicating any necessary changes.  Each Area Coordinator must familiarize themselves with the classes offered for the area.
-As changes arise throughout any given semester, Area Coordinators must inform the Director's office and the Schedule Builder.
-All requested changes must be submitted in writing.

Adjunct Instructors
-Area Coordinators recruit, interview, and designate adjunct lecturers for area classes.  This is accomplished with the input of the area as a whole and the Director of the School of Music.  The Area Coordinator organizes any necessary meetings or interviews with adjunct lecturer candidates.
-Area Coordinators are responsible for the orientation of adjunct instructors in their respective areas.  This includes ensuring that each adjunct is capable of viewing class rosters and entering grades (if applicable) and is listed correctly in the Schedule of Courses (see above).
-In certain circumstances, the Area Coordinator may also be responsible for assigning students to adjunct instructors.  See below for instructions on how to divide out percent of responsibility.
-For applied adjunct instructors, at least one month prior to the start of the Fall semester, Area Coordinators must inform the Director's office of the adjuncts in their area.

Percent of Responsibility/Class Breakdown (as needed, does not apply to all areas)
-The Area Coordinator assigns students to individual adjuncts, when appropriate.
-In the case of vocal and keyboard areas, those students who enroll with the Area Coordinator will be assigned to a GTA or adjunct.
-If an instructor is teaching students for a class in which they are not the Instructor of Record, the Area Coordinator is responsible for turning in a list of instructors for each course and the students for whom they are responsible.
-The records of students is due to the Director's office by the 20th day of classes.  Adjunct instructors should notify the Area Coordinator of any changes that occur after this list is submitted.

Meetings
-Area Coordinators are required to call regular meetings with their areas.  Contact the Music Administrative Specialist to reserve a meeting room (if needed).  Alternatively, area meetings may be held online.

Scholarships
-Area Coordinators are the "go to" person in their area for scholarship questions.  Each Director submits recommended scholarship amounts to the Director of the School of Music or their designee.
-Area Coordinators solicit input from faculty within their area regarding scholarship awards.
-Area Coordinators submit scholarship recommendations to the Director's office as requested by the Director.
-Area Coordinators maintain records for each award that include names, recommended scholarship amounts, deadline for student acceptance, and status of acceptance.
-Area Coordinators are responsible for reporting area student special award candidates to the Director when requested.

Area Budget
The Area Coordinator oversees the specified Area Budget, acting as the contact person in their area for purchasing requests.  This includes submitting RFEs (Request for Expenditure) and Guest Artist Contract Requests to the Director and Music Administrative Specialist.

Other Duties
-Evaluating transfer equivalence for area courses taken at other schools and submitting recommendations to the Director.
-Recruitment and supervision of graduate teaching assistants.
-May include overseeing the scheduling of Area Juries.
-May include overseeing festivals for the area:  Submitting budget requests and overseeing the general organization of each event.

Advising

Advising
Student advising by faculty includes pre-registration, registration, and mentoring.  Among these needs are effective academic advising and personal support to students.  Each faculty member is expected to be an active member of the advising process (outlined below) and has a personal responsibility and stake in matters related to recruitment and retention.  The faculty member needs to be accessible to students to answer questions, provide guidance, and facilitate learning outside of the classroom.  Faculty will post regular office hours in their syllabus or be available by appointment.

Advising for Undergraduate Music Students

  • OneStop is the first contact for first-year students.  Students will work with the OneStop Advisor to learn about required courses, graduation requirements, WSU resources, and WSU policies and procedures.
  • Transfer students and all other undergraduate students will work with the Undergraduate Music Advisor prior to the first semester of attendance.
  • During the first semester of enrollment, undergraduate and transfer students will be assigned to a faculty advisor.  The applied professor is the primary advisor for all Bachelor of Music majors.  All Bachelor of Music Education majors are assigned to a music education faculty member as determined by their area of study for their primary advisor.
  • Students should meet at least once per semester with their primary advisor for guidance on their degree path.
  • At any time, the Music Undergraduate Advisor may assist the student with any questions they may have.

School of Music Degree Programs, undergraduates

University Catalogs

Fine Arts Academic Advising Center
McKnight Art Center, Room 319
316-978-6634 or cfa.advisor@wichita.edu

Director of Academic Advising, College of Fine Arts
Kristen Bosch
316-978-6634 or kristen.bosch@wichita.edu

Academic Advisor for Music
Alysa Janner
316-978-6634 or alysa.janner@wichita.edu

First Year Advisor for Music
Brittany Ulmer
Jardine Hall, Room 112
316-978-7399 or brittany.ulmer@wichita.edu

Fine Arts Academic Success Coach
Larry Compton
McKnight Art Center, Room 317
316-978-7714 or larry.compton@wichita.edu

One Stop or call 1-855-979-1787

Fine Arts Academic Advising Center
McKnight Art Center, Room 319
316-978-6634 or cfa.advisor@wichita.edu

Director of Academic Advising, College of Fine Arts
Kristen Bosch
316-978-6634 or kristen.bosch@wichita.edu

Academic Advisor for Music
Alysa Janner
316-978-6634 or alysa.janner@wichita.edu

First Year Advisor for Music
Brittany Ulmer
Jardine Hall, Room 112
316-978-7399 or brittany.ulmer@wichita.edu

Fine Arts Academic Success Coach
Larry Compton
McKnight Art Center, Room 317
316-978-7714 or larry.compton@wichita.edu

Basic Tuition and Fees

Advising for Graduate Music Students
All graduate students initially contact the School of Music Graduate Coordinator for the admissions process and assignment of their faculty advisor.  The Graduate Music Coordinator, Dr. David MacDonald, handles all graduate student records and plans of study for the duration of the students' academic career.  Faculty advisors provide guidance and mentoring for students.

School of Music Graduate page

Graduate Assistant Student Forms

Program Approval

Recommendaton for Degree

Supervision and Evaluation of Graduate Assistants

Amending the School of Music Faculty Handbook

The Director of the School of Music has the authority to update the Handbook in accordance with university policies. Other amendments to the Handbook may be proposed by the Director, School of Music standing committees, or any voting faculty member. A written copy of the proposed amendment will be circulated among the voting faculty for one week before a faculty meeting in which the vote is to be taken.


Voting faculty who cannot attend the meeting may submit a written vote to the Director prior to the meeting. A simple majority of votes cast by the voting faculty in the School of Music is required for approval.

Annual Evaluation

Annual Evaluation

  • Regular student surveys of teaching are required for all teaching faculty for at least one course per calendar year.  The Board of Regents has placed this evaluation at a priority level.  Additionally, the Dean will not recommend salary increases without teaching evaluations.
  • The University uses CES, Watermarks Course Evaluations & Surveys for course evaluations.  For information on CES.
  • Performance Evaluation Forms (FAAR):  This link will go the Acadmic Affairs Calendars and Forms page.  The FAAR link is under Forms, Waivers and Procedures, top line, far right column.  All tenure-track faculty are expected to complete and submit a faculty annual review report (FAAR Report) by December 15 of each year to the School of Music Director.
Applied Teaching

Applied Teaching
Guidelines and Expectations for Applied Studio Instruction

Applied study expectations, proficiency levels (scales, technical, and literature requirements), and general studio policies regarding preparation, grading, attendance, make-up lessons, etc. are to be discussed with each student at the beginning of the fall semester, with appropriate updates during the spring semester.

  • Jury process, grading system, impact on semester grade.
  • Advancement in applied proficiency (semester jury).
  • Semester performance goals.
  • Proficiency expectations for Qualifying Junior Recital (BM) or Senior Recital (BME).
  • Recital requirements and preparation (Qualifying Junior; Senior Recital; Graduate Recital).
  • Special circumstances (e.g., faculty absence for performance, professional meetings, etc.) and make-up lessons, adjustments, etc.

Proficiency Level (BM, BME, MM, MME)
A numbering series will be adopted for all performance areas of the School of Music to designate proficiency levels for applied study(major) as follows:

  • 100 Freshman level
  • 200 Sophomore proficiency
  • 300 Junior proficiency-i.e., Junior Standing (required before BM students may enroll for 4 applied credit hours); BME students may not enroll for 4 applied credit hours, but must attain junior proficiency before permission may be considered to schedule for the Senior Recital.
  • 400 Senior proficiency
  • 700 Graduate proficiency (required for MM or for recital MME)

4-Hour Applied Enrollments

Four-hour applied enrollments are limited to upper division BM performance majors who have been approved for Junior Standing—i.e., Junior Proficiency (no freshmen or sophomores) and to graduate students who are pursuing the graduate recital as a terminal option (either MM or MME). Graduate degree status does not automatically permit a 4-hour applied enrollment if student is not a performance major (MM) or in progress toward a degree recital (MME).

Rationale: The policy dates back several decades and is intended essentially to preserve space in the applied professor’s schedule for all levels of music majors. It applies equally to students studying with full-time and part-time applied professors (regular appointments as well as fee teachers).

Exceptions: Exceptions will be considered rare and are acted upon by the chair who may refer cases to the Policy and Curriculum Committee as warranted. Students must complete and sign the regular Exceptions Form (giving the policy being petitioned and the reason or rationale), obtain approving signature of the applied professor and the respective program director, and return the form to the School of Music Director’s Office.

Signed approval by instructor indicates willingness to incur any overload caused by substituting the 4-hrour for the normal 2-hour enrollment. In other words, it will not be permissible to exclude some other student from your teaching assignment to expand an enrollment from 2 to 4 credits.

The proficiency level numbering will have no formal connection with course numbering for applied enrollments, even though the first digit is the same in either case. It would not be possible, however, to enroll him/her in MUSA 434, since the 4-hour enrollment is reserved for BM students who have passed junior proficiency.

Advancement in proficiency level (general) will be noted in the Comments section of each students record kept with the Undergraduate Music Advisor. Junior level proficiency, which is necessary before permission to perform the graduating recital, will also be noted in the student record.  Changes in certified proficiency levels will be made at the final jury examination of the year (spring semester), except in unusual circumstances, as noted below. It will be the responsibility of the final jury to make a decision on proficiency level (advancement or retention in level) for each applied major (BM, BME, Graduate) at the final jury. [It may be necessary to lengthen the spring jury to provide for the process of certifying proficiency levels.]

Exceptions to spring jury for proficiency decision: If a student does not enroll in consecutive semesters, it is the prerogative of the applied professor and performance area to designate a fall semester jury as the "final" jury for purposes meeting proficiency level requirements.

Technical and repertoire requirements defining proficiency levels for all applied music studies are drafted by the respective area of study.

Studio instruction translates to load hours as follows:

  • MUSA 112 and MUSA 712 - Non-major enrollment (1 credit hour).  A .33 load hour will be applied to the faculty load report for each student.  Provide a 30-minute lesson per week.  Instructors may opt to teach longer lessons at their discretion, but without additional load credit.  No requirement for semester jury examination unless specifically directed by the instructor.
  • MUSA 231, MUSA 431, MUSA 731 - Music major secondary enrollment (1 credit hour).  A .33 load hour will be applied to the faculty load report for each student.  Provide a 30-minute lesson per week.  Instructors may opt to teach longer lessons at their discretion, but without additional load credit.  No requirement for semester jury examination unless specifically directed by instructor.
  • MUSA 232, MUSA 252, MUSA 432, MUSA 452, MUSA 732 - Music major enrollment (2 credit hours).  A .66 load hour will be applied to the faculty load report for each student.  Provide a 50-minute lesson per week minimum plus a master class.  Instructors may opt to teach longer lessons at their discretion, but without additional load credit.  Required enrollment for BME and for BM to junior proficiency.  Jury examination required each semester.
  • MUSA 233, MUSA 433 - Music major enrollment (3 credit hours).  A .66 load hour will be applied to the faculty load report for each student.  Provide a 50-minute lesson per week minimum plus a master class and a technique class.  Instructors may opt to teach longer lessons at their discretion, but without additional load credit.  Jury examination required each semester.
  • MUSA 434, MUSA 734 - Music major enrollment (4 credit hours).  A .66 load hour will be applied to the faculty load report for each student.  Provide a 50-minute lesson per week minimum plus a master class and a technique class.  Instructors may opt to teach longer lessons at their discretion, but without additional load credit.  Jury examination required each semester.
  • The Director will work with each faculty member to create a preliminary load report for the following fall/spring semester.  This workload report communicates courses assigned, including a prediction of enrollment for studios and under-enrolled sections.  Load calculations are based on a formula.  Between the beginning of the semester and the 20th day of classes, faculty must review all course rosters for accuracy.  If a student is participating in class meetings, rehearsals, or lessons and does not appear on the course roster, the faculty should notify the Director so the student can register appropriately.  Due to liability issues, all students participating in class meetings, rehearsal, or lessons must be registered in the course (even if for 0 credit).  If a student is enrolled and not attending, please notify the Director after the third missed class.
  • After the 20th day of classes, the Director will send each faculty member a Load Report for the semester based on the course enrollment that day.  Any student not properly enrolled by the 20th day of classes will not be counted on the faculty Load Report.
  • Faculty members are encouraged to develop First Year Seminars (FYS) and should meet with the Director before applying to teach a FYS.  Further information on FYS can be found at the First Year Seminar page.

Grading Criteria for Applied Courses

  • It is the applied professor's responsibility to consider the composite grade of the jury committee in assigning the semester grade.
  • Advancement to junior level proficiency level will be noted in the comments section of each student's record kept with the Undergraduate Music Advisor.  Junior level proficiency, which is necessary before permission to perform the graduating recital, will also be noted in the student record.  It will be the responsibility of the jury committee to make a decision on proficiency level (advancement or retention in level) for each applied major (BM, BME, Graduate) at the jury.  It may be necessary to lengthen the spring jury to provide for the process of certifying proficiency levels.

Major and Non-Major Applied Study Policy:  Any student wishing to enroll in applied study who is not currently pursuing a music degree (baccalaureate or masters) must enroll as a non-major, either in 112 or 712. 

 Major Instrument Applied Courses (232, 233, 252, 432, 433, 452, 732, 434, 734)

Secondary Instrument Applied Courses (231, 431, 731)

Accompanists Guild Studio Policy

Accompanists Guild Studio Policy

Appointments

Tenure-Track Appointments
Faculty members on tenure-track appointments are expected to engage in teaching, creative/scholarly activity, and service.  The specific arrangements of their appointment will be determined with the Director of the School of Music as approved by the Dean of the College of Fine Arts.  They are also expected to complete a Faculty Annual Review (FAAR) which assists the Director in assessing their progress towards tenure and promotion.  Faculty in these appointments will be subject to a mid-tenure review in their third year of appointment.

Non-Tenure Track Appointments
Faculty members on non-tenure track appointments are expected to engage in teaching and service as deemed appropriate and as determined with the Director of the School of Music.  No creative/scholarly activity is expected of non-tenure track appointees.

Summer Employment
Teaching during the Summer Session is contingent on the needs of the School of Music and the resources available.

New Faculty
One week before classes begin, new faculty will have an orientation meeting, presented by Human Resources, where they will be provided with information on Blackboard, myWSU ID, email account, etc.

Campus Facilities
Building Security
School of Music buildings are among the most vulnerable on campus. The instance of theft, unauthorized entry, and use of facilities has been problematic in the past. Studios and classrooms have been broken into and equipment, instruments, and personal items have been stolen. Due to these concerns, most rooms will remain locked and will require key access. It is important that any theft, vandalism, loss, or destruction of instruments, or misuse of facilities be reported immediately to the Police Department and to the Director's office.  

 

  • Please keep your studios always locked, even if an absence will be brief.
  • Faculty members will be issued keys through the School of Music Office. The Music Office will keep a record of the keys issued to each faculty member. If a key is lost, the faculty member may be responsible for the cost of rekeying the room and the cost of replacement keys.
  • In general, keys to faculty studios should not be loaned out to students. In the case of exceptions, the faculty member needs to notify the School of Music Office (Music Administrative Specialist and Director) in writing of the student(s) that are to be granted key usage. The faculty member assumes all responsibility for items in their office.
  • Teaching Assistants will be issued keys in the same manner as a faculty member. If they plan to return in the fall, they may keep their keys for the summer in most cases. If they need to turn-in their keys, they will be contacted to do so.
  • Practice Room Keys:  Students will pay $50 for a practice room key to be used for the fall and spring semesters. They must check out a key with the School of Music Office and the $50 fee will be placed on their account. At the conclusion of the Spring semester all keys must be turned in. If a practice room key is not returned, a $250 fine will be placed on the student’s account. If students wish to check out a practice room key for use in the summer, there will be additional $25 fee.
  • Studios are the property of WSU School of Music.  Faculty and Instructor studios may be changed as deemed necessary by the Director of the School of Music.

Requesting a room in Duerksen Fine Arts Center:  Room Request Form

Parking at WSU:  Parking Information
Concerto-Aria Auditions
  • The annual Concerto-Aria Auditions and Concert features student performances with the WSU Symphony Orchestra.  Graduate students, as well as undergraduates with at least sixty (60) undergraduate credit hours at the start of the academic year (juniors and seniors) are eligible to participate in the auditions.  During both semesters of the academic year, an undergraduate student must carry an academic class load of at least eight (8) credit hours while graduate students must carry an academic class load of at least five (5) credit hours.  Additionally, all participants must be music majors seeking music degrees during both semesters of the academic year.
  • No student may perform as soloist with the orchestra in two consecutive years.
  • Students will perform from memory in the preliminary and final auditions, as well as at the concert.  Performances in the preliminary and final rounds must be accompanied.
  • Students and faculty are encouraged to select a work or movement from a larger work that ranges between four (4) and eighteen (18) minutes in length.  Additionally, the entire work or movement must be performed, with no abridging of solo or accompanying material.  Vocalists may compete with either a single composition or with multiple selections, typically of contrasting styles, whose combined length conforms to these guidelines.
  • All students participating in the Concerto-Aria Auditions are required to submit an information form to the Director of Orchestras.
  • Each performance area may send up to three qualified candidates to the final round.  If necessary, preliminary auditions should be scheduled and conducted no later than the second week of November.
  • The final round of the Concerto-Aria Auditions will be held the week before Thanksgiving.  Student must bring three copies of their solo part for the judging panel; photocopies are acceptable.
  • Student should reach out to their applied professor or the Director of Orchestras with questions.
  • The jury will consist of three judges, two of whom shall be from outside of the WSU School of Music.  Every effort will be made to include on the panel musicians representing both instrumental and vocal performance areas.  A faculty member whose applied student is competing will not be allowed to judge.
  • Judges will be encouraged to create a balanced program that represents all performance areas of the School of Music.  However, since the level of performance must be the primary consideration, the judges are under no obligation to select a particular number of students or a student from each performance area.  The Director of Orchestras, acting in an advisory capacity, will exercise care in determining the number of soloists that are selected while also considering the difficulty of the orchestral accompaniments given the amount of rehearsal time available to the orchestra.  Prior to selecting repertoire for their students, applied professors are encouraged to consult with the Director of Orchestras regarding the availability and difficulty level of orchestral accompaniments.
  • The roster of selected soloists will be posted outside the office of the Director of Orchestras no later than two hours after the completion of the auditions.  Judges' comment sheets will be distributed to all participants following the auditions.
Course Syllabi

Course Syllabi
Faculty must create a syllabus for every course taught.  A syllabus template may be found on the website.  Course syllabi must be submitted by the 20th day of each semester, please name it as follows:  MUS _ ###, title, faculty last name.  Include in each syllabus office hours, learning objectives, and the two NASM well-being forms.

NASM-PAMA Advisories on Hearing Health

NASM-PAMA Advisories on Neuromuscoloskeletal and Vocal Health

Lesson and Course Time Requirements
Per University policy, the minimum amount of meeting time for courses is 1 - 50 minute contact session per week for 15 weeks per credit hour.

  • 1 credit courses=15 - 50 minutes sessions (50 minutes per week)=750 minutes of instructional time per semester.
  • 2 credit courses=30 - 50 minutes sessions (100 minutes per week)=1500 minutes of instructional time per semester.
  • 3 credit courses=45 - 50 minutes sessions (150 minutes per week)=2250 minutes of instructional time per semester.
Curriculum and Policy Changes

Curriculum and Policy Changes
The primary prerogative and responsibility for curriculum change lies with the faculty. The process for proposing new or revised curriculum and policy involves the following:

  • Proposals are generated by program area faculty, which reviews and forwards recommendations, using required university format to Music Policy and Curriculum Committee.
  • The Policy and Curriculum (P&C) Committee reviews proposals and determines whether full faculty review and/or approval is necessary.
  • For curriculum proposals resulting in catalog changes, proposals are first signed by the Chair of the P&C Committee and are then forwarded to School of Music Director. The proposal is then reviewed by the Fine Arts Curriculum Committee, which forwards it to the Academic Affairs office for its review and insertion in the official university curriculum journal.

 Curriculum Change Forms

Ensemble Information

Large Ensembles                                            
Athletic Band                                                          
Concert Chorale                                                     
Guitar Ensemble                                                    
Jazz Arts I                                                              
Jazz Arts II                                                             
Madrigal Singers
Opera
Shocker Choir
Symphonic Band
Symphony Orchestra
Wind Ensemble
Wu Choir

Small Ensembles
Brass Ensemble
Jazz Combo
Percussion Ensemble
String Ensemble
Woodwind Ensemble

Zero-Credit Ensemble Enrollment

Music Majors
Students who are enrolled full-time as a music major (BM, BME, BA, MM, MME) may enroll in additional large ensembles outside of their degree requirements for zero credit. Each student enrolled in a zero-credit course will be assessed a $39 fee per semester of enrollment. The fee will be assessed after 20th day.

Non-Music Majors
Students who are enrolled full-time at WSU in any degree path outside of the School of Music may enroll in large ensembles for zero-credit. Each student enrolled in a zero-credit course will be assessed a $39 fee per semester of enrollment. The fee will be assessed after 20th day.

Facilities and Event Scheduling

Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to help keep our spaces clean and to use the spaces and equipment housed in these spaces with care.  It is not just the responsibility of our custodians.  Any damage to spaces or equipment should be reported immediately to the Music office.

Equipment

  • Music stands and chairs are available in each classroom and ensemble rehearsal room.  If equipment is moved from these areas, it must returned after use.
  • Music stand, chairs, and other equipment are not allowed to leave the building without prior approval from the School of Music Director.
  • Student desks are set up in each classroom for classes, users must reset the room for classes.
  • Classrooms and ensemble rooms have a projector and screen for use.  If there are issues with this equipment please inform the Administrative Specialist who will put in a work order.



Performances, Rehearsals, and Instructional or Program Events in Duerksen Fine Arts Center (DFAC) and Wiedemann Recital Hall

Performance Halls (Wiedemann Recital Hall, Miller Concert Hall)
The master schedule for all instructional use, rehearsals, and performances in Miller Concert Hall and Wiedemann Recital Hall is administered and is maintained by Performance Facilities. Scheduling policies are determined by the College Performance Facilities Council chaired by the Dean, with representation from Central Administration. Policies have been published in the CFA Faculty Handbook, found in the CFA TEAMS folder.

Rehearsal Halls and Classrooms
All spaces in DFAC other than the Concert Hall are scheduled through the School of Music Office Administrative Specialist. Use of these facilities, other than for classes and rehearsals in the published semester schedule, must be requested through this office.

Annual Scheduling Priorities

  • Performance Series, major ensembles, organ series, festivals, competitions.
  • Faculty Artists event.
  • Student recitals, guest recitals (not part of a formal series), and sponsored events.

Students wishing to schedule a recital will find the necessary information and must complete the fillable form found on this page listing Student Degree Recital Information

Adding Performances

Faculty members must complete the “Adding Performances” form for Guest Artist recital, master class, faculty recital, or studio class recital.

  • Use this form to request a room and date for an added performance.
  • This form is not for student degree or non-degree recitals.
  • Submit this form to the Director's office at least six weeks prior to the event.
  • If a guest artist contract will be needed, the Guest Artist Information Form will need to be completed at least one month prior to the event.
  • If this request is approved, a signed copy will be returned to the faculty member to begin making arrangements for rooms and/or Performance Facilities services, this shuld be done at least four weeks in advance.

Policy for finals week and the preceding week
It is the policy of the School of Music (established by Policy/Curriculum Committee and approved by the faculty) to avoid scheduling recitals and performance events requiring student participation during the week preceding final examinations and during the examination period.  Exceptions must be approved by the Director of the School of Music. This is also in keeping with University policy. Often only one week is available between Thanksgiving and the end of fall semester; therefore, it has been necessary to maintain some flexibility on this policy for seasonal events.

Cancelling Events that appear on the facilities calendar and schedule
Untold PR damage results when patrons make the trip to an advertised event only to find that it has been canceled.

  • Avoid cancellation if possible.
  • In case of cancellation, immediately contact the Director of the School of Music.

Performance Facilities and Media Resources Center
Performance Facilities and Media Resources Center (MRC) services approved for charge against School funds and must be arranged according to the following:

  • Complete an RFE describing the service needed and obtain approval signature from School of Music Director if charge is to be made against area funds.
  • Complete services request form for Performance Facilities and MRC to the Director for approval signature.
  • Individual faculty members may arrange for services that are not covered by School funds.
  • Both departments will provide a quote upon request.

Fine Arts Box Office
The College of Fine Arts Box Office is located in Miller lobby, Duerksen Fine Arts Center.  The box office is open 10:30 am-4:30 pm Monday-Friday and one hour before a performance.  The box office moves to Wiedemann Recital Hall for events held in Wiedemann Hall.  CFA faculty and staff are eligible for two complimentary tickets to each CFA events, complete the  CFA Faculty Ticket Request Form or request a ticket in person from the Box Office prior to the event.  No complimentary tickets will be issued at the event.

Finance

Budget Management
All discretionary funds for program area support are allocated to the program areas and ensembles. Faculty must work through the Area Coordinator in requesting use of budgeted funds. Funding requests include but are not limited to: recruitment, classroom needs, guest artists, and technology.

Request for Expenditure (RFE)
An RFE Form must be completed for all expenditures, whether made internally or to outside vendors, consultants, resources.  This includes classroom needs, instrument repair, and computer equipment.  Request for Expenditure (RFE) must be signed by the respective Area Coordinator before it can be approved for payment; questions may be addressed to the Area Coordinator or the School of Music Director.

Guest Artists
If you are requesting funds for a Guest Artist (i.e. an honorarium for a masterclass or performance), a Guest Artist Contract must be created. Please submit a Guest Artist Contract Form at least one month in advance of the event. If hotel will be provided to guest artist, the School of Music Administrative Specialist must be provided the information and will make the reservation.  The confirmation information will be sent to the faculty member.

Contracts for services or guest artists/lectures from another agency must be signed by the CFA Dean.  Contracts for on-campus needs are to be signed by the Director.

A W9 will be needed to process payment for any expenditure:  W9

Music Associates Funding Requests
To request funding from Music Associates, please complete this form:  Music Associates funding request

Processing
Turn in invoices for processing as soon as goods, services, etc., have been received. Please do not hold invoices. Payment cannot be approved without your receipt invoice and, when appropriate, a W9.

Printing
Please do not take material to Shocker Printing to be copied, the Music Administrative Specialist will advise whether it should be copied on the music photocopier or through Shocker Printing and will arrange for materials to be transmitted and picked up from Shocker Printing, if necessary. Most copying may be completed on the music office photocopier.

WSU Policies and Procedures for Copyright:  WSU Policies and Procedures

Helpful Information

WSU Contacts:  Helpful University Contacts

Academic Affairs Forms:  Academic Affairs

Academic and Exam Calendars
Academic Calendars, approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.

The Final Exam schedule for fall and spring semesters.

Emergency Procedures: WSU Emergency Procedures

Office of Civil Rights, Title IX and ADA Compliance:  OIEC

WSU Policies and Procedures

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):  FERPA

WSU Voice Mail Instructions:  Voice Mail

Office of Instructional Resources:  Training Needs
Teaching, Tools, and Forms and Support (Blackboard, Panopto, etc.)

Hiring Guest Artists and Performers

Additional performers for ensembles:  shall be paid $50 per service.  An RFE will be required before hiring additional performers.  Following the performance a W9 and invoice will be provided to the School of Music Administrative Specialist for payment.

Guest Artists
If you are requesting funds for a Guest Artist (i.e. an honorarium for a masterclass or performance), a Guest Artist Contract must be created. Please submit a Guest Artist Contract Form at least one month in advance of the event. If hotel will be provided to guest artist, the School of Music Administrative Specialist must be provided the information and will make the reservation.  The confirmation information will be sent to the faculty member.

Contracts for services or guest artists/lectures from another agency must be signed by the CFA Dean.  Contracts for on-campus needs are to be signed by the Director.

Jury Information

Applied Grading Procedure and Jury Examination

This procedure is subject to adjustment by agreement among the faculty of a given program area.  Jury entries must be completed for each two-four-hour enrollment.  Equal attention is given to both technical and literature requirements of the proficiency level at which the student is classified.

General

  • All faculty are expected to be available to serve on undergraduate and graduate Recital, Theses, and Examination Committees.
  • Standards of repertoire and length are subject to adjustment by agreement among the faculty of a given program area.
  • Students must perform with a pianist if called for by the score (for example, concertos, sonatas, etc.).
  • Faculty will use The Jury System.  https://wichita.jury-system.com

Annual Jury Review for Continuation (BM performance majors)
For BM performance majors, the final jury examination will determine approval for a student to continue in a performance degree emphasis.  Conditions of approval (if any) or denial of approval will be decided and certified by the applied professor in consultation with the examining jury.  This procedure will pertain through completion of the Senior Recital.

Fall/Spring Jury Schedule

Monday

  • Woodwind Juries:  9:00 am-6:00 pm, Wiedemann Hall
  • Brass Juries:  9:00 am-6:00 pm, C104
  • Voice Juries:  9:00 am-6:00 pm, Miller Concert Hall
  • Percussion Juries:  8:00 am-12:00 pm, C007

Tuesday

  • String Juries:  9:00 am-6:00 pm, Wiedemann Hall
  • Brass Juries:  9:00 am-12:00 pm, C104
  • Woodwind Juries:  1:00-6:00 pm, C104
  • Voice Juries:  9:00 am-6:00 pm, Miller Concert Hall

Wednesday

  • Piano Juries:  9:00 am-6:00 pm, Wiedemann Hall
  • String Juries:  9:00 am-1:00 pm, C107
  • Jazz Juries:  1:00 -6:00 pm, C104

Thursday

  • Piano Juries:  9:00-11:00 am, Wiedemann Hall
  • Organ Rehearsal:  11:00 am-3:00 pm, Wiedemann Hall
  • Organ Recital:  5:00-6:00 pm, Wiedemann Hall

Approved 9/10/2018

Marketing

The School of Music Marketing and Recruiting Specialist is available to assit faculty, complete the Marketing and Communications form above the Handbook.  The Marketing and Recruting Specialist will arrange for marketing of the large ensemble events, faculty are responsible for the marketing of other events such as recitals, master classes, etc.

Internally, the University has several means to communicate information for events.

WSU Social Media Policy:  Please follow university social media guidelines when marketing upcoming events: https://www.wichita.edu/services/strategic_communications/brand_standards/social_media_playbook.php

WSU Today is emailed to all WSU personnel every weekday.  Faculty may communicate events and accomplishments through this medium.  WSU Today  Photos or supporting graphics are encouraged.

University website:  Provide information to the School of Music staff.

CFA website:  The CFA website lists all Fine Arts events.  CFA Calendar of Events

School website:  The School website lists all upcoming events.  School of Music Event Calendar

School of Music Programs:  Faculty are requested to provide their program information, including personnel list, biographies, program notes, etc. to the Music Administrative Specialist at least 10 days prior to your event.  Large ensemble programs will be available digitally and printed, while faculty artist recitals will be printed.

Meetings and Committees  

Faculty will reserve Thursdays at 1:30 pm for either faculty meetings or committee meetings.

Definition of Voting Faculty

Members of the School of Music who hold the rank of Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, Associate Educator, or Assistant Educator, .5 and above, constitute the voting faculty.

  • Both individually and as a body the faculty is responsible for carrying out the department’s mission in accordance with the policies and procedures of the School of Music, the College of Fine Arts, and the Graduate College. Individual faculty members fulfill these responsibilities in accordance with the University’s policy on professional ethics and academic responsibility.
  • The School of Music distributes teaching and service assignments to faculty and provides guidance through periodic reviews to ensure that all faculty are participating appropriately and equitably in the teaching, research and service missions of the School, College, and University.

Committees
School of Music faculty may not be elected or appointed to more than two standing departmental committees.

  • Recruitment (chaired by the Associate Director)
  • Promotion and Tenure Review Committee
  • Handbook (Faculty and Undergraduate Student)
  • Curriculum
  • Assessment

Faculty Meetings

  • Faculty are expected to make themselves available for meetings as scheduled and announced at the beginning of the fall semester. Inability to attend because of irresolvable conflict should be indicated by a note to the Director.
  • Those members of the faculty present at a regular meeting shall constitute a quorum.
  • Faculty meetings shall be conducted according to Robert's Rules of Order, and the meeting is normally chaired by the Director.
  • The minutes of the faculty meeting shall be taken by a staff member and saved to a TEAMS folder.
  • Agenda items may be placed by any faculty member or staff.
Music Festivals

Music Festivals are an opportunity to bring middle school and high school students to campus and participate in an ensemble or receive a rating.  Current Festivals include Middle School Band Day, Honor Band, Middle School Orchestra Invitational, High School Orchestra Invitational, Jazz Invitational, All-State Choir Festival, Shocker Sing, Shocker Keys, Middle and High School Keyboard Festival, and the SMTA Piano Festival.  Others may be considered with consultation of the Director.

  • Faculty coordinator will submit a budget to the Music office for approval prior to advertising begins. A Festival must pay for itself.  No school funds will be provided.
  • If a registration fee is collected, consider using Marketplace where credit card payments are accepted.
  • The faculty coordinator is responsible for overseeing the festival and is encouraged to use student help.
  • Work with the SOM Administrative Specialist and/or Performance Facilities to ensure rooms are reserved and policies are followed.

Festival Checklist and Budget

At least 3 months prior to a festival, the Festival Presenter (faculty member) must begin the planning process for a festival.  Here is a checklist and budget form to use.  

Musical Instrument Rental / Keyboard Policy

Musical Instrument Inventory

The School of Music has a large musical instrument inventory which is available to be loaned to students and faculty at the discretion of the applicable applied faculty member.  The official inventory and lending data is maintained by the Athletic Bands Director (ABD).

  • If a student needs to borrow a School musical instrument, the applicable applied faculty member communicates with the ABD which instrument the student should be allowed to borrow.  The student will then complete an instrument rental form and provide myWSU ID and current driver’s license. 
  • Each instrument must be returned at the end of the semester in which it was borrowed.
  • The ABD will inspect each instrument upon return and evaluate any needed repairs. If repairs are needed and are due to misuse by the student, the student will be charged with the costs of the repair.  This fee will be applied to the student’s account. 
  • If a student fails to return an instrument, the student will be contacted by email and/or phone to return the instrument.  If after five (5) days the instrument is not returned, a Certified letter will be mailed to the student.
  • A hold will be put on the student's account preventing him or her for registering for classes, graduating, or receiving transcripts.  A report will also be filed with the WSU Police Department.  When an instrument is returned, the student will be charged a $20 late fee.
  • Instruments are not available for check out over the summer or between the fall and spring semesters. Exceptions may be granted by the Director of the School of Music.

Instrument Rental Policy

Musical Instrument Repair and Procedure
Any University instrument in need of repair should be given to the ABD who will procure a quote and submit an RFE for the repair. Under no circumstances is a faculty member or student to be involved.

Keyboard Policy (for sites other than DFAC or WH)
School of Music pianos and harpsichords may not be transported and/or tuned outside DFAC and Wiedemann Recital Hall for student and faculty recitals unless by contractual agreement.

School of Music Keyboard Policy

Recruitment and Retention

Recruitment and retention are of critical importance to all programs and personnel of the School of Music.  Participation is expected of regular faculty.

  • Studio faculty have a primary responsibility to recruit their applied specialty; but they should also take part in general recruitment functions.
  • Non-applied faculty, particularly, are expected to participate in general recruiting activities such as correspondence, alumni receptions, booth attendant at promotional displays (conventions, arts fairs, etc.) although this activity is not restricted to the academic faculty.
  • The Recruitment and Communications Specialist (RCS) serves as a liaison with the University Admissions office.  When students identify themselves as interested in music to Admissions, Admissions will contact our RCS to schedule a tour, observe classes/rehearsals, and meet with applicable applied faculty.  The RCS will maintain a prospective pool database that includes all prospective students divided by area.  This database will be shared with faculty. Faculty are also requested to share pertinent information with the RCS to keep the database updated.  Undergraduate Audition Days are scheduled through each semester.  Other arrangements may be made if student(s) are not available on those dates.

Scholarships

  • Music majors are eligible for a scholarship from the School of Music, based upon the audition.
School of Music Assessed Student Fees

Athletic Bands Fee
All students enrolled in Athletic Bands (for credit or zero-credit) will be assessed a $200 fee for instrument and uniform usage per year. The fee should be indicated in the course syllabus for students’ knowledge. The fee will be assessed after 20th day.

Costume Fees
Students enrolled in Opera and/or Madrigal Singers may be assessed a $40 dollar costume fee depending on the necessities of the program each semester. The fee should be indicated in the course syllabi for students’ knowledge. The fee may be assessed after 20th day.

Sheet Music Fee
All students enrolled in large ensembles may be assessed a $20 fee for sheet music purchase at the discretion of the Director of the School of Music per semester. The sheet music fee should be indicated in course syllabi for students’ knowledge. The fee will be assessed after 20th day.

Vocal Applied Accompanist Fee
All students enrolled in MUSA 231Y, etc. will be assessed a $550 fee.  This fee will be paid by the School of Music to each accompanist.

Student Awards
The following awards are presented to students at the final spring concert.  Area Coordinators will consult with faculty in their areas for recommendations for the awards and the Director will send out a Qualtrics survey to the faculty in the month of April.

 

  • Lieurance Outstanding Graduating Senior Award
  • Lieurance Senior Scholarship Award, awarded to two current juniors
  • Glenn & Joanne Goodman Endowed Scholarship Award, generally presented to an office worker

The Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award, awarded to a current junior, will be decided by the faculty before December 1.

Student Degree Recital Information

Scheduling of Degree Recitals and Time Requirements

  • All BM and BME degree recitals shall be required to be performed on Tuesdays or Thursdays during the 2:30 pm recital hour. Recitals fulfilling master's degree terminal requirements are not bound by this policy; however, graduate performers are invited to consider the use of recital times as outlined above for scheduling degree recitals.
  • The School of Music will pay for the student degree recitals on Tuesday and Thursday's at 2:30 pm, on campus.  A student who wishes to perform a recital off-campus or outside of these parameters, must get approval from the recital committee.
  • Students will need to complete a degree recital form before meeting with Performance Facilities to schedule a recital.
  • If a student wishes to have the recital streamed or recorded, they are responsible for paying these charges.

Degree Recitals

  • Following the completion of a recital, the applied professor, of the student giving the recital, will prepare an email that includes: the performance date and appropriate recital heading (Junior, Senior, or Graduate) to the Undergraduate Music Advisor and the Director.  Include the names of the chair and committee members with the grades given.
  • The Graduate Coordinator must be notified when a graduate recital is completed.
  • It is understood that not all recitals require a committee. See below for details.
  • If the student has decided to postpone the recital, the applied professor will need to advise the Music Undergraduate Advisor that an incomplete will be given.
  • The email with all information must be sent to the School of Music Director and Music Undergraduate Advisor by the last day of classes. If grades are not returned by 5:00 pm on the last day of classes, the student will receive an incomplete. Faculty will then be responsible for submitting a change of grade form after grades are posted. The School of Music Director will be informed that a grade was not submitted.

Repertoire requirements for degree recitals:

BME: 25 minutes (2 recitals may be shared in one recital hour)
BM: 25 minutes (junior)
BM:  45 minutes (senior)
MM, MME: 50 minutes (not including intermission)

Recital Programs
Students are responsible for creating and printing their own recital programs.  The student's applied professor should approve the program before printing.  Students may use WSU Shocker Printing, located in the basement of Morrison Hall, to print the program.  Recital programs are due to the Music office at least one week before the students dress rehearsal. 

All programs must use the official templates:
Junior Recital Template
Senior Recital Template
Graduate Recital Template

Accompanist Guild policies.

Junior Standing or Junior Proficiency is required to enroll in 400 level lessons and before scheduling junior or senior recitals.  Each area will have its own procedures for students to achieve Junior Standing or Junior Proficiency.

  • Students who have achieved performance skills appropriate for junior-level study and have completed applicable literature requirements will be designated with Junior Standing by the applied professor in consultation with the examining jury.  The applied instructor will notify the Undergraduate Advisor when a student has been approved for junior-level study.
  • Junior Standing is required before the Junor Recital (BM) or the Senior Recital (BME) may be scheduled.  Junior Standing will be noted on the student's record with the Undergraduate Music Advisor for each music degree student according to their major performing instrument.
  • If Junior Standing is delayed because of inadequate proficiency, the student will continue to enroll at the 200 level until Junior Standing has been approved; postponement of Junior Standing longer than two consecutive semesters will result in a special hearing/jury to consider dismissal from the BM performance emphasis.

Recital Hearing
At least two weeks prior to degree recitals, all majors maybe required to complete a recital hearing; areas may have their own requirements.  It is guided by and is the responsibility of the respective professor to form the committee, which is comprised of faculty from the area.  In the case of BME, one member should be from the music education faculty.  For students who have achieved Junior Standing, major opera roles, competitions, or other equivalents may be substituted for the recital hearing, subject to approval of the respective faculty and program director.

Junior Recital
Junior Recital (MUSP 300, 0 credit hour):  Required for all BM performance degrees.

Senior Recital (MUSP 400, 0 credit hour):  Required for all BM performance degrees.

BME Recital
Music education students should complete their recital prior to student teaching. 

Recital Committee (Senior and Graduate Recitals)
Senior and Graduate recitals are to be juried by a committee of three School of Music faculty, to include the student's applied professor.  Graduate recital committee membership will comply with existing graduate program regulations (e.g. graduate committees will include a minimum of one committee member outside the student's specific performance area; all persons serving on graduate recital committees will have appropriate graduate faculty membership.)  It is the student's responsibility, in consultation with their applied professor and subject to the above, to select the other two members of the recital committee and to secure concert from all committee members.

BM and BME Senior Recitals and all Graduate Recitals will be graded by each member of the recital committee; grades will be provided to the applied professor, who will email the information to the Undergraduate Music Advisor or the Graduate Coordinator.  The BME Senior Recital can be a public or jury performance and is at the discretion of the student's applied professor in consultation with the committee.  The jury recital is not an option for BM senor recitals or graduate recitals.

Student Degrees

Four semesters in Recital (MUSP 105) are required as indicated in degree check sheets. For majors other than BA, four semesters of recital attendance are required, and additionally a performance recital (BM, BME) is completed by enrollment in and performance of the senior recital.

Music Degrees Offered:  Music Degrees

Music Degree Sheets:   Music Degree Sheets

Degree Codes: 

F11K:  Music Education, Strings
F11Q:  Special Music Education, Winds. Percussion
F12B:  Music Performance, Instrumental
F12R:  Music
F13A:  Music Theory, Composition
F13B:  Music Theory, Composition, Keyboard
F13C:  Music Theory, Composition, Winds, Percussion
F13D:  Music Theory, Composition, Strings
F13F:  Music Theory, Composition, Guitar, Electric Bass
F13G:  Music Composition
F23D:  PK-12 Music, Special Music Education
F23I:  PK-12 Music, Instrumental
F23K:  PK-12 Keyboard
F23V:  PK-12 Music, Vocal
F32A:  Music Performance, Voice
F32B:  Music Performance, Winds, Percussion
F32C:  Music Performance, Strings
F32D:  Music Performance, Guitar, Electric Bass
F32E:  Music Performance, Piano
F32F:  Music Performance, Piano Pedagogy
F32G:  Music Performance, Piano Accompanying
F32H:  Music Performance, Organ
F32I:  Music Performance, Jazz & Contemporary Media
F32Z:  Music Performance, Jazz Studies

Following a successful audition into the School of Music, a student will enroll in the required courses as required by the degree check sheet within the music degree program they are accepted. This will include at the minimum, but not limited to:

  • Concurrent enrollment in private applied study (232, 233,252, 432, 433, 452, 732; 434, 734 if eligible) in the major performing medium.
  • Enrollment in a major ensemble (Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Concert Chorale, WuChoir, Shocker Choir, Opera Theater).
  • Concurrent enrollment in at least one additional 2 credit or 3 credit music course necessary to satisfy requirements of a music degree as indicated in the degree check sheet applicable at the date of admission. 

Composition
Composition Majors must apply to become a composition major by submitting a portfolio after successfully completing MUSC 260. The portfolio should consist of compositions that the applicant feels represent their best and most mature work.  

Portfolio Guidelines

  • Minimum of three and maximum of four works.
  • Works should be written or substantially revised within the last two years.
  • Works should be written for a variety of media (instruments and voices) include both scores and recordings.
  • Scores (where applicable) should be bound, computer-engraved, performance-ready copies.
  • Submit scores (no parts) in both digital (PDF) and hard copy to any member of the composition faculty, either directly or in faculty mailboxes.
  • Recordings of all works are required; live performance or rehearsal recordings preferred; computer realizations acceptable.
  • Submit digital materials by sending a public link to Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, or similar file-sharing service. Do not email files directly!

Students are also required to meet jury and recital expectations on their major instrument and according to the guidelines of the area. For more information, see degree check sheet:  Degree Sheet

Single Major, Double Major, Double Degree

Single major – a single major is an academic plan in which there is one main field of study such as Sociology, Psychology or Aerospace Engineering. BGS and Field Majors are considered single majors.   The student must complete all major, college and general education requirements.  Hours range from 124 hours up.

All major codes for Music begin with a MUS….

Double major – a double major is an academic plan in which a student completes the degree requirements for the first major which includes all major, college and general education requirements.  The second major is earned by completing all college and major requirements.  The student earns one degree with a second major. Hours range from 124 hours up. THIS is NOT the same as the DMAC double majors across campus. Examples for double major would be any combination that doesn’t fit DMAC where one college is the professional college with LAS being the 2nd major.  Examples of double majors:  Psychology and Sociology, Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Communications and Sociology…etc…Music fields available:  Double majors may be elected, with appropriate approval, in any area of music study for which the baccalaureate is available.  The most typical choice involves the BME and BM.  A double major in two performance specialties is rare, due to the rigorous demands on time and energy and inherent conflicts.

Limitations
Extra requirements take extra time.  Persons completing a double major can expect to spend, at the minimum, five years in full-time study.  More time could be necessary to achieve required standards of performance and repertoire in case of a double major involving two performance specialties. Conflicts:  Expect them, particularly in a double major in performance with two media.

Degrees Awarded
Separate degrees (diplomas) are awarded in the case of the BM-BME double major.  In the case of a double performance major involving two media, only one BM diploma is awarded.  The second major is verified by transcript evidence, rather than the conferring of a second BM degree.  Other options combining the performance BM with programs such as piano pedagogy, theory-composition or elective studies in journalism, or business also result in the conferring of a single BM diploma.

Program Demands
Students may not expect performance, ensemble, or course requirements to be lessened or modified for an approved double major; the full expectations for each specialty will apply. Scholarship Requirements:  Students who pursue a double performance major and who receive scholarships in two mediums must fulfill the full applied, ensemble, and course requirements pertinent to each.

Double Degree
A double degree is an academic plan when a student earns two separate degrees; the student must complete all major, college and general education requirements for both degrees.  Hours range from 154 hours up.
Examples:  Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science DMAC – Double major across campus (has also been called Inter-College Double Major) – a double major across campus allows a student to complete an academic degree and major in one of the professional colleges (Barton School of Business, College of Education, College of Engineering, College of Fine Arts, College of Health Professions) along with 2nd major in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.  The following criteria and policies apply:

  • The student’s professional college will be their primary college and LAS will be their secondary college.
  • The established degree requirements for each major must be completed; but for the inter-college double major individual courses can be used to satisfy the major requirements of more than one major.
  • Students must complete all graduation requirements (general education, core courses, and college required courses) within their primary college, but are not required to complete all the graduation requirements of their secondary college.  For the second major, students will complete only the major requirements.
  • The diploma will be awarded by the student’s primary college.  The academic department within the student’s secondary college must verify that the student has satisfied the requirements of their major.
  • The student’s academic transcript will indicate both majors.
Student Organizations

Mu Phi Epsilon, Phi Pi Chapter - Dr. Julie Bees, faculty sponsor

Collegiate ACDA - Dr. Ryan Beeken, faculty sponsor

Collegiate NAfME - Dr. Tom Wine, faculty sponsor

Collegiate ASTA - Dr. Tim Jones, faculty sponsor

Teaching Load Information

Load for Teaching Responsibilities
The published teaching load expectation for the university is 12 load hours (maximum).  The School of Music subscribes to NASM guidelines for teaching loads.  Load hours are normally equated with contact hours-per week for class teaching and the direction of ensembles.  Faculty are expected to have a load that amounts to 40 work hours per week.  Teaching and release for creative activities should equal 36 work week hours with the additional 4 work week hours being reserved for service and committee work. 

Activities such as individual faculty performances and recruiting do not receive load credit.  They are acknowledged under categories such as "professional/scholarly/artistic activity" or "service" in annual merit summaries.  They are nevertheless a university expectation.

Exceptions to this policy may be negotiated with the Director of the School of Music, who will then discuss the exception with the Dean of the College of Fine Arts.  The courses in the School of Music fall into four teaching categories based upon their primary instructional focus and each has a different load requirement based upon their instructional delivery: 

  • Musicology/Music Theory (MUSC) and are traditional lecture-based courses.  MUSC course loads are based upon the length of meeting time with two hours of preparation per in-class meeting.  Example:  A course that meets for 3 - 50 minute sessions receives an additional 6 hours of preparation time=9 work week hours or 3 load hours.
  • Music Applied (MUSA) applied music teachers who teach 18 50-minute lessons, with one hour of prep for each lesson, amounts to 36 work week hours.  Weekly master classes, recital preparation, jury preparation, recitals, and juries, are included in the 36 work week hours and are not given extra load. Faculty teaching outside of MUSA will have their loads calculated accordingly so as not to exceed the 36-work week hour maximum.
  • Music Performance (MUSP) courses are experiential, ensemble-based, laboratory, or performance literature courses.  These courses are not classified as lecture-based courses and only receive one hour of preparation per in-class meeting time.  Example:  A course that meets for 4 hours will receive 4 hours of preparation time (8 work week hours).
  • Music Education (MUSE) courses are a combination of technique, laboratory, methods, or lecture courses.  Based upon their instructional purpose and function, some MUSE courses will be given two hours of preparation per meeting time whereas others will be given one hour of preparation per meeting time.  These allocations will be determined in consultation with the Director of the School of Music.

Some special considerations:

  • One-half load hour of credit is acknowledged for each student teacher supervised.
  • Based on general university policy, six separate enrollments in special topics, projects, blue-card classes, or theses, will equal one load hour upon special arrangement with the Director.
  • Release time may be considered for performance in faculty artist ensembles if certain agreed criteria are met.
  • Assigned administrative responsibilities (e.g., Area Coordinator) are considered in assessing over-all faculty load.
Technology, Support, Equipment

Blackboard and Banner
Faculty members are responsible for checking class lists for accuracy. Class lists may be accessed via myWSU; follow the link for Banner Self-Service, then click on Faculty and Advisors.  Any enrollment errors must be corrected promptly. For applied adjunct instructors, enrollment errors may aversely effect pay. Blackboard help may be reached at 1-866-963-5901. 

Office of Instructional Resources:  Training Needs
Teaching, Tools, and Forms and Support (Blackboard, Panopto, etc.)

Technology Support
The information Technology Services Helpdesk answers a wide range of technical questions about the use of WSU services.  They can be reached at 316-978-4357 or Technology Support

  • They are available for repair of University owned computers.
  • Resolve issues with printing to the Konica copier in room C127.

Media Resources Center
The MRC provides services related to media technology, quality instruction, and accessibility.

  • Academic Access and Accommodations
  • Campus Media Services
  • Office of Instructional Resources
  • WSUTV and Video Services
  • Web Services

Please inform the Music office of any issue with classroom equipment.

Copier

    • Copies produced with the School of Music’s copy machine must have a direct relationship to School of Music teaching and business.
    • Indirectly related copying (such as for student, professional, community, or church organizations) and personal faculty copying do not qualify for budget support and may not use the school copy monitor, even though the copying may be associated with interests of the School.
    • Faculty members may operate School of Music copy machines but bear personal responsibility for observing copyright restrictions. Copying should be in accord with Appendix N of Wichita State University Handbook for Faculty, which is based on fair use provisions set forth in the Copyright Act of 1976.
    • The copier will scan items to be sent to a faculty member via WSU email.
    • University owned computers can be networked with the copier so that faculty can print to the copier from their computer.
    • Faculty are encouraged to reduce the need for making copies through providing electronic handouts and assignments.
    • Faculty with printers in their offices are responsible for providing replacement printer cartridges.

Computers and Software
Email

Faculty are required to check email daily on workdays. Sometimes this is the only way to convey important information to the entire faculty and staff. Please respond to emails promptly.

Microsoft Office
Faculty must have a basic grasp of Microsoft Office programs (Word and Excel). The University offers free classes for those who need to learn these programs.

Tenure and Promotion

Tenure and Promotion
Tenure track faculty should refer to the University Policy and Procedures for Faculty, sections 4.18 to 4.26 regarding tenure and promotion for tenure track professors.  The School of Music also includes the following as part the tenure and promotion policy:

  • Assistant professor teaching is observed and reviewed every year by peer faculty.  These reviews are submitted to the Director of the School of Music in the fall semester.
  • Assistant professors are reviewed by the tenure and promotion committee during the third year in the position.  The purpose of this review is to inform candidates of their potential for a successful tenure and promotion review and to provide guidance to the type and quality of materials to be submitted.  Candidates will submit review materials concurrently with those submitted by tenure and promotion candidates.
  • Candidates for tenure and/or promotion must prepare materials to be sent to external reviewers from other peer institutions who will review materials.

Educators and Lecturers
Please refer to University Policy and Procedures regarding promotion for non-tenure track educators sections 4.27 to 4.30.

Applicants must follow the University Tenure and Promotion Calendar.

Travel
Faculty requesting funding for travel are required to fill out this form at least three weeks prior to travel. Travel Request Form
  • The Director will make a decision to approve or deny the travel request. 
  • The Administrative Specialist will enter the information into “Chrome River”, the University travel portal; the faculty member will be sent a link to approve the entry. 
  • If you are using Sunflower Travel, contact Laurie O'Leary for rates and to book your airfare: loleary@sunflowertravel.com, (316) 733-2753
  • If you are requesting airfare and not using Sunflower Travel, you must include two quotes of complete listings from different sites showing that what you are requesting is less than both the sites' lowest rate listed. Here is an example of an acceptable quote.
  • Per Diem rates: Continental US; International; Outside Contiguous US (e.g. Hawaii, Alaska)
  • Receipts are needed for airfare, gasoline, rental cars, hotel, conference registration, parking, turnpike tolls, etc.  Use of personally owned vehicles is reimbursed at a pre-determined mileage rate. 
  • Conference attendees will need to provide an electronic copy of the conference schedule.

WSU Travel Handbook
Information on rental vehicles, meal, lodging, and travel reimbursement, travel agency, and international travel. 

Travel with Student Groups
Faculty will discuss with the Director in advance opportunities for student travel.  Funding may be available from Music Associates and/or School of Music if Director is involved in planning.  A travel form will need to be completed before the trip.

Travel Reimbursement Form

  • To be completed upon your return and submitted with receipts and if applicable, an electronic copy of the conference schedule.
School of Music Contact Information

The School of Music office is open Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, except for state holidays or university closures. 

Office phone number:  (316) 978-3103

Address
WSU School of Music
1845 Fairmount, Box 0053
Wichita, KS  67260-0053