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Certificate of Achievement
Music Technology - Introductory Songwriting and Arranging

This certificate of achievement prepares students for entry-level work in the music industry, or for further study through the study of composing and producing electronic music. Stu-dents will learn aspects of production, composition, synthesis, sampling, effects processing, and workflow within a digital audio workstation (DAW), as well as the tools and techniques needed to create contemporary electronic music in a variety of styles.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

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Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music TechnologyM3.0
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music Technology (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to learn the terminology, equipment, techniques, and concepts of music technology. Focus will be on principles and practices of sound, digital audio, synthesis, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), MIDI sequencing, notation software, and audio recording utilizing hardware and software platforms. Lab activities will place an emphasis on the operation and components of the typical MIDI and digital audio lab (hardware and software). Students will complete independent projects demonstrating hands-on knowledge.

MUS 103 - Music Theory IM3.0
MUS 103 - Music Theory I (3.0 units)

Corequisite:MUS 106
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

Through guided composition and analysis, this course incorporates the following concepts: rhythm and meter; basic properties of sound; intervals; diatonic scales and triads; diatonic chords, basic cadential formulas and phrase structure; dominant seventh; figured bass symbols; and non-harmonic tones. Development of skills in handwritten notation is expected.

MUS 106 - Musicianship IM1.0
MUS 106 - Musicianship I (1.0 units)

Corequisite: MUS 103
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop beginning aural recognition, sight-singing, and dictation skills. It is recommended for all instrumentalists, singers, and composers, and required for all music majors.

MUST 105 - Introduction to the Music BusinessM3.0
MUST 105 - Introduction to the Music Business (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to:CSU

This course is intended for students interested in the music business. It presents an overview of the business and legal aspects of the music industry in order to help students understand the rapid and massive changes caused by the digital music revolution. The course focuses on career possibilities, the development of business-related knowledge and skills necessary for effectively maintaining a professional music career, the vocabulary and terminology of the music industry, and the distinction between music and business at the corporate level. Topics include record contracts, publishing, licensing, marketing, distribution, performances, and copyright. In addition, the duties and responsibilities of musicians, songwriters, lawyers, agents, promoters, publishers, executives, managers, and anyone trying to navigate the rapid transformation of the industry are examined.

Total Semester Units:10.0 
2nd Semester
MUS 104 - Music Theory IIM3.0
MUS 104 - Music Theory II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 103
Corequisite:MUS 107
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts from Music Theory I. In addition, through guided composition and analysis, the course includes an introduction to two-part counterpoint; voice leading involving four-part chorale writing; diatonic harmony; and an introduction to secondary/applied chords and modulation.

MUS 107 - Musicianship IIM1.0
MUS 107 - Musicianship II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 106
Corequisite: MUS 104
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 104 (Music Theory II) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

MUST 115 - Songwriting and Arranging IM3.0
MUST 115 - Songwriting and Arranging I (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 103 and MUST 101
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to learn the process of songwriting. Songs are analyzed using chord structure, form, rhythm, melody, harmony, and lyrics. Original compositions and performances are expected from all students.

MUS 145 - Piano IM1.0
MUS 145 - Piano I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and intended for music majors. Course material includes basic technique and notation, major and minor five finger patterns, major scales, sight reading, and basic chord progressions as they are encountered in beginning piano music.

Total Semester Units:8.0 
Total Units for Music Technology - Introductory Songwriting and Arranging COA program 18.0 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Students will be able to compose original songs and lyrics in specified genres.


2

Students will be able to analyze basic songs in order to identify genre, form, structure, groove, and lyrical elements.


3

Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of how the music business functions and the role of professionals in the industry.


4

Students will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding and practical knowledge of music technology in the areas of music production, studio recording, and live sound reinforcement.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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