Music

OFFICE: Building V, Room 102, 516.572.7446

CHAIRPERSON: Harry Marenstein, Harry.Marenstein@ncc.edu

FACULTY: B. Arendsen, G. Cavallo, J. Golan, H. Marenstein, C. Miley, N. Neal, R. Patane, P. Sheehan, S. Sobolewski.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANTS: D. Ferraro, C. Jusino, S. Locascio

COURSES OFFERED: Music (MUS), Studio Recording Technology (SRT)

The mission of the Music Department is threefold: first, to provide quality instruction in performance, music theory and musicianship, and music history to prepare students pursuing careers in music; second, to provide survey courses in various aspects of music as humanities and general electives for students in other degree programs; third, to serve as a cultural resource center in music for the students and the larger community of Nassau County by sponsoring performing ensembles and presenting concerts.

The following curricula are offered by this Department:

Performing Arts Music (A.A.S.) - A two-year music concentration program that leads to the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree is offered in Performing Arts. The curriculum also is transferable to four-year institutions and closely parallels the first two years of the Bachelor of Music degree. The degree may also lead directly to performance and other careers in the music industry. For acceptance, incoming students are required to audition on their major instrument (or voice) and take a test in written music theory, aural musicianship, and keyboard skills.

A minimum grade of “C” is required in Music Major Classes.

Departmental Requirements for A.A.S. Degree in Performing
Arts - Music:

  1. Four semesters of college-level theory
  2. Four semesters of college-level sight-singing
  3. Four semesters of keyboard harmony
  4. Four semesters of college-level applied music
  5. Four semesters of ensemble (chorus, orchestra, band, or percussion ensemble)
  6. One semester of music literature and one semester of music history
  7. Additional requirements as described under Programs of Study
  8. A minimum grade of “C” is required in Music Major Classes.


Applied Music Courses (a special fee will be charged for all courses.)
Requirements for Applied Music:

  1. Students must be matriculated in a music degree program.
  2. Students are required to perform on at least one recital each semester after reaching the second semester of college level study and also to attend a specified number of recitals and concerts each semester.
  3. Woodwind and brass instrument students must also be enrolled in Band.
  4. String instrument students must also be enrolled in Orchestra.
  5. Voice, keyboard and guitar students must also be enrolled in Chorus.
  6. Percussion students must also be enrolled in Percussion Ensemble.
  7. Students are required to perform a jury exam at the end of each semester of applied music study.
  8. MUS 000 (Applied Music Master Class) is a co-requisite for all applied music courses.
  9. Students in applied music must also be enrolled in music theory unless those requirements have already been met.

Studio Recording Technology (Cert.) - This three-semester program is designed to introduce students to music and recording technology and to provide a broad-based perspective of the music industry. The SRT certificate is designed for those seeking entry-level employment in the recording industry, as well as those wishing to establish independent music recording/production businesses. Classes meet on campus. Internship training will take place at a professional recording, production or equivalent music industry work environment (at an off-campus location).

A minimum grade of “C” is required in Studio Recording Classes.

Facilities for the Music Department include a large performance space available for ensemble rehearsals, performances and recitals; several studios for applied music instruction; and several soundproof practice rooms, each equipped with an upright piano, available for individual practice sessions. The Department also has two piano laboratories, plus a computer laboratory and audio production laboratory that are available for student tutorial work. The Department owns a number of less common and/or larger instruments, which are available for student use. Music classrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems. The Music Department maintains an extensive teaching library of recordings and music scores.

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