mcnally smith viewbook 2013-14

1MSCM Viewbook 2010 – 2013

MSCM Viewbook 2010 – 20132

Dear Prospective Students & Parents,Welcome to McNally Smith College of Music where we share a passion for music and a love for education. Today’s radical changes in the music industry are driving a new model for the well prepared music school graduate. Not everyone will be a star, but a skilled, creative musician who is a tech savvy, shrewd entrepreneur can make a career in music.

Our roots as a school and musical culture are in unison with the growth of the digital age that is setting the direction for the new century. Students learn musicianship, as well as critical and creative thinking, within a contemporary curriculum that spans and connects performance, composition, business, and technology.

This view book showcases the elements that truly prepare our students for success and to realize their full potential in the world of professional music.

Harry ChalmiersPresident, McNally Smith College of Music

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STUDENTS ENJOYING A LECTURE WITHIN THE HISTORY THEATRE AUDITORIUM LOCATED ON CAMPUS

Welcome/Letter from the President

“ I loved working with different musicians and types of music. I didn’t know what I was missing before McNally Smith. The instructors aren’t just good teachers, they’re music industry professionals. They taught me to be independent and seize opportunities: one day I’m a music store manager, the next I’m performing at the Hollywood Bowl.”

Heather Newman, Damas de Jalisco


COMPOSITION STUDENT USING ONE OF MANY MCNALLY SMITH PRACTICE ROOMS ON CAMPUS

The Mission McNally Smith College of Music prepares students for a fulfilling future

in music by providing a culture of learning that inspires creative, intellectual, and personal development, and that enriches our global society through

their artistry and leadership.

The VisionMcNally Smith College of Music is committed to being a premier institution

of higher learning for the musical arts and internationally recognized as such by students, educators, and music professionals.

McNally Smith College of Music recognizes that music is a dynamic art form that reflects the intense cultural currents of globalization and technological advancements. We create new approaches to music teaching and learning and integrate them with traditional practices in a contemporary context to inspire, to broaden, and to connect the musical passions of our students to

a rapidly evolving world.

McNally Smith College of Music provides a comprehensive curriculum that integrates the liberal and musical arts to provide a powerful foundation of knowledge, critical thinking, and professionalism that inspires students to realize and sustain a life in music. Our faculty are experienced academics

and multi-faceted practicing artists who provide highly personalized instruction in technologically advanced facilities.

McNally Smith College of Music nurtures creative expression and experiential learning to cultivate entrepreneurial thinkers and innovators.

A McNally Smith College of Music education prepares students to engage, adapt, and thrive as leaders of change in music and in society.

McNally Smith College of Music is registered as a private institution with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 136A.61 to 136A.71. Registration is not an endorsement of the institution. Credits earned at the institution may not transfer to all other institutions.

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5Mission & Vision/Table of Contents

Table of ContentsTwo Guitarists and a Warehouse 8

Student Life: A City that Rocks… and It’s Affordable 12

A Day in the Life of a Music Business Student 18

Inside the Classroom 20

Your Career in Music Business 22

A Day in the Life of a Music Composition Student 26

Music Composition Majors 28


Your Career in Music Composition 30

A Day in the Life of a Music Performance Student 34

Music Performance Majors 36


Your Career in Music Performance 40

A Day in the Life of a Music Production Student 44

Music Production Majors 46


Your Career in Music Production 50

Hip-Hop Studies 54


Putting it All Together 57

Liberal Arts 57

Visiting Artists Series 57

Faculty Artist Performance Series 57

Student Organizations 57

Career Center 60

Admissions FAQ 62

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(top) MIXING BOARD IN STUDIO 10 AT MSCM / MSCM STUDENT ENSEMBLE PLAYING ON CAMPUS MSCM STUDENT ENSEMBLE PERFORMING IN THE MSCM AUDITORIUM


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(top) VENUE/NIGHTCLUB FIRST AVENUE / STUDENTS PERFORMING AT FIRST AVENUE

Twin Cities/Community & Campus

8 MSCM Viewbook 2010 – 2013

MSCM CAMPUS LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

Two Guitarists and a WarehouseIt all began on Sunday night Feb 9, 1964, at 8 pm when Jack McNally was deeply moved by the boys from Liverpool. He picked up an old Harmony guitar and began learning to play. Later, a nicer guitar, a few lessons, and the sounds of "Rubber Soul" on the radio drove the passion even deeper. As a music major, his time at the University of Minnesota in the early 1970s was both eye opening and frustrating – they did not respect the music he loved.

Eventually Jack found himself teaching guitar in local music stores, as did another young guitarist, Doug Smith. It wasn’t until Jack went searching for a lutenist to play at his wedding that they actually met. Doug asked Jack if he knew any good folk/pop guitar teach-ers, to which Jack replied, “I’m your man.” And so began a working relationship that would one day become the McNally Smith College of Music.

In the meantime, both taught at the MacPhail Center for the Arts for eight years. Both continued to be frustrated by the general disregard for contemporary music. It was this frustration and a desire to give students something better that led them to open the Guitar Center of Minneapolis on Dec. 7, 1985.

Located in the warehouse district, the school started with 130 private lesson students. Over the next decade majors were added, accreditation was granted, and the school grew by leaps and bounds. By 1998 the school was called Music Tech and was bursting at the seams. After two years of searching for more space, the college chose the current campus in Saint Paul and became the McNally Smith College of Music.

“ Today we remain committed to contemporary music education with a real-world emphasis. We both challenge and support our students to become the next generation of innovators and leaders in professional music.”

Jack McNally, Co-founder

“ We were very sure we wanted to take the education of popular musicians seriously, and we set about doing everything possible within our means to create the type of school we ourselves would have liked to attend.” Doug Smith, Co-founder

9Two Guitarists and a Warheouse/Campus & Classrooms

(top) MUSIC PRODUCTION/BUSINESS STUDENTS IN ONE OF THE COMPUTER LABS / FACULTY MEMBER DAVE STANOCH TEACHING A PERCUSSION STUDENTMSCM CAMPUS LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

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(top) CANDYLAND IN DOWNTOWN SAINT PAUL / FARMERS MARKET NEAR MSCM CAMPUS


LANDMARK CENTER NEAR MSCM CAMPUS IN SAINT PAUL

11Twin Cities/Community

(top) WORLD FAMOUS MICKEY'S DINER, MINUTES FROM CAMPUS / MINNEHAHA FALLS

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CAMPUS NEIGHBORS MINNESOTA PUBLIC RADIO, AMERICAN PUBLIC MEDIA BUILDING


Student Life: A City that Rocks… and It’s AffordableSide by side Minneapolis and St. Paul, also known as the Twin Cities, are nationally recognized as hotbeds of contemporary culture. Where else can you hear jazz, urban hip-hop, indie-rock, R&B, soul, funk, or reggae and roots at over 40 clubs every night of the week? There are more theaters and theater companies here than in New York City. Take in a Broadway show, marvel at Shake-spearean stagecraft at the Guthrie, or stimulate your intellectual side with experimental theater, comedy, and improv. Hit the Bryant Lake Bowl where you can dine on organic cuisine, go bowling, and catch an avant-garde cabaret show. Make your move salsa caliente or rave free form at the First Avenue downtown danceteria.

Within blocks of McNally Smith College of Music: • Fitzgerald Theater, directly across from the college, is the

broadcast site for Prairie Home Companion and host to numerous concerts and lectures throughout the year.

• Mears Park, a Lowertown garden oasis, features weekly outdoor concerts and a film series, all free, in the summer and in September.

• Minnesota History Center presents thought provoking exhibits, plays, and free outdoor concerts.

• Minnesota History Theater commissions new works that explore the histories that make up the diverse Minnesota community. The theater collaborated with McNally Smith College of Music to host Jon Stewart and The Daily Show during the 2008 Republican National Convention.

• Minnesota Museum of American Art exhibits themed gallery shows and hosts an outdoor local music series on their patio overlooking the Mississippi River.

• Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is home to the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Opera and regularly features touring shows and concert artists.

• Park Square Theatre produces new works from the stages of New York, London, and the regional theater circuit.

• Penumbra Theatre Company produces professional theater that illuminates the human condition through the prism of the African American experience.

• Schubert Club Museum of Musical Instruments is a huge collec-tion of historical instruments and strings, winds, and percussion from around the world, including a complete Indonesian gamelan.

• Science Museum of Minnesota, located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, presents innovative and interactive exhibits on paleontology, biology, botany, physics, chemistry, and has a state of the art Omni theater.

• Xcel Energy Center presents top contemporary music acts such as R.E.M., Coldplay, Lil' Wayne & Taylor Swift. As well as home to the Minnesota Wild (hockey) & Swarm (lacrosse).

Within the Twin Cities Community: • Target Center is an attractive venue for various activities —

from sports related to amazing music experiences.

• The Guthrie Theater is an American center for theater performance, production, education and professional training.

• First Avenue & 7th Street Entry, considered to be cornerstones of the Midwest music scene, and serves as a landmark of downtown Minneapolis

• Walker Art Center, a contemporary art center, is considered one of the nation's "big five" museums. The Walker is home to one of the nation's top Sculpture Gardens as well.

Check out vita.mn or twincities.com.

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(top) SCULPTURE GARDEN AT WALKER ART CENTER / MINNEAPOLIS PUBLIC LIBRARY

Student Life/Twin Cities Community

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(top) MSCM CAMPUS NEIGHBOR THE FITZGERALD THEATRE / DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS


STATE CAPITAL BUILDING IN DOWNTOWN SAINT PAUL

15Twin Cities/Community

STATE CAPITAL BUILDING IN DOWNTOWN SAINT PAUL (top) WALKER ART CENTER IN UPTOWN / ORDWAY CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS IN ST. PAUL


PETER REMIGER USING THE SSL MIXING BOARD IN STUDIO 1 AT MSCM(top) INSTRUCTOR SHON PARKER TEACHING MUSIC THEORY / STUDENTS ON MSCM CAMPUS

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FACULTY PERFORMANCE IN THE MSCM AUDITORIUM

Campus & Classrooms


(background) DANAMI PERFORMING / (01.) DANAMI PERFORMING WITH ENSEMBLE / (02.) DANAMI IN STUDIO 2 LISTENING TO THE MIX

A Day in the Life of a

Maurice ChampionDetroit, Michigan

YEAR: JuniorMAJOR: Music BusinessOTHER: Danami (Rapper), Designer, Video Director & Editor

MUSICAL INSPIRATIONS: Nas, Jay-Z, Rhymefest & Lupe Fiasco

'' MUSIC IS MUCH MORE THAN A LIFESTYLE,"SAYS MAURICE, WALKING THROUGH THE HALLS OF MCNALLY SMITH COLLEGE OF MUSIC, "IT'S MY WAY OF LIFE, I KNOW – NO OTHER."

Since 3rd Grade, Maurice has been rapping, writing lyrics, and producing beats. His passion has been to create "socially conscious, ear friendly music – that makes the listener think." He became a staple in the Detroit hip-hop scene before coming to McNally Smith College of Music to pursue his degree in Music Business.

Maurice came to McNally Smith because the institution offered certain top business classes that would aid his development and career. He toured the campus and noticed the hands on training and in depth knowledge of the Music Business faculty.

Going to school full-time, working and recently releas-ing his full-length mixtape, Maurice immerses himself in music from his first class in the morning until his studio session at midnight. He says, "You just get used to the lifestyle of working hard to succeed."

6:45 – 8:20AM Hello World! Wake up, take a shower, eat some breakfast and take care of any last minute concerns before heading off to class. Big day ahead of me, working on so many projects including certain things for my mixtape Success is Intentional.

8:30 – 9:25AM Music Theory II Michael Menard is an awesome teacher. I like being able to relate with teachers in a more personal manner. Music Theory isn't really my strongest area at the moment, but the small classes and teacher make it so much easier to comprehend and learn.

9:30 – 10:25AM Ear Training III used to make beats all the time with just a laptop and a MIDI controller, but have never been classically trained, so this class is very intriguing to me to start identifying chords, sounds, keys; differences between majors and minors, and recognizing that all by ear. My understanding of sound in general and arrangement of key and pitch has increased dramatically.

10:30 - 11:55AM Work StudyI am a student worker in the MSCM print center and work with the Creative Director and Designers of the college itself, they teach me design, branding, marketing and so on – which I have a real passion for; so on my downtime I like to edit/produce videos, design, and make myself as much of a well rounded professional in all aspects that I can. Right now I am finishing up a video edit and press kit for my mixtape.

12:30 – 1:30PM Business LawThis class is something every musician should take. There is so much knowledge to learn and so many misconceptions to unlearn about certain laws within business. Today we discussed the concept of Agent & Principle relation and their respective roles towards client and industry – and relationship in general in respect to one another.

1:30 – 5:25PM Editing Videos, working on Mixtape Conitinuing my process from Lunch, almost finished with the first of three videos from Success is Intentional. I am also getting design and collateral ready for the Hip-Hop Organization that I run, we meet later today and have an open mic night, so its my job to make sure that all things get taken care of and are ready to rock.

5:30 – 7:30PM H20 - Hip-Hop Organization We had 80 people show up tonight including President Harry Chalmiers! This was one of our best turnouts and best open mic nights yet, so many good performers came out and did their thing!

8:00PM – 12:00AM Studio sessionWent into the Lab to work on some new material for upcoming projects that I have in the works. I really enjoy the setup McNally Smith has, I feel like I can get in a studio anytime I want, there are so many to chose from! Tonight we were in Studio 2 which is my personal favorite, had good vibes and the tracks that got layed down proved that as well.

12:30AM Sleep or Late-night HomeworkTime to get a little bit of shut eye before we get up and do this all over again tomorrow, Good Night World!

01. 02.

Music Business Student

19Music Business Student/Program Highlights

(top) FACULTY MEMBER ASHLY BEW TEACHING BUSINESS LAW / LARRY LUCIO

Progressive Media GroupFrom the birth of music publishing to the explosion of digital income streams, the music in-dustry is constantly evolving new and radical mod-els of how money is made. McNally Smith's cutting edge curriculum is informed by today’s dynamic developments in marketing, licensing, publishing, and digital distribution. Students are grounded with an extensive knowledge of copyright and contract law, royalty streams, artist’s rights, and consumer issues. Running their own music and media company gives students experience with independent labels and direct marketing, teaching them the unique entrepreneurial skills needed to discover opportunities today and take the lead tomorrow.

Training the Next Generation of Music ExecutivesA solid business education, including basic music industry operations, combined with critical thinking and leadership skills, prepares students for a career in entertainment business. Students get practical experience working with artists by promoting concerts and working with the college’s music and media company. Students pursue internships throughout the music community in Los Angeles, New York City, and Nashville via McNally Smith’s inside track with the industry’s leading entrepreneurs.

Program Highlights • Analysis of the $30 billion/year music industry • Copyright, intellectual property and contract law • Traditional vs. new models in production,

distribution, and marketing • Artist management • Finance and managerial accounting • Business ethics • Economics • Student-run music and media company • Branding and marketing

Degrees • Bachelor of Arts in Music (Music Business)

(minors available in music production, music composition, or music performance)

• Associate of Applied Science in Music Business

For more information on degree and diploma programs, visit mcnallysmith.edu/academics.

Realizing a Life in Music“ There is an impressive network of McNally Smith alumni in the music industry. My predecessor at Universal was a McNally Smith college grad. So was the Interscope representative who worked with me.” Larry Lucio, McNally Smith graduate, cofounded the Annual Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop. Hear him speak about the program’s goals and successes on YouTube.com, “4th Annual Twin Cities Celebration of Hip Hop.”


“DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION WITH TOM KENNY” ANDRE FISCHER DISCUSSES DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION WITH MIX MAGAZINE EDITOR TOM KENNY AT AN ARTIST & INDUSTRY SEMINAR

Inside the ClassroomMusic EconomicsThe McNally Smith music business curriculum is based on understanding traditional and new revenue sources for music as an art and a commodity. Courses explore all aspects of performing rights, publishing contracts, royalty streams, markets, and merchandising, including the impact of digital distribution. In light of today’s global economy we offer courses on international music business, interna-tional marketing, and international copyright and contract law.

Business Savvy & Supporting TechnologiesStudents learn finance and accounting, business analysis, and management methodologies for setting goals, self assessment, and team building, with a special emphasis on communication skills. Courses in tour, artist, and venue management show how to apply business basics to the entertainment industry. Our students are required to become proficient in using a lap top, software, and other technologies, such as web design and podcasting, that are critical to contemporary enterprise.

Internships The McNally Smith College of Music Career Center has more than 100 companies who participate in our internship program as mentor organizations.

Hear McNally Smith students talk about their internship experiences at The Urban Network Magazine (music industry media), SESAC (performing rights organization), Cube Vision Productions (produc-tion company), Interscope Records, and The Firm (entertainment and intellectual property law) on McNally Smith’s YouTube page: youtube.com/mcnallysmith or McNally Smith's iTunes U site.

A Dave Olson on the "Wild West"

Realizing a Life in Music“ Where do I even start? I love Los Angeles, seriously. It seems like I’m learning more and more each day about the music business and in turn, myself.” Joel Cooper, from his blog about his internship at The Firm.

"At one of our artist and industry seminars, Tom Kenny, editor of MIX magazine, referred to today’s music market as the 'Wild West.' Artists today need to have the ability and agility to go directly to the music con-sumer, bypassing traditional channels. That’s what we’re preparing our students to do. We’re constantly revamp-ing the content of each class to reflect the amazing changes taking place in the industry. As instructors, we are searching for signals that help us predict what new directions the industry is heading. More than that, we have to train our graduates to be increasingly entrepre-neurial and aware of changes in the market that are coming at an ever increasing speed." Dave Olson teaches in the Music Business and Music Production departments.

21Music Business: Inside the Classroom/Meet Ron Sobel

STUDENTS SOCIALIZING IN THE MAIN HALLWAY OF MSCM

ScholarshipsThe Conclave Music Business Scholarship is an award of $4000 per semester, for up to four semesters, presented to a McNally Smith College music business applicant every academic year. The Founders Scholarship awards up to $1000 per semester to a student who exhibits exceptional abilities and demonstrates financial need.

Admissions Requirements • High school transcript • Two letters of recommendation • Immunization records • SAT or ACT scores (Bachelor of Arts applicants only)

G Meet Ron Sobel, Chair of Music BusinessAn entertainment attorney and media executive, Mr. Sobel spent 14 years with ASCAP in Los Angeles and has been hailed as a “futurist” for his innovations in the music business. As president and founder of North Star Media, Mr. Sobel provided consulting services and artist repre-sentation while acquiring gold and platinum songwriter publishing catalogues including songs recorded by Bruce Hornsby, Rod Stewart, Cher, and Bonnie Raitt. He is the author of several nationally published articles on the music business, as well as the recently-released book "Music Publishing: The Roadmap to Royalties." A frequent lecturer and keynote speaker, Ron is a leading expert on topics relating to New Media revenue issues and other cutting-edge industry topics.


(top) ROBIN FERGUSON AT ELECTRONIC ARTS OFFICES / CAN AZIZOGLU AT EMI MUSIC IN GERMANY

Your Career in Music BusinessMusic Business Careers • Artist Manager • Booking Agent • Post Production/Television Producer • Music Publisher • Touring/Recording Artist • Internet/Media Marketing & Promotion Specialist • Music and Video Distribution and Sales Coordinator/Analyst • Concert/Event Promoter • Intellectual Property Licensing Agent • Arts and Entertainment Writer/Editor • Product Manager • Digital Content Manager

B Robin Ferguson, Electronic Arts, New York City

Joe Weum, from his blog about his internship at Alan Ett Music Group“ I just finished my second week at Alan Ett Music Group. The best thing so far was that I got to sit in on a spotting session and an editing session for the Modern Marvels episode on lead. Alan Ett Music Group and Opus 1 provide music for a number of well-known networks such as The Discovery Channel, History Channel, NBC and so on! The music editors down here are amazingly fast! If you want to work in the music/entertainment industry, this is where it’s at.”

Success Stories Adam Ruehmer, 2007, Music Business, Marketing/New Media for Linkin Park

Dan Goldstein, 2005, Music Business, Royalty Assistant for Peer Music, Inc. Nicole Naumann, 2001, Music Business, National Accounts Coordinator for Universal Music Distribution

Tim Kiser, 2004, Music Business, Business Analysis Coordinator for Universal Music Group Distribution

Warren Griffin, 2007, A.A.S. Music Business, Director of New Media for Urban Network

B Can Azizoglu (EMI Music, Germany)“ My studies at McNally Smith College of Music provided the basis for my success in the music industry. While some claim a formal education or degree is not necessary for success in music, I know that the talented, experienced faculty helped me develop and take advantage of relationships with important people in the industry. Working in EMI’s Marketing and A&R Department is incredible, and I know I am here thanks to McNally Smith.”

“ McNally Smith College of Music helped get me an internship that developed into a distribution job at Universal Music Group, the world’s biggest music company. I worked with a roster of artists including Nelly, Common, Rascal Flatts, and The Killers, and even earned a few gold records. My skills transferred easily to the software gaming industry. At Electronic Arts I handle sales analysis for popular games like Madden NFL, NBA Live, Need For Speed, The Sims, and Bond. McNally Smith opened the doors to a great career.”

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(above) BRIAN NAGAN / (top right) CHARLES GEHR DISCUSSING REVENUE STREAMS (bottom right) MUSIC BUSINESS CLASS DISCUSSING COVER ARTWORK

Your Career in Music Business

(top) ROBIN FERGUSON AT ELECTRONIC ARTS OFFICES / CAN AZIZOGLU AT EMI MUSIC IN GERMANY

Realizing a Life in Music“ I considered all the available options. McNally Smith College of Music was my choice for a Music Business degree. It could not have gone better. I got an excellent education and the specific tools needed for this industry. I like to say that McNally Smith made me a rockstar.” Brian Nagan, 2005, Music Business


PERFORMANCE IN MSCM AUDITORIUM(top) STUDENTS IN A MUSIC THEORY CLASS / STUDENT PERFOMING AT MSCM

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BASS PERFORMANCE STUDENT REHEARSING

Campus & Classrooms


(background) GRADUATION CEREMONY REHEARSEL / (01.) JARON CONDUCTING AN IN-STUDIO SESSION / (02.) JARON PERFORMING A PIANO CONCERT

Jaron PaigeKawkawlin, Michigan

YEAR: Recent alumnusMAJOR: B.M., Songwriting & Composition

MUSICAL INSPIRATIONS: Steve Reich, Dave Matthews Band, Maurice Ravel, Claude Debussy, and Brahms, to name a few.

" MY DAD PLAYED GUITAR AROUND ME FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER. I WOULD SAY IT'S TOTALLY HIS INFLUENCE THAT FIRST SET THIS DREAM AND PASSION IN MY SOUL."

Jaron's earliest memory of composing was around the time he was 5. While the other kids went off to play tag in the basement, he sat in a room by himself for hours playing on this very basic keyboard, seeing what the different buttons did and what sounds he could make. He was enamored by its possiblities.

Jaron was originally a Guitar Performance major. Toward the end of his 4th semester and after many nights of being frustrated and giving up practicing scales to go write songs, he realized what "HE SHOULD" do was what he was doing without being given an assignment — write music. Since then, he has been cre-ating compositions daily. When he made the switch, a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders, and from then, he has never looked back. "My teachers showed me very exciting concepts and techniques that I grabbed ahold of right away!"

8:00AM Wake Up! I live about a mile and a half from school, and I rely on public trans-portation. That means I can't wake up 5 minutes before class, roll out of bed, and somehow make it to class on time while still half asleep. I have to catch the bus by 9:30am and if I miss that, it's roughly a 30 minute walk to school. If I manage to get to school early enough, I head up to the McNally Cafe to grab my first (sometimes second) coffee for the day.

10:00 – 10:55AM Orchestration I This class plunges me head first into the instruments and sounds I love. Taught by composer and orchestrator Joseph Adams, I get to learn all about ranges, timbre, and special uses for instruments like the violin, flute, trumpet, and obscure percussion like the woodblock. Hopefully everyone likes my project for today and my sheet music is up to Joe's standards.

11:00AM – 12:30PM Western Art Music History IIWe learn the history of Western music, from the Classical Period to the Romantic Period and all the way to early 20th Century music. There is an intense essay and listening quiz every two weeks, two con-cert reviews due this semester, and two ten page research papers. In retrospect, I probably learned and retained more from this class than any other, and I'm very glad I took it.

12:30 - 12:55PM Lunch!Ahhhh my first break of the day. Just enough time to haul all my gear upstairs to the Cafe and grab a quick bite to eat. I'll be at school until midnight so I'd better eat something filling. Grab another coffee perhaps?

1:00 – 2:55PM Songwriting IVI've moved beyond form, basic lyric contruction, and commission writing, and now with this class we're learning extended techniques. Things like non-Western scales, multiphonics, atonality, twelve-tone systems, and musique concrete.

3:00 – 3:55PM Keyboard for Non-Majors IV My last semester of taking piano! I'm required to know scales, chords, and inversions for both hands in 12 keys, new classical pieces each week, walking bass for blues and jazz pieces, and accompaniment for several different styles of music. At the end of the semester we're having a recital. I barely have the time to practice, but somehow I make it work.

4:00 – 5:30PM Break No. II Finally another chance to sit down and breathe. I'll grab something from the Cafe again or maybe walk down the street to Subway or Jimmy John's.

5:00 – 7:00PM Intro to Music Technology IThis is my favorite class this semester. J Allen teaches us all about using Ableton Live and gives us different projects that involve remix, music creation using sounds we record, and the coolest one which was our final, where we had to create a 4-minute track using only 10 samples he gave us. I had a lot of fun staying up late working on these projects in Ableton.

8:00 – 12:00AM WorkI work at the front desk of McNally to pay the bills while I'm a student. It's my responsibility to make sure guests sign in, to answer the phone when people call, and to do various other office projects my boss has for me. It's pretty relaxed at night so a lot of times I'll spend my 4 hours here working on homework. After, take the bus home and get ready to do it all again tomorrow!

01. 02.

" Our singular goal is to help each student become the best artist they can possibly be."

A Day in the Life of aMusic Composition Student

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STUDENTS IN A COMPOSITION CLASS / WRITING SHEET MUSIC

Music Composition Student/Program Highlights

Traditional Training & Innovative TechnologyMcNally Smith College of Music offers one of the most forward thinking and open minded programs in music composition and songwriting available anywhere. We prepare you for the realities of an increasingly complex future by building your confidence and familiarity with the essential tools of the art: the right and left sides of the brain, the pencil and paper, the laptop, the keyboard, the voice, the rehearsal studio, the digital cinema mixing studio, and the concert stage. In addition to musical theory, arranging, creative writing, and or-chestration, our leading edge curriculum includes laptop remixing, deejaying, rap, and spoken word.Our expert faculty of composers, arrangers, orchestrators, producers, and remixers offers a unique alternative to the student composer seeking to be immersed in a creative atmosphere. Emphasis is on inspiration, dedication, collabora-tion, professionalism, courage, and learning how to best present your work to the world.

Program Highlights • Songwriting and lyrics • Instrumental and ensemble writing • Orchestration • Laptop remixing • Linear and non-linear compositional technology • Cross-departmental curriculum in hip-hop music

Degrees • Bachelor of Music in Composition

(minors available in music business, music performance, or music production)For more information on degree and diploma programs, visit mcnallysmith.edu/academics.

Sample GenresAlternative RockBluesClassical/New MusicClassic RockCountryDrum & BassDeep HouseDigital CinemaDubstepExperimentalFolkGaming/Animation

GlitchHip-hopJazzMetalMinimalist TechnoNeoPunkNeoSoulPopSpiritualSpoken WordTranceUrban Acoustic


COMPOSITION & HIP-HOP STUDENT SPINNING RECORDS FOR SAMPLES / MUSIC THEORY CLASS

Music Composition MajorsSongwriting & Performance PoetrySongwriting fuses the art of poetry with the art of music, emphasizing literature, the importance of narrative, and the elements of spoken language that influence lyric writing. Hip-hop specific courses in rap and spoken word sharpen lyrical skills. Spoken word performance encourages collaboration with various types of musical accompaniment and regular public exposure.

Sound for Moving ImageStudents study visual analysis, the history of visual storytelling, and the latest technologies for applying audio to digital cinema, motion graphics, web design, dance performance, and theater. Our curriculum includes using artificial intelligence and laptop computers as composing, production, and virtual collaboration tools. Students learn both timeline-based tools, such as Logic Pro composition and production software, and non-linear tools, such as Ableton Live real time composition and sound design software.

Instrumental Writing & ProductionStudents explore the many specific techniques for ensemble writing: from string quartet to blues band to full orchestra to ensembles of their own design. The curriculum includes the production and mixing expertise needed to be a successful and self-sufficient music profession-al. By using the most realistic sounding symphonic sample instruments available, along with the most progressive composer oriented software (such as Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Finale), students can hone, experiment with, tweak, and remix their compositions under the experienced guidance of our faculty before either trying them out with live ensembles or finishing them as master quality recordings.

Inside the ClassroomSongwriting & Compositional TechniquesStudents explore the art and craft of music composition, starting with a solid understanding of classic compositional structures. Simultaneously they open their mind and ears through exposure to great works from a vast variety of genres.

Film & Video ScoringThe field of film and video scoring has been going through an exciting revolution in the last decade. The role and responsibility of the compos-er for moving image has widened in its scope as the ability to compose the score, edit the story, design the sound, and fix the color balance are more expansive than ever. Today this can all be done on one laptop under the shade of a tree! The importance of knowing how music, sound, and image work together to shape a story however, has remained constant. Our approach at McNally Smith is rooted in the fundamentals of good composition and design and is enhanced by the thrill of originality.

Music Theory & AnalysisMusic composition draws from the realms of musical vocabularies, time, space, and tone color. By analyzing the interplay of these elements in significant compositions from western and global musical genres and traditions, students learn how to apply these concepts to their own compositions.

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COMPOSITION TEACHER CHRIS CUNNINGHAM / COMPOSTION/HIP-HOP INSTRUCTOR DESSA

Composition Majors/Meet Chris/Meet Dessa

A Meet Dessa, Hip-Hop InstructorDessa is a published writer, an award-winning musician, a proud member of the Doomtree crew, and a vibrant teacher in the McNally Smith composition department. As a rapper, she’s had the opportunity to share stages with KRS One, the Wu-Tang Clan, Wyclef Jean, and Craig Finn of the Hold Steady. As a writer and spoken word poet, she is the recipient of the Jerome/SASE grant and a regular contributor to Spin magazine’s online book forum. As a businesswoman, Dessa has helped to position Doom-tree as one of the most exciting and ascendant crews in underground hip-hop. She tours nationally, performing her work at schools, clubs, and concert halls. Dessa is eager and honored to share what she has learned from her career in independent music – to foster the skills and the ethos that will help emerging talent find success.

A Meet Chris Cunningham, Music Composition Department Head

Chris has collaborated on stages and in studios (around the world) with Marianne Faithfull, The Contortions, The Lounge Lizards, Gavin Friday, Boukman Eksperyans, Omar Farouk Tekbilek, Katell Keineg, The Golden Palimi-nos, Marshall Crenshaw, Richie Havens, and The Saqqara Dogs. In 1998 he released his first solo CD, "Stories To Play," which earned international critical praise. Since moving to the Twin Cities from NYC in 2002, Chris has continued to branch out further into composing for mov-ing pictures, producing other artists, and adding laptop VJing to his long list of “axes of choice.” His multimedia remix ensemble Improvised Explosive Device regularly detonates its experiments in area clubs and festivals. He recently composed and designed the soundtrack for the horror feature "The Hagstone Demon." Chris teaches in and heads the Composition Department at McNally Smith College of Music.

Admissions Requirements • High school transcript • Two letters of recommendation • Audition • Demo CD, DVD, or MP3s • Immunization records • SAT or ACT scores


DAVE HEUER WITH HIS GRAMMY® / TIM BJORKMAN AT MEDIA CITY, HOLLYWOOD

Your Career in Music CompositionMusic Composition Careers • Composer/Sound Designer for Digital Cinema or TV, Dance, Theater,

Multimedia Performance, Animation, Gaming, Motion Graphics, Web Design, Advertising, or Instrumental Ensembles/Bands

• Music Supervisor for Digital Cinema or TV • Arranger/Orchestrator for Digital Cinema or for other composers • Lyricist • Performing Songwriter • Songwriter for other artists • Performing Poet/Spoken Word Artist • Composer/Remixer • Composition Teacher

B David Heuer, Latin Grammy® Winner" McNally Smith College of Music gave me an amazing base of knowledge, allowing me to walk into any studio in the world, feel comfortable right away and make some great music. I owe my success so far to a great beginning at McNally Smith.”

Dave Heuer's internship at New River Studios in Ft. Lauderdale led to a three- year staff position that included sessions with Rod Stewart, Nine Days and Jessica Simpson. He then moved to the Hit Factory in Miami, where he worked with a long list of recording artists including Celine Dion, Ricky Martin, Ziggy Marley, Carlos Vives, Lionel Ritchie, Missy Elliot, Tweet, Busta and Timbaland.

B Tim Bjorkman, Media City, Hollywood" While out here I’ve met quite a few amazing people. One who has been a huge inspiration, great friend, and incredible blessing is Gavyn Rhone. Gavyn is an accomplished vocalist and has been in the industry as a signed artist for eight years. He has taken me to a studio where Neo and Brandy did a lot of their first work. That has led to me being invited to come in and write with them at this studio! What an incredible opportunity!” Tim Bjorkman, from his blog about his internship at Media City

Realizing a Life in Music “ I work with the marvelous Susan Ranta at Universal Music Group/Silverlake Records. We clear new music for everyone from Beyonce to Joe Plummer. I have also had the opportunity to write songs for many artists and projects, major and minor. I somehow end up doing a ton of studio vox, too. It’s a good time out here!”

Olaf Thomsen, 2006, Music Business, Emphasis in Songwriting

31

ZACK CARROLL AT A "THIS WORLD FAIR" GIG / (top right) COMPOSITION STUDENT SCORING STUDENT W. ZACHARY TAYLOR ATTHE PIANO

Your Career in Music Composition

Realizing a Life in Music“ My education at McNally Smith trained me to be where I am today. Studying different styles, training my ear, and learning about the music business on the side has given me a tremendous advantage in the industry.” Zack Carroll, 2005, This World Fair, EMI/Rethink Records

Realizing a Life in Music“ The education and network I am building at McNally Smith is already putting me ahead of the pack. The opportunities I have had at this college are proving to be invaluable, and are key as I create my dream career in the music industry”

W. Zachary Taylor, Student


STUDENTS IN AN EAR TRAINING CLASS USING THE KEYBOARDS(top) ENSEMBLE PERFORMING IN AUDITORIUM / NATE BROWN

Realizing a Life in Music“ From every state in the U.S. to the National Theater of Taipei, from Broadway pit orchestras to Manhattan clubs, I can trace every gig, every step, back to the halls of this college and the fine instructors that helped me get where I am.” Nate Brown, Recording/Touring Artist & Freelance Performer (natebrown.org)

33

VOCAL STUDENT PERFORMING RECITAL

Campus & Classrooms


(01.) ANNA WITH MUSIC THEATRE ENSEMBLE / (02.) ANNA SINGING AT O'GARA'S WITH THE DAMN SKIPPIES

Anna ChristyLincoln, Nebraska

YEAR: SophomoreMAJOR: Vocal Performance

MUSICAL INSPIRATIONS: Jason Mraz, A Fine Frenzy, Barbara Streisand, Natalie Cole

" SINGING AND PERFORMING ARE DEEPLY ROOTED WITHIN ME, I AM EXTREMELY PASSIONATE ABOUT BEING HAPPY AND DOING WHAT I LOVE!"

Anna Christy was born and raised in Lincoln, NE, where she was highly involved in choir, band, and drama. After attending a university in Oklahoma and one in Nebraska, she moved to Saint Paul and is happy to now call it home. Anna's been involved in R&B ensemble, Gospel Choir, and the first ever theater ensemble at McNally Smith. She's been able to perform around the Twin Cities at the Townhouse, The Times Bar and Café, O'Gara's Bar and Grill, and Mears Park.

When she's not wandering the halls or dreaming of being on Broadway, she can be found in the MSCM bookstore selling Mountain Dews and Snickers to sleep deprived musicians.

7:45 – 8:45AM I am not a morning person... Wake up, hit snooze, go back to sleep. Wake up again, shower, get ready. Pack everything I need for the day, grab some breakfast, and head to school.

9:00 – 10:25AM Music Interpretation I This is one of my favorite classes, so it's a really good way to start the day. Erin Schwab has been working with us on monologues, solo songs, and group scenes. It's been very helpful with movement, working with a group of people, and really feeling what you're singing about, all things you must do onstage, no matter what genre of music you're performing.

10:30 – 12:45PM Work/LunchI love working in the MSCM bookstore because it's a great way to meet everyone in the school and it's a lot of fun. I have enough time after work to get a bit to eat in the café.

1:00 - 1:55PM Desktop Music PublishingIn this class Pete Whitman shows us the ins and outs of Finale (a music notation program). It has already proved to be very useful when I've needed to make charts for other projects I'm working on.

2:00 – 2:55PM Sight Reading and Repertoire IIIWe've been focusing on sight reading pieces for choral groups, and it's been pretty challenging. We've also been working on transcriptions and sight reading rhythms.

3:00 – 3:55PM Practice I take this time to get a practice room and go over lyrics for music interp, learn my parts for ensemble, warm up for my upcoming voice lesson, etc.

4:00 – 4:55PM Technique III/Voice Lesson I'm taking a directed study with Jen Parker for technique, but it's doubling as a voice lesson. We've been working on a lot of technique exercises and also the repertoire I'll be performing for my sophomore jury. I find this class to be one of the most frustrating because it takes a lot of time and practice, but it is also one of the most rewarding.

5:00 – 7:00PM Homework/DinnerIf I'm able to, I'll try to get some friends together and hit up the studio, but this time is usually spent doing homework and getting some dinner.

7:30 – 11:30PM Band RehearsalA few semesters ago I was in a creative ensemble and we all had so much fun that we decided to stay together. We meet once a week to go over our material and learn new songs. Sometimes after rehearsal the band will head to a restaurant to get some grub, have a drink, and just relax a little!

12:00AM – ?? Homework/SleepI head home after band practice and finish up any homework I wasn't able to do during the day. I'll usually watch some television with my roommates, we'll chat about our days, and then it's "Pip pip! Off to bed!"

01. 02.

A Day in the Life of aMusic Performance Student

35

STUDENTS PERFORMING IN MSCM AUDITORIUM

Music Performance Student

Depth of Music KnowledgeThe music performance curriculum nurtures the performer’s aptitude and self confidence while building the real-life skills needed to succeed in a professional career. Performance students complete a core program that emphasizes a strong foundation in music fundamentals, including harmony, sight-reading, and repertoire – from classical to rock, to jazz and funk to blues and hip-hop. Music theory classes are organized by instrument so that students can apply theory directly to performance, interpretation, and developing professional-level improvisational skills.

TechniqueClasses at McNally Smith are small (approx. 10-14 students per class) for more personal, hands-on in-struction tailored to individual learning needs and focus. The performance curriculum emphasizes the aural skills needed for excellent intonation, relative pitch, rhythmic accuracy, and timing. A progressive system of performance venues, on campus and within the community, supports student's development as a polished professional.

Program Highlights • Music history, contemporary music literature,

sight singing, & ear training • Artist & Industry seminars • Applied theory classes organized by

major instrument • Ensembles with performance opportunities

on & off campus • Cross departmental performance training

for studio and stage • Liberal arts and business classes that

emphasize preparing for a life in music

Degrees • Bachelor of Music in Performance

(minors available in music business, music composition, or music production)

• Associate of Applied Science in Music (Performance)

Diploma • Music Performance Course (1 Year Program)


Creative ExpressionEverything about making music — performance, promotion, recording, distribution, listening — is changing. Music today is technology based, global, and immediate. Entrepreneurs are ruling the industry, bypassing the old ways of doing business. Creative expression means finding a creative voice through both artistry and promotion and distribution. A McNally Smith education focuses on building a career. The classes and seminars expose students to the latest technologies and industry trends. Sophisticated music projects provide opportunities for students to perform in video, time based media, gaming, TV, film, themed CDs, and commercial applications. Business classes and seminars alert students to the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.


LAUREN REDPATH / JUDI DONAGHY (DEPARTMENT HEAD OF VOICE) PERFORMS WITH BOBBY MCFERRIN IN AN ARTIST IN INDUSTRY CLASS

Music Performance MajorsVoiceThe McNally Smith voice faculty brings decades of formal voice training and music industry experience to the classroom. Voice majors embark on a process of developing their talents and musicianship. Students study a wide variety of vocal styles from classical and musical theater to popular music styles of the 20th and 21st centuries. Students receive numerous opportunities to sing – on stage, in the classroom, in the studio, and at local venues. Curriculum includes classes in vocal technique, vocal improvisation, vocal ensemble, and vocal pedagogy with emphasis on reading development and diction.

Student Showcases“We do lots of student showcases at O'Gara's and the Sound Bite Café on Tuesday evenings with voice faculty member Lori Dokken. Students can sign up for a one hour showcase and get a chance to perform an hour’s worth of material in a professional setting,” says Judi Donaghy, who heads the Voice Department. Some of the many opportunities to perform also include McNally Smith Emerging Artist Series Venue Nights where student ensembles take the stage and play to public and student audiences.

Brass & WoodwindsMcNally Smith’s Brass & Woodwinds curriculum covers the full range of exciting musical styles. Art music and commercial music are taken very seriously as potential career tracks. Students are immersed in great jazz and classical repertoire as well as the tunes made famous by rock and blues icons. A faculty of extraordinary players provides great instruction. Their experience includes performing with a long list of notables from Prince to the Minnesota Orchestra. Through classroom experience, one-on-one training, and public performances students develop the skills and confidence needed to launch a successful career in music. Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello)Typically a college string program (violin, viola, cello) is rooted in the classical world. Repertoire is classical in nature: students play in the symphony, a string quartet, or a chamber ensemble, and pretty much follow a regimen that has existed for many, many decades. The string program at McNally Smith College of Music offers training in alternative styles to classical music and prepares students to make a living in the world of contemporary music. This includes not only the ability to play authentically in many different styles on their violin, viola, or cello, but to improvise, read lead sheets and voice chords, arrange, play in a variety of ensembles, and learn the business of music. If you want to swing, rock out, and jam on your violin, viola, or cello, McNally Smith is the place to come!

A Lauren Redpath, Recording/Touring Artist & Songwriter

“ I received exceptional training from the faculty at McNally Smith. I gained the skills I needed to work in my field. I learned a lot about my voice and I found myself sounding better everyday. I didn’t know what I could do until I attended McNally Smith College of Music.” (laurenredpath.com)

37Music Performace Majors

TWO-TIME MN MUSIC AWARD WINNER ALICIA WILEY / BASSIST VICTOR BRODEN

GuitarWhat makes one guitarist different from the rest? McNally Smith's professional educators from the music industry have crafted a curriculum that develops natural talent, style, and unique creativity, as well as the versatility needed to be successful as a professional player. The guitar curriculum blends technique, technology, and artistry in small classes that provide personal attention and interaction. Beyond the classroom, students perform in college ensembles and venture into the studio and the Twin Cities music community for live performances.

KeyboardToday, technology has given the keyboardist new, creative tools. There are tremendous opportunities exist for keyboard players with a command of their instruments and the ability to work in a broad range of styles. The McNally Smith curriculum develops proficiency as a player and digital music practitioner with an emphasis on the necessary sight-reading skills needed in the studio and on the road. Classes focus on creating arrangements on the keyboard while developing individual performance, ensemble playing, and accom-paniment abilities. Classes in MIDI systems let students harness the power of contemporary music production software to their expertise as keyboard professionals.

BassFor students with the courage, drive, and perseverance to become great bass players, McNally Smith provides a unique and individual-ized learning opportunity. The comprehensive bass curriculum utilizes the electric and upright bass in a variety of musical genres, from jazz to rock, and country to funk. Emphasis is placed on sight-reading and interpretive skills, both stylistically and musically. Graduates of this program are ready to perform professionally on stage or in the studio.

PercussionThe percussion program prepares students for a career as drum-set players in the competitive music scene. Expand musical horizons and increase your musical skill, knowledge, and versatility while network-ing for success in the music industry. Percussion Department Head and long-time drummer for the Steve Miller Band, Gordy Knudtson says, “Drummers create and reinforce the rhythmic foundation upon which music is built. Their performance can make or break a band. The successful ones can lay down an authentic feel with a dynamic, emotional energy that makes music exciting, compelling, and memorable.”

A Alicia Wiley, Recording/Performing Artist, Minnesota Music Award winner 2004, 2006

“ McNally Smith helped mold me into the player I am today. The instructors showed me a level of professionalism that continues to inspire me and allow me to grow as a musician. Most important they supported me as I struggled to discover my path as an artist.” (aliciawiley.com)

A Victor Broden, Freelance Performer “ The wide variety of styles is something no other school offers. I would not be able to have worked with over twenty major label artists ranging from heavy metal to folk, including my gig with two-time Grammy winner LeAnn Rimes, without that kind of curriculum. That’s not even mentioning all the fun I had. Attending McNally Smith was undoubtedly the best career decision I ever made.” Performance Credits: LeAnn Rimes, Richard Marx, Casting Crowns (appeared on their Grammy winning album 2006), and more. International TV Performance Credits: The Tonight Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The View, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and more. (myspace.com/victorbrodenbassfreelance)


STUDENT PRACTICING OUTSIDE ON MSCM CAMPUS / VOCAL DEPARTMENT HEAD JUDI DONAGHY

Inside the ClassroomApplied Theory & Music InterpretationStudents learn to apply technique to contemporary jazz, rock, soul, and Latin repertoire. Theoretical concepts are tied in with improvisa-tional phrasing styles in increasingly complex harmonic and rhythmic environments. Classes challenge students to acquire cold-reading skills and develop solo and group strategies. Faculty mentor advanced students in building a set, reading an audience, developing and interpreting repertoire, and leading an ensemble.

Contemporary Music EnsemblesThe best way to learn and experience various styles of music is to perform them on stage. Funk, blues, reggae, and country are just a few of the styles students play each semester in a nurturing, non-judgmental environment that fosters skill and confidence. Music styles are explored in a live performance setting with a rhythm section.

Sight Reading & RepertoireA life-long professional music career begins with well developed music reading skills. Students learn to read professional level charts for the studio, the pit, and the stage.

Voice majors: • Move from the basic concepts of full-body resonance, primal

sound, and vocal health to advanced applications such as non-Western singing styles.

• Explore improvisational theory and concepts such as call and response, vocal percussion, and lyric improvisation.

Percussion majors: • Take drum-set timekeeping classes to learn to function within

different styles of music, broaden musical vocabulary, develop independence, and expand creative ideas.

• Develop technical proficiency on snare drum and drum set to build speed, control, and fluidity of motion.

• Start with basic sight-reading and progress through odd and mixed-meter challenges. Then take it to increasing levels of skill in reading, interpreting, and writing drum charts.

String majors: • Plug into an amp and feel the power of playing with drums, bass,

guitars, and keyboards. • Become familiar with the string players who paved the way:

Stuff Smith (violin), Stephane Grappelli (violin), Joe Venuti (violin); the generation that followed: Jean Luc-Ponty (violin), Sugarcane Harris (violin); and the innovators today: Matt Turner (cello), and Darol Anger (cello, violin, mandolin).

Bass majors: • Explore the cornerstone role played by the bass guitar in jazz,

pop, Latin, and rock music. • Gain a wide perspective on contemporary bass playing by

studying and analyzing the music of milestone players Charles Mingus, Jaco Pastorius, Robbie Shakespeare, and Geddy Lee.

39Performance: Inside the Classroom/Meet Pete Whitman & Jerry Kosak

PETE WHITMAN TEACHING A PERFORMANCE CLASS / JERRY KOSAK PERFORMING

B Meet Pete Whitman, Monster Player & Master Teacher In addition to providing artistry and leadership at

McNally Smith, Pete Whitman teaches saxophone, improvisation, and arranging. Pete is an active performer outside of the college where he leads the 10-piece jazz ensemble X-Tet, the sextet Departure Point, and the Pete Whitman Quartet. Whitman is also a member of the Laura Caviani Sextet, the sax quartet JazzAx, and JazzMN Big Band. He performed for two years with Peruvian guitarist Andres Prado. He appears on numerous record-ings including Dave Graf’s "Just Like That." With his X-Tet he released "Where’s When" (Artegra), named one of the top 20 locally produced recordings of the year by the Minne-apolis Star Tribune and given a four-star rating by Downbeat Magazine. With Departure Point he has released two CDs including the 2004 hit, "Steeped in Strayhorn" (Lush Plush Music), featuring vocalist Lucia Newell. Pete also composed and arranged the score for the independent film "Been Rich All My Life."

B Jerry Kosak, Guitar Instructor, Talks About Looping “ I acquired a Lexicon JamMan and incorporated the

technology of looping into my live shows. The JamMan enabled me to add something different to my perfor-mances, something a bit more interesting than simply playing the tunes from my CDs. Looping is the ability to record several live parts during a performance. The result can be quite impressive and very similar to the sound of a full band. All the parts I loop are created on the fly. Each sound is created by either playing the guitar or tapping on the body. Well, I do use a shaker egg from Creative Kidstuff, and the sound hole mic picks up that sound,” says Jerry Kosak who teaches guitar, ensembles and music history at McNally Smith College of Music. Hear Jerry Kosak play “Portable Fruit w/Looping” on YouTube.com

Randy Sabien, Department Head ViolinNPR’s Jazz Profiles dubbed Randy Sabien “The past, present and future of jazz violin.” Randy founded and chaired the jazz string department at Berklee College of Music, where he also performed and produced albums in the singer/songwriter genre. He is one of those rare string musicians to be hailed as both a violinist and a fid-dler. Today he records jazz, country, swing, roots, blues, and rock and roll on his own record label, Fiddlehead Music. He also plays regularly as a jazz violin, guest soloist with symphonies across the country.

Admissions Requirements • High school transcript • Two letters of recommendation • Audition • Immunization records • SAT or ACT scores (Bachelor of Music applicants only)


JUSTIN BONHIVER OF QUIETDRIVE AT A MSCM ARTIST & INDUSTRY / BASS RECITAL

Your Career in Music PerformanceMusic Performance Careers • Recording/Touring Artist • Freelance Performer – Studio, Pit Orchestra, Show • Producer • Private Instructor • Musical Director/Worship Leader/Church Soloist/Cantor • Copyist • Clinician • Musical Theater • Commercial/Studio Production Talent • Backing Vocalist/Instrumentalist • Bass Tech/Specialist • Singer/Songwriter

Perform, Earn, and Establish a Professional NetworkThe McNally Smith College of Music Career Center is the first to offer a maritime internship to its students. Qualified performers can audition to play in the pit orchestra aboard a Carnival Cruise Ship. These are paid internships.

B Justin Bonhiver, Recording Artist, Quietdrive“ The invaluable knowledge and experience I gained from McNally Smith College of Music has given me the extra edge in such a competitive industry.” Justin Bonhiver and Quietdrive’s debut album, "When All That’s Left is You," was released on Epic in the summer of 2006. Justin plays guitar in the band. Engineering, production, and mixing was handled by fellow McNally Smith alumni Matt Kirkwold and James Harley, with additional production by Butch Walker (SR-71, Sevendust, Avril Lavigne, and Pink). Now signed with the Militia Group, the band has released their sophomore album, "Deliverance." Watch Quietdrive music videos on McNally Smith’s YouTube page: youtube.com/mcnallysmith

41Your Career in Music Performance

ALUMNUS WILLIE WISELY PERFORMING (top) VOCALIST REHEARSING / ALUMNI MEMBER ERIC POWERSJUSTIN BONHIVER OF QUIETDRIVE AT A MSCM ARTIST & INDUSTRY / BASS RECITAL

Realizing a Life in Music“ Since graduating from McNally Smith, I’ve recorded seven CDs, earned dozens of producer credits, done movie soundtracks, North American tours, showcases in Japan, and had award-winning independent film and television appearances. I’ve been doing what I love ever since graduation day.” Willie Wisely, 1986, Recording Artist

Realizing a Life in Music“ Studying at McNally Smith College of Music, with its incredible percussion staff and classes, gave me the tools and confidence to become the professional drummer I am today.” Eric Powers, Freelance Performer: Rembrandts, Dave Mason, Jennifer Paige.

42

(top) STUDENT REHEARSING FOR VOCAL RECITAL. / STUDENTS IN A THEORY CLASS


RECORDING TECHNOLOGY STUDENT DOING A MIX-DOWN IN STUDIO 1

43Campus & Classrooms

PERFORMANCE STUDENT IN A MCNALLY SMITH PRACTICE ROOMS


(01.) LIONESS PERFORMING / (02.) SHAIWNA FINALIZING A MIX-DOWN AT MSCM

Shaiwna AdamsMinneapolis, Minnesota

YEAR: JuniorMAJOR: Recording TechnologyOTHER: The Lioness (Rapper),

Songwriter, Engineer/Producer

MUSICAL INSPIRATIONS: Lauryn Hill, Jay-Z, Sammy Carlyle, MC Light

'' AS A TEENAGER I'D DRIVE BY MCNALLY SMITH, AND DREAM OF ONE DAY GOING THERE!" EXCLAIMS SHAIWNA ABOUT MSCM CAMPUS.

She remembers the day she stopped dreaming and actually stopped at MSCM, got an application, finalized all of her placement tests and paperwork. She finished the process and was accepted in two days, quickly completing a process normally taking multiple weeks. Shaiwna started the same week that she applied!

She remembers joining the church choir at six. She then began writing poetry and spoken word as well as performing her own original material, expressing herself a bit more. Her musical family inspired her to pursue music. Having finally reached her goal of attending McNally Smith, Shaiwna looks at her life here as an extension of the musical family that fostered so much inspiration from the very beginning.

We followed Shaiwna from her first class in the morning until she ended her studio session at 8:00pm.

7:00 – 8:20AM Good Mornin'! Time to get up and get moving! First, I feed my dog, then shower and get ready for the day. I usually eat breakfast on my way to school or work- I live in Minneapolis so there’s usually time on the drive in to grab some food.

8:30 – 9:25AM Music Theory I Today in Music Theory, we discussed pentatonic scale theory, semitone equivalents, and omissions. The teacher is Jay Fuchs and he blows my mind with his knowledge! Everytime I go to Theory, I am blown away by all of the amazing knowledge that is passed on.

9:30 – 12:30PM Working in MSCM Print CenterI have the opportunity to be a student worker for McNally Smith. It is wonderful- I work on-campus, get to know a lot of people, and I am never too far away from anything if I have an idea that comes out of nowhere. I am learning design and marketing through my job which is a pretty cool perk.

12:30 - 1:00PM Lunch in CaféLunch break from work… finally a chance to get online and check some emails. I usually eat in the café. They have good food and a lot of the stuff made up there is organic!

1:00 – 3:55PM Diaspora of African MusicI enjoyed this class because we'd have open discussions on various topics where music originated to Hip Hop in Hawaii we are fortunate enough to be lectured by Dr. Mahmoud El-Kati (author of the book "Hiptionary"). He briefly spoke with certain people in the class. He tells me, "Look at things as they should be, not as they are!"

4:00 – 8:00PM Recording Session Right now I am working on about fifteen different things. I have beats to make for people, raps to lay down for myself, and plenty of engineering and recording for other acts in the future. I feel lucky to learn in these amazing studios, I know my way around and have confidence no matter what kind of equipment, hardware or software, I will know how to use it, and do everything well.

8:30PM – 12:30AM Homework & Some RestTime to relax- I get home, play with my dog a bit and then eat some dinner before doing a little homework and finally getting some much-needed rest. Good night and see you tomorrow!

01. 02.

A Day in the Life of aMusic Production Student " Yes, I had many downfalls, but I overcame

them and now I'm confident I'll do great!"

45

STUDENT MASTERING A TRACK IN STUDIO 1

Music Production Student/Program Highlights

Program Highlights • Live sound reinforcement • Analog and digital recording techniques • Music production • DAW • Mixing and critical listening • Studio management • Logic Pro training • Pro Tools • Cross-departmental work in Music Performance,

Songwriting, and Music Business

Degrees • Bachelor of Science in Music (Music Producer)

(minors available in music business, music composition, or music performance)

• Associate of Applied Science in Recording Technology

• Associate of Applied Science in Music, Emphasis: Music Production

Diplomas• Music Production (1 year program) • Recording Engineer Course (1 year program)

For more information on degree and diploma programs, visit mcnallysmith.edu/academics. What Separates McNally Smith from the rest

Technologies change. The newest, flashiest equipment today is tomorrow’s junk pile. McNally Smith teach the concepts, skills, and techniques that will serve students for a lifetime of creating and producing great music, no matter what the equipment might be. They'll start in the analog labs working with the world renowned Trident 80B console and the Otari MTR90 24 track analog recorder. Analog labs provide visual and visceral ways of understanding audio signal flow, the basis of all recording and mixing technologies. From there students progress to analog/digital studios, to fully digital studios – where students get experience in 5.1 surround sound using the state of the art Digidesign Icon work surface, and take their base skills to blockbuster potential.

The Heart of a MusicianInside every great producer or recording engineer is the heart of a musician. McNally Smith College of Music is passionate about the art of recording and production. Graduates are expected to excel technically and musically. Students get hands-on experience on a wealth of technical equipment found in professional studios through-out the world. McNally Smith College of Music was one of the first educational facilities to purchase two of the award winning SSL Duality consoles. Working in small groups with experienced instruc-tors means students get the attention they need to thoroughly understand advanced recording, edit-ing, and mixing techniques. Students also study the musicianship skills – keyboard, aural, and theoretical – that are intrinsic to artistic success.


(top) MANDI DICKHUT AT WSS MEDIA / ANDY KANTOS IN THE STUDIO

Music Production MajorsLive SoundTo build the skill set required for mixing live sound, students study acoustics along with the challenges and opportunities presented by voice, instrumental combinations, and the rooms in which they are being played. Students learn to attain the best out of any sound environment and make order out of apparent chaos. They work with a Midas Legend 3000 touring console, a 20,000 watt ElectroVoice sound system, and an ETC lighting system in a hands-on learning environment. The live sound curriculum provides the basic structure, tools, and techniques used by the live sound engineer, including the basics of sound system installation and methodology for the design and assemblage of live rigs. Students are given learning opportunities at world class arenas and other live venues throughout the Twin Cities.

Recording TechnologyThe McNally Smith campus is one of the largest recording and production facilities in the Midwest. The recording curriculum fosters a solid base in audio signal flow theory. Students learn to translate audio signal flow concepts into hands-on execution within profes-sional level environments. Experienced instructors, who are active music production professionals, mentor students in listening for audio balance, blend, depth, and mix placement.

Music ProductionMusic production is the art of using recording technology to realize musical intent in a musical work and its performance. The music production program utilizes all the tools of the music industry. Part performer, part business person, and part engineer, music produc-tion students learn to use industry standard studio equipment and software. With a foundation of music theory, keyboard techniques, and aural skills, students develop their creativity and technical skills using the latest technology. By day, the studios and music labs are a dynamic learning environment where small classes ensure optimum learning. By night, studios and labs are available for student projects. Through coursework and independent projects, students gain the technical, artistic, and musical skills necessary to be the creative force behind a work of recorded music.

A Mandi Dickhut, WSS Media " The faculty and curriculum at McNally Smith exceeded my expectations by propelling me into a world of exceptional op-portunities. As a broadcast engineer, I work directly with audio/video transmissions that reach millions of viewers nationwide every day. That’s a pretty awesome feeling.”

A Andy Kantos, Paramount, NRG, Encore“ The faculty at McNally Smith prepared me to work with world-class talent. In L.A. simple technical knowledge won’t even get you a broom. You need connections, drive, and ear training to help you stand out to get the jobs others are dying for. McNally Smith gave me the tools to learn and grow.”

47

RECORDING AND MASTERING A PIANO SESSION IN STUDIO 2 (top) LIVE SOUND BOARD / STUDENTS FINALIZING A MIX IN STUDIO 10

Music Production Majors


(top) STUDENT IN STUDIO ONE TWEAKING THE EQUALIZATION / SSL BOARD IN STUDIO TWO

Inside the ClassroomRecording StudiosThe McNally Smith Recording Studio Complex has seven state of the art recording studios and three labs with individual digital audio workstations.

• Studio One hosts Recording Labs III and IV classes. In these classes, Music Production and Recording Technology students apply their growing knowledge of the recording process in real-world sessions with industry leading producers and engineers. Studio One features both Pro Tools HD and analog multitrack formats.

• Studio Two hosts Recording Labs III and IV classes. In these classes, Music Production and Recording Technology students apply their growing knowledge of the recording process in real-world sessions with industry leading producers and engineers. Studio Two features both Pro Tools HD and analog multitrack formats, as well as an excellent studio grand piano.

• Studio Three hosts Mixing Lab III classes. In this class, Recording Technology students explore techniques for recording and mixing in multichannel formats, like 5.1 surround sound. Studio Three features both Pro Tools HD and Logic Pro.

• Studio Four hosts classes like Mixing Lab II classes. In this class, Music Production and Recording Technology students continue to expand their experience in the craft of mixing through critical listening projects and one-on-one collaboration with top mixing engineers. Studio Four features both Pro Tools HD and Logic Pro.

• Studio Five hosts Recording Lab I and Mixing Lab I classes. In these classes, Music Production and Recording Technology students learn and apply the fundamentals of signal flow, multitrack recording techniques, and mixing for music. Studio Five features both Pro Tools HD and analog multitrack formats.

• Studio Six hosts Recording Lab I and Mixing Lab I classes. In these classes, Music Production and Recording Technology students learn and apply the fundamentals of signal flow, multitrack recording techniques, and mixing for music. Studio Six features both Pro Tools HD and analog multitrack formats.

• Studio Ten hosts Recording Lab II classes. In this class, Music Production and Recording Technology students continue their exploration of studio recording techniques in an outboard gear-based, DAW environment. This contemporary model of the 21st century recording environment features both Pro Tools HD and Logic Pro.

• Pro Tools Lab hosts classes in which all Music Production and Record-ing Technology students learn and practice the musical art of DAW editing, using the most detailed, exhaustive curriculum available. This lab features individual student workstations equipped with Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Reason, and many more industry-standard applications.

• MIDI Lab hosts classes like MIDI Systems, Electronic Music Production, and Hip-Hop Music Production. In these classes Music Production, Hip Hop Studies, and Recording Technology students explore the funda-mentals of electronic music production using applications like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Reason, and Cubase, as well as classic hardware techniques.

This Business of MusicTo succeed in the fast-paced world of sound recording, students need to understand the business side. McNally Smith's Studio Management course addresses foundational business skills for audio professionals. Students acquire the accounting, marketing, staffing, and equipment management skills that make the difference in their professional careers. The Tour Management course is for live sound operators who, on the road, will double as tour managers and mer-chandisers. Essential knowledge includes the ability to understand union rules, enforce contract riders, protect and transport gear, and manage basic accounting.

49Production: Inside the Classroom/Meet Joe Mabbott & Bryan Forrester

(top) JOE MABBOTT MASTERING A PROJECT / BRYAN FORRESTER IN STUDIO TWO

B Joe Mabbott: Passionate Industry Professional“ What distinguishes McNally Smith, besides the fact that our music production department has some of the finest equipment in the field, is our instructors. All of us come from musical and engineering backgrounds. I run my own recording studio and work on many records throughout every year. It gives me an opportunity to discuss and recreate real studio situations with the students.” Joe Mabbott teaches in the Music Production department. Joe made Billboard Charts, as mixer and engineer on records by the hip-hop group Atmosphere, with four records in the Top Rap 100 (1, 91, 93, 96). The album "When Life Gives You Lemons" charts: #1 Internet, #1 Tastemakers, #2 Indie, #2 Alternative, #2 R&B, #5 Top 200, #6 Rap Core, #7 Digital, #13 R&B Core.

B Bryan Forrester on the SSL Duality Console“ At McNally Smith College of Music we decided to upgrade our studios with the SSL Duality console because it offers all kinds of great options. For example, the use of the new ‘split signal flow architecture,’ which enables any desired combination of analog channel processing to be used in conjunction with a DAW record path, is very powerful. The endless features and ease of operation are amazing.” Bryan teaches in the Music Production department. A record-ing and performing bass player and vocalist, he has worked as an audio engineer or producer for numerous commercial clients including Target, Best Buy, Pillsbury, Chili’s, Northwest Airlines, and Purina.

Chopper Black: Mentoring Makes the Difference“ Production is not just about systems, tools, and platforms. It’s about mentoring students in realizing their musical ideas. We mentor them in a thought process for understanding tonal quality, mood, and the style of a musical work. We then ask what are the different ways to capture these qualities. Anyone can memorize tools and systems, but it’s the musically talented producer who ties it all together.”

Multi-platinum record engineer Chopper Black teaches in the Production Department. He has produced hundreds of artists, from Paula Abdul to Yanni to Bobby Z.

ScholarshipsThe Ice Cube Scholarship is a half-tuition scholarship presented to a McNally Smith College music technology applicant every academic year. The Founders Scholarship awards up to $1000 per semester to a student who exhibits exceptional abilities and demonstrates financial need. The Ben Sidran Award for Excellence in Music Produc-tion awards up to $1000 per semester to a student who exhibits exceptional abilities and demonstrates financial need.

Admissions Requirements • High school transcript • Two letters of recommendation • Entrance exam • Demo CD • Immunization records • SAT or ACT scores (Bachelor of Science applicants only) • Audition (Bachelor of Science applicants only)


(top) HANS-MARTIN BUFF WITH NO DOUBT ALBUM / NICK FOURNIER

Your Career in Music ProductionPrimary Technology Careers • Recording Engineer • Music Producer • Commercial Music • Sound Designer • Recording Artist/Music/Record Producer • Front of House/Live Sound Engineer

Secondary Technology Careers • Sound Effects Editor/Library Developer • Digital Audio Engineer • Radio Broadcast Engineer

B Nick Fournier, Nominee for Engineer of the Year“ McNally Smith introduced me to a whole new world. There are so many specialized jobs in this country, but if you don’t know they exist, you can’t ever know to look for them. The technical training I received has proven to be an enormous asset to my career. Whether setting up a recording studio in Hawaii, recording the Barefoot Natives with Willie K, or working with other artists such as Willie Nelson and Mick Fleetwood, my career in music has been a dream come true. McNally Smith College of Music provided me the skills and education needed for making a living in this amazing industry.” Nick Fournier, 2003 graduate in Music Production, was recently nominated Engineer of the Year by the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts for his work on "Barefoot Natives."

Realizing a Life in Music “ When I was a kid, albums were the greatest thing in the world. Now I’ve been making albums (or records or recorded music) for over ten years, which is the greatest job in the world. McNally Smith is where I got the start I needed.” Hans-Martin Buff (Prince, No Doubt, Live, Son Volt)

51Careers in Music Production

ALUMNUS KYLE SISCO AT STUDIO M INSIDE MINNESOTA PUBLIC RADIO (top) VALERIE WANG / ALUMNUS SAM ALLEN AT MAYO CLINIC IN ROCHESTER, MN

Realizing a Life in Music “ McNally Smith refined in me the skill set neccesary for a professional edge in the audio and video industry. From satellite uplinks to the Today Show in New York to live broacasts to Honolulu, Hawaii, from designing and engineering front of house sound and broadcast audio for Governor Tim Pawlenty to network engineering Mayo Clinic’s Medical Simulation Center, I can tell you this: I have what it takes, and I learned it at McNally Smith.” Sam Allen, Technology '03, Network Engineer, Mayo Clinic

Kyle Sisco, Recording Technology '03, Master Control Specialist, Studio M inside Minnesota Public Radio, Station 89.3 The Current

Realizing a Life in Music “ I loved the feeling of being a student at McNally Smith. Being an international student, the school was like my second home. I found creative music inspiration from it, and built my musical dream step by step. McNally Smith provided me with a great environment, a wonderful support system, and a spirit that helped me continue on my musical road.” Valerie Wang


ENSEMBLE PERFORMING AT MSCM RIVER ROCKS FESTIVAL (top) MIDI LAB INSIDE RECORDING STUDIO COMPLEX / STUDENT PRACTICING IN CAFÉ

53Classrooms/Student Life

ICE CUBE LECTURING AT MSCM IN 2009

“ I kept asking where the new producers are going to be coming from. Now I know. Right here, this is where the new producers are coming from.” Ice Cube


STUDENTS SETTING UP A MIXER, TURNTABLE AND MICROPHONE

Hip-Hop StudiesProgram Highlights• Cross-disciplinary training in music technology, songwriting,

and beat making• Music business in the digital era, including issues specific

to hip-hop• Branding and marketing your work

Diploma • Hip-Hop Music Studies (3 semester program)


Why Hip-Hop?Rooted in West African traditions, planted in the sound-system technologies of Jamaica, and growing exponentially from the South Bronx in the early 1970’s, hip-hop has proven to be a major force with an ever increasing and pervasive influence in youth culture and all realms of commerce and creativity. On one hand, hip-hop has emerged for social dialogue across the world; on another, it has become a 15+ billion dollar a year industry. Its global presence today in art, dance, and music is immense and can no longer go unrecognized.

Initially seen as radical music genres, jazz and rock and roll were eventually absorbed into mainstream culture. Today there is a demand for composers, performers, and producers who can gener-ate the sounds of all musical styles, including hip-hop, for TV, film, and digital media. McNally Smith has retooled some of its existing courses and developed new ones to focus on the hip-hop specific knowledge students need to pursue a career in the music industry. Armed with new expertise, students prepare for opportunities in digital marketing, writing for TV and film, music production, live sound, performance, and music publishing.

Mix it UpCredits for classes completed in the Hip-Hop Studies program can be applied towards any McNally Smith Bachelor Degree or Associate Degree programs, should a student decide to transfer. Students enrolled in other programs can also take hip-hop classes as electives.

55Hip-Hop Studies/Classrooms

(top) HIP-HOP STUDENT IN MIDI LAB / MEMBERS OF HEIRUSPECS PERFORM AT MSCMSTUDENTS SETTING UP A MIXER, TURNTABLE AND MICROPHONE


(top) HIP-HOP STUDENT IN MIDI LAB / PERFORMANCE IN MSCM AUDITORIUM

Inside the ClassroomHip-Hop Music ProductionStudents take a series of five classes that start with basic audio recording theory and practice and move on to explore advanced audio and MIDI editing, sequencing, sample and loop-based music, and the integration of hardware sound sources such as drum machines, synthesizers, and samplers. Students also learn how to optimize the sound experience for live performance. This includes understanding typical sound system design; equalization, compression, and time-based processing as it pertains to live shows, including creating effective separate monitor mixes for onstage performers.

The Language of Rap and Spoken WordStudents start exploring free verse writing style through writing formats, rhyme schemes, and the relationship between literary poetry and contemporary rap and spoken word. Upper level classes challenge creative writing and versatility in vocal delivery and include critiquing the practices of the professional hip-hop and spoken word community.

Hip-Hop PerformanceFrom performing the underlying rhythms of African, reggae, Latin, jazz, fusion, and funk to hip-hop students emerge with a deeper repertoire with which to polish their own performances, as well as the ability to demonstrate a knowledgeable presence in production houses and new media enterprises.

DJ TechniquesThe DJ Techniques class advances quickly from fundamental set-ups and traditional disc jockey practices to advanced tools of the modern DJ. Students learn historical techniques from the transformer scratch to clock theory or back spinning to crab scratches, among others.

Music BusinessSpecial attention is given to various roles that are different in the hip-hop community, including the role of the producer, manager, and publisher. Students examine the economics of hip-hop song-writing, selling beats, guest appearances, publishing, and copyright management, including sampling and digital rights. Students study hip-hop business success stories to understand the entrepreneurs who have kept their fingers on the pulse of the hip-hop generation.

Final Project and PortfolioHip-hop students generate a final portfolio that includes a business plan focused on student entry into life as a professional artist. Students also act as talent, executive producer, and record company in the creation of a short CD, learning promotion through social media, digital distribution, brand strategy, and more.

57Hip–Hop/Liberal Arts: Inside the Classroom/Putting it All Together

(top) DRUMMER PLAYING WITH HIP-HOP ENSEMBLE / TOKI WRIGHT

Putting it All TogetherVisiting Artists SeriesThe Visiting Artists Series features performances by well-known artists. Open clinics and seminars with visiting artists encourage students to interact with and learn from them. Past visitors include Sheila E., Pat Metheny, Diana Ross, Ice Cube, and Larry Coryell, to name a few.

Faculty Artist Performance SeriesMcNally Smith’s faculty roster includes a number of elite musicians from the Twin Cities music scene, many of whom are known nation-ally and internationally for their work. The Faculty Artist Performance Series showcases the college’s professional musical talent, including Jazz of Story City, Mississippi Peace, and Framework.

Student OrganizationsPlug in and get involved! Whether networking in organizations that support musical goals, such as Songwriting Club, Blues Club, or Women in Music-MN, or playing in a basketball league, McNally Smith College has something for all interests.

B Meet Toki Wright, Hip-Hop CoordinatorToki Wright is a Twin Cities based emcee, poet, and community organizer. His performance credits include Scribble Jam, SXSW, Coachella, Bumbershoot, Sons d’Hiver, Atmosphere, C-Rayz Walz (Definitive Jux), P.O.S., and more. Wright tours throughout the United States and Canada as an opening act and hypeman for Brother Ali and is a member of the groups The C.O.R.E. and The Chosen Few.

As a community organizer, Toki has led the nationally recognized youth organization YO! The Movement (featured in The Source magazine), coordinated seven Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop Festivals, and taught Hip-Hop history and performance to former child soldiers in Gulu, Northern Uganda with the organization H.E.A.L.S.


(top) APRIL MITCHELL TEACHING A LIBERAL ARTS CLASS / STUDENTS IN THEORY CLASS

Liberal Arts DivisionThe Liberal Arts ExperienceDeveloping musical, technical, or business chops takes hard work, great mentors and teachers, lots of practice, and time to grow. McNally Smith College of Music helps students develop their musical skills, passions, and artistry to a high level. But solid musical, technology, and business skills alone aren’t enough to ensure success in today’s competitive, volatile, and exciting music world. Today’s music professionals need great communication skills, exceptional problem solving abilities, great resourcefulness, and an innovative mindset.

By taking advantage of the full curriculum at MSCM, students can maximize their opportunities to broaden their skills as an artist or busi-nessperson. McNally Smith has a unique liberal arts curriculum specially tailored for our students, designed to sharpen critical and creative thinking and problem solving skills. These courses give students a breadth of knowledge and skills important for launching their professional life after college.

So how does all this affect the experience of a student at McNally Smith College of Music? To complete bachelor or associates degree, a student takes a broad range of courses in addition to a chosen major area of study. Only unlike the liberal arts (sometimes known as general education) courses offered at many colleges, liberal arts classes at MSCM are closely linked to music studies and a future career.

Liberal Arts requirements are distributed over four major areas of learning. Students also have some electives to further explore their interests.

• Communication — writing and speaking well is a vital element of pro-fessionalism. And learning to navigate the ever-changing information and multimedia landscape will serves students in many aspects of their career and life. Sample courses include Writing and Research, Writing about Music, Music Journalism.

• Humanities — includes the histories of music and humankind along with other artistic disciplines such as film, visual art, creative writing, and theater. Sample courses include Exploring the Fine Arts, History of the Blues, The Art of Cinema, Creative Writing, Interpersonal Communication: Presentation and Collaboration.

• Social Sciences — we all interact with human social systems and

cultures, and global society seems to change daily. These courses help students connect with the intriguing musics of the world, the powerful role economics plays in society, and more. Sample courses include Mu-sic in the World’s Cultures, Essentials of Economics, Musical Linguistics.

• Math/Natural Science — from acoustics to physiology, algebra to statistics, these courses develop creative, quantitative, and analytic skills. Expand approaches to problem solving and learn ways to build and sustain a musical career. Some sample courses include Musical Acoustics, Math for the Liberal Arts, Physiology of Performance.

Our Liberal Arts FacultyThe Liberal Arts instructors at McNally Smith are each experts in their fields of specialty, with advanced degrees and extensive experience. In addition, they are passionate about teaching and working with creative students. Most are practicing artists themselves—as musicians, visual artists, writers, filmmakers, and directors/actors.

Why Liberal Arts?Liberal Arts courses form a web of interconnection with all music degree coursework, helping prepare students for the exciting transition into professional life. Creative, innovative minds are expanding the face of the music industry at an incredible pace. The industry looks very dif-ferent today than it did even a year ago, and it will continue to change rapidly in the years to come. McNally Smith students will be ready.

“ Everything is amazing, the teacher is one of the best. I feel good and connected with the college in this class.” Liberal Arts student

59Liberal Arts Division/Liberal Arts Experience

(top) PETE WHITMAN CHECKING GEAR OUT FROM THE RESOURCE CENTER / LIBRARYJACK McNALLY & DOUG SMITH PRESENT A STUDENT WITH A SCHOLARSHIP

“ The liberal arts are about self examination and understanding the world in relationship to yourself. Then you are empowered to create a life and career that work for you.” Jan Weller, Liberal Arts Chair

60

(top) MAURICE CHAMPION (DANAMI) PERFORMING / DAVID LEWIS


Career ServicesCareer Services at McNally Smith College opens the door to opportunities by taking students out of the classroom and into the world of professional music. Through individual coaching, career fairs, online resources, lectures, and workshops, it helps students:

• Define students goals • Explore career options • Build a portfolio • Write cover letters and a resume

• Prepare for the interview process

Our experiential learning and internship program compliments classroom education by placing students in professional situations that make things happen. Internships let students apply what they've learned to the real world. Students begin to establish a professional network of people within the music industry who can also provide references on excellent work. More than 100 companies participate in McNally Smith's internship program as mentor organizations.

All McNally Smith students and alumni have exclusive access to our jobs database where we post opportunities for both summer work and full-time employment. Working with entertain-ment companies looking to employ instrumentalists and vocalists, hosts auditions for students and alumni. Graduates have found careers in every facet of the media and entertainment industry, including Internet marketing, audio post production, music publish-ing, venue booking, digital content management, recording studios, TV and film music, live sound, and performance.

Realizing a Life in Music“ This experience has been amazing and I am only a few weeks into it. The first week I started off in the office (doing paperwork) working with Rowdy Records Production Manager/A & R, Kim Smith. On my first day working there she asked me if I had any music I wanted her to look at and shop and I said (excuse my excitement), ‘YEAH!’” Didi Morton, from her blog about her student internship at Dallas Austin Recording & Production.

Realizing a Life in Music“ Last Sunday I did my first show in L.A. at the Desert Rose in North Hollywood and it was amazing.” Maurice Champion, from his blog about his student internship at The Urban Network.

B Meet David Lewis, Career AdvisorAfter graduating from the School of The Art Institute of Chicago with a degree in Film & Video David Lewis founded the PR com-pany Riot Act Media. With his own company David cut his teeth by focusing on public relations and media marketing campaigns for independent artists and musicians. Riot Act gave him the skills and abilities work with clients of all shapes and sizes from Virgin, HBO and Capitol Records to venerable indies such as Dischord, Suicide Squeeze and Jade Tree. His artist roster was equally diverse from punk squawkers like The Bouncing Souls and Jawbreaker, indie-rock next big things like Minus The Bear and Dr Dog to Patton Oswalt’s Comedians Of Comedy and Chi-cago small press Featherproof Books. After working with hun-dreds of artists David moved into higher education and has since been featured on All Things Considered, PBS, and in New City discussing the virtues of an arts and music career. He brings that same entrepreneurial spirit and passion to McNally Smith College Of Music’s Career Center, providing workshops, guidance, advice, seminars and encouragement to the school’s burgeoning talent.

61

(top) MAURICE CHAMPION (DANAMI) PERFORMING / DAVID LEWIS (top) QUIETDRIVE / ALUMNUS ISRAEL ALI MASTERING A TRACK

Career Services/Alumni & Opportunities

OMAR PALACIOS

Realizing a Life in Music “ McNally Smith has a lot to offer, from the brilliant instructors to the best gear and facilities in the industry. There is just so much you can do there and no limit to how far you can go. To me, the place was very exciting!” Omar Palacios (Technical Support Specialist for Electro-Voice, Dynacord, Midas, Klark Teknik, and Blue)


STUDENT CHECKING IN DURING ORIENTATION

Admissions FAQWhat is the deadline for admissions?There is no application deadline, we operate on rolling admissions.

I would like to visit McNally Smith – How do I set it up?You can choose from a variety of ways to visit the school. Group tours are conducted several times a week, no appointment is necessary. Check our web page – mcnallysmith.edu/admissions/howtovisit – for days and times. If the established tour times do not accommodate your schedule, call Admissions at 800-594-9500 to arrange an appointment.

The college holds Open Houses three times a year. Each Open House includes a tour, opportunities to meet with faculty, financial aid staff, and admissions staff. You can also hear a faculty and student concert! Open House dates are posted on our web page.

How do I apply for financial aid?McNally Smith offers a variety of grant and student loan options for eligible music college undergraduates. To initiate the financial aid process, submit a federal FAFSA application. You can do this online at fafsa.ed.gov. The school code is 030012. McNally Smith notifies you of the results and provides guidance and counsel through the next steps.

In addition to federal and state grant and student loan funding, students may apply for McNally Smith College of Music scholarships. Scholarship amounts are based on full-time attendance and will be adjusted for students who attend less than full time. Scholarship opportunities are available for current and incoming students.

The McNally Smith College of Music Financial Aid office is available for personal help and assistance. All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid. For more information, visit our web page www.mcnallysmith.edu/financial.

Is McNally Smith College of Music accredited?Yes. McNally Smith College of Music is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music and is registered by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.

McNally Smith College of Music is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. The College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation in employment or the provision of services.

63Admissions FAQ/Student Life

STUDENTS DURING ORIENTATION

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