Theory Department

During their time at CIM, virtually all Conservatory students study with members of the Music Theory faculty. To provide instruction for every degree program, departmental offerings encompass a wide range from basic musicianship to specialized seminars. CIM Music Theory faculty members constitute a diverse and distinguished collective of expertise to bring to all CIM (and CWRU) students.

Current Students

Theory students: download the Harmonic Dictation Theory CDs here.

All undergraduate students take core courses (see Conservatory Catalog, curricular grids for each major and course descriptions) that emphasize the development of basic musical skills in written harmony, keyboard harmony, ear training, and solfège.

Harmonic dictation examples are provided for each of the four undergraduate levels (MUTH 105, 106, 205, 206). Upper division studies include Form and Analysis and 18th-Century Counterpoint, in addition to elective courses. All MM students take Analytical Techniques and Terminology as well as theory electives. Those studying for the DMA take Analysis of Musical Styles, Schenkerian Analysis, and Seminar in Music Theory along with electives.

Prospective CIM Students

Auditioning students take placement tests in music theory at the time of their audition. The tests are used to determine the appropriate starting point in the course sequence for each student.

You can see an example of the aural skills placement test (PDF) for incoming students.

To see more about each degree program, click the links below.

For BM degree applicants (first year):

For undergraduate transfer students:

For MM degree applicants:

For DMA degree applicants:

Meet the CIM Specialized Studies Faculty.