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Experiential Courses in the Creative Arts

FA 1a Basic Visual Concepts in Painting
An exploration of two-dimensional visual concepts using oil paint. A semester-long course (intended for the beginner) in which students explore concepts of color, composition, drawing, and expression. Observations from still-lifes, models, and landscapes are translated into traditional and contemporary ideas as students learn the basic techniques of oil painting.
(C) Mr. Downey

FA 4a Three-Dimmensional Design I
Beginning-level course. Exploration of three-dimensional aspects of form, space, and composition utilizing a variety of materials and sculptural techniques. Emphasizes students inventing images through the use of modern materials and contemporary ideas about sculpture. Assignments are based on abstract thought and problem solving.
(C) Mr. Baenziger, Ms. Bucher

FA 8a Sculpture in the Age of New Media: Mutational  Mayhem
Introduces  the basics of 3d modeling with Cinema4D, rapid prototyping (3d printing with the Zcorp plaster printer), digital video with Final Cut Pro, basic electronics (soldering, motors, sensors) and some welding. Students will combine these media to produce performative sculptures and installations that draw from current developments in Alife, AI, biotechnology and robotics.
(C) Ms. Bucher



MUS 107a Introduction to Electro-Acoustic Music
Topics include basic acoustics, sound design, digital and analog recording techniques, and assignments on the pioneers and current practitioners of electro-acoustic music. Hands-on experience in the use of MIDI-controlled synthesizers, samplers, and production equipment. Individual studio projects based on individual studio time. (C) Mr. Chasalow

MUS 111a Private Instruction: Instrumentalists
Half-course credit. Placement auditions will be held at the start of the semester. Instrumentalists will take ten one-hour, private lessons per semester in the field of early music, jazz, or classical music while participating in a departmental ensemble on that instrument. Studio fees apply.
(C) Mr. Gordon, Ms. Ray, Mr. Stepner

MUS 112a Private Instruction: Voice
Half-course credit. Placement auditions will be held at the start of the semester. Ten one-hour, private lessons per semester. Fundamental skills of breathing, resonating, and relaxing will be taught along with repertory appropriate to the individual student. A ten-minute jury is required in second semester. Studio fees apply. (C) Mr. Olesen

MUS 116a Inside the Piece: Chamber Music from the Player's Perspective
Applies theoretical knowledge to music-making through study and performance of chamber music in master class setting. Examines how performance practice, basic structural analysis, and historical context affect interpretation. Individual and ensemble preparation required. Credit/no-credit. (C) Ms. Eissenberg, Mr. Gordon, Ms Ray, Mr. Stepner

THA 2a Introduction to Theater: From the Page to the Stage
Designed to acquaint the student with the theatrical elements of production and performance and to familiarize the student with the role of artist and audience. The student will be placed on a production crew for the Brandeis Theater Company in the corequisite THA 41a.
(C) Ms. Chiu
 

THA 15a Vocal Gesture: The Expresive Use of the Voice
The study of the body voice begins with the exploration and application of sensory awareness training and its integration with vocal and physical life.  Explores relaxation techniques to alleviate habitual, effort-filled movement; investigates alignment and breath work while carving up the space with voice and gesture. (C) Ms. Terry

THA 15b Public Speaking: The Art of Oral Communication
An introductory course on the basic concepts and techniques of making presentations to groups of people. Students develop a process for analyzing the audience and situation; for choosing, limiting, and researching a subject; for developing effective habits of vocal delivery; and for writing their own speeches.
(C) Ms. Cleary