Program Overview
The Music Theory program at Lawrence brings a liberal arts perspective to the academic study of music. Students explore systems of musical thought and their corresponding analytical methods while working closely with faculty in small classes. As students become fluent in these concepts and techniques, they learn how to use them creatively to perceive the meaning within musical artworks and to share their interpretations with others through analytical writing. Graduates are equipped with the theoretical and analytical skills necessary to effectively communicate musical meaning through their performance, composition, and teaching.
Program Highlights
Build a Strong Theory Foundation
Develop comprehensive skills in part-writing, analysis, and musicianship through a five-term introductory sequence.
Connect Theory Across Disciplines
Explore how music theory intersects with ideas and methods from across the arts and sciences in upper-level coursework.
Prepare for Graduate Study
Gain the analytical depth and advanced training needed for specialized graduate-level study in music theory.
Types of Degrees
Students can pursue a major or a minor in Music Theory within the Bachelor of Music degree program. They can also pursue a minor in Music Theory within the Bachelor of Arts degree program.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
You’ll be in good hands with professors who combine world-class artistry with a passion for teaching.
All Faculty
Matt L. Ambrosio (he, him, his)
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
Matt Ambrosio is an Visiting Professor of Music Theory at Lawrence University. He recently completed his PhD in Music Theory at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Originally from New Rochelle, NY,…
View Full Profile
Ian Bates
Associate Professor of Music Theory
Ian Bates is Associate Professor of Music Theory and Chair of the Theory Department. He completed his Ph.D. in Music Theory from Yale University, from which institution he also holds…
View Full Profile
Ann K. Boeckman
Instructor of Music and Teacher of Music Fundamentals
Pianist Ann Kohlbeck Boeckman holds the Bachelor of Music Degree magna cum laude in piano performance from Lawrence University and the Master of Arts Degree in piano pedagogy from Western…
View Full Profile
Rebecca A. Perry (she/her/hers)
Associate Professor of Music-Music Theory
Rebecca Perry is Assistant Professor of Music Theory at the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music. She received Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Arts, and Master of Philosophy degrees at Yale University.…
View Full Profile
Bianca Celine Pratte (she/her)
Instructor of Music
Bianca Pratte is an Instructor of Music at Lawrence University teaching Sight Singing, Aural Skills, and Music Theory. A native of Walnut Creek, California, she received her Master of Music…
View Full Profile
Jessica Anne Sommer (she/her)
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
Jessica Sommer is currently Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Theory at Lawrence University. She completed her PhD in music theory at Indiana University in December 2018. She has a M.M.…
View Full ProfileLearning Spaces
Students enjoy small class sizes and extensive one-on-one interaction with instructors. Students also benefit from an extensive music theory tutoring program where students may work with a tutor outside of class time. Through independent studies, students may dive more deeply into a specific topic of interest with an instructor of their choosing.
