Cerritos College
Welcome to the Applied Music Program!
Please join us every Wednesday at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. in the vocal classroom BC 51, located in the Music Department (facing the central quad on campus). Join us for student recitals. These live performances are one hour in duration and feature trained student performers in the applied music program from various disciplines such as vocal, guitar, piano, strings and electric guitar. These performances are free and open to all. We would be delighted to provide you with midday or early evening musical entertainment.
Applied Music Performance Schedule
FAQs
What is Applied Music?
Applied Music (MUS 147) is a one unit course offering private music lessons in piano, organ, voice, electric and acoustic guitar, and all band and orchestral instruments. Music styles include both classical and jazz. The program is offered during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Who is eligible?
Cerritos College students, both full- and part-time, who are serious about improving their performance skills, have already reached at least an intermediate level of proficiency, and who have time to devote to the program are invited to audition for entrance.
How do I get into the program?
Prospective students should schedule an audition appointment in the Music Department Office (MUS, BC 52A). Auditions are held at the end of each semester for the following term. For the audition, you should prepare a brief musical composition that demonstrates your musicianship and technical achievement. A theory exam on the fundamentals of music will be required.
Who are the Applied Music private instructors?
Experienced, certificated, adjunct faculty members are part of the staff. The teachers are also professional performers.
Click to see the list of Applied Faculty.
What are the requirements of the program?
In addition to a weekly private one hour lesson (provided at no additional tuition) you must practice on campus six (6) hours every week, participate in a weekly recital class (MUS 147), and be a member of a large performance ensemble class at Cerritos College.You will also be required to attend several music performances at Cerritos College or in the community.
What do I do after I'm accepted into the program?
Register for MUS 147. Two different sections are offered:
Wednesday 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sign up for an audition for a large ensemble class.
Click here for Ensemble Directors.
Instrumentalists choose from:
MUS 124 - Concert Band
MUS 124A - Beginning Band
MUS 125 - Community Symphonic Band
MUS 125A - Community Band
MUS 126 - Pep Band
MUS 127 - Orchestra
MUS 128 - Community Orchestra
MUS 133 - Stage Band
MUS 134 - Jazz Ensemble
MUS 136 - String Ensemble*
MUS 141 - Pop/Rock Ensemble
Vocalists choose from:
MUS 138 - Community Chorus
MUS 138A - Collegiate Chorale
Pianists and guitarists:
MUS 132 - Guitar Ensemble
MUS 154 - Piano Ensemble
* Some classes are offered on a rotational basis. Check the current semester's class schedule to determine what is offered.
Obtain a Cerritos College Student ID card with current semester sticker.
It is highly recommended that you attend the first class meeting of Applied Musician order to hear explanations of the program and class procedures. In class you will receive instruction about:
how to arrange and fulfill practice hours
how to choose and contract a private teacher
what events are available at Cerritos College to meet the concert attendance requirements
how to contact the class accompanist
the class performance schedule
reading and/or other assignments
Your responsibility for practice hours and ensemble participation begins during the first week of instruction. Keep a written log of the hours you practice in the Cerritos College Music Department practice rooms.
How long can one continue in the program?
Students may remain in the class (MUS 147) for four (4) semesters. Continued enrollment from semester to semester is contingent upon meeting all the requirements: that is -
keep practice hours up to date(6 hours per week - every week)
prepare lessons and be punctual
perform in class when scheduled
participate loyally and cheerfully in a large ensemble
attend required concert events
Students not meeting all the requirements will have a low grade. D or F students must withdraw from the program for a complete semester and then have to re-audition to be reconsidered for the program.
What is MUS 147 - Basic Applied Music?
Music 147 is open to Music Majors and non Music Major who remain at Cerritos College a limited amount of time before transfer. Students who have successfully completed four (4) semesters of MUS 147 are eligible for advanced study in MU 90.
What will I gain from being in the program?
This program is equivalent to a large scholarship. Lessons, coaching, accompanist services, are all included, as well as free practice space with a piano and access to the many resources of the Cerritos College Music Library. The program offers a great opportunity to develop artistic talent and to network with other serious music students. Performance and audition skills are sharpened so one learns to present oneself in a very positive light. You will be better able to compete with other students currently attending music schools and universities. You will be joining a tradition of work toward real success. Enrollment is limited. This chance should be used wisely and with dedication.
Applied Music Program Director
Dr. Christine Lopez
562.860.2451 ext. 2632
Dr. Christine Lopez
