Minor in Gospel Keyboard Performance Styles

Department
Piano

The minor in gospel keyboard performance styles will offer students across the college the opportunity to pursue a course of study that is focused in gospel keyboard (piano, Hammond organ, keyboard) history and practice. Studies will include the history, theory, and practice of gospel in an aim to lift its academic visibility while preparing students to perform effectively and globally in this inspiring field.

Entrance Requirements

There are no entrance requirements for this minor. Students must follow the regular declaration of minor procedure as outlined in the Registration Guide. This minor is managed by the Piano Department. 

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this minor, students will:

  • develop an analytical, creative, and intuitive understanding of gospel keyboard music as a cultural language;
  • discover how gospel music has influenced Black culture and popular culture;
  • recognize the form, structure, and functionality of components in traditional and contemporary music;
  • develop the keyboard techniques and stage presence necessary to perform gospel music in a variety of styles; and
  • analyze, transcribe, and perform hymns, traditional gospel pieces, and contemporary gospel music. 
Curriculum and Courses

Required Courses (7 credits):

  • AFST-320 Spirituals and Black Folk Traditions (3 credits)
  • ET-342 Gospel Ear Training (2 credits)
  • ENPN-266 Gospel Keyboard Techniques  (1 credit)
  • ILPN-210 Gospel Keyboard Reharmonization Techniques (1 credit)

Elective Courses (take 4 credits)

  • AFST-421 Gospel Music History 1: Artistry, Industry and Culture (3 credits)
  • ENRT-203 Traditional Gospel  (1 credit)
  • ENRT-220 Spirituals (1 credit)
  • ENRT-405 Reverence Gospel Ensemble (2 credits)
  • ENVC-212 Jubilee Spirit Ensemble (1 credit)
  • ILPN-211 Introduction to Gospel Music Styles (1 credit)
  • ILPN-337 Blues Styles for Hammond Organ (1 credit)