CWP Department

Music Preparation Proficiency

The Music Preparation Proficiency is designed to ensure that all CWP majors can create
professional quality scores and parts. You must pass this proficiency before you
graduate. You will take the proficiency as part of the work you will do during the course
CW-211 Writing for Small Ensemble.

You must pass the proficiency if:
1. You are CWP major who declared the major effective spring 2006 or later.
2. You became a CWP major earlier than Spring 2006 but have switched to the
new curriculum.

You dont have to take the proficiency if:
1. You are not a CWP major.
2. You are taking the old CWP concentrate curriculum, having declared the
major before Spring 2006.
3. You have taken CW-204 Music Preparation 1.

If you have any questions about whether or not you need to take the proficiency,
please see Matthew Nicholl, Chair of CWP.

Heres how the proficiency works:

Your CW-211 final project will be used to judge your proficiency in music
preparation. Your final project will receive a grade as usual in CW-211 and will
also be considered as the music preparation proficiency.
Scores should be on 11 X 17 paper and bound. The parts should be collated and
taped. You may prepare the music either by hand or by using a computer notation
program. You should use the professional quality 9.5 X 12.5 paper for parts.
Your score and parts will be evaluated and you will receive a written evaluation
of your work. You will receive notice about the proficiency early in the following
semester. There are two possible outcomes:

1. Your work demonstrates proficiency and you pass. We then notify the
registrar that you have completed this requirement.

2. Your work is not of sufficient quality and needs revision. We will return the
score to you with clear instructions for what you need to do to bring it up to
the appropriate level to pass the proficiency. You will then revise and
resubmit the materials for evaluation.

Please contact Matthew Nicholl if you have any questions.