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Notate | 01:02
In freshman chorus, students practice singing together as they learn the fundamentals of music.
In freshman chorus, students practice singing together as they learn the fundamentals of music.
The music library gives students access to great works of music studied in the program.
The music library gives students access to great works of music studied in the program.
Students analyze musical scores to understand how compositions work.
Students analyze musical scores to understand how compositions work.
Tutors make time to meet with students individually to discuss their studies, including music.
Tutors make time to meet with students individually to discuss their studies, including music.

Notate

One of three tutorials at St. John’s, the music tutorial leads students to ask and discover how music works, on both an intellectual and an emotional level. The music tutorial consists of the following:

Who?

Freshmen singing in chorus; from 12 to 16 sophomores and one faculty member, called a tutor, in conversation around a table.

When?

In freshman year, one class per week for study and singing. In sophomore year, three classes per week.

What?

From a study of the fundamentals of melody and its notation to the careful analysis of great works of music.

How?

By listening to music, singing, learning, and reflecting on the elements of music, analyzing scores, and considering musical compositions as texts.

Why?

To recover and explore music as a liberal art. To become more fully human.