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Music Theory explores the foundations of musical composition. Students examine how to create music in both traditional and modern forms, analyze pieces through various methods, and interpret works with historical context. The University of Toronto's music theory department excels in Schenkerian analysis, rhythmic theories, 19th-century compositions, and works from the Second Viennese School. Undergraduates develop core skills through two years of mandatory theory, musicianship, and related coursework. Advanced students can specialize through diverse upper-level classes, potentially earning a Music History and Theory major within the Mus.Bac. program. This flexible major allows students to focus on either Music History or Theory, or blend both disciplines, with the option to add a Composition minor.
Graduate studies offer a dynamic academic environment, combining rigorous scholarship with close connections to Musicology and Ethnomusicology. The program attracts exceptional candidates for both MA and PhD degrees, featuring guest lectures, colloquiums, and events like the annual Form Forum. All graduate students receive standard university funding and gain valuable teaching and research experience through assistantships.