Erika Barton ’09
Music Major; Classical Languages & Literatures Minor
F08-S09 D-plan: R-R-R

Favorite and least favorite thing about department: The music department is fairly unorganized. They have some issues structurally when it comes to deciding what terms and periods to hold classes. They are going through changes right now. The Music program itself is small and limited compared to other colleges and universities. However, the administrators and office staff are very helpful and are readily available and willing to talk with anyone who may have a question about the department. The professors and instructors are great; they are more concerned with you learning the material than assigning you a grade.

Important info for potential majors: It is very important to specifically plan out the music major. There are a lot of courses required for the major, but only a few major classes are offered every term. It is important for a prospective major to be careful with planning so he/she makes sure to fulfill the requirements (especially the performance requirements) before the last minute.

Talk to me if: you’re a pianist interested in maximizing their experience in the Music department. Talk to me if you are contemplating participation in the Music FSP (London, England)!

Most valuable academic information learned: Always, ALWAYS talk to the professor of your course if you do not understand what is going on! Keep in contact with at least one professor you like/admire in the department several times a month; this could be useful if you need a recommendation of any kind, or if you just need advice in general about the major as well.

Favorite class and professor: My favorite class was Music 5 (Harmony & Theory I); it provides a solid foundation for music. The size of the class was perfect for the topic and created a fun atmosphere. One of my favorite professors is Kui Dong. She is currently leading the FSP I am on. Prof. Dong is very versatile and has an expansive knowledge about old and contemporary music. She is caring, fun, and loves to educate her students.

Major classes taken: MUS 5, 11, 20, 21, 29, 30, 32, 87

Major journey: I have been playing the piano since I was 8, so I have always been musically engaged in some form or fashion. I tried out different majors since I have been at Dartmouth, but it only made sense for me to major in Music. I really LOVE music; it has been a huge part of my life, and I wanted it to stay that way.

Thesis status: I am going into my senior year, and I have not yet decided whether or not I am going to pursue a thesis.

Other activities: Black Women’s Forum, African-American Society, Concerned Black Students Group

Off Campus Program: Transfer term Emory University in Atlanta, GA, F07; Music FSP in London, S08.

Internship experience: Summer 2006: Warranty Corporation of America (WaCA), Executive Assistant. Norcross, GA
Winter Break 2006: EZPrints, HR Exec. Assistant. Norcross, GA
Summer 2007: AT&T, Student Intern (Management Level). Atlanta, GA.

Kai Saul ’09
Music major; Pre-law
F08-S09 D-plan: R-R-R

Favorite and least favorite thing about department: The close-knit community of students and professors is small but inviting, and it’s easy to feel at home in the music department. Most of my classes have been smaller than ten students, and I’ve made many friends among both fellow students and professors. Also, the Paddock Music Library is an excellent resource and a cozy place to do homework or check blitz. Unfortunately, the department is located in the basement of the Hop, and is almost entirely windowless and the practice rooms are a bit claustrophobic. Also, the music major is notoriously complicated, and the department is currently trying to reform the required curriculum to better suit students from different musical backgrounds.

Important info for potential majors: If you think you might be interested in the major, begin taking classes as soon as possible. The major has many different requirements, and the sooner you begin the easier it will be to continue later on.

Talk to me if: you are interested in the string or chamber programs, or need help with music history courses.

Most valuable academic information learned: If you have a good experience with a professor, take another class from him or her – so much of my academic success and happiness has been dependent on the quality of teaching, regardless of the subject. Similarly, shop around at the start of each term and pick the classes that will be most rewarding, not the ones that will be more convenient in your schedule. An engaging 9 or 10A always trumps a boring 11 or 12.

Favorite class and professor: My favorite class was Music 3 (Music and Technology), taught by Newton Armstrong. Although it’s not required for majors, it was refreshing to explore non-classical styles and get to compose some electronic music. I also especially enjoyed Music 22 (Orchestration) and Music 33 (Western Art Music From Early Romanticism to the Late Twentieth Century) with Newton. He is truly one of the most versatile members of the faculty.

Major classes taken: MUS 3, 5, 7, 10 (exempt), 14, 20, 21, 22, 31, 32, 33, 50, 51, 70.

Major journey: Although I didn’t know I wanted to be a major at the time, I took Music 5 with Steve Swayne in my freshman fall and also became involved with the Dartmouth Symphony Orchestra. I continued to take music classes in the following terms and had great experiences, and I realized how important music is to me and decided to become a major.

Major specific activities: Chamber music player; violin student of Marcia Cassidy.

Thesis status: I will be pursuing an Honors Thesis in Violin Performance under the guidance of my advisor, Professor Bob Duff, and my violin instructor, Marcia Cassidy. In addition to performing several major classical works, I will present a detailed paper analyzing the historical and musical significance of each work.

Other activities: Chamber Music Program (2005-present); Jones Media Center - Student Manager (2006-present); Amnesty International (2008-present).