A minor proposal (Yes, another English paper. But it actually has something to do with me this time.)

I wish I were a music major. Not only are they incredibly focused and dedicated, they get to take a number of amazing classes that are verboten to us mundane economics, philosophy, math, or engineering majors. I would enjoy taking classes such as music theory, music composition, or ethnomusicology, but I chose not to major in music, and these classes are reserved for music majors .

I had never seriously planned on majoring in music; my idea was to get a music minor in conjunction with a more profitable degree. But that plan burned to ashes in a spectacular pyrotechnic bonfire when I learned the requirements for ASU’s music minor. The requirements were absurd. Not only would I be required to learn the “Fundamentals of Music Notation” but I might have to study “Elvis Presley,” “Hip-Hop,” or “The Beatles.” And this intensive course of study would be added to such erudite courses as “Mac Literacy for Musicians” and “Concert Attendance.”

That’s sarcasm, by the way. The course of study prescribed by ASU’s music minor is ridiculously simple. It requires no performance, theory, or study of traditional art music. It is a conglomeration of throw-away music history courses that seems to be intended for lackadaisical liberal-arts students looking to pad their academic resumés.

It could be so much better. A music minor could be a music major in miniature—a taste of the incredible voyage that those brave souls who study music education, composition, or performance embark upon. ASU’s music minor could, in its 21 credits, be far more meaningful.

My proposed music minor would consist of one semester of music theory, three semesters of ensemble performance, two semesters of studio lessons, as well as two of class piano, a semester of ethnomusicology, and six elective credits to be used in the fields of history and theory. This would be a deeper, broader study of music than is currently offered, yet fit in the same number of credits as the current program.

I must confess, though, that this selection of classes is not entirely my own. All of these classes are required in the first two semesters of a BA in Music degree. A minor in music is much more meaningful when it draws from the same basis as the programs offered to music majors. This proposed minor could even help grow the music major programs by showing students the joys of the study of music. It certainly would benefit me; I’d be able to take the music classes I want without devoting my entire life to the pursuit of a music degree.

Of course, this program will probably never be implemented because it would require the music school to do the unthinkable: open music classes to non-majors.