The major in music requires study of both the historical and the theoretical dimensions of music. Seven sequence courses are required, as well as at least two elective courses. The sequence courses are in music theory (Music 104, 201-202), in music history (Music 207, 208 and 209), and the senior seminar (Music 402) taken during the second semester of the senior year.

The electives are chosen in consultation with the department from all the other offerings. Majors typically concentrate in a specific musical discipline, such as composition, performance, or music history, doing so by taking more than the minimum two electives. Majors are strongly urged to take courses in at least two foreign languages while at Williams.

Music majors are required to participate in departmental performance groups for at least four semesters. The student must petition to meet the requirements for the major in an alternative way. Majors are also expected to attend departmental concerts.

Three routes toward Honors and Highest Honors are possible in the Music major:

1. Composition: A Composition thesis must include one major work completed during the senior year, a portfolio of smaller works completed during the junior and senior years, and a 10 to 15 page discussion of the student's work.
2. Performance: A Performance thesis must include an honors recital given during the spring of the senior year and a 15 to 20 page discussion of a selection of the works performed. The student's general performance career will also be considered in determining honors.
3. History, Theory and Analysis, or Ethnomusicology: A written Historical, Theoretical/Analytical, or Ethnomusicological thesis between 65 and 80 pages in length and an oral presentation based on the thesis is required. A written thesis should offer new insights based on original research.

To be admitted to the honors program, a student must have at least a 3.3 GPA in Music courses (this GPA must be maintained in order to receive honors), and have demonstrated ability and experience through coursework and performance in the proposed thesis area. A one to two page application to the honors program, written in consultation with a faculty member, must be made to the Chair of Music before or during spring registration in the junior year.

Honors candidates must enroll in MUS 493(F)-W031-494(S) during their senior year. A student who is highly qualified for honors work, but who, for compelling reasons, is unable to pursue a year-long project, may petition the department for permission to pursue a thesis over one semester and the Winter Study term. If granted, the standards for evaluating the thesis in such exceptional cases would be identical to those that apply to year-long honors projects. Final submission of the thesis must be made to the Music Department by April 15 of the senior year. The Department's decision to award honors will be based on the quality of the thesis.