McNally Smith College of Music Viewbook

McNally Smith College of Music

19 Exchange Street East

Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101

1.800.594.9500

[email protected]

www.mcnallysmith.edu

Programs of study 9Music Performance 10Ensembles 12Music Production 14 Audio Engineering 16

Introduc tIon 1–7 KIcKstart your carEEr 37Center for Creative Careers 38Visit Campus 40Residence Hall 42Study Abroad 43Financing Your Education 43Get Started 44Contact Us 45

— insert —your LIfE.our cuLturE.your futurE.Life at McNally SmithThe Twin CitiesAlumni Success Stories

Programs of study (cont.)Live Sound 17 Music Business 18Composition & Songwriting 20Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music 22Hip-Hop Studies 23General Education &Liberal Arts 24

table of contents

Music is your future — how will you get there? You are a performer and an artist. You are a composer, a songwriter, a beatmaker. You are a producer and an audio engineer. You are a promoter, an agent, a manager working on the front lines and behind the scenes. You’re an entrepreneur rethinking and reshaping the industry. Are you ready to take the next step?

You bring talent. You bring passion.

McNally Smith College of Music is the education that brings it all together.

It starts here.

Discover your life in music.

Go beyond talent.

At McNally Smith College of Music, you’ll be supported by world-class educators and accomplished industry professionals — our focus is to help you develop your talent and nurture your potential to create a satisfying and sustainable career.

Whatever path you choose, you’ll need a well-rounded education that prepares you for the dynamic future of music and media. Our unique curriculum focuses on developing your musicianship, creativity and intellectual curiosity — while giving you the necessary technology skills to thrive in the industry. You’ll also learn business strategies and entrepreneurial concepts to create new opportunities for success. This integrated approach turns students into experts and players into professionals.

A passion for music resonates in you. We’re here to teach you how to make a living doing what you love.

Get connected. b a n d m at e s s o n g w r i t e r s s t u d i o c o l l a b o r at o r s c l i e n t s b u s i n e s s p a r t n e r s

Get connected.

Create & collaborate. As part of the diverse community of artists and educators at McNally Smith, you’ll work together with peers and professionals whose talents and tastes complement your own. You’ll be challenged to grow and stretch creatively, while learning important collaboration skills that will serve you throughout your career. And because the College is part of the thriving music, media and arts scene of Minneapolis-St. Paul, you’ll be able to apply what you learn in the classroom to the many performance and studio opportunities that exist in the Twin Cities.

The McNally Smith campus is a vibrant center of creative expression and activity.Here you’ll meet future bandmates, songwriters, studio collaborators, clients and business partners. It’s a microcosm of the music industry where you’ll connect with guest artists, industry experts and internships. Get a head start on your career and build your network while you’re still in school.

“I chose McNally Smith because it was important to me to learn from the people who have lived their entire lives in music and know how the industry works. The connections I made at the school have led to great opportunities, including what I’m doing now in Los Angeles.” — Anna Pollock (Music Business alum), MusiCares, The GRAMMY Foundation

“Between peers, teachers, advisors and even technicians on campus, I’ve fostered invaluable relationships that led to connections I never thought were possible. If you have the desire and fire to excel in music, McNally Smith will provide a platform that will launch you higher than you ever imagined.” — Adam Walker (Music Business alum), Fueled By Ramen

Ready for the real world.

Class sizes are kept small so you get the personalized attention you need to perfect your craft as a music professional. Your instructors and career advisors will critique your work throughout your program, helping you develop a media-rich portfolio that showcases your talents and abilities to potential collaborators, clients or employers. “The best way to learn to be a film composer is by actually scoring films. Thanks to a creative collaboration between McNally Smith and the Minneapolis School of Art and Design (MCAD), I had the chance to score a number of student films while I was still in college. From communicating with directors, to recording musicians, to learning how to be organized, the skills I developed working on these projects set me up for success in my career. There are invaluable lessons that can only be learned outside the classroom, and McNally Smith presented me with amazing opportunities to prepare for the professional world.”

As a McNally Smith student, you’ll receive a real-world and relevant education designed to help you reach your goals.

From day one, you’ll get hands-on experience working on professionally oriented projects — in the studio, on stage, behind the scenes and beyond.

— Christian Flanders (Composition alum), Assistant to Hollywood Film Composer Christopher Young (Swordfish, The Grudge, Spider-Man 3 and more)

Wheredo youwant to go?

O u r w i d e - r a n g i n g d e g r e e p r O g r a m s f u l ly p r e pa r e yO u for a contemporary career in music, media and entertainment. Whether you come to McNally Smith knowing exactly where you belong, or you’re looking to explore your options, we’re here to get you there.

DEG

REE PROG

RAMS

area s Of study: Live Sound

Music Business

Composition

Music Performance

Music Production

Audio Engineering

Songwriting

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music

Hip-Hop Studies

Our missiOn McNally Smith College of Music prepares students for a fulfilling future in music by providing a culture of learning that inspires intellectual, creative and personal development, and that enriches our world through their artistry and leadership.

09mcnallysmith.edu/degrees-programs

Work hard. Play harder. Whether you sing or play guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, strings, brass or woodwinds, the Music Performance programs at

McNally Smith will inspire you to find your own unique voice as a creative artist. Our integrated curriculum allows you to

develop a solid foundation in music theory, sight-reading, ear training, improvisation and performance technique, while

encouraging exploration in whatever styles interest you. Your instructors are world-class players who bring industry experience to the

classroom to help prepare you for making a life in music. One-on-one lessons

and mentorship give you the level of attention and feedback you need to

expand your stylistic vocabulary, hone your technical proficiency and build

your confidence as a musician and performer. Beyond helping you maximize your musical talent, our unique curriculum equips you with the practical tools you’ll

need to establish your career. By building a media-rich portfolio, you’ll graduate fluent in technologies vital to

modern marketing and artist promotion — web design, video production and more. You’ll gain an understanding

of the music business and develop an entrepreneurial mindset to help create your own professional opportunities.

And by taking advantage of elective courses in other areas of the College — Production, Business, Composition

and Songwriting —

MU

SIC

PERF

ORM

ANCE

10 mcnallysmith.edu/music-performance

musiC perfOrmanCe degrees/diplOma s

Bachelor of Music in PerformanceAssociate of Applied Science in Music PerformanceDiploma: Music Performance

sample Cl a sses

Applied Theory ITechnique IContemporary LiteratureMusic Interpretation

For a complete list of courses visit mcnallysmith.edu/catalog

C areer OppOrtunities

Touring MusicianSession PlayerMusic DirectorBand LeaderComposerSongwriterMusic TeacherClinician

you’ll diversify your skillset and ability to generate multiple revenue streams.

MU

SIC PERFORM

ANCE

ENSE

MBL

ES

12 mcnallysmith.edu/ensembles

All styles welcome.

13mcnallysmith.edu

All styles welcome.As a Performance major, you’ll get to choose from 30-plus ensembles ranging from musical theater and jazz-fusion to hip-hop and indie rock. Focus on mastering the music you want to play, or stretch beyond your comfort zone by exploring new styles.

Ensembles perform regularly on campus, and at venues and festivals throughout the thriving Minneapolis-St. Paul music scene. Our award-winning ensembles tour nationally to cities like Austin, New Orleans and New York, and even international destinations as far as South America.

ENSEM

BLES

sample ensembles: MetalFunky BluesCountry

Contemporary Vocal Ensemble X-Tet Jazz OrchestraClassical Guitar

New Orleans Brass BandAfro-Caribbean DrummingRhythm & Bows

MU

SIC

PRO

DU

CTI

ON

Shape the sound of your future.

musiC prOduC tiOn degrees

Bachelor of Science in Music (Music Producer)Associate of Applied Science in Music (Production)

sample Cl a sses

Mix Lab 1Record Lab 1Artistry In ProductionProject Management for Producers



Music ProducerRecording EngineerAcoustician/Studio DesignerMastering EngineerSound Designer (animation, film, video games, commercials)Broadcast EngineerApp Developer

Behind every great recording is a great producer — an artistic visionary with the technical expertise

and taste to transform a rough musical idea into a radio-ready release. As a Music Production

major, you’ll build a solid foundation of audio engineering skills while being challenged to develop

your own unique production style. Our comprehensive, hands-on curriculum puts you in the studio right away. Through a progression of classes you’ll learn to master the art of recording,

gaining essential skills in microphone placement, mixing, mastering and production. Elective

courses in live sound, sound system design and post-production offer even more ways to make

yourself marketable in the music and media industries.

You’ll also take courses that sharpen your musical skills and sensibilities. Classes in theory,

keyboard technique and ear training will prepare you to write, work and collaborate with other

artists and musicians. Being able to speak with a common vocabulary will help you communicate

and realize a creative vision — whether it’s your own, or for the artist you’re producing.

MU

SIC PROD

UC

TION

15mcnallysmith.edu/production

Learn the art of audio engineering.

audiO engineering degrees/diplOma s

Associate of Applied Science in Recording TechnologyDiploma: Recording Engineer Course (Production)

sample Cl a sses

Mix Lab IRecord Lab ISound Design for Music ProductionDigital Audio Workstation (DAW) Editing


16 mcnallysmith.edu/audio-engineering


Recording EngineerAcoustician/Studio DesignerMastering EngineerSound Designer (animation, film, video games, commercials)Broadcast EngineerApp Developer

You’ll also learn how to edit and mix audio for film, TV, radio, video games and

online content. Courses in sound design, studio management and live sound

further expand your skill set and open the door to a broader world of opportunities in music and media.

AUD

IO E

NG

INEE

RIN

G

In the Audio Engineering program, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge and practical experience to become a professional

sound engineer. Start by learning the key essentials: signal flow, acoustics, electrical engineering and sound

reinforcement. Master your craft through hands-on coursework that covers the entire spectrum of recording and

mixing — from time-tested analog methods to the latest techniques using industry-standard digital tools.

Get in the mix.

liVe sOund diplOma

Diploma: Recording Engineer Course (Live Sound)

sample Cl a ssesSound Reinforcement ISound System Design and InstallationIntroduction to Stage Lighting



Front of House EngineerMonitor EngineerAcoustician/Sound System DesignerBroadcast EngineerTour ManagerLighting Technician

LIVE SOU

ND

17mcnallysmith.edu/live-sound

From sold-out shows to weekend worship services, it’s the job of the live sound

engineer to create a mix that excites and moves the audience. Our intensive Live

Sound program gives you the training to become one of these behind-the-scenes

VIPs in as little as 12 months.

Through hands-on instruction from field-tested faculty, you’ll get professional

experience running sound in our three on-campus performance venues. You’ll also learn to manage fast-paced

events and operate lighting systems for a variety of club, theater and stage venues, and you’ll add to your skill set

and marketability by mastering business fundamentals like tour management, booking and promotions.

MU

SIC

BUSI

NES

S

New technologies and business models have leveled the playing field in the creative industries, creating limitless

opportunities for entrepreneurial minds to monetize music. Whether your dream is to work behind the scenes or

advance your own career as an artist, our Music Business program teaches you how to leverage your creativity and the

latest digital tools to build your enterprise and expand your independent reach.

Our curriculum gives you a solid foundation in the essentials: accounting, booking,

promotion and management. Through hands-on coursework in marketing strategy and

media relations, you’ll sharpen your problem-solving and communication skills, and

gain fluency in a variety of social media and digital production platforms. You’ll also

examine traditional and emerging revenue sources, and become versed in legal essentials

concerning intellectual property, contract law, copyright and music publishing.

You’ll get insider access to leading music conferences like South by Southwest (SXSW), and you’ll

have myriad opportunities to connect to the industry though internships in Minneapolis-St. Paul,

and in other major music cities like New York, Los Angeles and Nashville.

musiC business degrees

Bachelor of Arts in Music (Music Business)Associate of Applied Science in Music (Business)

sample Cl a sses

New Media StrategyEntrepreneurship and Small Business DevelopmentPromotion and Publicity



EntrepreneurPublic RelationsArtist/Tour ManagerPromotion and MarketingSales and Distribution RepresentativeBooking/Talent Agent

MU

SIC BUSIN

ESS

19mcnallysmith.edu/music-business

Imagine. Inspire. Innovate.

Write your soundtrack.

Thanks to a constant demand for new content, there are endless opportunities to write

music for film, TV, theater, animation, video games and digital media. But to be successful as

a contemporary composer or songwriter, you’ll require more than just a traditional music

education to meet the demands of today’s fast-paced industry.

20 mcnallysmith.edu/composition mcnallysmith.edu/songwriting

COM

POSI

TIO

N &

SO

NGW

RITI

NG

sOngwriting and COmpOsitiOn degrees

Bachelor of Music in Composition (Instrumental Composition)Bachelor of Music in Composition (Songwriting)

sample Cl a sses

Orchestration IIScoring For Media IISongwriting IArranging I



Composer for Media (film, TV, video games)SongwriterRecording ArtistMusic ProducerSound DesignerArranger, OrchestratorMusic Editor

ChOOse bet ween t wO tr aCks:

In the Composition degree program, you’ll develop your aesthetic as a composer through intensive study of music theory,

arranging, orchestration and scoring for the moving image. Through hands-on collaboration with filmmakers and visual artists, you’ll use

the latest music hardware and software (including digital audio workstations, synthesizers and sample libraries), and conduct session

musicians in state-of-the-art studios.

The Songwriting degree program nurtures your unique voice and gives you the tools to craft

compelling songs that resonate with an audience. You’ll master essential writing skills though comprehensive

study of musical styles, lyric structure and popular song forms. You’ll also gain the necessary technology

chops to produce your own material, as well as an understanding of music publishing and licensing so that

you can begin to profit from your work.

Build your career.

COM

POSITIO

N & SO

NGW

RITING

Can’t decide on just one area of study? The flexible Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music program features a significant number

of elective credits, allowing you the freedom to customize your degree while exploring course offerings in multiple

disciplines, like Performance, Business and Production. The BA in Music program also has a greater number of general

education credits than discipline-specific degree programs, giving you the opportunity to transfer in many of the credits

you may have earned previously from another institution or in one of the other programs offered at McNally Smith.

ba in musiC degree

Bachelor of Arts in Music

22 mcnallysmith.edu/bachelor-arts-music

The BA in Music program might be right for you if:

Design your own degree.

— You want the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills across multiple disciplines to prepare for a life in music.

— You’re ready for a solid core of music studies (including private lessons and ensembles) and liberal arts courses, as well as a high level of freedom in substantial elective credits to dig deeper into areas of interest.

— You want the opportunity to transfer a large number of credits.

— You want more freedom to gain real world experience though internships and study abroad opportunities.

BA IN

MU

SIC

Let your voice be heard.As a Hip-Hop Studies major, you’ll take your ability to write rhymes and make beats to the next level though 12

months of intensive music career cross-training. Under the mentorship of industry pros, you’ll workshop your

material and receive the constructive critique you need to grow as an emcee, deejay and producer. Develop your live show through performance opportunities on campus and across the Twin Cities,

get hands-on experience working with the latest music hardware and software in our state-of-

the-art studios, and learn the music business essentials — management, contract law, booking,

marketing and promotion — that will help you succeed as an artist and entrepreneur.

hip-hOp diplOma

Diploma: Hip-Hop Studiessample Cl a sses

Emcee TechniquesDeejay TechniquesHip-Hop Music ProductionLanguage of Rap and Spoken Word



Emcee/MusicianMusic/Record ProducerEvent DeejayArtist ManagementMarketing and PromotionsAuthor/PoetRadio/TV/Web Series Host

HIP-H

OP STU

DIES

23mcnallysmith.edu/hip-hop

Knowledge and skills for a lifetime of learning.

A McNally Smith education encompasses more than just music studies. Our Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

and Bachelor degree programs also include a core general education curriculum that covers the arts at large,

as well as the various social, scientific and cultural literacies of the 21st century. Directed by the Liberal Arts

department, this component of your coursework is designed to give you a broad-based foundation of highly

transferrable life and career skills, including writing, research and critical-thinking abilities.

Your general education courses prepare you for a lifetime of opportunity as a resourceful, innovative and ethical

thinker in today’s complex global society. Upon graduation, you’ll have developed the skills to become a better communicator and

problem-solver, and you’ll be well-prepared for the challenges you’ll face in a dynamic professional landscape.

24 mcnallysmith.edu/liberal-arts

gener al eduC atiOn inCludes the study Of the fOllOwing disCiplines:

CommunicationHumanitiesSocial SciencesMath and Natural Science

sample Cl a sses

Music Industry EconomicsWriting and Research SkillsExploring the Fine ArtsMusic in the World’s CulturesPerformance, Presentation and CommunicationWriting About Music


GEN

ERAL

ED

UCA

TIO

N &

LIB

ERAL

ART

S

your life.

your future.our culture.

This is life at McNally Smith

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You’re not just a number here. We’re a small private

college with approximately 500 students and 100

faculty members.

This ensures you’ll receive an individualized education, and the personalized mentorship you need to reach your full potential.

5 : 1 r at i o

3 DiStiNCt PErForMaNCE

VENUES

1 1StatE-oF-tHE-art

StUDioS

6PoSt-ProDUCtioN

LaBS

Over 95% of incoming students receive

F i N a N C i a L a S S i S ta N C E .

StUDENtS at tEND ExCLUSiVE oN-C aMPUS CoNCErtS, CLiNiC S aND Ma StErCL a SSES FroM ProMiNENt ViSitiNg artiStS aND ENtrEPrENEUrS, aND LE arN FirStHaND FroM iNDUStry ExPErtS wHo arE SHaPiNg tHE CoUrSE oF MUSiC.

On average, over 10% of our student body is made up of

iNtErNatioNaLStUDENtS

who come from as far away as Brazil, China, South Africa and Australia.

Our campus is loaded with top-flight facilities and inspiring spaces, including

as well as technology-rich classrooms, backline-equipped rehearsal spaces, and access to all the gear you could imagine.

J o i N i N t H E F U N

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Eat well.The Sound Bite Café serves up

organic, locally sourced dishes and offers a variety of gluten, dairy free,

vegan and vegetarian options.

With dozens of student organizations ranging from the Audio Engineering Society and Songwriters Circle, to Basketball, Yoga and Salsa Dance Clubs, there are countless co-curricular activities happening on campus year-round.

StUDENtS at tEND ExCLUSiVE oN-C aMPUS CoNCErtS, CLiNiC S aND Ma StErCL a SSES FroM ProMiNENt ViSitiNg artiStS aND ENtrEPrENEUrS, aND LE arN FirStHaND FroM iNDUStry ExPErtS wHo arE SHaPiNg tHE CoUrSE oF MUSiC.

“Music needs to come from the heart, be authentic and done with excellence.

At the center of what we provide is a respect for the unique artistry of every student.”

— Doug Smith, Co-Founder

the Twin Cities

MiNNE aPoLiS

St. PaUL

to not one, but two of the most forward-thinking, creative-driven cities in the country.

worLD-CLaSS MUSiC SCENE Minneapolis-St. Paul has long been home to a vibrant and diverse music scene, producing pioneers like Bob Dylan, Prince, Hüsker Dü and Atmosphere. Nationally acclaimed independent radio stations, like 89.3 The Current, help cultivate an enthusiastic audience that passionately supports local music. From indie rock to avant-garde jazz to alternative hip-hop, students have endless opportunities to cut their teeth at legendary venues and outdoor festivals.

CrEatiVE HaVEN Boasting one of the nation’s top employment rates, the Twin Cities is home to Fortune 500 corporations, a booming tech industry and a strong support system for start-up companies — not to mention numerous advertising agencies and commercial music studios. The region’s robust economic health leads to millions in funding for local music and arts programming, as well as countless career opportunities for music makers, creative professionals and burgeoning entrepreneurs.

QUaLity oF LiFE As a resident of Minneapolis-St. Paul, you’ll enjoy access to concerts every night of the week, a thriving theater district, renowned orchestras, museums and art galleries, professional sports, endless shopping options and a first-class culinary scene. You’ll also live in one of the safest, cleanest and friendliest urban areas in the country, filled with parks, lakes, rivers, beaches, bike trails, patios, coffee shops and food trucks. Explore everything the Twin Cities has to offer on two wheels — there’s a Nice Ride bike station right on campus — or hop on the Light Rail, which conveniently stops at our doorstep and stretches out across the metro.

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Our campus is plugged in—

Minneapolis-St. Paul by the numbers

#1BikE

FriENDLy City

in the U.S. Forbes and

Bicycling.com

Minneapolis parks:

“BESt iN tHE CoUNtry” beating out New York,

Chicago and San Franciscoas ranked by the Trust for Public Land, 2013

With a population

of nearly

4MiLLioN

and the

2NDLargESt

economic centerin the Midwest

Minneapolis-St. Paul is the nation’s

14tH LargESt

metropolitan area

Twin Cities: MoSt

LitEratECity

in the United StatesUSA Today, 2015

tHE Dakota Ja z z CLUB — Fit zgEr aLD tHE atEr — BwN MUSiC — FirSt aVENUE — rHyMESayErS ENtErtaiNMENt — LiQUiD MUSiC — MSP airPort — MiNNESota PUBLiC r aDio —89.3 tHE CUrrENt — tC Ja zz FEStiVaL — t wiN CitiES PUBLiC tELEViSioN — MN origi NaL — St. PaUL CHaMBEr orCHEStra — LowErtowN CL aSSiCS — SoUND UNSEEN — PaL aCE tHEatEr

7 P r o F E S S i o N a L S P o r t S t E a M S : V i k i N g S F o o t B a L L — t w i N S B a S E B a L L — w i L D H o C k E y — M i N N E S o ta U N i t E D F C S o C C E r — t i M B E r w o LV E S B a S k E t B a L L — Ly N x B a S k E t B a L L — S t. P a U L S a i N t S B a S E B a L L

175 L akES in the greater

metro area

LoCaL McNaLLy SMitH PartNErS:

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# 1BESt art DiStriCt

The Northeast Minneapolis Art District was awarded top honors on the USA Today’s

“10 Best Readers’ Choice” list for best art district in the U.S. for 2015.

Minneapolis-St. Paul averages nearly

5,000SHowS a yEar

76% of which include at least one local artist.

thecurrent.org

tHE Dakota Ja z z CLUB — Fit zgEr aLD tHE atEr — BwN MUSiC — FirSt aVENUE — rHyMESayErS ENtErtaiNMENt — LiQUiD MUSiC — MSP airPort — MiNNESota PUBLiC r aDio —89.3 tHE CUrrENt — tC Ja zz FEStiVaL — t wiN CitiES PUBLiC tELEViSioN — MN origi NaL — St. PaUL CHaMBEr orCHEStra — LowErtowN CL aSSiCS — SoUND UNSEEN — PaL aCE tHEatEr

7 P r o F E S S i o N a L S P o r t S t E a M S : V i k i N g S F o o t B a L L — t w i N S B a S E B a L L — w i L D H o C k E y — M i N N E S o ta U N i t E D F C S o C C E r — t i M B E r w o LV E S B a S k E t B a L L — Ly N x B a S k E t B a L L — S t. P a U L S a i N t S B a S E B a L L

Minneapolis-St. Paul is second only toNew York City in live theater per capita and is the

3 rD L argESt tHEatEr MarkEt

iN tHE U. S. after New York City and Chicago.

Twin Cities residents earn about

23% abovethe average national household income

but rent prices remain below the averageof America’s major metropolitan areas.

Center for Housing Policy

31

17 Fortune 500 companies

are based in the Twin Cities

including: targEt

3MBESt BUy

gENEraL MiLLSECoLaB

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“During my time at McNally Smith,

As a drummer, Cloud Cult has challenged me to the core — from the rigorous audition process, to driving a large ensemble through complex arrangements in front of large audiences, to writing and recording an ambitious concept album and film score.”

I developed the tools and the confidence I needed to turn my passion into a profession.

— Jeremy Harvey Music Business, Percussion Performance, ’11

Alumni success stories

33

Ari Herstand — Music BusinessAlum Ari Herstand is best known for his popular DIY music business advice blog, Ari’s Take, nominated by the LA Weekly as the best music blog in Los Angeles. The singer/songwriter funded his latest album, Brave Enough, with a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $13,544, and he recently co-starred on award-winning AMC series Mad Men, CBS comedy 2 Broke Girls and ABC family drama The Fosters.

Chris Bartels — Music Production, ’12By day, alum Chris Bartels composes and produces commercial music at Echo Boys, working with big name clients like the Minnesota Twins, Harley Davidson and Health Partners. After hours, he works on growing Anthem Falls Music — his own hybrid music house/record label where he licenses original music and releases albums under the monikers Bora York, Elskavon and Hi-Fi Cali.

Jeremy Harvey — Music Business, Percussion Performance, ’11When popular orchestral indie rock band Cloud Cult held an open audition for a new drummer, alum Jeremy Harvey rose above 250 other players, thanks in part to his ability to both transcribe music and quickly learn his parts by ear. Weeks later he performed his first show with the band at a festival in the Czech Republic. Harvey made his recorded debut on Cloud Cult’s 2016 album and feature film, The Seeker.

“I used to think I’d either be an artist on tour, or I’d be an engineer recording other bands. My view of the industry opened up when I started at McNally Smith and found out about composing and licensing. That excited me — I was able to combine my technical skills with my creativity. And I use the entrepreneurial part of my brain every day working with Anthem Falls Music — networking and building the website and doing social media.”

“There are more opportunities to make a living as a musician than ever before, but it requires a serious work ethic and a solid grasp of all the new technologies, music-centric startups and social platforms, while maintaining a diverse income stream.”

Adam Skatula — Music Business, ’11

A&R, Solid State Records

Adam Ruehmer — Music Business, ’07

Marketing Director, Warner Bros. Records

Lauren McCauley — Music Business, ’13

Agency Associate, The Windish Agency

Brent Paschke — Guitar Performance

Guitarist, Pharrell Williams

Kara Laudon — Vocal Performance, ’13

Singer/Songwriter, John Mark Nelson

Alison Scott — Vocal Performance, ’04

Singer/Songwriter

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Luke Meek — Audio Engineering, ’98Luke Meek worked his way up from mixing sound at small clubs to the role of front of house engineer on Owl City’s international arena tours. He also works as production manager for Owl City and fellow multi-platinum selling artists Mannheim Steamroller — accounting for every last logistical detail before and after each concert.

Dan Comerchero — Music Production, ’10 Combining his passion for music and a love of technology, alum Dan Comerchero developed and launched Quiztones — a frequency ear-training app for Mac, iOS and Android that was named one of the “Best iPhone Music Apps for 2013” by DRUM! Magazine.

“A large part of my McNally Smith experience was the people I met and the overall creative environment — all of the friends, teachers, and mentors influenced me in different ways. If I could go back and give myself any advice, it would be to not be so worried about knowing exactly what you’re going to do in the future, and just allow yourself to get swept up in what you feel most passionate about at the time.”

Adam Walker — Music Business

Marketing Assistant, Fueled By Ramen

Brent Paschke — Guitar Performance

Guitarist, Pharrell Williams

Anna Pollock — Music Business, ’14

MusiCares, GRAMMY Foundation

Aaron Glade — Guitar Performance, Music Business, ’10

Senior Management, Melcro Crown Entertainment

Ben Kelly — Bass Performance, ’11

Bass Player, John Mark Nelson

Robert Frost — Music Production, ’12

Composer, Albert & Otto Ryan Amon — Composition, ’03

Composer, Elysium

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Cullen Fitzpatrick — Composition, ’12Soon after hooking up with BWN Music through McNally Smith’s internship program, alum Cullen Fitzpatrick was offered a full-time job writing commercial music for big-name clients like Subaru, eBay, 3M and more. This demanding gig also requires him to play and record most every instrument, as well as mix and master his own tracks in order to turn around a finished product under tight deadlines. “A huge part of finding success in the music industry is networking.

It can be really hard to meet the right people and make professional connections. McNally Smith directly plugs you into a community of people who are actually doing music as a career. That’s invaluable.”

David Sutton — String Performance, ’13 Alum David Sutton uses pedals and looping techniques to manipulate his violin to sound like a full orchestra. In addition to performing and composing original music, he works as a music director for alt-pop bands Scure and The Honey Trees, and also at Woodridge Church in Medina, MN. Sutton recently gave a TEDx Talks presentation at the University of Minnesota entitled Your Unique Voice in Music.

— Veronica Rodriguez — Music Production/Live Sound, ’12Alum Veronica Rodriguez works as an engineer for iHeartMedia, serving all the technical broadcasting needs for eight different radio stations. A primary part of her job is to engineer Minnesota Vikings NFL games. She travels with the team all season, making sure the broadcasts go off without a hitch.

“Being able to troubleshoot is key in this kind of work. When you go into an unfamiliar space and something isn’t working and you have two hours until the broadcast happens, you don’t have a choice — you have to figure it out. What I learned at McNally Smith has given me confidence in my ability to make it happen in any circumstance.”

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Kickstart your career.

Launching a creative career takes more than just earning your degree. That’s why we’ve embedded robust career preparation into our curriculum that starts on day one and lasts long after you graduate. We’re dedicated to working closely with you throughout your academic and professional journey to help you stand above the crowd, and establish a career that best fits your talents and goals.

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Open doors to your career through our internship opportunities and industry

connections in the Twin Cities, New York, Los Angeles, Nashville and more.Internships

Located in the heart of campus, our Center for Creative Careers serves as a bridge between the classroom and the music

industry. Here you’ll meet with faculty and industry professionals who will give you the specific, honest feedback you need to

refine and curate your best work. You’ll learn how to sharpen your resume and develop a media-rich portfolio that

can be shared on various digital platforms, and delivered directly to a targeted audience of potential clients and employers.

The Center is also the place to be for weekly workshops run by industry

professionals with specialized topics ranging from Instrument and Contractual

Insurance to Social Media Marketing 101 to Tax Considerations for Musicians.

Center for Creative Careers

RECENT INTERNSHIP PARTNERS:

Late Night with Jimmy FallonFueled By RamenThe GRAMMY FoundationFirst Avenue89.3 The CurrentMinnesota Public Radio

Sub Pop RecordsDark Horse Recording StudioRhymesayers EntertainmentThe Windish AgencyiHeartmediaTooth & Nail Records

The Boom Boom Room Recording Studio Effect PartnersAudiofile EngineeringBWN MusicIn The Groove

Periscope Artist ManagementZVEX Effects Pedals

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You’ve got to be here.

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You’ve got to be here.Personalized Campus Tours: by appointment Monday–Friday

Group Tours: Saturday, once a month

Open House: Fall, Spring and Summer Learn more at mcnallysmith.edu/campus-visits

Visiting McNally Smith in person is the best way to experience life as a student. Come explore the campus and Residence Hall, meet with faculty and students, tour our state-of-the-art studios and performance venues — and see if we’re the right fit for you. Jump on the Light Rail right outside our front door and check out all

the great parks, clubs and attractions the Twin Cities have to offer. Or

just kick back with a snack and enjoy the panoramic views of downtown

St. Paul in the contemporary setting of our Sound Bite Café.

visit campus

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The McNally Smith Residence Hall is the recommended housing option for first-year students.

Offering apartment-style living at an affordable cost, Residence Hall

units have a kitchen and private bathroom, cable and Internet, and access to study lounges and practice rooms. Unit sizes vary and can accommodate 1–4 occupants.

The Residence Hall is located just five blocks from campus in the historic Lowry Building, and most everything you need is within walking distance. Community Advisors organize special events throughout the year, and are on duty throughout the evening and overnight hours, as well as weekends, to assist residents. Special Residence Hall study groups and tutoring services are also available. Learn more at: mcnallysmith.edu/residence-hall

Live, study, play — all under one roof.

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Financing your education.

Widen your worldview.

We are committed to nurturing and developing future music makers and creative professionals just like you. We believe it’s important to invest in talent. That’s why we do everything we can to make our unique educational experience accessible and affordable for all students. On average, we award more than $2 million in College-funded aid in

the form of merit-based scholarships and need-based grants, and

more than 95% of incoming students receive financial assistance to help cover their educational costs.

For more information on cost of tuition, financial aid options and how to create a successful plan to pay for college, visit: mcnallysmith.edu/financing-your-education

As a McNally Smith student, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to earn credits toward your degree while spending a semester living in a different country. Through our study abroad partnerships with leading music colleges around the globe, you can take classes in music performance, production, business and more — all while having a life-changing adventure immersing yourself in new cultures, music traditions and social atmospheres.

McNally Smith has partnerships with music colleges in:Australia — Finland — Germany — India — Netherlands — Peru Learn more at: mcnallysmith.edu/study-abroad

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We guarantee that your admissions process will be as personalized as your education. From the first time you contact us to your first day of class, we’ll be there to guide you every step of the way. We want to hear your story, understand your passion and help you find your path at McNally Smith.

Get started.

We know how rewarding — and demanding — it can be to pursue a career in music. That’s why we seek out students who are not only talented and creative, but also passionate and driven to succeed. If that sounds like you, we’d love to help you get started. Learn more at: www.mcnallysmith.edu/admissions

To get started, visit: www.mcnallysmith.edu/apply S TA R T Yo u R A P P l I C AT I o N Applying to McNally Smith only takes a few minutes.

Just let us know. Call or email: 1-800-594-9500 [email protected]

AccreditAtion McNally Smith College of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Questions?

McNally Smith College of Music

19 Exchange Street East

Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101

1.800.594.9500

[email protected]

www.mcnallysmith.edu

Documents

McNally Smith College of Music Viewbook