Program Overview
Music Theory
Music theory is a part of every area of study in the conservatory. We stress aural skills, critical thinking, analysis, and writing to help students find as many ways as possible to not only understand music but to also engage with it deeply.
Professor Jan Miyake ’96 teaches in one of her music theory classes.
Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97
Program Facts
- Program Type: Minor
- Division: Music Theory
Division Director
Jared Hartt,
Barker Professor of Music Theory
Quick Links
Oberlin Orchestra Performance in Finney Chapel.
Performance Ensembles
Oberlin sponsors approximately 500 concerts on campus each year, including recitals and concerts by the more than 25 student ensembles, and performances and master classes by guest artists.
Performance Ensembles-
Brian Alegant
Professor of Music Theory
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Christa Cole ’17
Assistant Professor of Music Theory
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Samuel Gardner
Assistant Professor of Music Theory
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Jared Hartt
Barker Professor of Music Theory
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Tyler M. Howie
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Theory
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Rebecca Leydon
Professor of Music Theory
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Megan Kaes Long
Associate Professor of Music Theory
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Joseph Lubben
Professor of Music Theory
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Jan Miyake ’96
Professor of Music Theory
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Bryan Parkhurst
Associate Professor of Music Theory
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Andrew Pau
Associate Professor of Music Theory
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Eron Smith
Assistant Professor of Music Theory
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Sylvie Tran
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Theory
Music Theory News
The Meaning Behind the Motions
March 21, 2025
What makes a live performance unforgettable? Assistant Professor of Music Theory Samuel Gardner has uncovered compelling evidence that physical gestures—ranging from subtle, unconscious movements to lively, intentional displays—are central to understanding how both performers and audiences connect with sound.
Meet the Conservatory’s Newest Tenure-Track Faculty
October 4, 2023
Five members of the conservatory faculty have been granted tenure-track positions beginning this academic year. They span the disciplines of music theory , composition , trombone , and TIMARA —...
Oberlin Conservatory Implements Innovative Approach to Music Theory Teaching
December 20, 2021
Expanded offerings build a wider variety of analytical skills, with enhanced opportunities for specialized study.
