Dr. Noel Painter

What IS music theory, exactly?
It’s the study of how music works. It helps you figure out why you like what you like. We look at chords, intervals and scales at the beginner level and then work up to see how things connect.

Favorite thing about teaching at Stetson?
I design classes and curriculum and then take them through the design. Music Culture is a class that first-year and transfer students take, and they study music that really engages them. The way we engage students here is awesome. If we are teaching opera, we bring in an opera director. If we are looking at strings, we will bring in a professional cellist. In the World Music class, professors from Hungary, Latvia, Venezuela and Hong Kong teach music from their homeland. Advanced Analytical Techniques allows students to look at something like Brahms’ 3rd Symphony in its entirety, as opposed to other classes where students will look at two minutes or one movement. I also like that people are knocking on my office door all the time wanting to tell me what they’re doing. I like seeing people “get it” and change their views about music.

What do you do in your free time?
I like spending time with my family – spending time with my boys. I also like working with my hands, whether it is tearing up the bathroom and then rebuilding it, woodworking, installing hardwood floors, taking down cabinets or roofing.

One of the best things students gain at the School of Music?
The students are able to perform in so many ensembles. They go on tour. They can go to England with the chamber orchestra or play at different conventions. We have a student here who sings with one group, plays cello with another group, and trumpet in yet another group. In other places, you’d have to pick just one ensemble to perform in.

Advice for prospective music students?
Start playing the piano! It allows you to feel music. To feel harmony. It will help with music theory and gives you an insight into more repertoire, even if you’re not a pianist.