What will I learn on this module?
In this module, you will build on the core first-year course, Techniques of Composition, Harmonic Analysis and Improvisation. The module focuses on more advanced harmonic progressions including the use of dominant 13th, diminished 7th, Neapolitan 6th and Augmented 6th chords, and on broader tonal structures. As well as covering chromatic harmony, there will be opportunities in the module to explore other techniques of composition, such as chorale-based composition (especially chorale harmonisation) and twentieth-century idioms.
Students produce weekly harmony assignments which may include analytical exercises, harmony exercises and pastiche composition. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the distinctions between composer, improviser and performer were much less distinct than today, and we may explore repertoire through improvisation.
How will I learn on this module?
There are two weekly seminars which may include some lecture input, student presentations, group discussions of musical scores, improvisation workshops and related exercises, as well as feedback on work to the whole class.
You will learn most through your active engagement with the exercises in harmony and through pastiche composition. Sometimes, an in-course assignment will include the submission of previous work corrected in the light of feedback. This ensures that the written and oral feedback you receive on your work is absorbed and can be of some practical use. This work will be supported by analytical assignments.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be given considerable support by the Module Tutor within classes, during publicised office hours and via email. You will be constantly working with your peers in a spirit of mutual support, encouragement and collaboration. The programme leader will guide you through the requirements and expectations of your course. You will receive on-going feedback each week during the seminars which will help you prepare for the in-course assessments; you will oral feedback on your in-course assignments as well as a mark and written annotations.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will understand advanced harmonic progressions, especially those involving the dominant 13th, diminished 7th, Neapolitan 6th and Augmented 6th.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. You will be able to use chords such as the dominant 13th, diminished 7th, Neapolitan 6th and Augmented 6th
3. You will be able to undertake a structural analysis of tonal music.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. You will demonstrate a capacity for curiosity, creativity, and intellectual openness.
How will I be assessed?
1. Portfolio of written and/or recorded work, built up during the semester (100%). MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4
Feedback will sometimes be given on drafts of work. Written feedback will be in the form of annotations to the score(s). Feedback will be given during the course of the module on each piece of work that will contribute to the portfolio.
Pre-requisite(s)
MU4003 Techniques of Composition, Harmonic Analysis and Improvisation
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module focuses on more advanced harmonic progressions. It is centred on weekly assignments which may include analytical exercises, harmony exercises, pastiche composition and improvisation. As well as covering chromatic harmony, there will be opportunities in the module to explore other techniques of composition, such as chorale-based composition (especially harmonisation) and twentieth-century idioms.
Course info
UCAS Code W320
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years full-time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2024
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.
Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.
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