Module Specifications..
Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024
Please note that this information is subject to change.
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Coursework Only Comparable portfolio to that set during Semester, but extended to reflect increase in weighting from 90% to 100% (as assessment based on on-campus hours will not be possible) |
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Description This module extends students’ musical knowledge, music writing, composition and aural techniques through engaging with theoretical and applied aspects of four-part harmony, two-part counterpoint, and orchestration. It further develops students’ application of musical techniques through engagement with music technology, and deepens their awareness of stylistic context. Students are introduced to music writing skills, and to strategies for applying these skills in subsequent professional activities. Students are expected to attend lectures/workshops, engage in workshops and submit regular course work. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Display, through analysis and written examples an understanding of chord construction, labelling and progression 2. Display through analysis and written examples an understanding of species counterpoint (first and second species) 3. Display an understanding of harmony in four parts in both open (choral) and closed (keyboard) positions. 4. Analyse melodic decoration in examples from the literature and apply the following techniques to their own writing: unaccented passing notes and auxiliary notes. 5. Display, through analysis and written examples, a grasp of elementary figured bass 6. Develop and apply an understanding of voice leading and functional harmony 7. Complete competently four-part harmony exercises from figured bass or given soprano melody employing all triads and including 1st and 2nd inversions. 8. Illustrate, both theoretically and practically, technical skills and knowledge in arranging for orchestral forces across strings and wind instruments, showing sensitivity to voice-leading and textural balance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Harmony:• Theory of functional harmony with emphasis on late Baroque and Viennese Classical styles • Chord construction, labelling and progression – authentic v. plagal steps • All primary and secondary chords, first inversions and passing and cadential 6/4 chords • Cadences including simple modulations • Writing (and transposing) for SATB in open (choral) and closed (keyboard) positions • Writing/performing from a given figured bass • Harmonising/completing a four-part arrangement from a given soprano lineCounterpoint:• Principles of species counterpoint • Theory and techniques of consonance and dissonance • 1-1, 2-1 contrapuntal writing • Imitative style – simple imitative entries • Suspensions in upper parts • Melodic elaboration and contrapuntal writing • Rhythmic counterpoint • Harmonic progression in counterpoint • Writing for string or woodwind duoOrchestration:• Study of range, techniques and sonorities of orchestral instruments • Transposing instruments • Reading/writing in alto, tenor and soprano clefs • Orchestrating for strings and woodwind | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes
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