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Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

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Date posted: September 2024

Module Title Arranging 3
Module Code MC320 (ITS) / MPA1054 (Banner)
Faculty Humanities & Social Sciences School Theology, Philosophy & Music
Module Co-ordinatorGreg Felton
Module TeachersLinda Adams
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite Not Available
Co-requisite Not Available
Compatibles Not Available
Incompatibles Not Available
Repeat examination
Description

A module which builds from ARR 2 in which learners will further study harmonisation techniques (4 and 5-part voicings in 4th; 6-part spread voicings; 4 and 5-part voicings with upper structure triad; cluster voicings) as well as writing / arranging processes for up to 5 horns/voices and 4-piece Rhythm section. Basic Writing for Big Band will be introduced: unison/octave writing, coupling saxes and brass, ranges for lead, etc. Focus will be on hearing voicings through ear training exercises

Learning Outcomes

1. Be able to write block harmony using various traditional and contemporary techniques (up to six voice)
2. Have an awareness of orchestration and range issues for the given instruments
3. Be able to competently arrange traditional Jazz repertoire for a wide variety of ensemble sizes
4. Be able to write directly onto score paper without the need of an instrument.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Weekly, A one-hour group lecture-workshop
Assignment Completion101Written assignments, and preparation of final project
Total Workload: 125

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

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Arranging Techniques
Building on the techniques explored in ARR2, techniques covered will include: ° Arranging a standard tune for 4 or 5 horns and 4-piece rhythm section, ° Writing an introduction and one chorus of the melody ° Writing solo section(s) w/ backgrounds ° Writing an arranger’s chorus (4 or 5-part soli style - first 16 bars) and an ending through DS al Coda ° Writing extra sections (tag, vamp, interlude, etc.) ° How to prepare a full concert score including all parts. ° Learning to recognize, by ear, five-note voicings ° Harmonise a lead line using 5-part voicings in 4th technique and transpose. ° Harmonise a background line using 6-way spread voicing technique

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
AssignmentIdentification and analysis of arranging techniques as studied during lecture20%As required
ProjectCompletion of written arranging task as studied during lecture60%Sem 2 End
Practical/skills evaluationAural test and written arranging task as studied during lecture20%Week 20
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories:
Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module.
Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List

  • Pease, Ted and Pullig, Ken: 0, Modern Jazz Voicings, Berklee Press Publications, 0634014439
  • Dick Lowell and Ken Pullig; edited by Michael Gold: 2003, Arranging for large jazz ensemble, Berklee Press, Boston, MA, 0634036564
  • Rayburn Wright: 0, Inside the Score : A Detailed Analysis of 8 Classic Jazz Ensemble Charts, Book & CD Set, Kendor Music, 9991739661
Other Resources

None

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