Module: Jazz & Contemporary Harmony 1 & 2

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Jazz & Contemporary Harmony 1 & 2
Module Code	MPA1012 (ITS: MC115)
Faculty	Theology, Philosophy & Music	School	Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

This module is designed to develop the learner’s knowledge of note identification, scale and mode construction, key signatures, interval recognition, chord construction, and available tensions. Principles of diatonic chord progressions and analysis will also be discussed and explained, the concept of modulation discussed, and the application of these techniques explained. Chord/scale theory is discussed, and an overview is given of its use in improvisation

Learning Outcomes

1. Be able to identify, notate, analyse, and implement basic musical symbols
2. Know the principles of diatonic chord progressions and chord/scale relationships
3. Know scale, chord and mode construction
4. Be aware of the principles of linear harmony and guide tone lines
5. Know minor key harmony

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	48	A two-hour group lecture-workshop
Independent Study	77	Written Assignments
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	11135	Part of Term	Semester 1 & 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Linda Adams	Module Teacher	Patrice Brun

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Participation	Weekly homework exercises, in-class participation and attendance	20%	Every Week
Written Exam	Semester 1 Written Exam	40%	Sem 1 End
Project	Semester 2 Final Project (Analysis and Reharmonisation)	40%	Sem 2 End

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

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

Jazz and Contemporary Harmony 1
-Basic harmonic theory -Note identification -Scale and mode construction -Key signatures -Interval recognition -Chord construction -Available tensions -Principles of diatonic chord progressions and analysis

Jazz and Contemporary Harmony 2
-Continued exploration of major key harmony -Secondary and extended dominant relationships -Principles of linear harmonic continuity and guide tone lines -Minor key harmony -Introduction to subdominant minor -Blues theory and chord progressions

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Mulholland, J: 2012, Music Application and Theory, Berklee College of Music,
Nettles, B.: 2012, Harmony 2, Berklee College of Music,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None