Module: Jazz Composition 1

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Jazz Composition 1
Module Code	MPA1019 (ITS: MC122)
Faculty	Theology, Philosophy & Music	School	Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

A module designed to introduce learners to compositional techniques and considerations. To show how ideas can be developed, how compositions can be constructed, and have an awareness of instrumentation, development and effective presentation of ideas. Details of how to write accompaniment for melodies will be explored and ways of integrating rhythm section with soloists given. Approaches on how to writing an self-analytical essay will be given

Learning Outcomes

1. Be capable of producing effective compositions for small groups
2. Be able to realise ideas within the context of the instrumental forces available
3. Show effective work methods and an awareness of how to utilise creativity within a disciplined context
4. Be familiar with form and structure and how this impacts on melody writing
5. Be capable of writing an analytical essay about their original work

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	Weekly, A one-hour weekly lecture
Independent Study	81	Practicing exercises given in lecture
Assignment Completion	20	Description of techniques used
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20760	Part of Term	Semester 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	Shane Latimer

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Music Composition	Creation of musical compositions and presentation in score and audio format	75%	As required
Essay	Explanation of the procedures and compositional techniques used to create the final composition	25%	Sem 1 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

Effectively writing for a group
How to effectively write for a group consisting of two melody instruments and three rhythm instruments, featuring the study of various compositional techniques such as:

- Effective use of available instrumentation

- Score layout

- Effective rhythm section writing,

- Melody writing and structural considerations.

- Techniques for developing hand-written scores

- Approaches to writing explanatory essay of techniques used

- Use of simple counterpoint

- Use of basslines

- How to write drum parts

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Ted Pease; edited by Rick Mattingly: 2003, Jazz composition, Berklee Press ; c2003., Boston, MA, 0876390017

Articles:
None

Other Resources

Computer Software: Avid, Sibelius,
Computer Software: Cockos Incorporated, Reaper,