Module: Harmony, Counterpoint and Composition 2

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Harmony, Counterpoint and Composition 2
Module Code	MPA1028 (ITS: MC206)
Faculty	Theology, Philosophy & Music	School	Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

Students will learn concepts in harmony and counterpoint through composition exercises, listening tasks, and performance. This is achieved through the completion of weekly exercises in three-voice counterpoint in the style of a basso continuo realisation from the Baroque era. These exercises systematically explore types of non-harmony notes. The student will consider the importance of controlling texture in these exercises for three instruments.

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify number and quality of melodic and harmonic intervals and relate these to the conventions of Baroque counterpoint
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the types of harmonic motion and associated rules of voice-leading in Baroque counterpoint
3. Demonstrate an understanding of various types of non-harmony notes and their permitted use in Baroque counterpoint
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the stylistic features of Baroque counterpoint
5. Present and manipulate relevant composition work in appropriate notation software

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	No Description
Assignment Completion	48	No Description
Independent Study	53	No Description
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20764	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	Seán Doherty	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Music Composition	n/a	20%	n/a
Music Composition	n/a	20%	n/a
Music Composition	n/a	60%	n/a

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

Harmonic analysis

Non-harmony notes in instrumental Baroque counterpoint
1. Passing note

2. Chromatic passing note

3. Upper auxiliary note

4. Lower auxiliary note

5. Chromatic auxiliary note

6. Anticipation

7. Appoggiatura

8. Échappée

9. Suspension

10. Pedal point

Closely related keys and modulation

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Eric Taylor: 1989, AB Guide to Music Theory I, 15, ABRSM,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None