Module: Arranging 3

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Arranging 3
Module Code	MPA1054 (ITS: MC320)
Faculty	Theology, Philosophy & Music	School	Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

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.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	Weekly, A one-hour group lecture-workshop
Assignment Completion	101	Written assignments, and preparation of final project
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	11166	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	Greg Felton	Module Teacher	Linda Adams

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Identification and analysis of arranging techniques as studied during lecture	20%	As required
Project	Completion of written arranging task as studied during lecture	60%	Sem 2 End
Practical/skills evaluation	Aural test and written arranging task as studied during lecture	20%	Week 20

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

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

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Pease, Ted and Pullig, Ken: 0, Modern Jazz Voicings, Berklee Press Publications, 136, 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

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None