Examination arrangement

Course content

The course provides an introduction to basic music theory through exercises in techniques of tonal harmony, music technology, and ear training. The techniques of tonal harmony and ear training are taught via the four-part chorale tradition based on the chorale harmonisations of J. S. Bach and other figures of his era, and following also basic melodic, rhythmic, and formal principles. There is a focus on a stylistic understanding, voice leading, and functional-harmony conventions. Students are given exercises on a weekly basis in the harmonisation of simple melodic passages, and the analysis of the four-part chorale writing. These exercises constitute the course portfolio.

This course's lessons in basic music technology provide a brief introduction to the use of MIDI recording and sequencing, audio recording, and digital notation as tools for arranging/composing and ear training.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

An examinee with a completed qualification in MUSV1017

• has knowledge of traditional harmony and ear training
• has knowledge of different forms of analysis and analytical symbols
• has knowledge of simple compositional techniques
• has knowledge of simple melodic notation, rhythmic notation, and formal principles
• has knowledge of basic music technology as a tool for composing

Skills:

An examinee with a completed qualification in MUSV1017

• can analyze harmonic progressions in different contexts
• can write homophonic four-part tonal harmony and carry out basic song arranging
• can practice logical voice leading and logical dissonance resolution in accordance with traditional principles
• can perceive and reproduce melodic, rhythmic, and formal sequences
• can use computer music notation programs as a tool for composition/arranging

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and group instruction. Instruction is obligatory and demands minimum 80% attendance.

Up to 10 of the exercises will be in tonal harmony and harmonic analysis, and 3-5 exercises will be in aural training.

Basic Music Technology A: instruction is conducted in exercise groups. Assessment: Pass/fail based on written assignments and attendance in compulsory instruction.

Compulsory assignments

• Passed Basic Music Technology A
• Satisfactory participation in compulsory instruction
• Exercises in aural training, tonal harmony and harmonic analysis

Further on evaluation

Portfolio containing up to eight assignments that will be assessed together with a comprehensive pass/fail grade.

If the course is not passed, the student must retake the whole assessment. If the candidate retakes the exam there is no need to redo the compulsory assignments, though it is strongly recommended to follow the complete course again, as the form of evaluation will remain a portfolio assessment.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Admission to the Bachelor's programme or the One-year programme in Musicology.

Credit reductions