Composition Studies 2 (Applied) is a core module for Stage 2 students who have successfully completed Composition Studies 1 (Stylistic). This module builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in Composition Studies 1 and involves the study of arrangement of modal material, and an introduction to original composition using techniques from the twentieth century, writing for modest instrumental and/or vocal forces.
Option for other students: Yes. For students who have taken Foundations of Musical Theory (Stage 1) and Composition Studies 1 in Stage 2, this module can be taken as an option in Stage 3.
Tonal, diatonic harmony (progressing from Composition Studies 1 Stylistic), including devices for the creation of more advanced harmonic colour, such as secondary sevenths and extended harmony.
The use of modes in melody, harmony and as applied to instrumental/vocal arrangement.
Twentieth century composition techniques: devised scales, 12-tone serialism, bitonality, intervallic melodic and harmonic structures, and rhythmic devices.
The creation of short, original compositions based on the techniques listed.
Tonal, diatonic harmony
Tonal, diatonic harmony (progressing from Composition Studies 1 Stylistic), including devices for the creation of more advanced harmonic colour, such as secondary sevenths and extended harmony.
Modes in melody, harmony
The use of modes in melody, harmony and as applied to instrumental/vocal arrangement.
Twentieth century composition techniques
Twentieth century composition techniques: devised scales, 12-tone serialism, bitonality, intervallic melodic and harmonic structures, and rhythmic devices.
Original compositions
The creation of short, original compositions based on the techniques listed.
Delivered via once-weekly lectures, which include occasional tutorials, students expand their knowledge of harmony to include modal material, and are introduced to a range of twentieth century composition techniques. As part of their composition of short original pieces, they are given instruction in more detailed aspects of notation and methods of writing idiomatically for voices and instruments.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |