This module consolidates material studied in first and second year by applying it to arranging for strings and brass combos, based on both notated melodies and aural excerpts. The main focus will be on advancing your harmonic, melodic and rhythmic language, writing charts and lead sheets, applying old and new concepts to arranging for various instrumentations, analysing scores, as well as furthering ear-training, to best prepare the student for the range of musical situations they are likely to encounter as a professional musician.
This module will focus on the fundamentals of arranging, using specific instrumentations as an introduction to common techniques and considerations, the essential aspects of which are transferable to arranging for other instrumentations not covered in this module.
Knowledge of Musical Vocabulary
Clefs and staves, note values and rests, time and key signatures, dynamics, expressions, various techniques for different instruments, tempo markings, bar mapping
Ear training
Including aural recognition of the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic aspects of music, sight singing and sight reading
To enable the student to transcribe and analyse musical excerpts and apply and evaluate music theory concepts
n/a
Advanced theoretical concepts
Including Roman Numeral analysis, construction and inversion of advanced chord structures, chord symbol recognition, modulation, polyrhythm and changing rhythmic meters, chord sequences, voice leading, complex chord construction and harmonic function
Composition
Includes inventing short phrases (melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic), harmonising a melody, writing a melody to a given chord sequence, and creating parts or musical excerpts based on given examples
Score reading, chart and lead sheet writing
n/a
Applying these concepts to arranging for a string quartet, brass combo and modern five-piece rock band
n/a
Notational Software
n/a
This module will be delivered using a range of methods including formal lectures with audio/visual support, small group work, coursework, in class exercises, tutor demonstration, e-learning through the BIMM VLE and independent study and research.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 25 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 75 |