MUSIC 2101 - Theory, Materials and Techniques I

(LA-AS, ALC-AS)

Fall. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: basic ability to read/write music, to sing/play an instrument, and to navigate the keyboard (advanced skills not necessary), as evaluated by diagnostic exam (administered in first class meeting of semester) and/or permission of instructor. Some students might be expected to take MUSIC 1105 in the Spring before returning to MUSIC 2101 the following Fall. Intended for students planning to major or minor in music, and other qualified students. A grade of B or better in MUSIC 2101 is required for admission to the music major.

L. Shuster.

Study of the foundations of tonal music as manifested primarily in the Western literate tradition, also incorporating examples from various vernacular idioms. The course combines modern pedagogical methods with the study of historical sources and focuses on active learning at the keyboard. Topics to be covered include rudiments such as scales and triads; melodic and harmonic principles; voice-leading strategies and schemata; species counterpoint; improvisation, including techniques of embellishment; rhythm, meter, and gesture. During sections, the concepts and skills introduced in lecture will be practiced at the keyboard as well as vocally. Other section activities include elements of musicianship (aural skills, intervallic production and identification, rhythmic accuracy and fluency, etc.); transcription; sight singing; and score reading.