Fundamentals of Tonal Music Theory

Catalog description

This introductory course covers the fundamentals of music literacy and music theory through the analytical exploration of common practice classical Western repertoire, the development of basic aural skills, and written creative exercises. Topics include the use of dynamics, phrasing, texture, dissonance treatment, harmonic and formal functions, instrumental patterns and cadential syntax. As a final project, students will write short compositions that explore in practice all these aspects. If possible, the short pieces will be publicly performed. Prior ability to read music is preferred but not necessary. Participants without such prior knowledge will gain fluency in fundamental musicianship during the first weeks of the course. 002005