Techniques of Composition

Catalog description

This course will familiarize students with various techniques of contemporary (i.e. 20th-21st century) composition, including working with various pitch materials, rhythmic devices, formal considerations, writing for various instruments, voices and ensembles, and more. Students will apply these techniques to compositional etudes throughout the semester, listen to relevant repertoire and create larger projects that will allow for more individual exploration. Private lessons with a teaching assistant and/or composition faculty will be included. A class recital will be held at the end of the semester, if possible. This course may be used to fulfill part of the core music theory requirement. It may be repeated, as the content may vary, but only one instance would count toward the core requirement. Any further instances would be eligible for elective credit only.