Music Theory & Analysis I

Catalog description

Music Theory and Analysis I introduces the fundamental elements of Western tonal music through intermediate study of pitch, rhythm, harmony, and form, with an emphasis on developing analytical and introductory compositional skills. Students will examine repertoire from the common-practice period (mid-17th to mid-20th century) alongside selected examples of contemporary tonal music to deepen their understanding of musical structure and style. The course also provides an introduction to key theoretical concepts in Arab music. Given our unique cultural and geographic context, the course places particular emphasis on the study of Arab music. Students will engage with the region’s rich musical heritage, including its modal system (maqām), rhythmic cycles (īqāʿāt), ornamentation practices, and performance aesthetics. By integrating Western and Arab perspectives, this course offers students a broad and culturally informed understanding of how music operates within both regional and international contexts. Through listening, analysis, and creative work, students will develop cross-cultural musical literacy and gain a deeper appreciation for the vibrant musical landscape of the Middle East.