MUSCOMP 1001 - Composition 1A
North Terrace Campus - Semester 1 - 2014
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General Course Information
Course Details
Course Code MUSCOMP 1001 Course Composition 1A Coordinating Unit Elder Conservatorium of Music Term Semester 1 Level Undergraduate Location/s North Terrace Campus Units 3 Contact Up to 3 hours per week Incompatible COMP 1001, COMP 1500A/B, 7349 (pre-2002) Restrictions Available to BMus students only Assessment Folio of exercises, compositions (including recordings where possible) 50% Technical studies assignments and participation 25%, Composers' workshop assignments and presentations 25% Course Staff
Course Coordinator: Professor Graeme Koehne
Course Timetable
The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from .
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Learning Outcomes
Course Learning Outcomes
- a broad knowledge and appreciation of musical repertoire and an understanding of the essential stylistic features of a diverse range of musical genres focussing on the contemporary “classical” tradition.
- insight into contemporary aesthetic issues and an appreciation of the relationship of music to other artforms.
- skills in creating original musical works demonstrating command of both traditional compositional craft and contemporary musical techniques and approaches.
- a high level of competence in the practical aspects of composition: notation; score presentation; use of instrumental and vocal resources; orchestration and music technology.
- an ability to communicate musical intentions clearly and effectively to performers.
- a capacity to imaginatively develop musical materials through a comprehensive study of the principles of musical structure, melodic writing, harmonic and rhythmic invention, counterpoint, instrumental colour and texture.
- the composer’s ability to project individual aesthetic ideas through their compositions.
- awareness of the professional practices of a career in composition.
University Graduate Attributes
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:
University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s) Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 1, 2, 4, 6 An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 3, 5, 6, 7 Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication. 5, 7, 8 A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 2, 3, 4, 8 A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life. 1, 2, 7 A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community. 5, 7, 8 An awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities. 2, 7, 8 -
Learning Resources
Required Resources
Students enrolled in the Composition Major should own, or have easy access to, a computer running Sibelius (or Finale) music notation software and a sampled instrument library such as Garritan Personal Orchestra.
Recommended Resources
Students should make use of the resources of the Elder Music Library and the Electronic Music Unit. Students are also encouraged to attend the general musical activities of the Elder Conservatorium such as concerts, rehearsals, masterclasses, workshops and guest lectures.
Online Learning
Students should familiarize themselves with online resources such as the Petrucci Music Library of the International Music Score Library Project (); Garritan.com; and digital media stores such as iTunes, Amazon etc.
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Learning & Teaching Activities
Learning & Teaching Modes
Individual tuition (.75 hr per week) (Major only) For those enrolled in the Composition major only - develops skills in composition for various instrumental and vocal ensembles and expands knowledge of musical styles, structures, notation and score presentation.
Technical Studies (1.5 hr per week) (Major and Elective) This seminar provides the opportunity for the theoretical and historical study of the resources, techniques and styles of contemporary music principally in the classical tradition. Topics are presented in a 3-year cycle. Technical Studies is a seminar format class and students may be expected to give in-class presentations on set topics during the year. In addition to these topics occasional sessions will be set aside for guest speakers (subject to availability) or to enable guided discussion of issues related to contemporary musical aesthetics and practice based on materials handed out in class.
Composers’ Workshop (1.5 hr per week) (Major and Elective) provides for practical engagement with individual instruments and small ensembles (subject to availability) and the performance of student compositions specifically composed for this class. Mr David Harris coordinates this class and will provide details of schedule and assessment.
Workload
The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.
Students should be aware that the major assignments for Technical Studies are generally given out as close as possible to weeks 4 and 10 of each Semester and the submission dates are approximately 3 weeks after distribution. Composer’s Workshop assignments are scheduled in class and are based around compositional activities relating to available performer resources.
Learning Activities Summary
The Technical Studies class is based on a three-year cycle of teaching modules. This year the topics are:
Semester 1: Weeks 1-8 The French Tradition from Impressionism to Spectralism
Semester 1: Weeks 9-12 Variation Forms and Techniques
Semester 2: Weekes 1-8 Music in Latin America: Sources and Influences
Semester 2: Weeks 9-12 Opera, Musicals and Song: Synthesising Music, Text and Voice.
(Subject to variation depending on the availability of guest speakers and forum discussions etc.)
Specific Course Requirements
From time to time students may need to make themselves available for attendance at rehearsals, workshops, performances and guest seminars.
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Assessment
The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:
- Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
- Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
- Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
- Assessment must maintain academic standards.
Assessment Summary
Assessment structure depends on whether you are enrolled in Composition as a Major (Composition 1A/1B;2A/2B;3A/3B) or as an Elective (Techniques of Composition 1A/1B;2A/2B;3A/3B).
COMPOSITION (MAJOR) 1A/1B;2A/2B;3A/3B;(1001/1002; 2001/2002; 3001/3002)
3 units per semester
Individual Tuition: 50% of final mark for Composition (Major) 1A/B;2A/B;3A/B:
Semester 1 Assessment: Students are required to submit two of the required 4 works for the folio completed (or at an advanced stage towards completion) to their teacher by noon on Monday, June 30, 2014. These works will be assessed together with a teacher’s report on student progress. Semester 2 Assessment: Students are required to submit a folio of 4 complete works (equivalent to the specifications listed below and including the two Semester 1 works) to the Hartley office by noon on Monday, November 3, 2014. Students will attend a 15’ panel interview (Viva Voce) on Wednesday, November 12 to discuss their folio. Interviews will be scheduled late in Semester 2.
Technical Studies: 25% of final mark for Composition (Major) 1A/B;2A/B;3A/B. 4 assignments listed below due approximately 3 weeks after distribution (around weeks 4 and 9).
Composers’ Workshop: 25% of final mark for Composition (Major) 1A/B;2A/B;3A/B. Attendance and participation form a large part of the final assessment for this component. Composition assignments are set throughout the year.
N.B. Works composed for one component may NOT be submitted for assessment in another component. (i.e. A work written for Composers’ Workshop cannot be included in your Composition folio for the individual tuition component.)
OR
TECHNIQUES IN COMPOSITION (ELECTIVE) 1A/1B;2A/2B;3A/3B (1011A/B; 2011A/B;3011A/B)
3 units for the full year
Semester 1: 50% of the total for the full year comprised of: 25% Technical Studies assignments 25% Composers’ Workshop assignments (See details below)
Semester 2: 50% of the total mark for the full year comprised of: 25% Technical Studies assignments 25% Composers’ Workshop assignments (See details below)
Assessment Related Requirements
Composers’ Workshop is a performance-based class and full attendance is expected.
Assessment Detail
Composition Folio guidelines (Composition Major ONLY):
First Year: total duration 20’ – content as agreed in consultation with your teacher - to include a set of short piano pieces; a song for voice and piano; a string quartet; a chamber work for small mixed ensemble.
Second Year: total duration 25’ – content as agreed in consultation with your teacher - to include a small scale mixed chamber work; a choral work; a string quartet; an orchestration of one of your previous piano works (or similar).
Third Year: total duration 30’ – content as agreed in consultation with your teacher - to include a work for chamber ensemble; a string quartet; an orchestral piece; a short collaborative/cross-artform piece (theatre, dance, film, multimedia).
The above guidelines indicate the minimum expectations for a folio. In addition to the minimum specifications outlined above you are expected to work on any composition activities that may present themselves during the year – i.e. opportunities to compose for film, theatre and dance projects. ALL students are expected to submit work for these projects and include their submissions in their final folio.
Technical Studies Assignments:
Assignment 1: A written musical analysis of a short solo or chamber work by a French composer active during the period 1870 – 2010 (selected by the student). Your analysis should include a detailed, systematically annotated score. Do not include any biographical - or excessive background - information on the work, concentrate on the music: thematic material, developmental techniques, harmonic language, rhythmic features, formal structure and stylistic language. (800 words and copy of an annotated score)
Assignment 2: A written musical analysis of a set of variations (or part of a set (approx. 5 variations) to be selected by the student. Your analysis should include a detailed, systematically annotated score. Do not include any biographical - or excessive background - information on the work, concentrate on the music: analyse the original thematic material and variation techniques employed by the composer. (800 words and copy of an annotated score))
Assignment 3: An essay profiling the music of a Latin-American composer of the student’s choice. Students will provide brief biographical details – no more than 200 words – and concentrate the bulk of the assignment on the stylistic and technical features of the composer’s music. The assignment should include discussion and musical examples from at least one representative work by the composer. (1200 words)
Assignment 4: Set a text (one of three to be provided at a later date) to music. Compose the work for either solo voice and accompaniment or unaccompanied choir. Duration approximately 5 minutes. Provide a recording. (live recording, MIDI or sampled playback submitted by email or on CD or USB Stick)
Composer’s Workshop:
Assessment is based on attendance, participation and a series of short composition assignments set throughout the year. Refer to the separate Composer’s Workshop Course Outline provided by Mr David Harris. In mid-Semester 2 students will be expected to submit 3 audio sketches for the annual collaboration with AC Arts Film and Television School.
Submission
Composition folio to be submitted as directed by Head of Composition.Course Grading
Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:
M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme) Grade Mark Description FNS Fail No Submission F 1-49 Fail P 50-64 Pass C 65-74 Credit D 75-84 Distinction HD 85-100 High Distinction CN Continuing NFE No Formal Examination RP Result Pending Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.
Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.
Final results for this course will be made available through .
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Student Feedback
The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.
SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.
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Student Support
- Academic Integrity for Students
- Academic Support with Maths
- Academic Support with writing and study skills
- Careers Services
- Library Services for Students
- LinkedIn Learning
- Student Life Counselling Support - Personal counselling for issues affecting study
- Students with a Disability - Alternative academic arrangements
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Policies & Guidelines
This section contains links to relevant assessment-related policies and guidelines - all university policies.
- Academic Credit Arrangements Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progress by Coursework Students Policy
- Assessment for Coursework Programs Policy
- Copyright Compliance Policy
- Coursework Academic Programs Policy
- Intellectual Property Policy
- IT Acceptable Use and Security Policy
- Modified Arrangements for Coursework Assessment Policy
- Reasonable Adjustments to Learning, Teaching & Assessment for Students with a Disability Policy
- Student Experience of Learning and Teaching Policy
- Student Grievance Resolution Process
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