ObjectivesThe course aims to help you understand and use complex rhythmic, melodic and harmonic ideas in your own compositions; understand and use various accompaniment styles and contrapuntal techniques; compose and score choral music; understand the techniques of composing for orchestral instruments; learn about the evolution of styles of music.
Course descriptionThis course will develop your fluency in the language of music, extend your abilities in composition and help you build up your portfolio of work. It widens your harmonic vocabulary, introduces you to choral and instrumental writing (both chamber and orchestral) and analyses and looks for inspiration at the music and styles of other composers. You will write an extended work for voices and instruments, usually choir and orchestra. The course is for students wanting to build on the basics of composition learned in Composing Music 1.
- Detailed discussion of extended harmonies
- Contrapuntal part writing
- The use of miniature scores
- The development of the orchestra and its instruments
- Musical form
- Analysis of major pieces of work.
Postal Tuition
You are allocated a tutor and receive their details in your course pack. You work from the course materials and send regular assignments to your tutor. These are returned to you with comment and advice. The course fee includes tutor feedback on your set assignments, but you can purchase feedback and comment on additional pieces of work if you wish.