Module: MUS4007-20 Composition 2 (Instruments)

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Matthew Sergeant

Module Tutor Contact Details: m.sergeant@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Composition 2 is a continuation of Composition 1 and covers a range of experiences and teaching/learning approaches in composition with a view to solidifying your foundation in composition in preparation for intermediate level study. The course will develop and broaden your ability to apply the fundamental compositional techniques and technological processes obtained in Composition 1 to wider creative situations. The emphasis is on increasing your confidence and fluency as a composer by expanding the materials and techniques operating in your emerging practice. Techniques and processes will be elaborated using more detailed models from the work of contemporary composers and more historical repertoire. This module will also broaden your knowledge of the different notational strategies available to a composer, as well as further expand your knowledge of the sonic resources available on acoustic instruments, and the use of music technology.

Aims

• To expand your knowledge and increase your proficiency working with fundamental compositional techniques with musical materials,
• To expand and develop your knowledge of musical notation strategies and extend your understanding of acoustic instruments as a sonic resource.

2.Outline Syllabus:

Sessions are designed to develop and extend your knowledge and proficiency of compositional techniques and musical resources with regard to musical instruments. You will develop your compositional technique with regard to the treatment of specific musical parameters, as well as expand your knowledge of available notational strategies for these ideas. The sessions will include lecture-based and workshop-based practical sessions. Lecture sessions will develop your contextual and theoretical knowledge, whereas the workshop sessions will typically involve you in a guided and sequential exploration of defined areas of skill.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

Lecture/workshops in composition skills together with lecture/workshops in writing for musical instruments.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Techniques Portfolio
• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Instrumental Composition with Recording
• % Weighting: 50%