Module: MUS5108-20 Composition 3 (Methods)

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Nick Atkinson

Module Tutor Contact Details: n.atkinson@bathspa.ac.uk

Please be aware that in order to select the Level 6 module MUS6108-20 Composition 5 (Contexts) next academic year, you must select either this module OR MUS5109-20 Composition 4 (Collaboration) (if available to your course). Please click the hyperlink for further information.

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Composition 3 (Methods) aims to develop your skills as a composer by helping you begin to contextualise your own work within current compositional thought and cultural practice. This will be achieved by exploring specific methods in compositional practice and producing a techniques portfolio and an original work in relation to these new working processes.

2. Outline syllabus

You will study at least two specific compositional methods, these have included algorithmic and chance-based processes, as well as methods of approaching sonic and non-sonic materials. This study will include exploration of compositional aesthetics or techniques, composing in a collaborative or interdisciplinary context, and writing for specified ensembles. Through this work, you will begin to develop the scope of your compositional practice and experiment with your personal voice as a composer. You will refine your notation and production skills and develop an intermediate understanding of compositional techniques through the study of contemporary repertoire and the practical application of these skills.

3. Teaching and learning activities

The module begins with a series of seminars designed to support your technical, aesthetic and contextual understanding of the work you are making. The seminars will present relevant existing work, consider the practical challenges relevant to the topic and explore the skills needed to address them. Your work will be supported by individual and/or group tutorials where you will work on your piece with tutor and peer support. You will prepare your piece for performance and/or recording on completion, and the piece will be presented to an audience in an appropriate way (such as a performance, recording, installation or online). In addition, regular symposia will bring all composition students together, regardless of their elective choices, to obtain crucial skills regarding your professional development as a composer.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Techniques Portfolio

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Composition with Recording

• % Weighting: 50%