Module: MUS5208-20 Music Orchestration and Arranging

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Jeff Boehm

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.boehm@bathspa.ac.uk

PRE REQUISITE : Grade 5 Music Theory or equivalent note-reading skills.

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Orchestration and Arranging aims to provide you with an understanding of how instruments function in large and small instrumental ensembles, and the application of this understanding to orchestrations and/or arrangements for actual ensembles.

2. Outline syllabus:

You will refine your notation and orchestration skills while further developing understanding of orchestration through the study of repertoire and the practical application of these skills. There will be two orchestration/arranging projects; one for a large ensemble, the other for a designated smaller ensemble (which could be a jazz/pop group/ensemble). You will be required to produce readable scores and parts for these projects, which are to be realised by the end of term. You will also write formative assignments which are a means to further develop an understanding of the roles of classes of instruments (strings, woodwinds, brass, mixed voicings).

3. Teaching and learning activities

Each project begins with a series of seminars designed to support your technical, aesthetic and contextual understanding of orchestration and arranging. The seminars will present relevant existing work, consider the practical challenges relevant to the topic and explore the skills needed to address them. Individual work will be supported by individual and/or group tutorials. Orchestrations and arrangements will be prepared for recording upon completion.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Orchestration

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Orchestration

• % Weighting: 50%