Module: MUS6108-20 Composition 5 (Contexts)

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Professor James Saunders

Module Tutor Contact Details: J.Saunders@bathspa.ac.uk

Please note that in order to take this module you must have studied MUS5108-20 Composition 3 (Methods) OR MUS5109-20 Composition 4 (Collaboration).

Please also note that this module is a pre-requisite for MUS6109-20 Composition 6.

1.Brief description and aims of module

Composition 5 (Contexts) develops your skills through working within specified constraints outlined by project briefs. You will make two pieces that are framed by different contexts, such as place or limitation of resources.

2.Outline syllabus

You will undertake two composition projects, selected from a range of options. Projects will focus on the exploration of compositional aesthetics and techniques when working within a specified context or set of constraints, such as site-specific work or composing for education settings. Through this work you will continue to develop the scope of your compositional practice and experiment further with your personal voice as a composer. You will refine your notation and production skills and further develop your understanding of compositional techniques through the study of contemporary repertoire and the practical application of these skills.

3.Teaching and learning activities

Projects are taught through a combination of seminars, workshops and tutorials designed to support your technical, aesthetic and contextual understanding of the work you are making. Seminars will introduce you to wider contexts around the project, supported by workshops that facilitate experimentation and tutorials. The projects will include opportunities to work outside of music where appropriate, developing supporting skills to enhance your practice.

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 to provide a wider context for current compositional practice.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: S1 Project 1

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: S2 Project 2

• % Weighting: 50%