This course provides an introduction to the theory of Western Music from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Its three main elements are (1) the rudiments of music theory, (2) musical harmony, analysis, and practical training, and (3) obtaining basic knowledge of organology.
Students will be introduced to key terms of western music theory, including its notation, keys, intervals, scales, etc., as well as the basics of harmony and voice leading. Beginning with music fundamentals, this course covers all the topics necessary for a thorough and critical understanding of undergraduate music theory by focusing on music in context.
The course and the course materials used will links each of the issues that comprise a tonal theory curriculum, explicitly and critically connecting written theory (writing and analysis), skills (singing, playing, and dictation), and music-making outside the theory class.
Selected works from the history of western music will be studied an analysed. The course will also provide an overview over the historical development of harmony, counterpoint, and musical forms. During the entire course students will deepen their skills by means of (almost) weekly rhythmic, melodic and harmonic aural exercises. Tests and skills sessions (see course schedule) can always be used for consultation as well.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
• The course will introduce certain key terms, persons, works, genres, sources, and concepts associated with the theory Western music.
• Equal treatment of all repertoires is precluded by the exigencies of time. Rather, much of the course will take the form of a series of case studies, in which selected topics will be explored.
• In the course of the semester, students will also be introduced to the social and intellectual context of pieces of music, as well as to a number of the fundamental theoretical and methodological issues surrounding its study.
Students will be introduced to key terms of western music theory, including its notation, keys, intervals, scales, etc., as well as the basics of harmony and voice leading. Beginning with music fundamentals, this course covers all the topics necessary for a thorough and critical understanding of undergraduate music theory by focusing on music in context.
The course and the course materials used will links each of the issues that comprise a tonal theory curriculum, explicitly and critically connecting written theory (writing and analysis), skills (singing, playing, and dictation), and music-making outside the theory class.
Selected works from the history of western music will be studied an analysed. The course will also provide an overview over the historical development of harmony, counterpoint, and musical forms. During the entire course students will deepen their skills by means of (almost) weekly rhythmic, melodic and harmonic aural exercises. Tests and skills sessions (see course schedule) can always be used for consultation as well.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
• The course will introduce certain key terms, persons, works, genres, sources, and concepts associated with the theory Western music.
• Equal treatment of all repertoires is precluded by the exigencies of time. Rather, much of the course will take the form of a series of case studies, in which selected topics will be explored.
• In the course of the semester, students will also be introduced to the social and intellectual context of pieces of music, as well as to a number of the fundamental theoretical and methodological issues surrounding its study.
- Teacher: Albert Clement