Module Details

Module Code: MUSC8010
Title: Composition 2
Long Title: Composition 2
NFQ Level: Advanced
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2021/22 ( September 2021 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 2121 - Music & Performing Arts
Module Delivered in: 2 programme(s)
Module Description: This module builds on the skills developed in Composition Project 1. Through score study and workshops the learner will become familiar with ensemble music of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, with particular focus on the post-1945 period. He/she will also further develop and explore an individual voice through class-based lectures and workshops. This module pays particular attention to small ensembles of multiple forces which may include electronic elements.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Recognise, expand upon and develop the characteristics of thematic material
LO2 Compose for ensemble of multiple forces, with or without electronics
LO3 Demonstrate a knowledge of contemporary compositional techniques complemented by a sound knowledge of traditional and contemporary harmony and a basic contrapuntal awareness
LO4 Orchestrate a complete work for small ensemble of multiple forces
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Composition Project 1, Core Musicianship 6, Conducting and Orchestration project 2
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Score Reading
Exploring the repertory of the post-1945 period with particular emphasis on the repertory for small ensemble (with and without electronics) and score analysis in terms of content, structure, concepts and orchestration.
Technique
Exploring extended instrumental techniques, non-conventional notation, the incorporation of electronics, form and harmonic language in the 20th and 21st centuries.
Orchestration
Exploring the combination of multiple forces in small ensembles to create different sonic effects and timbres
Presentation
Portfolio presentation techniques, advanced music software notation skills, the writing of analytical commentaries to accompany the composition portfolio.
Workshops
Workshops may be organized and recorded.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 30
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 1,3
Assessment Description
Continuous Assessment of skill development incorporating new compositional and instrumental techniques in class exercises
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 70
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
Portfolio
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lab Contact Class based instruction Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Independent study of selected scores and work on portfolio Every Week 5.50 5.5
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Attending Symphony Orchestra/Wind Ensemble Rehearsals Every Month 0.50 2
Total Hours 8.50
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 1.00
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Bruce Cole. (1996), The composer's handbook, [ISBN: 0946535809].
  • Michael Nyman. (1999), Experimental music, [ISBN: 0521653835].
  • Arnold Schoenberg. (1967), Fundamentals of musical composition, [ISBN: 0571196586].
  • Walter Piston. (1980), Orchestration, [ISBN: 0575011391].
  • John Cage. (1968), Silence : lectures & writings, [ISBN: 0714505269].
  • Thom Holmes. (2002), Electronic and experimental music : pioneers in technology and composition, [ISBN: 0415936438].
  • Dave Black and Tom Gerou. (1998), Essential dictionary of orchestration : ranges, general characteristics, technical considerations, scoring tips : the most practical and comprehensive resource for composers, arrangers & orchestrators, [ISBN: 0739000217].
  • Simon Loeffler. (2012), b, (score online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSd30yxVjgU).
  • Jessie Marino. Rot Blau, (score online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3U9cuxwLVNo).
  • Terry Riley. (1964), In C.
  • Karlheinz Stockhausen. (1960), Kontakte, (score online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_UHaulsw3M).
  • Jennifer Walshe. unbreakable line. hinged waist., (score online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbgS_mEdBmA).
  • Jennifer Walshe. (2002), here we are now, (score online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPeJUsZsksI).
  • Robert Ashley. (2010), World War III Just the Highlights, (score extract online: https://www.mitpressjournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1162/PAJJ_a_00089).
  • Russell Hartenberger. (2020), The Cambridge Companion to Rhythm, [ISBN: 9781108631730].
  • Jean-Michel Reveillac. (2019), Electronic Music Machines: The New Musical Instruments, [ISBN: 9781786303].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Arnold Schoenberg. (1975), Style and idea : selected writings of Arnold Schoenberg, [ISBN: 0571097227].
  • Arnold Schoenberg. (1978), Theory of harmony, [ISBN: 0571109330].
  • Robert Morgan (ed.). (1997), Source Readings in Music History, The Twentieth Century, [ISBN: 0393952843].
  • Iannis Xenakis. (1992), Formalized music : thought and mathematics in composition, [ISBN: 0945193246].
  • Leon Dallin. (1964), Techniques of twentieth century composition.
  • Rob Young (ed.). (2011), Undercurrents: The Hidden Wiring of Modern Music, [ISBN: 9780826464507].
  • Curtis Roads. (1994), The computer music tutorial, [ISBN: 9780262680820].
  • John Cacavas. Music arranging and orchestration.
  • Henry Mancini. (1986), Sounds and scores : a practical guide to professional orchestration, [ISBN: 0898986672].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_GMUSC_8 Bachelor of Music (Honours) 8 Elective
CR_GMUSC_8 Bachelor of Music (Honours) 6 Elective