This course covers a broad range of topics in the study of western tonal music theory in terms of contemporary practice. In addition, relevant aspects of non-western and pre-Baroque, jazz, and atonal music will be discussed. The course will give the student an excellent foundation in basic music theory as a support for studies in performance, composition, musicology, ethnomusicology, and music education. In addition, this provides a solid ground for further specialised study in the fields of music theory and analysis. The course emphasises active listening and creative work, in addition to developing skills in the reading and writing of western music notation. Guest lecturers will include members of all areas of the school of music faculty (for example: aural, jazz, performance, composition and musicology and ethnomusicology). 

At the end of this course, you should be able to:

1. demonstrate practical understanding of all significant aspects of western music theory, and introducing aspects of non-western music theory.
2. understand cross-cultural and historical applications of contemporary theoretical knowledge and skill
3. analyse diverse kinds of music from a range of perspectives
4. conduct research into theoretical and analytical aspects of music
5. connect aspects of music from the past with present-day composition and performance

A portfolio of six theory and analysis assignments completed during class or online (40%) [Learning Outcomes 1-4]

Two major compositional/analytic assignments of c.2000 words equivalent (30% each) [Learning Outcomes 1-5]

One one-hour lecture per week + one two-hour tutorial = 3 contact hours or on-line equivalent.  The lecture time will be the primary content delivery, and also a time when drills and assignments can be given to the entire class.  The tutorials will take the form of intensive workshops, exploring the practical application of the course material.

Departmental consent

A good knowledge of tonal theory, gained for instance through completion of the two first-year Music Inquiry courses MUSM1301 and MUSM1303  and/or MUSM1305 Foundation Musical Skills