Composing for beginners

An introduction to composing for acoustic instruments or voice in a variety of classical genres. Using improvisation in class you will learn how to create musical material and effectively structure your ideas.

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Key course information

Dates
25/09/11 - 23/10/11

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
5 weeks

Time
11:00 - 12:30

Fees
Full fee: £66^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
MG840

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
music@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2630

Course outline

What is the course about?

An introduction to composing for acoustic instruments or voice in a variety of classical genres. A course for acoustic instrumentalists and singers with no previous composition experience. Learn how to create musical material through improvisation and the basics of orchestration.

What topics will we cover?

- Listening to and analysing the scores of music by famous classical composers such as Bach, Mozart, & -Beethoven to 20th Century Composers such as Debussy, John Cage & Steve Reich
- How to create rhythm, harmony, & melody through improvisation in class
- The use of structure and form
- Introduction to orchestration.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Generate your own musical material effectively
- Demonstrate an understanding of how to order your ideas within a musical structure
- Be aware of the ranges of orchestral instruments and vocal ranges
- Be able to read an orchestral or vocal score.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You will need to have either Grade 3 Music Theory or have completed the City Lit course ‘Sounds and Symbols 3’. It is preferable that you have the equivalent of Grade 3 in an instrument or voice and have experience in score and sight reading. You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English, engage in class discussions and take notes in English and staff notation.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The emphasis is on practical work in class. You will be asked to complete homework to show in class.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring your instrument with you to each session. Also bring manuscript paper, notebook, pencil, rubber.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. There will be continuous assessment of written and practical homework.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

At the end of the course you can attend other composition and musicianship courses at City Lit.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2630

music@citylit.ac.uk

Auditions and Advice Information

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Music

Tel: 020 7492 2630

music@citylit.ac.uk

Auditions and Advice Information

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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