Revised 10/99

MUS 213 - Composition I-II (2 CR.)

Course Description

Requires the writing of short compositions in several styles, ranging from the 18th to the 20th century, for various instrumental or vocal combinations. Individualized instruction meets the special need of each student. Score analysis forms an important part of this course. Lecture 2 hours. Laboratory 2 hours. Total 4 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

This course is designed to provide the student with a practical knowledge of elementary composition. This knowledge will be demonstrated through exercises in writing and aural perception.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

The student must have completed the entire course sequence of elementary harmony or equivalent training.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• apply in a practical manner, the theoretical concepts absorbed in first year theory
• analyze musical notation
• acquire necessary elements of musical notation
• study and practice writing harmony and counterpoint
• become familiar with the principles of variation and development
• write short musical compositions

Major Topics to Be Included

• Elements of notation
• Musical forms
• Harmonic procedures and practices
• Contrapuntal techniques
• Composition for groups of varying sizes and in different forms
• Analysis of music in different styles 

Optional Topics

• Lectures by composers
• Work in electronic idiom
• Aural perception of various formal structures
• Orchestration
• 20th century practices and techniques