Module MUSI2611: Theory and Analysis

Department: Music

MUSI2611: Theory and Analysis

Prerequisites

• MUSI1281 Analysis 1: Elements of Tonal Theory and Practice

Corequisites

Excluded Combination of Modules

Aims

• This module will build on foundational skills embedded in first-year courses to enhance understanding of music on a technical level. It aims to develop students' ability to reflect conceptually on musical material, forms, genres and processes, and to instil awareness of the continuities between analysis, historical studies, performance and composition.

Content

• The module will explore a variety of approaches that have defined the disciplines of music theory and analysis over the past half century, applying them to the study of a diverse repertoire composed between 1700 and 1945.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will become familiar with a range of theories and analytical approaches pertinent to the study of music written between 1700 and 1945.

• Students will gain competence in applying these skills practically through a series of formative and summative analytical projects, as well as developing an understanding of core analytical writing skills and the commonly used conventions for presenting analytical findings in a cogent manner.

• The module will enhance analytical understanding, while embedding a more sophisticated knowledge of the technical aspects of musical compositions from the historical period under discussion. It also aims to equip students who wish to undertake more advanced analytical work in third year in the context of writing an extended dissertation.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module is taught by weekly lectures, small-group seminars, each focusing on a set work, and tutorials. Students submit one summative essay-based project testing applied knowledge, which require students to apply theoretical concepts in the analysis of repertoire.
• The weekly lectures introduce students to core concepts, illustrated by examples from the repertoire; they also demonstrate applications of theory in the analysis of repertoire in a wide range of genres. The seminars reinforce learning through small group work on focused case studies. The tutorials offer students the chance to discuss specific worked examples, in tandem with the work proposed for the formative assessments.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Two formative assignments, one midway through the term and one towards its end, which will prepare students for the summative project.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University