MUSM2019 Instrumental and Vocal Composition 2
A one-hour class each week in Instrumental and Vocal Composition, Analysis, Instrumentation and Orchestration.
Prerequisite
The satisfactory completion of Instrument and Vocal Composition 1.
Aim
To gain a detailed understanding of the theories and practices of vocal and choral writing in the twentieth century.
Content
Semester 1:
To compose two of the following three works:
- a piece for solo voice;
- a piece for solo voice with harmonic instrument; -a short piece for solo voice with chamber ensemble.
Semester 2:
To compose two of the following three works:
- a work for unaccompanied choir (SATB);
- a work for choir and chamber ensemble;
- a work for choir and orchestra.
- a work for chamber ensemble.
Analysis
Semester 1:
Pre-serial techniques–a study of selected scores from the works of Berg, Busoni, Grainger, Scriabin, Schoenberg and Webem (e.g. Scriabin, Piano Sonata No. 7; Shoenberg, String Quartet No. 2, Pierrot Lunaire, Moses and Aaron; Krenek, Karl).
Semester 2:
Rhythmic studies-the use of rhythmic procedures to create a functional structure with, or without, reference to pitch functions (e.g. Stravinsky, The Rite of Spring and Les Noces; Varese, Ionisation; John Antill, Corroboree; and Steve Reich, Come Out).
Instrumentation and Orchestration
Semester 1:
To complete a late romantic orchestration of a late romantic piano piece for large orchestra (e.g. Berg, Piano Sonata Op. 1; Roy Agnew, Piano Sonata No. 2).
Semester 2:
To complete piano reductions of a set score for major orchestra (e.g. Dallapicolla, Due Pezzi per Orchestra; Richard Meale, Clouds Now and Then) and Chamber Orchestra (e.g. Gerhard, Leo or Libra; Nigel Butterley, Laudes Op. 14).
Assessment
- Instrumental and Vocal Composition assignments-50%.
- A three-hour written Instrumental and Vocal Composition examination (end of semester 2)-50%.
References
In addition to works mentioned in the 'Suggested reading for Composition students' [...], other materials will be chosen in consultation with the lecturers.
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