Advanced Music Theory and Composition 

Division:  Upper School

Department: Fine and Performing Arts:  Instrumental Music

Year-Long

Course Title/Code:  Advanced Music Theory and Composition                       Art 385 

Course Description:  This course is for highly motivated students with a serious interest in the study and practice of music.  Students will develop advanced skills in reading and writing music notation, critical listening, analysis, ear training, and the composition of music.  Students will also design one or more independent projects.  The course will be taught in the electronic music lab and will utilize midi keyboards and music software.    Students may choose to take the AP Music Theory exam in the Spring.  May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite:  ART381: Music Theory and Composition or permission of the instructor  

Goal

• Students will  develop advanced skills in reading and writing music notation, critical listening, analysis, ear training, and the composition of music

Skills

• Identifying intervals visually and aurally
• Identifying chords visually and aurally
• Identifying cadences visually and aurally
• Analysis (Harmonic, Formal)
• Four part writing
• Sight Singing
• Dictation (Rhythmic, Melodic, Harmonic)
• Advanced scales and modes

Activities

• Use Musition 2 software in class to practice music theory skills
• Use Auralia software in class to practice ear training skills
• Use Finale music notation software in class to write music and practice music theory skills
• Use www.musictheory.net and finale notepad (free software) at home to complete assignments not finished in class
• Listen to and discuss masterworks of classical music
• Design and complete an individual project involving writing, performing, or analyzing music

Assessment

• Classwork/Homework
• Project

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