Details for MUS340 Composition and Songwriting

Harnessing creative potential, this subject equips students with the skills to compose original music across various genres. Students will learn to dissect and understand musical elements such as pitch, rhythm, and texture. By synthesising these components, students will be able to express unique musical ideas, select harmonies, and structure their compositions effectively to achieve desired emotional impact.

Quick Stats

• Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
• Course code: MUS340
• Credit points: 10

Subject Coordinator

Prerequisite

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Explain musical pieces in terms of their musical elements;
2. Generate musical ideas;
3. Select appropriate harmonic and melodic structures;
4. Compose musical works;
5. Rearrange musical elements to maximise the intent and impact of the composition.

Subject Content

• Musical elements
  • Duration
  • Pitch
  • Tone Colour
  • Dynamics & Expressive Techniques
• Texture
• Analysing musical compositions
• Generating musical ideas
• Writing lyrics
• Popular music harmonic conventions
• Musical structures
• Arranging techniques

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Face to Face (onsite)
• Distance/E-learning (online)
• Intensive (One week: 7 hours per day for 5 days = 35 class hours + approx 85 hours out of class time for research, writing, exam preparation and execution, ancillary activities associated with completion of assigned tasks)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

• Journal Entries (10%)
• Minor Essay (25%)
• Music Compositions (50%)
• Composition Revisions (15%)

Prescribed Text

• Primary readings provided