MUS 165

Description:

This entry-level course provides instruction in the craft of musical composition. Traditional compositional techniques and concepts will be studied through demonstration and practice. Students will learn correct notational procedures and compose melodies and short pieces for one or two live performers. 1 hr. lecture/wk.

Prerequisites:

Prerequisite: MUS 141 or department approval

Course Fees:

None

Textbooks:

http://bookstore.jccc.edu

Supplies:

Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Objectives:

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

Demonstrate a knowledge of basic musical notation.
Compose single line melodies in major and minor keys.
Compose a short piano piece, or a duet for two single voice instruments.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Notation
   A. Produce by hand the basic musical symbols, including notes, rests,
dynamics and performance indications.
   B. Demonstrate the ability to notate rhythms correctly.
   C. Illustrate basic principles of page layout.

II. Melody
   A. Recognize examples of musically effective melodies.
   B. Describe basic characteristics of a good melodic line.
   C. Compose single line melodies in major and minor keys.

III. Composition
   A. Compose a short piano piece, or a duet for two single voice
instruments.
   B. Edit and carefully prepare a final copy of the composition.

Method of Evaluation and Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Attendance is required for this course.
A minimum of three notation assignments is required.
At least one finished composition is required.

Points will be awarded for each requirement as follows:

  Attendance:        10-20%
  Assignments:       40-50%
  Final Composition: 40-50%

Final grades will be determined using the following scale:

90% - 100%   = A
80% -  89%   = B
70% -  79%   = C
60% -  69%   = D
59% or below = F

Caveats:

None

Student Responsibilities:

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.

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