This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module aims to imbue the student with an advanced compositional ability to a point where meaningful work can take place on the MA Composition Project and Dissertation and Research Skills modules. It will cover a range of contemporary music in the form of a series of etudes in compositional areas that will encourage the development of current practice and an understanding of compositional strategies. It will establish a thorough technical base for future compositional output in a wide range of areas including: acoustic composition, electroacoustic music, composition with live electronics and functional electronic music in combination with other arts subjects.
An initial series of group seminars at the start of each term (2 hours per week) will introduce techniques, repertoire, technology, key concepts and terminologies as well as discussing compositional strategies. Students will be encouraged to develop an understanding of the context of their work. Later in the term, students will work have four weeks of directed study on focused tasks, where students will receive guidance on compositional skills. Total contact hours is 30, and total study hours is 300.
1) Composition Portfolio, c. 12 minutes, including at least one score – 80%
2) Written evaluation, c. 2000 words – 20%
Boulez, P: Orientations (Faber & Faber, 1986)
Cox, C: Audio culture : readings in modern music (Continuum, 2004)
Emmerson, S (ed): The Language of Electroacoustic Music (Macmillan, 1986)
Emmerson, S (ed): Timbre composition in Electroacoustic music (Harwood, 1994)
Griffiths, p.: A guide to electronic music (Thames and Hudson,1979)
Manning, P.: Electronic and computer music (Oxford : Oxford University Press, 2004)
Norman, K (ed): Contemporary Music Review (Harwood,1996)
Nyman, Michael.Experimental music : Cage and beyond (Cambridge University Press, 1999)
Wishart, T: On Sonic Art (Imagineering Press, 1985)
Wishart, T: Audible Design (Orpheus the Pantomime, 1994)
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to programme learning outcomes
1. To evaluate the nature and significance of various forms of acoustic and studio-based composition.
2. To explore advanced compositional techniques in individual creative work.
3. To be able to present, analyse and discuss original composition in concerts, conferences or seminars referring to specific terminology and traditions.
The intended generic learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to programme learning outcomes
1. To develop clear concepts and ideas when presented with complex situations and conflicting information.
2. To be able to produce original work and communicate this to an audience.
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