This course provides an introduction to music theory that is useful to performers and composers, as well as those students who are interested in learning more about fundamental music materials and principles of organization. Although there will be some time devoted toward review during the first few class sessions, students are expected to know the names of the notes in both treble and bass clefs, key signatures, scales, intervals, and chords. After studying the art of melodic writing and the composition of cantus firmi, we will learn first and second species counterpoint in two and three parts. The remainder of the semester will be spent on diatonic harmony.
Theory is incomplete without a connection to musical practice.
We will perform our theory exercises in class and illustrate our work with compositions that students prepare outside of class. Students are also expected to attend the events in the Music Department's Concert Series.