MUS3310 - Composition Techniques: Chance, Sets and Computers

Leader: Peter McIlwain

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

The unit will cover topics related to compositional technique that elate to contemporary practice since 1950. Techniques covered include will be: the use of chance or indeterminacy, post-tonal theory (12 tone, serialism, pitch sets and centricity) and an introduction to computer music.

Objectives

Students who have worked successfully in their studies will be able to; organise musical elements using chance operations, understand basic 12 tone composition techniques, perform analysis using pitch sets and have an understanding of aesthetic and compositional issues relating to computer music.

Assessment

Written Assignment (2000 words) : 40%
Composition Exercises (1500 word equivalent) : 35%
Style Report (1000 word ) : 25%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour lecture) per week

Prerequisites

MUS2110, MUS2120