Composition techniques

About this course

The course examines composition techniques across contrasting musical styles and genres. Participants analyse melodies, harmonic progressions and examples from composers including Bach, Messiaen, Schubert and Cole Porter, then apply the ideas in class and individual writing exercises. Teaching combines guided listening, score study, discussion, playing or singing examples, and feedback on exercises and compositions. Topics include melodic and harmonic writing, counterpoint, jazz and post-tonal harmony, and the use of instrumental and vocal texture. The course also includes work towards an original composition project, which participants present to the group through performance or recording.

What you'll learn

• Analyse how melodies are shaped through pitch, contour, range, rhythm, motifs and phrases.
• Write short melodies and contrapuntal textures in a range of styles.
• Analyse, arrange and create harmonic progressions using approaches including chorale, jazz, pop and dissonant harmony.
• Compose original short pieces using studied melodic and harmonic techniques.
• Assess how texture and timbre function in writing for voices and selected instruments.
• Make informed compositional choices when preparing work with a performer.

Is this course right for you?

This advanced course is intended for learners with solid music theory knowledge at approximately Grade 6 standard, including notation, metre, rhythm and intervals. Experience playing an instrument or singing is also expected, and entry is through a short test. Participants discuss, play or sing examples, give and receive feedback, and present composition work to the group.

• A short entrance test is required.
• The course involves both individual writing and group discussion and critique.
• Participants may present a composition through live performance, recording or Sibelius files.

Before you go

• Participants should bring manuscript paper, a pencil and an eraser.
• Other musical materials are supplied by the tutor.
• An instrument may be needed for playing exercises and compositions.
• The course suggests consulting Johann Joseph Fux's The Study of Counterpoint; buying or borrowing it is optional.