MU3008 - Theory and Musicianship

In this module, essential knowledge of western music theory will be delivered through a combination of experiential and notation-based learning which takes place in a weekly workshop that typically involves a range of activities. Topics will be introduced in short lectures within the workshops, but learning is at its most effective when theoretical concepts are experienced, so there are practical activities that may include, for example, listening exercises, composing rhythms, singing/playing in different clefs and modes, recognising intervals by ear; recognising and playing/singing triads on degrees of the major scale. You will be set tasks to do in preparation for each workshop. You will have access to theory/aural software to help you practise.

You will be given considerable support by the Module Tutor within workshops, during publicised office hours and via email. You will be constantly working with your peers in a spirit of mutual support, encouragement and collaboration. The programme leader will guide you through the requirements and expectations of your course. You will receive on-going feedback each week during the workshops which will help you prepare for the final assessment.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Through an experiential understanding of the relationship between music as written and music as sound, you will gain a knowledge of music theory and develop an understanding of key musical concepts essential for further study.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. You will demonstrate a capacity for independent, self-motivated learning and time management through regular practice at reading/writing and listening to music.

3. You will learn to communicate effectively through writing music.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. You will demonstrate a capacity for curiosity, creativity, and intellectual openness

1. Participation in weekly learning tasks (10%): short assignments that vary from week to week and may involve use of theory/aural software packages or written exercises. Feedback depends on the individual assignments, and may include raw marks for theory tests, brief written feedback, oral feedback to cohort, or a combination of these. MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4.

2. SUMMATIVE Theory and Musicianship Assessment 1 (40%). MLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4. Normally, just a mark will be given for written theory, but students are encouraged to seek oral feedback should they need it, and there will also be general feedback in class to the whole cohort.

3. SUMMATIVE Theory and Musicianship Assessment 2 (50%). MLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4. Normally, just a mark will be given for written theory.

Entry to the Music Foundation Year in Music OR entry to Music BA (Hons)

N/A

In this module you will focus on consolidating your knowledge and understanding of music theory. Whatever instrument you play, it is important to be able to read from standard staff notation and to be able to relate written music to sound. Therefore, as well as learning the rudiments of music theory by reading and writing notation, there is an experiential dimension where you relate theoretical, written concepts to sound through aural (listening) and singing/playing/creating. The module is designed in such a way that you work at your own level, whether you are a complete novice when it comes to reading music or have some prior knowledge.