What will I learn on this module?
You will develop your piano-playing skills according to your level of previous experience, developing piano technique and learning to play from notation (especially reading music at sight), which will complement your study of music theory. You will learn to play common chord progressions and use them to harmonize traditional tunes. You will develop an understanding of voice-leading at the piano (or how best to move from one chord to the next). You will explore the piano in creative ways through improvisation.
How will I learn on this module?
This module involves experiential learning: you will learn through doing in a practical way. You will receive individual attention in small groups for half-an-hour each week to work on your piano playing. There are also weekly workshops at which you will explore harmony at the piano and create your own music at the instrument through improvisation.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be given considerable support and encouragement by those teaching on the course. The programme leader and Course Tutor will be on hand to offer help and guidance, either in person during the advertised office hours or via email, and you will be working in an environment where you and your peers will offer one another mutual support.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
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)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will have a knowledge of the piano, its technique and repertoire, and an understanding of how music notation in piano score relates to technique and to sound.
2. You will understand common chord progressions.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. You will develop the piano playing skills needed for further study leading to a career in music.
4. You will be able to harmonize melodies at the keyboard and create your own improvised music
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. You will demonstrate a capacity for curiosity, creativity, and intellectual openness
How will I be assessed?
1. Mid-year practical assessment of 15 minutes (50%). MLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
2. End-of-year practical assessment of 15 minutes (50%). MLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Feedback on the summative practical assessments will take the form of a short report.
Individual and group feedback on weekly formative work will be given in class so that students can track their progress.
Pre-requisite(s)
Entry to the Music Foundation Year in Music
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
An ability to find your way around a piano is an essential skill for developing your keyboard skills at degree level, and for your future as an academic researcher, performer or teacher. This course is designed for players of all standards, including those with no previous experience of playing keyboard instruments. You will learn to read staff notation (or to sight-read) at the piano, which will help your knowledge of music theory, and also to play by ear, including harmonising tunes and improvising at the keyboard. An ability to play the piano reinforces knowledge of harmony and music theory, and is essential for further study, when you will go on to develop keyboard skills necessary for high-level work and research. Piano playing is also essential for players and singers of other instruments, especially those whose performances involve an accompanist. An ability to play the piano is essential for all music teachers.
Course info
UCAS Code W310
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time followed by a further 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025 or September 2026
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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