MUS 103 - Music Theory and Musicianship I

Institution:

Williams College

Subject:

Music

Description:

Music 103 and 104 are designed for potential majors and for students with strong instrumental or vocal backgrounds. Students entering Music 103 should have a solid understanding of musical rudiments (intervals, scales, keys) and reading proficiency in both bass and treble clefs. A short diagnostic exam will be administered at the first class meeting of Music 103 to determine if a student requires any additional work to complement and fortify course work during the early weeks of the semester, or whether placement in Music 102 would be more appropriate. Students with a strong background in music theory may take a placement exam during First Days to see whether they can pass out of one or both semesters. Music 103 and 104 are required for the music major. Music 103 presents the materials, structures and procedures of tonal music, with an emphasis on the harmonic and contrapuntal practice of the baroque and classical periods (ca. 1650-1825). The course explores triadic harmony, voice leading, and counterpoint with an emphasis on the chorale style of J.S. Bach and his predecessors. Keyboard harmony and figured bass exercises, sight singing, dictation, analysis of repertoire, written exercises and emulation projects will develop both an intellectual and an aural understanding of music of the period. Projects include the harmonization of chorale melodies, the arrangement of classical period minuets and the composition of vocal canons.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.williams.edu

Phone Number:

(413) 597-3131

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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