Listed in: Music, as MUSI-112
Formerly listed as: MUSI-12
Moodle site: Course (Login required)
Katherine A. Pukinskis (Section 01)
Through composition, analysis, listening practice, and performance, we will build a solid working understanding of many principles of melody and harmony common in Western musical traditions. The course aims to develop comfort and dexterity in engaging with music via listening, analysis, and creative work. Assignments include harmonizing melodies, writing short melodies and accompaniments, and composing in several forms from classical minuets to Broadway-style 32-bar AABA form. On several occasions we will use our instruments and voices to bring musical examples to life in the classroom and online. We will meet for two synchronous class meetings and one lab session per week.
Students who have not previously taken a course in music theory at Amherst College are encouraged to take a self-administered placement exam available on reserve in the Music Library and on the Music Department Website (www.amherst.edu/~music/TheoryPlacement.pdf ). Students are also encouraged to discuss placement in music theory with a member of the Music Department.
This course or MUSI 113 is considered a point of entry to MUSI 241, and serves as a prerequisite to many other Music Department offerings. Requisite: MUSI 111, or equivalent ability gained by playing an instrument or singing. Limited to 18 students. Fall and Spring semesters: Visiting Professor Pukinskis. Hyflex format with as much face-to-face learning as possible. Online components of the course will be conducted via Zoom, the course website, and possibly other online resources.
If Overenrolled: Individual meeting with instructor to test musical background & ear to determine class level. If overenrolled, preference will be give to those who have submitted a Music Theory Placement Exam, then to 1st-years, sophomores, & juniors.