PERF 2001 Arranging Music

This is an archived copy of the 2021-2022 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 102566

Coordinator David Cashman Opens in new window

Description This unit introduces concepts and skills necessary to arrange music in popular-commercial and orchestral contexts. Lectures provide background on the use of instruments, harmony, timbre and texture, and tutorials provide practical exercises in preparation for the assignments.

School Humanities & Comm Arts

Discipline Music

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 2 subject

Pre-requisite(s) PERF 2015 OR
PERF 2004

Equivalent Subjects LGYA 0425 - Arranging Popular Music PERF 2002 - Arranging Musics

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
  1. Arrange a given melody for piano/short score.
  2. Construct an arrangement for large ensemble of a pre-existing piano score.
  3. Arrange a song for a medium sized ensemble.
  4. Analyse the musical roles of instruments in a musical score, and be familiar with the ranges of the instruments.
  5. Score idiomatic parts for a range of instruments.
  6. Apply stylistic elements of a chosen genre to their own arrangements.
  7. Read and arrange simple melodies at the keyboard, and read chords from a lead sheet on keyboard or guitar.
  8. Those attending Art of Sound will be able to: Participate in and contribute to Art of Sound activities and projects, collaborating with students across the Music program to develop and enhance production, technical and performance skills.

Subject Content

Skills in arranging for piano, and for medium and large ensembles
Theoretical knowledge of harmony, chord voicing and musical textures
Practical knowledge of instrument capabilities
Practical knowledge of computer notation and musical scoring conventions

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Item Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Professional Task (Written arrangement for rhythm section and voice) 32 bars 35 N Individual
Professional Task (Written or DAW arrangement for large ensemble) 88 bars 45 N Individual
Four online tests 20 minutes 20 N Individual
Attendance: Art of Sound Minimum 2 hours per fortnight S/U Y Individual

Teaching Periods

Spring

Penrith (Kingswood)

Day

Subject Contact David Cashman Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

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