PERF 1024 Music Theory and Songwriting
Credit Points 10
Legacy Code 102770
Coordinator Clare Maclean Opens in new window
Description This subject studies harmony and musical techniques used in a variety of styles, and applies these in the development of song-writing and composition skills. Keyboard and aural classes include practical musicianship training related to the lectures.
School Humanities & Comm Arts
Discipline Music
Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp
Check your fees via the Fees page.
Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject
Pre-requisite(s) PERF 1001 OR
PERF 1015
Equivalent Subjects PERF 1004 - Composition Craft and Theory 2 LGYA 6571 - Music Craft and Theory 2 PERF 1002 - Composition Craft and Theory PERF 1017 - Songwriting and Music Theory
Assumed Knowledge
Students must have completed the prerequisite subject, or demonstrate an understanding of key signatures, intervals, triad chord structures, meter and rhythm, through a music theory screening test to be administered by the Subject Coordinator.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Write a song using at least two contrasting sections
- Write a composition in an existing or original/free style
- Undertake harmonic analysis of music in different styles
- Harmonise a tonal melody
- Read and play simple melodies and harmony at the keyboard
- Notate from aural dictation: intervals, chords, inversions, rhythms, simple melodies and harmonic progressions
- Notate music with Finale or other notation software
- Those attending Art of Sound will be able to participate meaningfully in Art of Sound activities and projects, working with students across the Music program to develop collaborative, technical and performance skills.
Subject Content
- Skills in style-composition, free composition and song-writing
- Theoretical knowledge of modes and harmonic analysis of different styles of music
- Skills in aural recognition of short melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictations
- Musicianship skills (keyboard, music reading and sight-singing)
- Skills in Finale or other notation software
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.
| Type | Length | Percent | Threshold | Individual/Group Task | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz | 10-20 minutes each | 30 | N | Individual | N |
| Practical | Compositions: 32 bars each. Tests: 3 mins each. | 40 | N | Individual | N |
| Final Exam | 2 hours | 30 | N | Individual | N |
| Participation | Minimum 2 hrs per fortnight | S/U | Y | Individual | Y |
Prescribed Texts
- N/A
Teaching Periods
Spring (2024)
Penrith (Kingswood)
On-site
Subject Contact Clare Maclean Opens in new window
View timetable Opens in new window
Spring (2025)
Penrith (Kingswood)
On-site
Subject Contact Clare Maclean Opens in new window