Module overview
This module will provide you with a foundational understanding of the principles of Western 'common practice' tonal music (c. 1650-1900, and beyond) that will be invaluable to your studies in later modules. The module will begin by introducing and rehearsing key terminology and concepts, before examining different methods of harmonic description and analysis, and concluding with consideration of theories of harmonic function.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Basic harmonic terminology applicable to common-practice tonality
- Common systems for describing harmonies
- Advanced terminology for the harmonic-functional analysis of tonal music
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Identify and analyse harmonic progressions
- Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different harmonic interpretations
- Identify chords and non-harmony notes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the difference between theory and practice
- Apply problem-solving and analytical skills
Syllabus
- Basic concepts of common-practice tonality
- Chordal analysis and description
- Harmonic analysis using figured bass and Roman numerals
- Harmonic function
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The teaching for this module is delivered in lectures and seminars.
There are three formal assessments covering the areas studied.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 12 |
| Seminar | 12 |
| Wider reading or practice | 30 |
| Follow-up work | 30 |
| Completion of assessment task | 36 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 30 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Internet Resources
Textbooks
The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians (for musical terminology).
Eric Taylor. The AB Guide to Music Theory, Part 1 & Part 2. The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Anna Butterworth. Harmony in Practice. The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assessment | 20% |
| Assessment | 30% |
| Assessment | 50% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assessment | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External