Discovering Music

Subject 740-138 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008. Search for this in the current handbook Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Semester 1, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

On campus

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 2 one-hour lectures and a one-hour tutorial per week
Total Time Commitment: 120 hours
Prerequisites: Offered as breadth: nil
Not offered to BMus students
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements: It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Coordinator

TBA
Subject Overview:

An introduction to the main elements of music for non-music students. Drawing from a broad range of musical examples, the subject explores fundamental musical concepts including rhythm, melody, harmony, timbre, texture, tempo, dynamics, and form, and how they interrelate in music. The subject will provide a basic introduction to the graphical representation of music and an overview of the distinguishing features of various musical styles. Although the main emphasis will be on Western art music, examples from non-Western musical traditions and from popular music will also be included.
Students will acquire a working vocabulary for discussing, describing and analysing music and will develop the ability to apply such vocabulary to actual musical examples. Active listening, as opposed to passive hearing of music, is a key element. Students will develop a range of critical skills that will allow them to understand music at a deeper level and to think conceptually about music.
On completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • understand the materials, techniques and styles of music
  • think conceptually about music
  • implement enhanced listening skills
  • demonstrate broadened musical horizons by listening to music of different periods and cultures
  • become life-long, enthusiastic and appreciative listeners of music.
Assessment: Four listening tests (10% each), to be taken throughout the semester; one written assignment equivalent to 2000 words (35%) due at the end of semester; one in-class presentation (15%) in the second half of semester; attendance and class participation (10%)
Prescribed Texts: tba
Breadth Options:

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Biomedicine
  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Bachelor of Environments
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills: On successful completion of the subject, students should be able to:
  • engage with music on a critical and analytical level
  • communicate effectively and articulately about music, using specific terms and concepts
  • articulate an informed personal reaction to music from different periods and cultures.

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