Popular Music Composition and Arranging

Course Description

Students will create new works in contemporary, commercial, or popular styles. Some projects will involve original compositions, while others will be arrangements of existing music. Beginning music notation is covered. Students work in music software, such as a DAW. Prior musical experience is expected.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Arrange music for acoustic/live musical instruments.
  • Demonstrate firm understanding on how to effectively communicate musical ideas to others.
  • Create original works in contemporary, commercial, or popular styles.
  • Analyze music to inform their musical practice and develop a stronger ear.
  • Master basics of musical notation and DAW workflow.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure Percentage/Points
Project 1 20%
Project 2 20%
Project 3 30%
Assignments 15%
Attendance and Participation 10%
Listening Logs 5%

Grading Scale:

Percentage Letter Grade
94-100A
90-93A-
87-89B+
83-86B
80-82B-
77-79C+
73-76C
70-72C-
67-69D+
63-66D
60-62D-
Below 60F

Attendance/Participation:

Attendance and Participation are graded components of this course

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

Logic Pro (Free Trial), Ableton Live (Free Trial). These do NOT need to be downloaded by the first day of classes.

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.