MUSC170 Arranging

MUSC 170 Arranging introduces students to techniques for arranging music for small ensembles, with a primary focus on the rhythm section and an overview of the fundamentals of writing for horn sections. Students learn to analyze and document song forms, transcribe recorded performances using standard musical notation and create clear, effective charts for rhythm section instruments. Specific topics include instrument ranges; transposition for brass and saxophones; expanding from lead sheets; planning an arrangement; basic 2‑, 3‑, and 4‑part voicing techniques; and standard notation practices for electric or acoustic bass, guitar, piano, and drums.