MUSC 272 Improvisation I. In this course, students will begin applying the basic tools of melodic and harmonic improvisation. Melodic interpretation, phrasing, rhythmic density, motivic development, pacing, voice leading, and harmonic accuracy will all be explored through performance and analysis. The class will examine classic solos in a variety of idioms. Students will write and transcribe melodic improvisation. The class is taught with "instrument in hand", performing with teacher and students.
Prerequisites: MUSC 151 with a minimum grade of 83%
Accessibility Services Notice
Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 30 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 2 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Improvise in a variety of idiom
- Understand and implement a wide variety of improvisational strategies
- Have more confidence in their ability to improvise
Teaching and Learning Approach
This course is taught with instrument "in hand". Students explore the various concepts discussed in class by
performing with their peers and instructor in a band-like setting. Special attention is given to student’s written
solos and transcribing solos by major influential artists.Learning Resources
Required: InstrumentDetailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered
1. Introduction (course outline review), Blues Form & chords (Mixolydian use). Melody Variations and Embellishment
2. Blues Chords & Scales (Parallel Mixolydian), Swing Feel, phrasing strategies
3. Borrowed vs. Modulation (strategies for non-diatonic movement)
4. Blues Turnarounds-endings
5. Blues Transcriptions
6. th Funk-16 note rhythms, Dorian & Mixolydian application
7. th Funk-cont’d. 16 note rhythms in Improvisation
8. Midterm
9. Jazz- Walking Bass, intros & endings, Jazz Blues
10. th Jazz-8 Note Lines
11. Jazz-Bebop Scales, Jazz ballad (melody embellishment take 2/playing chord tones), Approach Tones
12. Jazz Transcription
13. Latin Jazz
14. Melodic Inspiration
15. FinalAssessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
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| Task 1 In-Class | Participation | 50% |
| Task 2 Blues | Transcription | 10% |
| Task 3 Midterm | Test | 15% |
| Task 4 Jazz | Transcription | 10% |
| Task 5 Final | Test | 15% |
| Total | 100% |
Grading Table
Standard Contemporary Music and Technology Program Grading Table
| Percentage | Letter Grade | GPA |
| 97 - 100 | A+ | 4.33 |
| 94 - 96.9 | A | 4.00 |
| 90 - 93.9 | A- | 3.67 |
| 87 - 89.9 | B+ | 3.33 |
| 83 - 86.9 | B | 3.00 |
| 80 - 82.9 | B- | 2.67 |
| 77 - 79.9 | C+ | 2.33 |
| 73 - 76.9 | C | 2.00 |
| 70 - 72.9 | C- | 1.67 |
| 60 - 69.9 | P | 1.00 |
| Less than 60% | F | 0.00 |
| Did not withdraw | DNW | 0.00 |
See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.
Disclaimer
Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.