MUSC 274 Contemporary Harmony III

School of Arts and Technology

MUSC 274 Contemporary Harmony III. This course continues with the principles of contemporary harmony in Harmony 2. Topics are expanded to include Deceptive Resolution, Substitute Dominants, Diminished Chords, Modulation, Blues and Chord Scale Relationships. This course provides students with a practical working knowledge of harmony in various styles of contemporary music as it applies to composition and improvisation.

Prerequisites: MUSC 175 with a minimum grade of 70%

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.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – NoBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours30
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture2

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Analyze and interpret Deceptive Resolutions, Chord Scale Relationships, Substitute Dominants, Diminished Chords and Modulation from sheet music/charts/scores as used in musical improvisation and composition
  2. Apply the techniques of Deceptive Resolution, Chord Scale Relationships, Substitute Dominants, Diminished Chords and Modulation as they relate to improvisation and composition
  3. Apply the techniques of Deceptive Resolution, Chord Scale Relationships, Substitute Dominants, Diminished Chords and Modulation within the context of different genres of music such as Blues, Rock, and Jazz, Classical, etc

Teaching and Learning Approach

The course aims to develop the foundations of the language of music. All basic descriptions of music theory are applied to written music. Musical examples are used to enhance learning. These concepts are applied to communication with all musicians for composition, improvisation, and general literacy.

Learning Resources

Required: Harmony 3, by Barrie Nettles Study Supplement for Harmony 3 and 4, by Barbara London, Recommended: Students are expected to bring manuscript paper, note paper, pencil, eraser, and a three-ring binder to each class. Handouts will be provided and students will be required to keep an accurate record of topics discussed in the lesson.

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. Orientation 2. Review and Introduction to Chord Scales 3. Tritone Substitution 4. Midterm Exam 5. Diminished Chords 6. Modulation 7. Final Review 8. Final Exam

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Homework1, 2, 3, 4, 520%
Quizzes and Assignments1, 2, 3, 4, 520%
Midterm Exam1, 2, 320%
Final Project2, 3, 420%
Final Exam1, 2, 3, 4, 520%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Contemporary Music and Technology Program Grading Table

PercentageLetter GradeGPA
97 - 100A+4.33
94 - 96.9A4.00
90 - 93.9A-3.67
87 - 89.9B+3.33
83 - 86.9B3.00
80 - 82.9B-2.67
77 - 79.9C+2.33
73 - 76.9C2.00
70 - 72.9C-1.67
60 - 69.9P1.00
Less than 60%F0.00
Did not withdrawDNW0.00

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.