Central Methodist University Department of Music
Spring 2020
Syllabus
Applied Composition MLCP100
(1 hr.)
Prof. David Witter, Classic Hall 202-D, 660-651-9964
dwitter@centralmethodist.edu; lesson time TBA
Mission
Central Methodist University prepares students to make a difference in the world by emphasizing academic and professional excellence, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.
Description
The course consists of structured projects in vocal and and instrumental composition based on studies using specific compositional techniques. The focus is on establishing a solid basis of ability in counterpoint, harmony, and instrumentation in historical and contemporary idioms, and gaining a greater awareness of new ideas and aesthetics. The goal is to apply those techniques and ideas to the development of a personal methodology of composition, while establishing a focused pattern of experimentation.
DESE-Specific Subject Competencies
MoSPE Competencies
• Demonstrates content knowledge and ability to use multiple subject specific methodologies for specific instructional purposes to engage students (1C2)
• Understands how to select appropriate strategies for addressing individual student needs in meeting curriculum objectives (3C2)
• Demonstrates knowledge of current instructional resources to support complex thinking and technological skills (4C2)
Course Requirements
—Several short composition exercises for solo instrument or small chamber group, as assigned.
—Completion of one song for voice and piano.
—Completion of one chamber music composition for instruments and piano, or for three (or more) melodic instruments.
—Timely completion of assigned listening, reading, and score study.
—Participation in discussion of the assigned works.
—Performances or rehearsed readings of the student’s exercises and compositions must be organized and accomplished by each students, with assistance from the instructor.
Activities
- Selected theoretical studies of structure and ornament (melodic, harmonic, and formal), counterpoint, harmony, and instrumental technique, with related composition exercises demonstrating a practical understanding of the ideas discussed.
- Reading, listening, and score study of selected exemplary works, and brief prose summaries of the essential ideas in those works.
- Analysis and “syncretism”—observing characteristics of an existing musical model, deriving generative rules from those characteristics, and producing a new example from that generative hypothesis.
- Presentation and discussion of students’ exercises and compositions in class.
- A final performance of student composition.
Final Exam
In lieu of a final examination there will be a final recital during which the composer(s) will be expected to present a polished performance or recording of her/his chamber ensemble composition project.
Academic Property
All work (original or copy) submitted by the student to satisfy the requirements of the course may be retained at the discretion of the instructor for non-profit and educational purposes. Such work is generally used for assessing the course and providing evidence of student accomplishment for review by accrediting agencies. Any student wishing to prohibit such use of their work may do so by notifying the instructor in writing.
Non-discrimination Policy
Central Methodist University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual preference, religion, sex, national origin, age, or federally defined disability/state defined handicap (“disability”). This includes but is not limited to recruitment and admission of students, educational programs, services, activities, financial aid, and scholarship programs. The University complies with all federal and state non-discrimination requirements.The Center for Learning & Teaching at Central Methodist University is committed to ensuring nondiscrimination and equal access to all programs, services, and activities for qualified students with a disability. It is the responsibility of any student who wishes to claim a disability and seek an accommodation to file official documentation confirming the disability and a completed Disability Services Student Information Form with the Center of Learning and Teaching prior to seeking any accommodation based on the disability.
Grievance Policy
Central Methodist University has established a grievance policy and process designed to provide students and others with a process to resolve potential issues. This policy and process is established to provide persons with an avenue to file a written concern and to established a process to track and implement changes as a result of said concern. For more detailed information, consult the CLAS catalog at: http://www.centralmethodist.edu/academics/catalog/clas-catalog/policies/index.php.
If an issue cannot be solved through consultation with the faculty or division chair, students can report an incident/issue within 30 days of the event via the online web form https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?CentralMethodistUniv&layout_id=3.
For more detailed information, consult the CLAS catalog at: http://www.centralmethodist.edu/academics/catalog/class-policy/policies/index.php.
If an issue cannot be solved through consultation with the faculty or division chair, students can report an incident/issue within 30 days of the event via the online web form https//cm.maxient.com/reporting form.php?CentralMethodistUniv&layout_id=3
Academic Conduct Policy
Your projects must represent your work and your ideas. Ideas incorporated into your work that are not your own must be properly documented.
Students are expected to follow the CMU Academic Conduct Policy as outlined on the CMU website. Any evidence of academic misconduct may have any or all of the following consequences:
Grade of zero on the individual assignment.
Grade of F in the class.
Dismissal from the class.
A notation of academic misconduct on your transcript.
The Dean of the University may take additional action, including probation, suspension, or expulsion from the college.
Health/Safety Statement
Musicians face a number of health and safety issues, particularly in applied lessons and ensembles. Hearing concerns, vocal health, and muscle injuries are a concern for faculty and students. Awareness and education are key to preventing harmful habits or injuries.
In addition to the information shared with you in lessons and rehearsals, there is material available to you regarding best practices for maintaining hearing, vocal, and muscular health. Helpful information is posted on the CMU webpage (http://www.centralmethodist.edu/student-life/services-and-resources/music-resources.php).
Collaborative Pianist Policy
Collaborative pianists for Thursday Morning Recitals, Juries, Chamber Recital, and the American Music Recital are provided to students free of charge. It is unusual for student musicians to be afforded this privilege and we are happy to provide you with professional collaborative pianists at no cost to you. However, if you are not respectful of our pianists, you will lose this privilege. We will allow you one “free” forgetfulness mistake. The second time you fail to notify at least two-hours in advance of your rehearsal, you will lose this privilege. You may still use the services of your pianist, but you will have to pay for each lesson and performance. The approximate cost for a rehearsal is $50 per hour. Performances may be more depending on the length.
Attendance
Attendance is a very important factor in completing the course successfully. Each absence beyond three will result in a 3% deduction from the course grade. Two tardies will be considered equivalent to one absence. Students with no absences will earn a 3% addition to their course grade.
Class cancellation
In the event of a university-wide closure, students should assume that all classes are canceled. Should I need to cancel class for any reason, I will let you know in person and via email.
Make-up and Late Work
Timely completion of homework and projects is essential. An assignment not turned in during the class period in which it is due will be accepted one class period late for half credit. Assignments completed more than one class period late will not be accepted.
Course Grades
90-100% = A
80-89% = B
70-79%= C
60-69% = D
0-59% = F
Schedule dates of note (may or may not pertain to this class):
Jan. 13 – first day of classes
Jan. 20 – MLK, Jr. Day (no classes)
Jan. 23-24 – MMEA (many music ed students will be gone)
Jan. 30 – Soccer Stop Day (no classes – celebrate the soccer team’s national championship)
Mar. 19-24 – Band Tour (spring break is Mar. 23-27)
Apr. 2 – Service Day (no classes)
Apr. 10 – Good Friday (no classes)
May 4-7 – Finals and Juries