Central Methodist University Department of Music
MLCP100, Applied Composition
1 credit
Spring 2021
Meeting Time and Location by Arrangement
Dr. David Witter
Classic Hall 202-C
660-651-9964, dwitter@centralmethodist.edu, office hours by appointment
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.
Facemask Policy
Wearing a face mask is about protecting others, our Central Methodist Community and the communities we work in. The primary purpose of wearing a face mask is to reduce the probability of virus spreading from the wearer (who may not know they are spreading the virus) into the environment and to others. The secondary purpose of the face covering is to reduce the likelihood that large droplets containing virus that are spread by others may enter the nose and mouth of the wearer. The use of a face mask does not replace the continued need to maintain physical distances from others, at least 6 feet, but instead augments physical distancing and helps us further reduce the likelihood of virus transmission.
A face mask is a cloth, bandana, or other type of material that covers an individual’s mouth and nose. The CDC lists five criteria for “cloth face coverings,” which should:
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Include multiple layers of fabric
- Allow for breathing without restriction
- Be able to be cleaned or laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to shape.
The complete CMU Face Mask Policy is available at:
https://www.centralmethodist.edu/about/offices/human-resources/_docs/FaceCoveringPolicy.pdf
Absence Policy
During every class session, you will have the opportunity to learn new information and develop important skills. You are fostering professional habits by being prompt and prepared for each class period. It should be your goal to gain knowledge and greater musicianship every time we meet. Each of you has unique contributions to make to the class and you should endeavor to add to the discussion whenever appropriate.
Because your participation in class is vital to your success, you are expected to attend every class session in person. The fourth absence will result in the reduction of your course grade by 10%. The fifth absence garners a 25% deduction. The sixth absence will result in lowering the grade by 40%, which means failing the class. The only excused absences are for official university activities for which I am notified in advance by the student and the faculty sponsor and COVID-quarantine/isolation mandated by OSD or the CMU Nurse Practitioner. Two tardies constitute an absence.
If you are in quarantine or isolation, you will want to participate in class on Zoom. For participation, you will need a device situated so the camera is on your face at all times, and a separate device for class activities. If there are extenuating circumstances, contact me about participating with the camera off.
As always, I want to work with you so you can be successful. Effective communication is the key to making that happen.
Per the Extended Absence Policy in the CLAS Catalog (https://clas-catalog.centralmethodist.edu/info/Student%20Academic%20Information.html#extended), “when there are extenuating circumstances, such as serious injury or illness that result in absence of more than two weeks, or a student is unable to finish the semester, alternative arrangements may be possible. Students must apply in advance to the Provost's Office in writing for permission. Individual instructors will not be permitted to make alternative arrangements without the Provost's Office permission. Students will not be permitted to transfer from a CLAS course to the same CGES course in the middle of a semester.”
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. 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 procedures, described in the university’s catalog, are intended to guide and assist faculty, staff, and students in complying with this policy and in determining reasonable accommodations to be made for the federally defined disability claimed. All materials and information regarding disabilities will be governed by the University’s normal policies regarding privacy.
Students Requiring Special Accommodations
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, service, 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 establish a process to track and implement changes as a result of said concern. For more detailed information, consult the CLAS catalog at: https://clas-catalog.centralmethodist.edu/info/University%20Policies.html#info13-grievance
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
Health and Safety for Musicians
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 Fine Arts section of the CMU webpage.
http://www.centralmethodist.edu/student-life/services-and-resources/music-resources.php
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.
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.
Grade Weight
Assignments/Participation 20%
Quizzes 40%
Final 40%
Course Grades
90-100% = A
80-89% = B
70-79%= C
60-69% = D
0-59% = F