Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title The History of Electronic Music
Code MUSI172
Coordinator Dr OS Carman
Music
Oliver.Carman@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2018-19 Level 4 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To provide the student with a good understanding of the development of electronic music and the technology used to create it from the early 20th Century to the present day.


Introduce the student to the key composers and works associated with the electronic music repertoire. 


Provide the student with the ability to recognise the stylistic qualities and compositional techniques employed in a number of electronic music genres and how these techniques also cross the boundaries into other disciplines such as sound design for Film, TV and Gaming. 


Develop the students critical listening skills in relation to the electronic music repertoire. 


Develop the students ability to articulate themselves clearly in a written and aural manner. 

Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate a knowledge of the history and development of electronic music and  technology.

Respond critically to a variety of musical styles from the electronic music repertoire referencing specific characteristics of the music and technology. 

The ability to conduct individual research into the history and development of electronic music using a variety of resources. 


Syllabus
1 

Topics will include:
  • 1.Early inventions - tele harmonium, theremin, the futurists.
  • 2. Musique concrete, ElektronischeMusik, Italian electronic music.
  • 3. Early American Experiments.
  • 4.  Tape composition.
  • 5.  Analogue Synthesizers.
  • 6. Computer Music. 
  • 7. BBC Radiophonic Wo rkshop. 
  • 8. Classical Experimenters - e.g Stockhausen, Varese, Reich.
  • 9. Electronic music in rock and jazz. 
  • 10. Electronic dance music, -1980s to present, IDM, DnB, Glitch, Noise Music.
  • 11. Electronic Music in the Cinema and TV- sound design. 

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lecture - Lectures will introduce key technological developments, composers and repertoire.

Tutorial - Individual Tutorial

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 24
Lectures will introduce key technological developments, composers and repertoire.
  .5
Individual Tutorial
      24.5
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 125.5
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Coursework  2500 words  Week 8  40  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Listening Diary  
Coursework  2500 words  Week 13  60  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Choice of Essay Notes (applying to all assessments) Assignment 1 - Listening Diary. (End of Week 8). 40% For this assignment you will need to complete a listening diary, it is a good idea to do this on a week by week basis as the the module progresses and we discuss different composers and works. The diary should include comments on 10 pieces, 6 of which can be taken from the repertoire discussed in lectures and seminars and 4 which you must have researched yourself if you want to gain a higher grade band of 2:1 or above. You should aim to write 300 - 400 words about each piece, including the title of the work, year of composition and composer. Other things to consider; a brief description of the musical content of the work, it’s historical context and the genre it falls into, the type of techniques and technology employed to create the work. Can you give an example of where you can hear a specific type of technique or technology at work? Assignment 2 - Choice of Essay. 2000 words (End of Week 12). 60% For this assignment the student will choose an essay question from a list provided by the lecturer. Essay titles will be related to pieces of music and technological developments that have been discussed in lectures and seminars. Topics may include: The historical significance, techniques and technology employed to create a specific piece; a comparison of two works from two different genres of electronic music; how the magnetic tape recorder aided the development of electronic music.The essay will be 2000 words and must be presented and referenced according to Univeristy guidelines.  

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
Explanation of Reading List: