To examine the development of Western classical music between 1600 and 1900. To introduce key composers and representative works from the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods. To  consider the musical, historical and intellectual contexts that informed the changes of musical styles. To provide students with a core grounding in study skills for HE.

(LO1) Be able to differentiate between the styles of representative composers using appropriate musical vocabulary.

(LO2) Be able to evaluate the main reasons for the changes in musical style during this period.

(LO3) Be able to engage with and critically evaluate primary and secondary sources, to discuss relevant material and ideas, and to prepare well-organised and well-researched written work.

(LO4) Be able to produce a bibliography in a given format.

(LO5) Be able to explain the main lines of development with reference to tonality, instrumentation, structure, etc.

(S1) Research management developing a research strategy, project planning and delivery, risk management, formulating questions, selecting literature, using primary/secondary/diverse sources, collecting & using data, applying research methods, applying ethics

(S2) Communication, listening and questioning respecting others, contributing to discussions, communicating in a foreign language, influencing, presentations

(S3) Literacy application of literacy, ability to produce clear, structured written work and oral literacy - including listening and questioning

(S4) Self-management readiness to accept responsibility (i.e. leadership), flexibility, resilience, self-starting, initiative, integrity, willingness to take risks, appropriate assertiveness, time management, readiness to improve own performance based on feedback/reflective learning

Musical topics will include: definitions of periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic); key composers (e.g. Bach, Beethoven, Brahms); development of musical genres (e.g. concerto, symphony); musical structures; instrumentation; music in context (court, concert hall); absolute/programme music issues. Skills topics will include core issues, such as referencing skills, finding appropriate reading material, and so on. Specific topics may be adjusted according to the needs of incoming students.

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures introduce core topics and concepts
Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: Seminars facilitate further exploration of topics introduced in lectures via small group discussion
Teaching Method 3 - E-lecture
Description: Skills videos for watching in students' own time, plus short activities to consolidate learning