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 EXPLORING RHYTHM, FORM, AND MUSICAL TIME
Code MUSI380
Coordinator Professor KM Forkert-Smith
Music
Kenneth.Smith@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2023-24 Level 6 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To explore aspects of rhythm, form and metre in a range of repertoires.

To apply music theoretical techniques to relevant musical scores and recordings.

To extend or adapt existing techniques to suit a range of new musics.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students will learn about new techniques of exploring rhythm, and will be able to critically engage with previous studies.

(LO2) Students will be able to identify and conceptually model different types of musical form.

(LO3) Students will be able to creatively think about how music works through time.

(LO4) Students will engage with a broad repertoire of musics in significant depth.

(S1) Problem solving/ critical thinking/ creativity analysing facts and situations and applying creative thinking to develop appropriate solutions.

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

(S3) Positive attitude/ self-confidence A 'can-do' approach, a readiness to take part and contribute; openness to new ideas and the drive to make these happen.


Syllabus

 

• Phrase-building in classical and popular repertoire. Rhythmic acceleration and fragmentation.

• Metric modulation – “Math Rock” and Elliot Carter.

• Improvising rhythmically.

• “Cumulative form” in popular song (“Emo” music) and structural “acceleration” (Skryabin and Hackbarth).

• Cinematic Montage Form: Janacek and Modest Mouse.

• “Terminally Climactic Forms” (Arcade Fire) and “Cellular Groove Patterns” (Pulp’s “Seductive Barry”).

• Repetition, Failure and Successs (LCD Sound System, Beethoven’s Eroica, Arab Strap).

• Sonata form in Classical Music and Prog Rock.

• Form as “Becoming” – Beethoven’s Tempest Sonata.

• Fantasy in Musical Form – Schumann’s Op. 17 F antasie.

• “Two-Dimensional Forms” – Franz Schreker.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures introduce core material and methods
Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: Seminars facilitate further discussion of key concepts through small group discussion and workings-out

The majority of teaching will be delivered face-to-face on campus. Online delivery will be used to complement the on-campus delivery and where technology affords a better learning experience.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 24

12

      36

22

94
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 56
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
Presentation There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule : 2    40       
Assessment 1 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule: 2    60       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.