MUSC 1070 - Music Theory and Ear Training 1

Credits: 4
Hours/Week: Lecture 4
Course Description: This is the first course in the Music Theory and Ear Training sequence for music majors and for general students seeking a comprehensive study of music theory. Topics include pitch, rhythm, the piano keyboard, meter, intervals, scales, modes, key signatures, melody, harmony, analysis, composition, and foundational ear training concepts and skills.
MnTC Goals
MnTC Goal 6 (Humanities and Fine Arts)

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: Basic note-reading ability and/or experience playing an instrument

Major Content

1. Theory
   1. History of Western music notation
   2. Reading and notation of pitch and rhythm
   3. The piano keyboard
   4. Rhythm and meter
   5. Scales, modes, and key signatures
   6. Intervals
   7. Tonal harmony
   8. Roman numeral & chord symbol analysis
   9. Melodic structure and development
   10. Form, style, and genre
   11. Analysis of the notation and sound of a variety of works
   12. Composition
2. Ear Training
   1. Aural identification of musical elements covered in the course (these may include meter, types of scales, intervals, chord quality, and/or other elements)
   2. Beginning sight singing and dictation activities

At the end of this course students will be able to:

1. read rhythm and pitch notation.
2. write rhythm and pitch notation.
3. demonstrate knowledge of the piano keyboard.
4. explain music theory concepts regarding rhythm, melody, harmony, and tonality.
5. analyze basic pieces of music.
6. compose a piece of music according to a basic structure.
7. demonstrate foundational skills in ear training.

6.d. Engage in the creative process or interpretive performance.

6.e. Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.
Theme Goals (MnTC Goals 7-10)
none

Practicum hours per week: 0

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