MUSIC THEORY I
LPHS provides an introductory level music theory designed to acquaint all students, regardless of previous knowledge or experience, with the language of music. Music Theory I is an introduction to the elements of music theory, pre-composition and form. Students learn the fundamentals of music through the study of scales, intervals, keys, chords and other music fundamental elements. Ear training skills are also taught so that students can distinguish between music and musical elements such as intervals and chord qualities. Evaluation and proficiency of these music concepts will be assessed through written exercises, written music exams, and through music composition.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES INCLUDE:
- The students will learn to identify various fundamentals of music including melody, harmony, rhythm, dynamics, and tone color.
- The students will learn fundamentals of music notation.
- The students will learn listening skills to begin developing a sense of rhythm and relative pitch.
- The students will learn how to follow a musical guide/score.
CLASS MATERIALS NEEDED:
- Class Binder
- Handouts & Readings (provided)
- Workbooks (as needed)
- Pen & Pencil
- Your brain
GENERAL COURSE OUTLINE:
- WEEK 1 - UNIT 1: Introduction (What is music?), Notation & The Music Language
- WEEK 2 - UNIT 1: Notation, Note Names, Meters, Rhythm
- WEEK 3 - UNIT 2: Intervals
- WEEK 4 - UNIT 2: Intervals
- WEEK 5 - UNIT 3: Scales (Key Signatures, Major, Minor, Modes)
- WEEK 6 - UNIT 4: Symbols & Terms
- WEEK 7 - UNIT 5: Chords (Structure)
- WEEK 8 - UNIT 6: Chords (Progressions)
- WEEK 9 - REVIEW UNITS 1-5
- WEEK 10 - UNIT 6: Melody (Harmony, Transcription)
- WEEK 11 - UNIT 7: Transposition (instrument key, score order)
- WEEK 12 - UNIT 8: Form
- WEEK 13 - UNIT 9: Alternate Notation (Jazz, Percussion, 20th Century, Tablature)
- WEEK 14 - Introduction to COMPOSITION / COMPOSITION PROJECTS STARTED
- WEEK 15 - MOZART PROJECT
- WEEK 16 - REVIEW UNITS 1-9
- WEEK 17 - Work on COMPOSITION PROJECTS (DUE FRIDAY)
- WEEK 18 - COMPOSITION PROJECTS: LISTENING & DISCUSSION
Grades:
- 20% - class participation (behavior)
- 30% - In-class exercises & homework assignments
- 30% - Tests & Quizes
- 20% - Portfolio (Composition Projects)
TIPS FOR SUCCESS IN MUSIC THEORY I & II:
- Stay organized. Keep your binder sequential or divided. Organize your notes by unit or topics.
- Write neatly and clearly ... take pride in your work!
- No such thing as too much detail ... you can not have or know too much information!
- Be creative and insightful! Ask questions! Explore!!
MUSIC THEORY HELP:
Below are some useful links to help with your music theory education:
EAR TRAINING:
www.good-ear.com
BASIC MUSIC THEORY
www.quiz-tree.com/The_Musical_Staff_main.html
www.makingmusicfun.net
NOTE NAMES, KEY SIGNATURES & OTHER IDENTIFICATIONS:
www.musicards.net
INTERVALS:
www.musicalintervalstutor.com
MUSIC THEORY - GENERAL
www.library.thinkquest.org/15413/theory/theory.htm
MUSIC COMPOSITION & NOTATION PROGRAM (FREEWARE)
www.anvilstudio.com
MUSIC COMPOSITION & NOTATION PROGRAM (FOR PURCHASE)
www.finalemusic.com
www.sibelius.com
PRINT YOUR OWN FREE SHEET MUSIC PAPER
www.blanksheetmusic.net