Arranging for Popular Music

Unit code: ACO3010 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Nicholson
Kindred Studios
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit focuses on the principles and techniques of arranging for popular music. Students are introduced to: the characteristics of musical instruments including synthesizers; idiomatic writing as part of the arranging process; blend, balance and voicing; melodic and harmonic embellishment; form and structure; timbre and texture; and dynamic and spectral contour. Students analyse and critique these techniques in a selection of exemplary works and relevant texts and then produce and perform the techniques in illustrative arrangement contexts.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Analyse, critique and assess different arranging techniques across a variety of styles and genres of music;
  2. Explain how issues and problems of arranging affect different musical outcomes in a range of social contexts;
  3. Apply an understanding of idiomatic phenomena connected with arranging different musical instruments; and
  4. Produce and perform arrangements for various popular music forms.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Essay
|
Grade: 25%
Critical analysis of selected musical repertoire.
Assessment type: Creative Works
|
Grade: 30%
Production of song arrangements.
Assessment type: Performance
|
Grade: 25%
Performance of song arrangements.
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Solo project presentation

Required reading

Learning materials will be provided via VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Music
ABMC | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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