MUSCOMP 3320 - Advanced Orchestration

North Terrace Campus - Semester 2 - 2014

Advanced Orchestration provides the opportunity for in-depth studies in orchestration building on the basics introduced in the Level II Orchestration course. The course takes a two-pronged approach. In the first instance, the analytical study of selected works from the orchestral repertoire from the mid 19th century to the present day provides the theoretical and historical context for the advanced study of orchestration. This approach is complemented by practical, problem-solving exercises that the student is expected to realize with sample-based notation and playback software. The course seeks to develop a more sophisticated understanding of the fundamental principals of orchestration and proficiency in orchestrating excerpts from piano scores for a full symphony orchestra. Students will be expected to use music notation software (Sibelius or Finale) and an instrument sample library (such as Garritan Personal Orchestra) to produce sample-based realisations.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code MUSCOMP 3320
    Course Advanced Orchestration
    Coordinating Unit Elder Conservatorium of Music
    Term Semester 2
    Level Undergraduate
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 3
    Contact Up to 2 hours per week
    Prerequisites MUSCOMP 2310
    Restrictions Available to Bachelor of Music students only
    Assessment 1 x analytical exercise (20%), 2 x practical assignments (40% each)
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Professor Graeme Koehne

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from Course Planner.

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    1. a broad knowledge and appreciation of orchestral repertoire and an understanding of a range of styles and techniques
    2. a high level of competence in the practical aspects of orchestration and arranging: notation; score presentation; instrumental colour; texture; strengths and limitations of individual instruments and instrumental families; stylistic idioms; chord voicing and the use of music technology.
    3. an ability to communicate musical intentions clearly and effectively to performers.
    4. understanding of the professional realities and expectations of a career in creative music-making
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1, 2
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 3
    An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 1, 2, 3
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 1, 2
    A commitment to the highest standards of professional endeavour and the ability to take a leadership role in the community. 4
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources

    All score excerpts are supplied in class

    Recommended Resources

    Access to Sibelius (or Finale) music notation software and an instrumental sample library such as Garritan Personal Orchestra

    Online Learning

    Additional score materials are available from IMSLP.org; Garritan.com provides useful forums and resources

  • Learning & Teaching Activities
    Learning & Teaching Modes

    Advanced Orchestration Tutorial (12 x 1.5 hours)

    Workload

    The information below is provided as a guide to assist students in engaging appropriately with the course requirements.

    In addition to the weekly classes, students are expected to devote an average of 11.5 hours a week to score analysis, observation of ensemble rehearsals and orchestral repertoire studies.

    Learning Activities Summary
    The first five weeks of classes consist of instructor-led study of the instruments of the orchestra followed by the study of the general principles of orchestration supported by the analytical study of short excerpts from the repertoire. Short, in-class exercises, guided by the instructor, reinforce the specific concepts.
    Specific Course Requirements

    The first five weeks of classes consist of instructor-led study of the instruments of the orchestra followed by the study of the general principles of orchestration supported by the analytical study of short excerpts from the repertoire. Short, in-class exercises, guided by the instructor, reinforce the specific concepts.

  • Assessment

    The University's policy on Assessment for Coursework Programs is based on the following four principles:

    1. Assessment must encourage and reinforce learning.
    2. Assessment must enable robust and fair judgements about student performance.
    3. Assessment practices must be fair and equitable to students and give them the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned.
    4. Assessment must maintain academic standards.

    Assessment Summary

    Assessment: Assessment is based on three assignments provided at 4 weekly intervals:

    One analytical exercise based on a substantial excerpt from a well-known symphonic work scored for large forces (20%)

    Two practical assignments requiring the student to orchestrate excerpts of piano score for large orchestra providing both a written score, produced to a professional standard, together with a computer generated audio recording (40% each).

    Each of these assignments relates to all of the learning objectives 1–4

    Assessment Detail

    The assessments provide opportunity for the student to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of orchestration from a theoretical viewpoint complemented by practical proficiency in producing clear, stylistically literate orchestral solutions to specific textural challenges.

    Submission
    To be submitted to the Music Office by 12 noon on the date specified for the assignment
    Course Grading

    Grades for your performance in this course will be awarded in accordance with the following scheme:

    M10 (Coursework Mark Scheme)
    Grade Mark Description
    FNS   Fail No Submission
    F 1-49 Fail
    P 50-64 Pass
    C 65-74 Credit
    D 75-84 Distinction
    HD 85-100 High Distinction
    CN   Continuing
    NFE   No Formal Examination
    RP   Result Pending

    Further details of the grades/results can be obtained from Examinations.

    Grade Descriptors are available which provide a general guide to the standard of work that is expected at each grade level. More information at Assessment for Coursework Programs.

    Final results for this course will be made available through Access Adelaide.

  • Student Feedback

    The University places a high priority on approaches to learning and teaching that enhance the student experience. Feedback is sought from students in a variety of ways including on-going engagement with staff, the use of online discussion boards and the use of Student Experience of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys as well as GOS surveys and Program reviews.

    SELTs are an important source of information to inform individual teaching practice, decisions about teaching duties, and course and program curriculum design. They enable the University to assess how effectively its learning environments and teaching practices facilitate student engagement and learning outcomes. Under the current SELT Policy (http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies/101/) course SELTs are mandated and must be conducted at the conclusion of each term/semester/trimester for every course offering. Feedback on issues raised through course SELT surveys is made available to enrolled students through various resources (e.g. MyUni). In addition aggregated course SELT data is available.

  • Student Support
  • Policies & Guidelines
  • Fraud Awareness

    Students are reminded that in order to maintain the academic integrity of all programs and courses, the university has a zero-tolerance approach to students offering money or significant value goods or services to any staff member who is involved in their teaching or assessment. Students offering lecturers or tutors or professional staff anything more than a small token of appreciation is totally unacceptable, in any circumstances. Staff members are obliged to report all such incidents to their supervisor/manager, who will refer them for action under the university's student’s disciplinary procedures.

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.