What will I learn on this module?
In this module, you will build on the core first-year course, Techniques of Composition, Harmonic Analysis and Improvisation. The module focuses on more advanced harmonic progressions including the use of dominant 13th, diminished 7th, Neapolitan 6th and Augmented 6th chords, and on broader tonal structures. As well as covering chromatic harmony, there will be opportunities in the module to explore other techniques of composition, such as chorale-based composition (especially chorale harmonisation) and twentieth-century idioms.
Students produce weekly harmony assignments which may include analytical exercises, harmony exercises and pastiche composition. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the distinctions between composer, improviser and performer were much less distinct than today, and we may explore repertoire through improvisation.
How will I learn on this module?
There are two weekly seminars which may include some lecture input, student presentations, group discussions of musical scores, improvisation workshops and related exercises, as well as feedback on work to the whole class.
You will learn most through your active engagement with the exercises in harmony and through pastiche composition. Sometimes, an in-course assignment will include the submission of previous work corrected in the light of feedback. This ensures that the written and oral feedback you receive on your work is absorbed and can be of some practical use. This work will be supported by analytical assignments.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be given considerable support by the Module Tutor within classes, during publicised office hours and via email. You will be constantly working with your peers in a spirit of mutual support, encouragement and collaboration. The programme leader will guide you through the requirements and expectations of your course. You will receive on-going feedback each week during the seminars which will help you prepare for the in-course assessments; you will oral feedback on your in-course assignments as well as a mark and written annotations.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will understand advanced harmonic progressions, especially those involving the dominant 13th, diminished 7th, Neapolitan 6th and Augmented 6th.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. You will be able to use chords such as the dominant 13th, diminished 7th, Neapolitan 6th and Augmented 6th in a sophisticated way.
3. You will be able to undertake a structural analysis of harmonically complex tonal music.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. You will demonstrate a capacity for curiosity, creativity, and intellectual openness.
How will I be assessed?
1. Portfolio of written and/or recorded work, built up during the semester (80%). MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4
2. Short original composition (20%). MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4
Feedback will sometimes be given on drafts of work. Written feedback will be in the form of annotations to the score(s). Feedback will be given during the course of the module on each piece of work that will contribute to the portfolio.
Oral feedback will be given on a draft of the original composition in two 30-min tutorials.
Pre-requisite(s)
MU4003 Techniques of Composition, Harmonic Analysis and Improvisation
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module focuses on more advanced harmonic progressions. It is centred on weekly assignments which may include analytical exercises, harmony exercises, pastiche composition and improvisation. As well as covering chromatic harmony, there will be opportunities in the module to explore other techniques of composition, such as chorale-based composition (especially harmonisation) and twentieth-century idioms.
Course info
UCAS Code W320
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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