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Listed in: Music, as MUSI-111
Formerly listed as: MUSI-11
Jeffers L. Engelhardt (Section 01)
This course is intended for students with little or no background in music who would like to develop a theoretical and practical understanding of how music works. Students will be introduced to different kinds of musical notation, melodic systems, harmonies, meters, and rhythmic techniques with the goal of attaining basic competence in the performance and creation of music. The music we analyze and perform will be drawn from the Western tonal tradition as well as a variety of other musical traditions. Assignments will include notational exercises, short papers, and the preparation of music for classroom performance. This course serves as a prerequisite for many other Music Department offerings. Three class meetings and one lab section per week.
Students with some musical experience contemplating MUSI 111 are encouraged to take a self-administered placement exam available on reserve in the Music Library and on the Music Department Website (www.amherst.edu/~music/TheoryPlacement.pdf). Students are also encouraged to discuss placement in music theory with a member of the Music Department.
Limited to 30 students. Fall semester: Professor Engelhardt. Spring semester: Valentine Visiting Professor Mendonca.
If Overenrolled: Based on an individual meeting with the instructor in the first week of class in which the musical background & ear will be tested to determine the appropriateness of the class level. Then, preference to 1st-years, seniors, and sophomores.