Instruction methods include lecture with demonstration and supervised practice.
Score reading - continuation in the study of reading both vocal and instrumental scores up to four parts including transposing instruments.
Transposition - continuation in the study of transposing melodies; two-, three-, and four-part piano pieces will be transposed to closely related keys.
Figured bass - continuation in the study of realizing a figured bass using block and broken chords and simple non-harmonic passing and neighbour tones. Secondary, applied 7ths will be introduced.
Harmonization of melodies - continuing work on using diatonic and chromatic harmonies in keyboard style to harmonize a given melody.
Improvisation - creating phrase-length melodies, creating melodies over given harmonic pattern, and creating accompaniment patterns for a given melody.
The successful student will be able to demonstrate the fundamentals of keyboard harmony by harmonizing melodies, realizing figured bass, transposing, improvising and basic accompanying.
The grade will be calculated on the basis of progress made in the various aspects of the course:
- 40% of the mark will be based upon class work
- 20% of the mark will be based on regular quizzes (one per week)
- 15% of the mark will be allotted for an in-class midterm examination
- 25% of the mark will be allotted for an in-class final examination
Attendance
As this is a skill-oriented course, regular attendance is required in order to develop fluent keyboard skills. Therefore, 100% attendance is desired. The failure to attend regularly will result in the reduction of a final grade as shown below:
- 3 unexcused absences: minus 10%
- 6 unexcused absences: minus 15%
- students who miss 30% or more of scheduled class time will receive a final grade of UN (unofficial withdrawal)
A list of recommended textbooks and materials is provided on the Instructor’s Course Outline, which is available to students at the beginning of each semester.
An example is: Brings, Allen, et al. A New Approach to Keyboard Harmony, 1st Edition, W.W. Norton, 1979.
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