Music 247: Survey of Music Theory I

Course Description

This course is the first semester of two required theory courses for the Music Industry major and it is expected that students will continue this course with Music 248. The prerequisite for the course is Music 139, or the equivalent understanding of basic music theory (notation of pitch, rhythm, key signatures, intervals, and scales).  The course begins with a review of rudiments, including terminology, notation, rhythm, meter, scales, and intervals. We continue with the study of harmony with triads and work towards more complex structures.  Popular music theory is emphasized, and students learn to read, write, and interpret lead sheets.

The goals of the class are to:

1. Understand the notational system of music well
2. Learn to read, write, and interpret lead sheets, including chord symbols, rhythm, key, and form.
3. Be able to identify and construct any triad or seventh chord and identify aurally the most common ones.
4. Play chords and simple progressions in different keys on the piano. Students enrolled in this class must also sign up for Dr. Shuler's piano class which is synchronized with this course.  Section 01 students are required to enroll in piano class 170P section 03 (CRN 265).  Section 02 students are required to enroll in 170P section 04 (CRN 266).

Assignments

No late work will be accepted.   Paper assignments will be accepted only in class or office hours.  See the schedule for important information regarding topics and dates.

All students are required to have an Internet email account. You should subscribe to the listserv for this class so that you will get email messages throughout the semester.  Electronic assignments must be installed on the server by the due date, and feedback from the instructor will be sent by email and only if you have provided your address.

Grading Policy

Grades will be based on a midterm (25%), final exam (25%), five quizzes (25%) and homework assignments (25%).   80% of the possible points for the semester will result in an "A" grade, 70-79% a "B", 60-69% a "C", 50-59% a "D", and less than 50% an "E".  There will be no make-up quizzes or exams.  In case of documented illness or other approved emergency points for missed quizzes will be made up by increasing the value of subsequent tests.

Materials

Required textbook: Exploring Music Theory with Practica Musica, Jeffrey Evans, student edition (includes CD).  You will need this to study and do homework assignments.

Bring a pencil, eraser, and music manuscript paper to every class.

All assignments, quizzes and exams must be written in pencil and turned in on manuscript paper unless otherwise indicated.

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