Music Theory Final Projects
Final projects for Music Theory (Acc)/Composers Workshop honors your musical interest and synthesizes a yearlong experience with music theory. Choose from a suggested idea below or write a proposal. All projects include research, written description, self-assessment, and a 2-3 slide powerpoint.
Seniors due date: April 15th Non-seniors due date: May 16th (NO & AH), all others May 27,29 June 2,3.
1) Before or After – Add a prelude or cadenza (prequel or sequel) to an existing piece. Do a structural analysis (motives, phrases, periods, sections) of an existing piece and then compose an original beginning or end befitting the same structure.
2) Write about serial or aleatoric music; compose your own tone rows that can be performed by classmates or make the framework for a “chance” piece that could be done with found materials on the due date.
3) Program it – compose an algorithmic composition (“Algorithmic composition is the technique of using algorithms to create music.”-wikipedia.org) Algorithmic compositions are composed by computer and often uses elements of chance music.
4) Symbols and Noteheads - The current system of music notation has evolved since 1000 A.D. How could a new system relay information differently and improved for the 21st Century? What would that system look like? How would it be used? Provide a variety of examples.
5) Explore music theory aspects of ethnomusicology – why do children of every culture sing sol mi la sol?
6) What is the role of absolute (concert/classical) music in society today? Is it solely for entertainment? Does music reflect social and cultural values, shape them, or both? How does classical music-contemporary or historical-interact with society and culture in your own life? Give specific examples.
7) Aesthetics-Many people “love” a piece of music because it is so “beautiful.” What are the ways that beauty is judged in a non-visual art? How does that compare to aesthetics in other fine or performing arts?Provide a variety of examples.
8) Composer’s Choice: Piece and Presentation – Compose and prepare an original composition for class presentation.
8a) Composer’s Choice: Large Composition-if there’s a symphony/concerto/rhapsody/sonata brewing it’s time to let it out. Compose and share.