Melodies are precise, mysterious, and magical in equal measure. In this course we will try to lift the veil of mystery and explore practices that will aid you in the creation of your own melodies. We will do this through the lens of Irish music, an oral tradition that informs the instructor’s own composition. As an oral tradition, Irish music is handed down through playing, listening, and learning. We will use existing melodies as a starting point and as a point of departure, and explore how different rhythms and time signatures influence melodic creation. We will examine how harmony and chord choices can affect a melody. We will explore deep listening as a method of internalizing the rich history, the complexities, and soul of Irish music. Your instrument will be your compositional tool through which you will give voice to your interpretation of all these influences.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the semester, students will
- have a greater degree of confidence in composing their own melodies
- have an improved appreciation of how to use rhythm, harmony, and key choices to achieve their desired melodic outcome
- improve their learning by ear
- achieve a more intentional melodic composition
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Prerequisites: Permission from instructor; previous instrumental study and comfort/proficiency on one’s instrument Please email josephalpar@bennington.edu with expression of interest by May 9th, 2023
Corequisites: Attendance and occasional participation in Music Workshop.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 2
T/W 4:10PM-6:00PM (1st seven weeks)
Maximum Enrollment: 12
Course Frequency: One time only
Categories: 4000 , All courses , Composition , First Seven Week , Fully In-Person , Updates
Tags: composition , Guitar , instrumental music , Irish , listening , melody , song writing