Studying at York
Extended Composition Folio - MUS00135H
Related modules
Pre-requisite modules
- None
Co-requisite modules
- None
Prohibited combinations
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2023-24 to Semester 2 2023-24 |
Module aims
The module allows you to explore issues in contemporary compositional practice, and to demonstrate your engagement with and control of compositional techniques through completion of an independent folio of substantial pieces of music.
Writing 20-30 minutes of music is a significant undertaking. A student undertaking a 40-credit portfolio will have demonstrated the potential for exceptional accomplishment in previous compositional work.
Module learning outcomes
By the end of the project you should:
- demonstrate assurance with, an individual approach to, and a sophisticated control of, techniques of composition appropriate to realisation of their chosen outputs;
- demonstrate understanding of compositional techniques employed by 20th and 21st-century composers;
- have developed your presentation skills to a professional level;
- have acquired a focussed awareness of the fundamental issues of composition such as clarity of expression, coherence, unity and diversity within the overall formal structure;
- by applying these principles and techniques in your compositions, have begun to discover and develop the potential of your own creative voice.
Module content
If you choose this option, you must have already taken a Composition Module and will need the approval of your supervisor and composition tutor. You must attend regular tutorials (three a semester) and are required to attend the weekly CMRC Seminars (16.00-17.30 Tuesdays) as well as the fortnightly 'Composers' Club' through which you can discuss works in progress with your peers be supported with composition staff across the school. The cmrc seminars and Composers Club sessions will appear on your timetable.
You will work on this unit consistently across the full academic year, and you are encouraged to begin the work during the summer that precedes your final year. The portfolio is therefore expected to be substantial: it is likely to contain at least three pieces with a total duration of at least 20 minutes. A folio containing a large-scale work, such as a theatre piece or work for large ensemble, may consist of only two works; in such a case the minimum duration of the total portfolio remains the same. The Composition Folio must be submitted with a short commentary (at least 1,000 words), which should elucidate your purposes in writing the works, discuss technical aspects of each composition, and briefly discuss antecedents or comparable work by other composers. If good-quality performances or realisations of the compositions have been documented, audio or video recordings may, if you wish, be included. When a portfolio includes works that are improvised, theatrical, or site-specific (such as installations), the inclusion of full performance documentation is strongly recommended.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
Portfolio of compositions of 20-30 minutes duration, with short commentary of at least 1000 words.
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Module feedback
You will receive written feedback in line with standard University turnaround times.
Indicative reading
These will vary according to the project.