Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title MUSIC AS SOUND
Code MUSI110
Coordinator Dr FL Jarman
Music
F.Jarman@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2017-18 Level 4 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

  1. To provide a generic foundation in analytical skills appropriate for music from a range of repertoires, including different popular musics, international traditional musics, and art musics.
  2. To make analysis accessible to those without prior musical experience, and to encourage a different way of thinking about analysis for those with competence in music theory that will complement and build on their existing knowledge.
  3. To introduce students to concepts and terminology appropriate for the analytical description of recordings of music from different repertoires.

Learning Outcomes

Be able to describe and identify the key elements and processes that make up a music recording, using both verbal and non-verbal means.

Be able to demonstrate a solid understanding of the functions and possibilities of different musical aspects, and be able to explain the implications of musical details found in a music recording.

Be able to undertake a critical analysis of a music recording, using written, graphical, and technical tools, and describing how musical aspects are manifested and interact in a particular piece


Syllabus

At first, the module focuses on aural analysis and the development of bespoke graphic analytical techniques. Here, we consider music in terms of specific sonic parameters: pitch, time, timbre, vocality, and space. Later, the module brings in technological tools for analysis, specifically spectrographic analysis using tools such as Sonic Visualiser. Analytical observations are situated throughout in relation to the cultural work the music can undertake.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lecture - Lectures introduce key concepts

Heavy use of copyright-sensitive material precludes lecture capture. Unscheduled directed hours may include video demonstrations of necessary software.

Seminar - Smaller group sessions encourage students to apply core concepts themselves

Large Group Learning - Two large-group sessions in preparation for assignments

Session length and structure will depend on student engagement


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 20
Lectures introduce key concepts
10
Smaller group sessions encourage students to apply core concepts themselves
      2
Two large-group sessions in preparation for assignments
32
Timetable (if known) Heavy use of copyright-sensitive material precludes lecture capture. Unscheduled directed hours may include video demonstrations of necessary software.
 
        Session length and structure will depend on student engagement
 
 
Private Study 118
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Coursework  1500 words plus diag  50  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Analytical portfolio 
Coursework  1500 words plus diag  50  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Analytical portfolio Notes (applying to all assessments) - none 

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
Explanation of Reading List: