Harmony and Composition Microcredential

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Faculty Coordinator: Michael Masci (masci@geneseo.edu)

This microcredential is designed for students with some background in instrumental or vocal music and who want to explore the foundations of music composition. Focusing on classical techniques for polyphonic composition, coursework emphasizes three-, four-, and five-part writing for small vocal and instrumental ensembles. Students enrolled in this microcredential complete a series of short compositions leading to a final project and public performance. An ability to read music is required.

This microcredential stacks toward the Music BA at Geneseo.

Integrative Curricular Microcredential in Harmony and Composition

1. Academic Content (10 credits)

MUSC 189 - Elements of Music Theory Credit(s): 3
MUSC 256 - Elements of Diatonic Harmony and Polyphony Credit(s): 3

and two courses (4 credits) selected from:

MUSC 257 - Elements of Chromatic Harmony Credit(s): 2
MUSC 356 - Contemporary Harmony for Composition Credit(s): 2
MUSC 357 - Counterpoint Credit(s): 2

2. Students will propose an original composition project as part of MUSC 356 or MUSC 357 to be completed under supervision of the advisor. Pieces may be given public performance upon revision and completion of the reflective statement.

3. Self-reflective statement is included in MUSC 356 or MUSC 357.