MUS 103 Songwriting Techniques and Analysis 1

Explores the art and craft of songwriting. Students will analyze popular songs from a variety of sources including British Invasion, Rock, Country, Reggae, Rap, and Blues. Analysis will include keys, harmonies, song forms, melodic construction, phrasing, settings of lyrics. Recordings and scores will be used as reference materials for all analysis projects. Using the techniques and concepts gleaned through this analysis, the students will then create their own songs or develop more refined song analysis techniques.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

MUS 101 or MUS 111

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Develop a concept for artistic and well-crafted songs including melodies, lyrics, chords, and form
2. Demonstrate ability to read and create lead sheets for songs
3. Develop an ethical and aesthetic awareness for one’s songwriting process
4. Demonstrate ability to communicate ideas about songwriting using appropriate terminology