Theory and Analysis 1 (pop/jazz)Laajuus (5 cr)

Objective

After completing the course, you are able to read and understand written music by mastering commonly known practices of chord symbol notation. You are able to outline the harmonic functions of the chords, and if necessary, extend the chords in a stylistically appropriate manner in the contexts of popular music and tonal jazz music. You understand the relationship of melody to the prevailing harmony, and are able to take the melody into account as you accompany yourself and/or others.

You understand the basic principles of harmonic variation and tonal improvisation. You build the skills to apply theoretical knowledge related to improvisation in practice. You have an idea of the development of tonal thinking in Western music.

You understand the importance of analysis in the interpretation, accompaniment and improvisation of music. You gain conceptual skills for the study of arranging and composing.

You are able to evaluate the contents of the course constructively. You are also able to evaluate your own competence and its development.

Content

MUSIC THEORY

Basics of music theory
- chords: chord voicings and chord symbols
- chord functions and functional analysis

HARMONY AND MUSIC ANALYSIS

Tonality: major and minor
- chord degrees and chord scales in major
- dominants and subdominants in major
- cadences
- diminished chords
- slash chords in popular music
- modal interchange
- key areas and modulations
- chord degrees in compound minor
- dominants and subdominants in minor
- chromaticism in tonal harmony

VARIATION AND IMPROVISATION

reharmonization
- replacing tonic and subdominant chords: diatonic reharmonization
- adding dominants and subdominants
- replacing dominants: tritone substitution
- changing the color of the chord: alternative chord scales

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Pass (S):
You are able to read music fluently. You recognize commonly used musical terms as well as notation practices. You are able to demonstrate that you understand the following basic principles of the melodic–harmonic aspects of tonal music:
- forming chords based on chord symbols
- harmony and melody analysis
- chord extensions and chord scales
- variation of harmony
- tonal improvisation

You are also able to evaluate your own competence and its development. You know how to acquire information and how to critically process and evaluate the information you have acquired. You take responsibility for your own and the group's learning.