A practical and theoretical overview of the fundamental written and aural skills required for music literacy. This course prepares students for MUS 104 and further university-level study and practice in music.
The development of music theory, aural skills and perception necessary to be an effective musician. The study of basic theory, harmony, analysis, aural perception and Education 813 and musicianship with exemplars from classical, jazz and popular music genres. Includes a choral component.
An examination of the skills and techniques required for the communication and direction of ensembles including orchestras, bands, jazz and contemporary ensembles, choirs and other performing arts contexts. Includes knowledge of repertoire style, genre and period associated with directing music.
Foundational studies in music composition and sonic arts. Modular content includes: rhythm and meter, melody and harmony, structure and gesture, time and meter, synthesis and notation and repertoire study. Students may complete Composition 1 and Composition 2 in any order.
Foundational studies in music composition and sonic arts. Modular content includes: rhythm and form, timbre and texture, aesthetics and function, style and idea, material and manipulation, creative planning and processes and the composer in society. Students may complete Composition 1 and Composition 2 in any order.
Individual lessons and performance classes on an approved instrument or voice. (See course outline and instrumental/ vocal syllabus for specific curriculum requirements).
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 120. (See course outline and instrumental/vocal syllabus for specific curriculum requirements.)
An introduction to the ways in which music is and has been situated in Aotearoa New Zealand, concentrating on the issue of musicβs connection to place and the contexts of music composition and performance across classical genres, jazz and pop, contemporary and traditional MΔori music (including taonga pΕ«oro), and music from Asia and the Pacific region.
A survey of digital technologies available to assist producing, composing, and performing music. Topics may include: music production (Digital Audio Workstation, MIDI and audio recording/editing, synthesis, and multi-track mixing), sonic art (sound-based composition, visual music, interactive installations), and computer music (sound design, live coding, algorithmic composition).
A study of significant people, major discoveries and inventions, and key factors (artistic, intellectual, social, technical) that were important agents of change in Western music. No previous knowledge of music is assumed.
A comprehensive overview of the enormously rich repertory of Western music, from the beginnings of a literate tradition, through the classical giants, to the present day.
An introduction to New Zealandβs home-grown popular music, from the 1950s to the present day. A broad range of musical styles will be considered and situated within various social contexts. The issue of cultural identity in music β at national and local levels β will also be explored. MΔori Studies
A conceptual and practical introduction to music teaching and learning in its various forms and contexts. A survey of the field including studio pedagogy, music education methods, school music, community music, lesson planning, composition and improvisation pedagogy, and foundational knowledge of music teaching and learning.
The development of instrumental technique and improvisational skills though in-depth study of scales, rhythm, harmony and relevant musical analysis. This course prepares students who major in Jazz Performance and includes 1:1 tuition and group based improvisation classes.
Continuation of the work undertaken in MUS 170.
Exploration of ideas and processes in the creation and presentation of popular music through workshops, seminars and group discussion. Students will write songs, compose music, use music recording and production techniques and present aspects of their coursework in live performance.
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 180.
Tuition on an approved traditional or computer-based instrument or voice.
The development of performance skills through ensemble work including chamber music, string orchestra, wind orchestra, flute choir, contemporary ensembles and other combinations.
The development of a range of instrumental performance skills beyond those gained in the instrumental studio including collaborative piano, repertoire studies, ensemble techniques, basic pedagogy, keyboard skills, accompanying and other applications.
The introduction of vocal practices that help voice students develop and sustain a professional career. This course aims to give students the knowledge and practical experience necessary to develop and maintain vocal health in diverse performing contexts.
The development of instrumental technique and interpretative skills through the in-depth study of scales, rhythm, harmony and the relevant musical analyses of set works. This course prepares students who major in Popular Music with 1:1 instrumental tuition and group-based classes and/or workshops.
The application of instrumental and improvisational techniques through performance practice. This course develops stylistic, interpretive and literary musical skills through a variety of large and small ensembles.
Continuation of work begun in MUS 104 on music theory, aural skills and musicianship. Includes a choral component.
Continuation of work in MUS 203 on music theory, aural skills and musicianship. Includes a choral component.
Continuation of work in MUS 204 on music theory, aural skills and musicianship. Includes a choral component.
The study of conducting including listening to and writing about a wide variety of music from all historical periods. The practical component of this course concentrates on posture, patterns and gesture. Studies include examples from choral and orchestral repertoire.
An introduction to rehearsal planning and management, baton technique, the development of conducting gesture, and advanced score preparation. Repertoire includes classical symphonies, a cappella repertoire and a selection of choral/orchestral works.
Applied concepts and techniques in instrumental/ vocal composition and sonic arts. Students will develop original creative ideas through experimentation with both notational and sound-based approaches to composing, the study of relevant repertoire and the realisation of a portfolio of works for mixed resources that may include solo instruments, voices, small ensembles, found objects/ sounds, loudspeakers and visual media. Liaison with performers both within and outside the class is important.
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 210.
The study of instrumentation including ranges, characteristics and technical aspects of writing, scoring and arranging for strings, wind, brass and percussion will be introduced together with a study of repertoire.
Further performance work, involving weekly individual lessons and performance classes. (See course outline and instrumental/vocal syllabus for specific curriculum requirements).
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 220. (See course and Education 815 outline and instrumental/vocal syllabus for specific curriculum requirements).
Academic study of the resources, instruments, techniques, scholarship, and stylistic conventions relevant to the performance of historical musical repertoires. Students consider the role that an awareness of historical factors can play in contemporary performance, and gain understanding of some of the key debates surrounding historically informed performance.
The study of music and text in society using a wide-angled lens to explore how it can be intertwined with issues of politics, gender, religion, race, psychology and class. Examples will include music and text in diverse genres and from various places.
A study of the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills required to engage in music production through everyday technologies. An emphasis on production in the home/project studio environment, and for developing producers and songwriters. Topics include: microphone types, patterns and configurations; simple vocal and instrumental recording; synthesis; production techniques; and mixing using modern DAWs.
A study of industry-standard studio recording and production techniques supported by practical studio-based exercises. Topics may include: multi-channel recording and editing, band and ensemble recording, analogue and digital production, synthesis, mixing and mastering.
Raises issues specific to classical music in one or more concentrated historical periods. Students will get to know a designated repertoire of musical works, whilst exploring critical topics such as periodisation, canon formation and reception history.
Tracks definitions and developments in βexperimentalβ music since the early twentieth century. Concepts of modernism and postmodernism as related to musical composition, performance and listening are the central focus.
Explores the complexities of musical style, aesthetics and reception as related to one or more instrumental genres (such as the symphony, the string-quartet or piano prelude) and related conventions.
Considers the role of music in one or more of the dramatic arts β opera, musical, ballet, modern dance, film β in any given historical period. Offers opportunity to study specific repertoire in some detail, as well as to investigate musicβs contribution to dramatic spectacle, characterisation, narrative and non-narrative structures.
An introduction to the study and use of computers to compose and generate music. Topics include: algorithmic composition, sound design, algorithmic music, artificial intelligence for music creation, live coding.
An initial exploration of music psychology research including music therapy research, neuroscience, neuropsychology and music psychology. Examines the development of musical skills through life with an emphasis on community and pedagogical applications.
A study of music career profiles with an emphasis on self- management, performance careers, pedagogical careers, technology, music marketing and distribution, legal issues, entrepreneurship and project leadership in the community. Students will reflect on their own development and devise a project plan for implementation.
The development of instrumental technique and improvisational skills though in-depth study of scales, rhythm, harmony and relevant musical analysis. This course prepares students who major in Jazz Performance and includes 1:1 tuition and group based improvisation classes.
Continuation of the work undertaken in MUS 270.
An exploration of more advanced jazz theory and musicianship skills including aural and harmony. Coursework prepares students for the implementation of and Education 816 fundamental written theoretical skills. This course also includes a keyboard tutorial.
Composition and arranging in the jazz idiom exploring small ensemble and big band contexts. Scoring, voicing concepts and sectional writing that assist students in the development of a portfolio of work.
A critical examination of musical styles, performers, cultural and industrial contexts surrounding jazz musics from the mid-nineteenth century, including ragtime, through New Orleans, swing, be-bop, cool, free, third-stream and post- bop. An in-depth study of primary exponents of various styles.
Participation and development of pertinent skills towards the completion of a collaborative jazz music project.
Specific exploration and the continued development of ideas and processes in the creation and presentation of popular music through workshops, seminars and group discussion. Students will write songs, complete arrangement exercises, use music recording and production techniques and present aspects of their coursework in live performance.
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 280.
The development of vocal technique and interpretative skills through the in-depth study of vocal production techniques pertinent to contemporary popular music vocal performance. The emphasis is on the development of practices to enhance the performance of original songs written by the students.
Continuation of the work undertaken in MUS 196. This course prepares students who specialise in Popular Music with 1:1 instrumental tuition and group-based classes. The emphasis is on the development of techniques and skills to enhance the performance of original songs written by the students.
Training in practical musicianship and contemporary music writing skills pertinent to a popular music practitioner. Continued development of aural recognition skills.
Further training in practical musicianship and contemporary music writing skills pertinent to a popular music practitioner. Continued development of aural recognition skills with an emphasis on musical analysis skills.
Tuition on an approved traditional or computer-based instrument or voice.
The development of a range of instrumental performance skills beyond those gained in the instrumental studio including collaborative piano, repertoire studies, ensemble techniques, basic pedagogy, keyboard skills, accompanying and other applications.
Further development of vocal practices that help voice students develop and sustain a professional career. This course aims to give students the knowledge and practical experience necessary to develop and maintain vocal health in diverse performing contexts.
The application of instrumental and improvisational techniques through performance practice. This course develops stylistic, interpretative and literary musical skills through a variety of large and small ensembles.
The development of performance skills through ensemble work including chamber music, string orchestra, wind orchestra, flute choir, contemporary ensembles and other combinations.
Opportunities to conduct a variety of ensemble situations including instrumental, choral/vocal, keyboard and voice, and Education 817 large choral ensemble, recitative and aria, and instrumental ensemble. A keyboard component develops skills needed for score preparation and rehearsals.
Facilitation of the creative process in individual student composers. Key concepts and techniques in instrumental/ vocal composition and sonic arts will be developed and refined through the completion of projects as negotiated with supervisors. Each project will incorporate relevant technical exercises together with a study of influential composers and their methods. The end-of-semester portfolio may include works for solo instrument, voice, small and large ensemble, and sonic arts genres including multichannel acousmatic music and performance-based sonic art.
A continuation of work undertaken in MUS 310.
A continuation and expansion of the topics addressed in MUS 214. Studies will be broadened to include a stronger emphasis on orchestration, including technique and repertoire.
An examination of compositional concepts and techniques relating to acousmatic music and performance-based sonic art. Topics will be investigated through engagement in individually negotiated creative projects supported with technical exercises and a review of relevant repertoire and literature.
Further performance work, involving weekly individual lessons and performance classes. (See course outline and instrumental/vocal syllabus for specific curriculum requirements).
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 320.
Case studies in significant issues and developments in music history across genres, locations, and cultures. Examples will include music from the last 150 years, examined from a variety of historical and music-analytical perspectives.
Instruction in the use of the School of Musicβs professional- level multichannel recording studios supported by practical exercises in popular music production. Topics include: vocal, guitar, and drum recording; synthesis; industry-standard production techniques; and mastering. Coursework will require coordination with performers both within and outside the class.
A continuation and expansion of the topics addressed in MUS 330 including collaborative projects that concentrate on the production of a popular music βsingleβ, including the professional and legal issues associated with high-level studio production. Coursework will require coordination with performers both within and outside the class.
An advanced music production and engineering research project, in which an investigation into professional, technological and industrial issues is conducted through practical experience in a professional setting.
An advanced music production and engineering research project, in which an investigation into professional, technological and industrial issues is conducted through practical experience in a professional setting.
A survey of aesthetic theory, repertoire and techniques associated with the industry practice for composing soundtracks for film and video games.
Develops advanced analytical research skills, focusing on one or more specific repertoires and/or analytical techniques, such as voice-leading analysis, schemata, topics, set theory, metrical analysis or form-functional analysis.
Raises issues specific to classical music in one or more concentrated historical periods. Students will get to know in some detail a designated repertoire of musical works, whilst exploring critical topics such as periodisation, canon formation and reception history.
Tracks definitions and developments in βexperimentalβ music since the early twentieth century. Concepts of modernism and Education 818 and postmodernism as related to musical composition, performance and listening are the central focus.
Explores the complexities of musical style, aesthetics and reception as related to one or more instrumental genres (such as the symphony, the string-quartet or piano prelude) and related conventions.
Considers the role of music in one or more of the dramatic arts β opera, musical, ballet, modern dance, film β in any given historical period. Offers opportunity to study specific repertoire in some detail, as well as to investigate musicβs contribution to dramatic spectacle, characterisation, narrative and non-narrative structures.
An intensive performance-based course that focuses on a specific regional musical tradition.
Design, craft, and development of new technologies for music performance. Students will develop skills required to engage in the creation of interactive installations, digital musical instruments, augmented instruments, and mobile apps. Topics include: theory and practice of musical interface design, audio programming, converting body gestures into sound via digital mapping.
An investigation into practical knowledge about music teaching and learning drawing from teacher experiences, pedagogical research, established music education methods, studio pedagogy and music classroom contexts. Students explore a range of music teaching scenarios and focus on specific areas of professional interest. This is a key preparatory course for postgraduate pedagogical study in studio pedagogy or school music teaching.
An initial study of community music ranging from semi- professional music organisations and groups through to community music activities that emphasise access, participation and inclusion. An examination of the health and community benefits of music activity including healthy ageing, early development, and youth and mental health. The role of the community musician is also considered.
An overview of the music industry including music production, distribution and reception, music marketing and music project management. An examination of business practices in music including developing and managing events, tours, promotion, the Internet, the role of digital media, organising events and festivals and setting up successful pedagogical studios.
The development of advanced instrumental technique and improvisational skills though in-depth study of scales, rhythm, harmony and relevant musical analysis. This course prepares students who major in Jazz Performance and includes 1:1 tuition and group based improvisation classes.
Continuation of the work undertaken in MUS 370 along with ensemble performances. Students prepare for a 50-minute public recital of their original arrangements, compositions and improvisations.
Composition and arranging in the jazz idiom exploring small ensemble and big band contexts. Scoring, voicing concepts and sectional writing that assist students in the development of a portfolio of work.
The preparation and presentation of essays and practical seminars on a performer or period of stylistic development related to principal instrument or major study.
Participation and development of pertinent skills towards the completion of a collaborative jazz music project.
More advanced exploration and the continued development of ideas and processes in the creation and presentation of popular music through workshops, seminars and group discussion. Students will write songs, compose music, use and Education 819 music recording and production techniques and present aspects of their coursework in live performance.
Continuation of work undertaken in MUS 380.
Development of advanced performance techniques through 1:1 studio lessons. Students will further develop skills in sight-reading and their knowledge of expressive and interpretative performance skills.
A project-based course for Popular Music majors that involves students recording and producing their own work using performance, arranging and technology skills. Students also learn how to plan and manage their own recording and production project.
Tuition on an approved traditional or computer-based instrument or voice.
The development of performance skills through ensemble work including chamber music, string orchestra, wind orchestra, flute choir, contemporary ensembles and other combinations.
The development of a range of instrumental performance skills beyond those gained in the instrumental studio including collaborative piano, repertoire studies, ensemble techniques, basic pedagogy, keyboard skills, accompanying and other applications.
The development of advanced vocal practices that help students develop and sustain a professional career. This course aims to give students the knowledge and practical experience necessary to develop and maintain vocal health in diverse performing contexts.
The development of performance skills through ensemble work in popular music.
Continuation of the work undertaken in MUS 296. Students undertake 1:1 tuition to study more advanced repertoire, and learn transcription, sight-reading and ensemble performance skills.
The application of instrumental and improvisational techniques through performance practice. This course develops stylistic, interpretative and literary musical skills through a variety of large and small ensembles.
Develops advanced analytical research skills, focusing on one or more specific repertoires and/or analytical techniques (such as voice-leading analysis, schemata, topics, set theory, metrical analysis or form-functional analysis).
An internship with an industry or education partner in music performance, technology, administration, or pedagogy.
The development of advanced conducting skills and techniques in a variety of ensemble situations including instrumental and choral/vocal. Includes research into score preparation and rehearsal skill development.
Through individually negotiated creative projects and supporting studies in instrumental/vocal composition or sonic arts, students deliver an end-of-semester portfolio of original compositions, wherein skills are refined through targeted research in notational and/or sonic techniques, repertoire study and critical thinking. To take supporting studies in both sonic arts and instrumental composition students should enrol in the corresponding elective MUS 714 or 715.
A customised creative project in instrumental/vocal and Education 820 composition and/or sonic arts realised through an end-of- semester portfolio of original compositions.
Advanced orchestration and instrumentation, including contemporary instrumental and vocal techniques, with practical scoring exercises. Composition students are expected to write some original music in this course.
Examination of a wide range of advanced sound-based compositional techniques including multichannel acousmatic music, live sonic arts, algorithmic music, sonic art in the natural environment, visual music and interactive installation.
Creative research in aspects of solo performance. Relevant ensemble work, including orchestral rehearsals and performance, may be required.
Creative research in aspects of ensemble performance through chamber music and ensemble playing.
Advanced work in the field of chamber music and ensemble playing.
Selected research for discussion and investigation from the field of Performance Practice and its documentation. The study of source materials; individual projects; performance and/or teaching and direction of music from the area studied.
Advanced tuition on an approved instrument or voice suitable for a practical component to complement a studentβs other music study.
A customised performance project incorporating solo performance, conducting, relevant ensemble work, improvisational skills, presentation of original work and the application of advanced instrumental techniques, as appropriate.
The study of pedagogy theory and practice applicable to the studio or school context. A range of topics is explored including instrumental technique, repertoire, health and well-being and pedagogical methods.
An intensive interface-based course that focuses on advanced theories and practice of music production and computer music.
The development of advanced creative and technological skills leading to computer-based creative practice.
A customised creative practice or theoretical investigation of music technology-related disciplines including: computer music, musical interface design, interactive art, technology in music education, performance technology, music and AI, and sound design.
A customised creative practice project employing a combination of performance, composition and/or production modes.
A critical exploration of advanced concepts and methods for music research, including historical, qualitative, indigenous and practice-led approaches suited to the advanced study of Music. Students develop, apply and critique knowledge of traditional and cutting-edge qualitative methods to design an independent research project for their chosen research topic and to write a substantial research essay.
An advanced examination of the critical physical and psychological health issues musicians encounter when preparing for performances and when performing. Topics include aspects of musculoskeletal health, focal dystonia, the protection of the voice and hearing, the role of movement disciplines and the management of stress and music performance anxiety. An inquiry into research from both science and arts disciplines that informs how musicians maintain physical and psychological well-being.
An overview of the discipline of musicology, its principal concepts and associated methods of research. Students consider key texts from the scholarly literature and musicological viewpoints and perspectives. This course also develops advanced writing skills.
An overview of conducting literature and pedagogical skills for the rehearsal, the concert platform and music education contexts. The course includes analysis, score preparation, practical sessions and requires attendance at designated rehearsals and performances.
An intensive performance-based course that focuses on a specific regional musical tradition.
A supervised course of advanced music performance research culminating in a performance and associated written material.
A supervised course of musicological or music education research.
A critical investigation into modern-day music learning, production and consumption. Issues arising in a music landscape mediated by technology and hegemonic political economy will be examined with a focus on the interrogation of power relations using a social justice lens. Topics may include technology in music education, music and Artificial Intelligence, music decolonisation, and music streaming platforms.
A survey of pedagogical research themes and applications in music education, studio pedagogy and community music.
A detailed examination of the practices and concepts in a selected music education approach or method.
Further examination of the practices and concepts in a selected music education approach or method.
Students will develop a critical understanding of current research approaches in music education, community music and studio pedagogy with a focus on the application of and relevance of this research to teaching practice in various contexts. Students will critically review contemporary research and different theoretical perspectives.
Music community and/or pedagogy music research project. Includes fieldwork in music industry, community, school, or studio contexts and a research report.
Practical research in instrumental technique leading to the development of advanced improvisational skills. Students prepare a recital reflecting the technical work undertaken in the semester. Students engage with practice through ensemble and 1:1 instruction.
Jazz arranging and composition for mixed ensembles. Through the analysis and study of advanced compositional and orchestration techniques, students produce original research material for recorded portfolio. Students are encouraged to perform with a βmentorβ from the jazz faculty in the development of a creative process and individual style.
A continuation of work undertaken in MUS 772 for a variety of ensembles.
Students undertake a research project combining compositional and performance elements from multiple genres: world music, classical, rock, for example, in a blend of contemporary influences. Students contribute original material and written documentation for a recorded portfolio.
The development of advanced song writing and popular music composition skills. Students engage in an in-depth study of lyric writing, word setting, and compositional elements, compose a significant body of new songs and compositions, and produce a research portfolio of recordings and scores of these works.