Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Music Theory 4 - Assignment for Thursday 8/29

1) Do the syllabus quiz (on Sakai, under "Tests & Quizzes"

2a) Write a brief essay (double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins; minimum 1 page, maximum 2 pages) describing/analyzing the "Waltz" by Amy (Mrs. H.H.A.) Beach, op. 36, no. 3. Consider this an opportunity to experiment with what you think is the best way to write about music. We will discuss in small groups and start to revise these essays on Thursday. Try to apply what you have learned about writing in general (e.g., in your College Composition classes) to writing about music.

2b) Rules for the brief essay: you may discuss your thoughts with other people, but you must write the text yourself. It should not include historical information; everything that you write should come directly from the music (from listening/reading the score/playing). As you get to know the piece, pay attention to your own thought processes. What strikes you as interesting or cool? What is in here that exemplifies concepts you have learned in theory class? Are there any moments you have questions about?

3) Submit your essay to Sakai (under "Assignments"; you may copy/paste into the box or attach a file in either pdf, doc, or docx format) AND bring a hard copy to class.

Recordings:
Beach, "Waltz" op. 36/3

Other related pieces:
Schumann, Kinder-Sonata op. 118a
Bauer, "Coyote Song"