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Unit of study_
CMPN1601: Composition 1
2025 unit information
The development of compositional techniques is integral to the ability to best express musical ideas and material. The focus of this unit is the creative work of students which is developed through the study of a range of compositional topics. Aspects of pitch, rhythm, counterpoint, notation, instrumentation and structure are considered both in the abstract and in relation to a variety of music.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Sydney Conservatorium of Music
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Composition and Music Technology |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. utilise a broad range of compositional techniques and approaches in the construction of your creative work
- LO2. begin to analyse and assess compositional techniques and approaches in existing compositions, and make use of such techniques and approaches in your own work
- LO3. present score-based music to a high standard using computer music notation software and/or handwriting
- LO4. understand the importance of having compositions performed and publicly presented, and being able to reflect upon such performances with a guide to potential revision of existing pieces.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.
Important enrolment information
Additional advice
Students should own a professional music notation program (e.g. Sibelius, Finale, Dorico).
