Useful links
Unit of study_
MCGY3638: Harmony as Counterpoint
2025 unit information
Composition and basso continuo manuals from the 17th and 18th centuries often describe music as the movement of parts, rather than progressions of chords. This approach focuses on voice leading primarily and harmony as its consequence, contrary to the theory of Rameau. Students will study different styles through the examination of relevant contemporary sources and put that knowledge into practice by emulating those styles in composition and performance. Offering a deep understanding of how Baroque and Classical composers conceived their music, this unit is intended to challenge the way that students listen to and play works within and outside of the canon.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Sydney Conservatorium of Music
| Study level | Undergraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Analysis, History and Cultural Studies |
| Credit points | 6 |
|
Prerequisites:
?
|
None |
|---|---|
|
Corequisites:
?
|
None |
| Prohibitions:
?
|
None |
| Assumed knowledge:
?
|
None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. compose in a variety of styles using historically appropriate methods
- LO2. gain a deeper appreciation of well and lesser-known earlier music by understanding it on its own terms
- LO3. re-evaluate their understanding, perception and reception of works that are performed commonly
- LO4. gain a basic understanding of 17th and 18th century composition, a necessary skill for all orchestral musicians interested in historical notation
- LO5. experience through study and performance how historical inquiry, analysis, performance and critical thinking are all necessary parts that are required for good musicianship
- LO6. develop research skills in a relatively new field of musicological research
- LO7. understand how analysis skills may be used in order to aid performance.
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.
Find your current year census dates
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.
