Unit outline_

MUSC2614: Composition Workshop

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Composition Workshop is designed as an opportunity for students from all musical backgrounds to play, write and perform music together. Each student will write a new piece for an ensemble of classmates that will be performed in an end of semester concert. Set topics studied in this course include: Creative and Resourceful Instrumentation (body percussion, mobile phones as instruments, the human voice and found percussion instruments), Soundscape, Indeterminacy and Loops. The first four weeks of the course are spent exploring these topics through lectures and creative group composition exercises. Students will also look notating their music using one-page scores, graphic notation, time-space notation and text scores. From Week 5 onwards, students will workshop and rehearse their own concert piece for an ensemble of musicians from their class.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Composition and Music Technology
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
18 credit points of 1000-level units
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

The ability to play a musical instrument and/or make music with digital devices.

Available to study abroad and exchange students

Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator Amanda Cole, amanda.cole@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Creative work Final Composition Project
Workshop in class -final composition on the topics covered during semester.
35% Formal exam period 3-5 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO1 LO3 LO5
Practical skill Participation in weekly class workshops and performances.
Participation in weekly class workshops and performances - see Canvas for details.
30% Ongoing n/a AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4
Creative work Early Feedback Task EFT: Phone or Found Percussion Solo
Early Feedback Task - Demo of using a phone or 'found objects' as a musical instrument.
5% Week 01
Due date: 26 Feb 2026 at 23:59

Closing date: 12 Mar 2026
1-minute video submission AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO5
Portfolio or journal Mini Composition Assignment 1
One-Page Score composition with a workshop and performance
15% Week 03
Due date: 12 Mar 2026 at 23:59

Closing date: 15 Mar 2026
One Page Score AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2
Portfolio or journal Mini Composition 2: Draft for final composition
Draft for final composition - see details on Canvas
15% Week 07
Due date: 16 Apr 2026 at 23:59

Closing date: 19 Apr 2026
1 page score - open instrumentation. AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2
early feedback task = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

 

Mini CompositionTask 1 One-Page score for voice, phones and/or body percussion. 15%
Mini CompositionTask 2 One-Page score for open instrumentation 15%

Early Feedback Task

Phone as Instrument Task 

5%

 

Final Composition Project Final composition reflecting the topics covered during the semester. 35%
Participation Participation in class and online activities.

30%

 

 

 

 

Assessment criteria

 

 

The following assessment criteria are used for the discussion forum PHONE OR FOUND OBJECT AS AN INSTRUMENT (EFT)  task  in this unit of study:

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD

Live performance presence and communication =  Confident and engaging performance that shows strong connection to the audience through the camera. Clear expressive intent and sustained focus from start to finish.

Research and Experimentation = Extensive exploration of the app or instrument with clear evidence in sound choices. Techniques are tested and refined and fully integrated into the solo. 

Musicality and Coherence = Highly convincing, expressive and musical solo. Clear and coherent structure with a beginning a development and a convincing ending.

Distinction

75 - 84

VERY HIGH STANDARD

Live performance presence and communication = Assured performance with clear intention and good connection to the audience. 

Research and Experimentation =  Strong exploration with a good range of sounds and techniques. Most choices are purposeful and support the solo.

Musicality and Coherence = Engaging and convincing musical solo. Structure is clear with development of material.

Credit

65 - 74

GOOD STANDARD

Live performance presence and communication = Generally steady performance with some expressive moments and basic audience connection. Occasional lapses in focus or confidence. 

Research and Experimentation = Some exploration with a moderate range of sounds and techniques. Integration into the solo is uneven

Musicality and coherence = Musical solo using available instrumentation. Structure is present but sections may feel disconnected. Material could be further developed. 

Pass

50 - 64

ACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Live performance presence and communication = Adequate performance that communicates the solo in a straightforward way. Limited engagement yet the performance is complete and understandable. 

Research and Evidence = Basic trial of sounds and techniques with limited range. Choices are sometimes purposeful and sometimes random. 

Musicality and Coherence = Musical material is basic and is delivered with little expression. A simple structure is evident though coherence and development of material is limited.

Fail

0 - 49

UNACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Live performance presence and communication = Performance does not communicate effectively or is incomplete. Minimal or absent engagement and frequent loss of focus. 

Research and experimentation: Little or no exploration of sounds or techniques. Choices appear random and do not support the solo. 

Musicality and coherence: Limited musicality and expression. Structure is unclear or absent.

 

The following assessment criteria are used for MINI Composition Assignments in this unit of study:

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD

Composition = Integrates course material with outstanding coherence, creativity and originality. Shows sophisticated use of musical elements with compelling musical intent. Displays sophisticated ability to develop and manipulate material. Creative risk taking is evident and successful. (40%)

Score =  Professional level score presentation with clear instructions. Notation is precise, consistent and very user friendly. Suitable for the diverse range of musicians in the class. Alternative or graphic notation is clearly explained and accessible. (40%)

Workshop  = Confident, engaging and succinct introduction of piece to class. Explains musical ideas and goals clearly using accessible language. Demonstrates notation and cues as needed and then checks understanding and responds helpfully. Diagnoses musical issues quickly and offers practical solutions. Outstanding command and leadership of the class ensemble where the group dynamic is managed effectively. Encourages participation from all. Proficient time management skills. Organised with all materials, audio, instruments and or equipment needed.  (20%)

 

Distinction

75 - 84

VERY HIGH STANDARD

Composition = Excellent Integration of course material with a high level of creativity and originality. Engaging use of musical elements with convincing musical logic and direction. Displays a high level of ability to develop and manipulate material. (40%)

Score = Neatly presented score with clear instructions. Notation is attractive, accurate and user friendly. Suitable for the diverse range of musicians in the class. Alternative or graphic notation is clearly explained and accessible. (40%)

Workshop = Confident and informative introduction of piece to the class. Explains musical ideas and notation using accessible language. Demonstrates notation and cues as needed. Excellent command and leadership of the class ensemble. Adapts quickly to any changes needed. Proficient time management. Organised with all materials, audio, instruments and or equipment needed.  (20%)

Credit

65 - 74

GOOD STANDARD

Composition = Clearly engages with course material. Creative, with some original ideas and unique twists. Competent use of musical elements with mostly clear musical logic and direction. Some development and manipulation of material. (40%)

Score = Good playable score with relevant instructions. Notation is appropriate for the piece and the diverse range of musicians in the class. Alternative or graphic notation is explained and accessible. (40%)

Workshop = Good introduction of piece to the class. Explains musical ideas and notation. Competently leads the class ensemble in a workshop of their piece in the allocated time. Has organised instruments and or equipment needed for their workshop.  (20%)

Pass

50 - 64

ACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Composition: Uses course topics in creative work at a basic level.  Simple structure with musical intent understandable. Limited development and exploration of musical material. (40%)

Score = Playable score with basic instructions. Score could be neater, more user friendly or accessible. (40%)

Workshop = Introduces piece to the class. Explains musical ideas and notation. Leads the class ensemble in an initial workshop of their piece. Some instruments or equipment may not have been organised for the workshop. (20%)

Fail

0 - 49

UNACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Composition=  Little or no evidence of course material or originality. Ideas are incoherent or underdeveloped. Task requirements not met.  (40%)

Score: Illegible and unplayable score. Scored for incorrect instrumentation. (40%)

Workshop = Does not adequately introduce or explain the musical ideas and the score notation. Does not successfully lead the class ensemble in an initial workshop of their piece. Crucial instruments or equipment have been organised for the workshop. (20%)

 

The following assessment criteria are used for the Final composition work in this unit of study:

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD

Creative Engagement with Course Concepts: Exceptional engagement with course ideas; concepts applied thoughtfully and imaginatively. Highly original and inventive interpretation. Convincing, confident, bold, unexpected, risk-taking, highly engaging.

Craftsmanship: Structure, Material Development & Orchestration: Structure is clear and logical; musical material is developed and transformed creatively; orchestration/arrangement is idiomatic, effective, and imaginative for available forces. Execution is matched to creative intentions. Significant, thoughtful development from draft to final; clear evidence of refinement and responsiveness to feedback

 Presentation = Professional score/audio formatting; clear, accurate, and polished. 

Reflection & Program Note: Insightful reflection and well-written program note; clearly explains engagement with course topics, creative decisions, and development process.

Distinction

75 - 84

VERY HIGH STANDARD

Creative Engagement with Course Concepts: Strong engagement; course ideas integrated well with creative elements.

Craftsmanship: Structure, Material Development & Orchestration:  Coherent structure; material shows development; orchestration is competent and idiomatic. Strong development from draft version; most ideas improved and refined.

Presentation: Clear and well presented score and audio. 

Reflection & Program Note: Reflection and program note address key points with depth and clarity. 

Credit

65 - 74

GOOD STANDARD

Creative Engagement with Course Concepts: Good engagement with some originality.  Influence of course examples evident. 

Craftsmanship: Structure, Material Development & Orchestration: Adequate structure; material development is limited; orchestration functional but lacks nuance. Good development of draft composition. 

Presentation: Good presentation; some noticeable formatting or scoring issues. 

Reflection & Program Note: Reflection and program note address key points. 

Pass

50 - 64

ACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Creative Engagement with Course Concepts: Minimal engagement; limited originality with course material. 

Craftsmanship: Structure, Material Development & Orchestration: Weak structure; little manipulation of material; orchestration is limited. Minimal development of draft composition; changes are superficial.

Presentation: Useable score that at times is unclear or inconsistent in presentation; lacks polish.

Reflection & Program Note: Minimal or vague reflection and program note that meets the word count. 

Fail

0 - 49

UNACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Creative Engagement with Course Concepts: No engagement with course topics

Craftsmanship: Structure, Material Development & Orchestration: Score not arranged for class ensemble. Piece not performable. No meaningful development; final resembles draft with little progress.

Presentation: Unusable or missing score. 

Reflection & Program Note: Incomplete or unclear reflection and program note.

 

The following assessment criteria are used for the Workshop/Performance Participation - Small Ensemble Weeks 1-7 in this unit of study 10%:

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Attends all sessions; arrives early and ready to start; proactively communicates any unavoidable issues in advance. 

Participation as a collaborative musician: Outstanding participation in all workshops and performances. Collaborates extremely well with all class members and offers useful suggestions to enhance compositions and performances. Is a valuable asset to each ensemble and workshop. Performs with a high level of enthusiasm and conviction.

Equipment and instrument readiness: Brings all necessary equipment and instrument/voice‑related materials; set‑up is efficient; equipment is in good working order; addresses technical issues quickly and safely. 

Distinction

75 - 84

VERY HIGH STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Attends almost all sessions; on time and ready; communicates issues promptly. 

Participation as a collaborative musician: Enthusiastic participation in all workshops and performances. Collaborates well with class members and contributes creative ideas. Is a valuable ensemble member. Is a dedicated and enthusiastic performer. 

Equipment and instrument readiness: Brings required equipment; set‑up is timely; minor issues are resolved without delay.

Credit

65 - 74

GOOD STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Attends most sessions; occasional lateness or readiness issues; communicates when prompted; generally dependable. 

Participation as a collaborative musician: Mostly enthusiastic participation in all workshops and performances. Collaborates with class members and contributes as an ensemble member. Performs compositions well with a positive attitude. 

Equipment and instrument readiness: Usually brings equipment; set‑up or maintenance issues occasionally slow progress.

Pass

50 - 64

ACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Meets minimum attendance requirements; some lateness or readiness issues; participates sufficiently to meet minimum expectations.

Participation as a collaborative musician: Participate in most workshops and performances. Collaborates at a basic level with class members with limited contribution as an ensemble member. Performs compositions at a minimum standard with little enthusiasm. 

Equipment and instrument readiness: Basic equipment present; set‑up is slow or incomplete; needs support to proceed.

Fail

0 - 49

UNACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Frequent absence or lateness; often unprepared to start; little or no communication; participation negatively affects group work.

Participation as a collaborative musician: Does not participate adequately in workshops and performances. Does not collaborate well with class members and does not contribute enough as an ensemble member. Does not performs compositions well. Brings the standard of the ensemble down. 

Equipment and instrument readiness: Missing essential equipment or instrument is not functional; rehearsal cannot proceed effectively.

 

The following assessment criteria are used for the Workshop/Performance Participation - Small Ensemble Weeks 8-12 in this unit of study (10%):

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Attends all sessions; arrives early and ready to start; proactively communicates any unavoidable issues in advance; reliability supports smooth running of the workshops and final performance. 

Preparedness of scores and parts: Provides complete, accurate, clearly formatted, legible scores/parts/tracks ahead of time; updates and distributes promptly after feedback; materials enable efficient rehearsal.

Personal practice and readiness: Demonstrates thorough practice of all pieces; plays/sings accurately and confidently; ready to contribute to others’ workshops; reliability lifts final ensemble performance.  

Collaboration in workshops and rehearsals: Works exceptionally well with others; balances leading and supporting roles; follows directions; anticipates needs; helps create an inclusive, efficient rehearsal environment. 

Equipment and instrument readiness: Brings all necessary equipment and instrument/voice‑related materials; set‑up is efficient; equipment is in good working order; addresses technical issues quickly and safely. 

Leadership and management of own composition workshop: Plans and leads sessions with clear goals; communicates cues and instructions clearly; manages time; responds to feedback and rehearsal issues; enables high‑quality run‑throughs of own composition. 

Distinction

75 - 84

VERY HIGH STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Attends almost all sessions; on time and ready; communicates issues promptly; reliability supports group progress.

Preparedness of scores and parts: Provides complete and legible materials on time with only minor errors; responds quickly to feedback with updates; materials support effective rehearsal.

Personal practice and readiness: Well practised with only minor errors; contributes confidently; supports ensemble effectiveness.

Collaboration in workshops and rehearsals: Collaborates effectively; adapts to directions; supports peers; contributes to positive rehearsal outcomes.

Equipment and instrument readiness: Brings required equipment; set‑up is timely; minor issues are resolved without delay.

Leadership and management of own composition workshop: Leads sessions well; goals and instructions are clear; time management is sound; responds to issues with minor delays.

Credit

65 - 74

GOOD STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Attends most sessions; occasional lateness or readiness issues; communicates when prompted; generally dependable.

Preparedness of scores and parts: Materials mostly complete and usable; some errors or clarity issues; provided by the start of the session; updates made but not always timely.

Personal practice and readiness: Adequately practised; occasional uncertainty; contributes but sometimes needs extra guidance.

Collaboration in workshops and rehearsals: Collaborates adequately; follows directions; support for peers is present but uneven.

Equipment and instrument readiness: Usually brings equipment; set‑up or maintenance issues occasionally slow progress.

Leadership and management of own composition workshop: Leads sessions adequately; goals are present but may lack clarity; time management inconsistent; responds to issues with support.

Pass

50 - 64

ACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Meets minimum attendance requirements; some lateness or readiness issues; participates sufficiently to meet minimum expectations.

Preparedness of scores and parts: Provides basic materials; may be incomplete, late, or have clarity issues; enough for the ensemble to proceed with guidance.

Personal practice and readiness: Basic practice evident; can participate at a minimal level; requires frequent support.

Collaboration in workshops and rehearsals: Basic cooperation; follows directions with reminders; limited support of peers.

Equipment and instrument readiness: Basic equipment present; set‑up is slow or incomplete; needs support to proceed.

Leadership and management of own composition workshop: Basic leadership; instructions are understandable; sessions run with assistance; time management needs reminders.

Fail

0 - 49

UNACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Attendance and punctuality: Frequent absence or lateness; often unprepared to start; little or no communication; participation negatively affects group work.

Preparedness of scores and parts: Missing, unusable, or late materials; rehearsal cannot proceed effectively.

Personal practice and readiness: Insufficient practice; unable to perform parts reliably; hinders ensemble progress.

Collaboration in workshops and rehearsals: Uncooperative behaviours; resists directions; negatively impacts group work.

Equipment and instrument readiness: Missing essential equipment or instrument is not functional; rehearsal cannot proceed effectively.

Leadership and management of own composition workshop: Unable to lead sessions effectively; unclear instructions; poor time management; sessions do not progress.

The following assessment criteria are used for the Final Concert Participation and Presentation (5%)  

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

EXCEPTIONAL STANDARD

Performance Standard:  Exceptional accuracy and execution; flawless ensemble coordination; highly expressive and artistically convincing interpretation.

 

Presentation & Professionalism: Outstanding stage presence and confidence; seamless communication with performers and audience; fully adheres to concert protocols.

 

Preparedness: All instruments/equipment present, fully functional; setup is smooth and efficient; contingency plans evident.

 

Distinction

75 - 84

VERY HIGH STANDARD

Performance Standard:  Very accurate with minor errors; strong ensemble coordination; expressive and musically engaging.

Presentation & Professionalism:  Confident stage presence; good communication; minor lapses in protocol.

Preparedness:  All instruments/equipment present; minor setup delays; no major issues.

Credit

65 - 74

GOOD STANDARD

Performance Standard:  Generally accurate with some noticeable errors; ensemble mostly coordinated; interpretation shows some musicality.

Presentation & Professionalism:  Adequate stage presence; some communication issues; occasional protocol lapses.

Preparedness:  Most instruments/equipment present; some setup delays or minor issues.

Pass

50 - 64

ACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Performance Standard:  Frequent errors; ensemble coordination inconsistent; interpretation lacks expressiveness.

Presentation & Professionalism:  Limited stage presence; poor communication; frequent protocol issues.

Preparedness:  Missing or malfunctioning equipment; significant setup delays.

Fail

0 - 49

UNACCEPTABLE STANDARD

Performance Standard:  Major inaccuracies; poor ensemble coordination; interpretation unclear or absent.

Presentation & Professionalism:  Unprofessional presentation; no communication; disregards concert protocols.

Preparedness:  Unprepared; major equipment missing or non-functional; performance compromised.

 

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

As per the Sydney Conservatorium of Music resolutions (1) It is expected that unless an application for Special Consideration has been approved, students will submit all assessment for a unit of study on the due date specified. If the assessment is completed or submitted within the period of extension, no academic penalty will be applied to that piece of assessment. (2) If an extension is either not sought, not granted or is granted but work is submitted after the extended due date, the late submission of assessment will result in an academic penalty as follows: (a) For work submitted after the deadline, 5% of the total possible mark will be deducted per day (b) For work submitted after 10 days, a mark of 0 will be given.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Course introduction and overview. Topic 1: Making Music with Available Instrumentation: voice, body percussion, computers, found percussion and phones. Lecture (1 hr)  
Topic 1: Making Music with Available Instrumentation: voice, body percussion, computers, found percussion and phones. Workshop (1 hr) LO1 LO4
Week 02 Topic 2: Indeterminacy: One page scores, open instrumentation, text notation, graphic notation and time-space notation. Lecture (1 hr)  
Topic 2: Indeterminacy: One page scores, open instrumentation, text notation, graphic notation and time-space notation. Workshop (1 hr) LO4
Week 03 Topic 3: Exploring Musical Parameters: pitch, rhythm, texture and form Lecture (1 hr)  
Topic 3: Exploring Musical Parameters: pitch, rhythm, texture and form Workshop (1 hr) LO1 LO4
Week 04 One-page score class workshops: Available Instrumentation: voice, body percussion, computers, found percussion and phones Workshop (2 hr) LO3
Week 05 Topic 4: Extra-musical inspiration : ideas, narrative, mood and scene. Lecture (1 hr)  
Topic 4: Extra-musical inspiration : ideas, narrative, mood and scene. Workshop (1 hr) LO1 LO4
Week 06 Topic 5: Soundscape: Interacting with and Creating Environments Using Musical Instruments Lecture (1 hr)  
Topic 5: Soundscape: Interacting with and Creating Environments Using Musical Instruments. Workshop (1 hr) LO1 LO4
Week 07 Topic 6: Creative Loops: Looping chords, bass lines, melody and rhythm. Layering loops to make textures. Lecture (1 hr)  
Topic 6: Creative Loops: Looping chords, bass lines, melody and rhythm. Layering loops to make textures. Workshop (1 hr) LO1 LO4
Week 08 One-page score class workshops: Open-Instrumentation (Class instruments) Workshop (2 hr) LO3
Week 09 Concert Composition Workshop 1: ORCHESTRATION, ARRANGEMENT AND FORM. Develop and adapt your one-page open instrumentation score for your mixed ensemble. Shape, refine and map form. Consider instrumental techniques and colour. Workshop (2 hr) LO3 LO4
Week 10 Concert Composition Workshop 2: EXPRESSION AND DETAIL. Continue to develop your one-page open instrumentation score. Shape texture, dynamics, expression markings and orchestration. Workshop (2 hr) LO3 LO4
Week 11 Concert Composition Workshop 3: REHEARSE AND DOCUMENT. Rehearse the final version of your piece. Film a rehearsal run through. Workshop (2 hr) LO3 LO4
Week 12 Presentation of Finished Final Works in Class Concert Assessment (2 hr) LO5 LO4

Attendance and class requirements

  • Attendance: Students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% of timetabled activities for a unit of study, unless granted exemption by the Dean, Head of School or professor most concerned. The Dean,
    Head of School or professor most concerned may determine that a student fails a unit of study because of inadequate attendance. Alternatively, at their discretion, they may set additional
    assessment items where attendance is lower than 90%.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

  • Music Composition Toolbox ; Hindson, Matthew, 1968-; Barbeler, Damian.; Blom, Diana, 1947-

    c2007

  • Musical Environments: A Manual for Listening: A Manual for Listening, Composing and Improvising ;                                  Richard Vella, 2000. 

 

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Compose original works that incorporate techniques taught in class.
  • LO2. Notate and score creative ideas for a diverse range of musicians.
  • LO3. Lead and manage workshops and rehearsals of your own composition.
  • LO4. Collaborate as a musician in class workshops, rehearsals and performances.
  • LO5. Present creative work as a live performance.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The course description, activities and assessments were altered in response to student feedback.

Hurdle task definition: To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum mark of 50% in the hurdle task/s.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.