Unlocking Music: Listening Beyond the Notes

 

Unlocking Music: Listening Beyond the Notes can be studied as a stand-alone course at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Dr David John Roche

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4.

Module Code: XK17810

Fee: £140.00 - Fee waiver scheme available

This course is currently unavailable for booking

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Overview

Music has the power to move us emotionally, evoke memories, shape our understanding of the world, and connect us with one another. By exploring how music is constructed and how composers communicate ideas through sound, we can develop a deeper appreciation of the music we already enjoy while discovering new ways of listening. This course offers an accessible introduction to the art of music appreciation, equipping participants with the tools to listen more actively and confidently. Through guided lectures, listening exercises and discussion, learners will explore the fundamental elements of music, including melody, harmony, rhythm, tempo, timbre, texture, form and musical expression.

No prior musical training is required.

Programme

Utilising a variety of resources and sources, learners will explore the following during the course:

  • What is Music Appreciation?
  • Ways of Listening?
  • Musical Concepts, Forms, and Styles
  • Renaissance Era Case Studies
  • Baroque Era Case Studies
  • Classical Era Case Studies
  • Romantic Era Case Studies
  • 20th Century Case Studies
  • Classical Music Today
  • Pop, Rock, Jazz, and More.

Learning Outcomes 

  1. Through close listening, demonstrate the ability to listen to, appreciate, and critique pieces of music.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of a wide range of technical, musical terms - both historical and modern - and evidence their usage in the context of different musical environments.
  3. Clearly and confidently communicate musical ideas, following an analysis of a piece of music.
  4. Evaluate, analyse, discuss, and justify the technical components of different pieces of music – communicating these in speech and in written formats.

Assessments 

  1. Listening Diary - 1000 Words. (50%)

  2. Analytical Case Studies. Two separate word analyses of two pieces of music assigned by the lecturer. (50%)

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What do I Need

You would need the following: 

  • Internet access.
  • Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
  • Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.