MUS Subjects

Technology and music symbiotically impact one another.  Advances in one create or force advances in the other.   This subject spans both kinds of music for High School students and music in worship contexts to explore its intersections with technology.  Some of the techniques explored include PA systems, powered instruments, DAWs, aural training software, computer-aided notation software, audio, and video recording software and related hardware.

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Evaluate technology that assists in the production, recording, and distribution of music;
2. Assess the potential uses for technology in music or worship teaching and training;
3. Summarise various technologies that impact music or worship;
4. Design a live musical or worship event from a technological perspective;

Subject Content

• The history of music and technology
• Answering the ‘why’
• Music-related administration and technology
• Sound and lights
• Projection and video
• Music performance
• Recording audio and video
• Distribution and marketing
• Mediation and mediatization
• Ethics, technology, and music
• People, budgets, technology’s limitations, and misuse

his subject follows on from MUS230 Music Performance, and again involves constructive peer feedback and weekly in-class concerts.  However, the focus of this subject is playing music in groups.  As such, students will engage in a variety of ensemble types, across a wide range of genres.  Students will also gain experience in leading ensembles, whether as lead instrument, music director, or conductor.

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Create effective rehearsals and performance preparations;
2. Evaluate the success of performances;
3. Assess the audience engagement in and appreciation of performances;
4. Explain the factors contributing to effective ensemble playing;
5. Combine performance styles and techniques to serve the objectives of the ensemble;

To create is to be human. This subject equips students with an understanding of compositional techniques so they can create their own original music. First, the building blocks of music are explained and explored, including pitch, rhythm, tone color, texture, and structure.  Then these individual elements are combined and manipulated to express musical ideas in a variety of genres.

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Explain musical pieces in terms of their musical elements;
2. Generate musical ideas;
3. Select appropriate harmonic and melodic structures;
4. Compose musical works;
5. Rearrange musical elements to maximize the intent and impact of the composition .

Subject Content

• Musical elements
  • Duration
  • Pitch
  • Tone Colour
  • Dynamics & Expressive Techniques
• Texture
• Analyzing musical compositions
• Generating musical ideas
• Writing lyrics
• Popular music harmonic conventions
• Musical structures
• Arranging techniques