I. Course Title: Songwriting 1: Introduction to Songwriting (GE)
II. Course Number: MUSC 146
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: None
V. Course Description:
An introductory study of song forms, melodies, harmonies, and lyrics and their application to pop, rock, hip-hop, country and other trends in commercial music, as well as composition of songs in commercial music styles.
Note(s): General Education and Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
This course offers students an opportunity to explore commercial music and the trends and parameters that guide the writing of popular songs. Students will gain a historical overview of the development of popular songs as well as study current song craft and musical characteristics.
1. Songwriting Overview
2. Craft of Songwriting
3. Creative Writing
4. Songwriting and Song Composition
VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
The course will make use of interactive lectures, readings, music listening and analysis, student projects, and exams. Class projects will provide students with the chance to gain hands-on experience. The student will examine, analyze and compose commercial songs through application of course concepts.
VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
The goal of this course is for the student to gain a detailed and comprehensive understanding of commercial songs and commercial songwriting techniques.
Learning Outcomes
VIII. Assessment Measures:
Students will be assessed via their regular attendance, class participation, weekly assignments, exams, and writing exercises and projects. Students will be required to demonstrate their understanding of course concepts through exams and completion of class projects. Projects will require students to demonstrate creative thought and writing ability based on concepts and techniques introduced in class.
Review and Approval
March 01, 2021