Compositional Analysis
A.Y. 2019/2020
Learning objectives
First learning objective is to improve phenomenological analysis of twentieth century vocal scores using the most appropriate technical terminology. Second objective, to extend the knowledge of vocal classical music following four possible paths: 1st from Schönberg to the last decades, 2nd from Debussy to the last decades, 3rd from Futurism to the last decades, 4th from Ives to the last decades.
Expected learning outcomes
Based on the Educational goals and Learning objectives above explained, the student will have to know a) the methodological approach of Jan LaRue, b) an excerpt, agreed with the teacher, of the vocal repertoire of the twentieth century following four possible paths. In addition, he will have to prepare a written analysis with phenomenological approach to a piece with voice/s composed in the past century.
Lesson period: Open sessions
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
(Erogato presso il Conservatorio)
Course syllabus
Insight into the phenomenological analytical approach, in particular Jan LaRue's methodology applied to twentieth century vocal scores with a focus on the sixth parameter of "text influence". The course will also offer some considerations on two other analytical approaches: pitch-set (Allen Forte) and semiological (Jean-Jacques Nattiez). The final exam will include a written analysis of the student on a vocal piece of the twentieth century.
Prerequisites for admission
Knowledge of the grammatical basis of "classical" western music with a predisposition to welcome the languages of the twentieth century and today.
Teaching methods
Jan LaRue, Allen Forte, Jean-Jacques Nattiez, with an in-depth look at the analytical methodology of LaRue.
Teaching Resources
Specific texts:
Jan LaRue, Guidelines for Style Analysis, II ed., Harmony Park Press 2011
Jean-Jacques Nattiez, Il discorso musicale, Torino 1987
Luciano Berio, Intervista sulla musica, Bari 2011
Riccardo Piacentini, I suoni delle cose. Poetica del foto-suono, Milano 2012
Scores of vocal compositions and listening from the repertory of the XXth century.
During the lessons the teacher will give detailed disclosures to use these materials.
Jan LaRue, Guidelines for Style Analysis, II ed., Harmony Park Press 2011
Jean-Jacques Nattiez, Il discorso musicale, Torino 1987
Luciano Berio, Intervista sulla musica, Bari 2011
Riccardo Piacentini, I suoni delle cose. Poetica del foto-suono, Milano 2012
Scores of vocal compositions and listening from the repertory of the XXth century.
During the lessons the teacher will give detailed disclosures to use these materials.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The final exam will include a written analysis of the student on a vocal piece of the twentieth century. The written analysis will be delivered in advance of the date of an oral discussion which will focus on the same analysis and the analytical methodology of Jan LaRue. One of the texts included in the materials on the Microsoft Teams platform will also be considered, freely chosen by the student.
L-ART/07 - MUSICOLOGY AND HISTORY OF MUSIC - University credits: 6
Lessons: 45 hours