UNIVERSITY OF KENT
MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE
1.
Title of the module Songwriting and Performance 1
2.
School which will be responsible for management of the module Arts
3.
Start date of the module Sept 2011
4.
The cohort of students (onwards) to which the module will be applicable 2011-12
5.
The number of students expected to take the module 25
6.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation
with other relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
7.
None
Level of the module C
8.
The number of credits which the module represents 30 (15 ECTS credits)
9.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern) Terms 1 and/or 2
10. Prerequisite and co-requisite modules None
11. The programme(s) of study to which the module contributes
BMus (hons) Popular Music
12. The intended subject specific learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to
programme learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will:
1. Have an understanding of basic topics in music theory including keys, chords,
rhythm and metre
2. Be able to create original music using specified songwriting techniques
3. Understand the relationship between notation and performance using common
instrumental groupings and standard musical structures.
4. Be able to utilize musical instruments and computer technology to control and
adapt compositional details
5. Be able to demonstrate personal expression in both solo and group performances,
employing appropriate technical skills
These relate to the following programme learning outcomes for BMus (hons) Popular
Music: A3, A5, A6, B2, B3, B5, B6, C1, C2, C3, C5, C7, C8, C9,
13. The intended generic learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to
programme learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will:
6. Be self-critical of work in progress and respond to the critical insights of others
7. Be able to prioritise tasks and manage time and resources effectively
8. Be able to find creative solutions to problems
9. Demonstrate dedication and regular commitment to practice in order to achieve a
desired goal
These relate to the following programme learning outcomes for BMus (hons) Popular
Music: D1, D2, D3, D6, D9, D10
14. A synopsis of the curriculum
This module will include the following subject areas:
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Common chords and chord patterns; Melody and Basslines; Lyrics and common themes;
Rhythm and Metre. Examples will be taken from a variety of popular styles and students will
be encouraged to work creatively with these models.
Solo and group performance will form a large part of this module. Students will develop their
musicianship by listening to others as well as performing themselves.
15. Indicative Reading List
Six Steps to Songwriting Success
Jason Blume
Publisher: Billboard: 2008
The Songwriting Sourcebook
Rikky Rooksby
Publisher: Backbeat Books 2006
Melody in Songwriting
Jack Perricone
Publisher: IMP 2000
Songwriter’s Workshop: Harmony
Jimmy Kachulis
Publisher: Berklee Press 2008
The AB Guide to Music Theory Vols 1 & 2
Eric Taylor
Publisher: Associated Board of the Royal School of Music (July 1989)
16. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and
the total study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to
achievement of the intended learning outcomes
Delivery of this module is by lectures, demonstrations and practical workshops,
individual instrumental / vocal tuition and group musical activities. The total workload is
300 hours including approximately 2 hours staff contact time per week over two terms
(or the equivalent amount over one term). Continuous individual and group practice is
an important part of this module, where students will develop their instrumental
technique. In addition to this, students are expected to participate in extra-curricular
music-making to foster their musical and creative skills.
17. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended
learning outcomes
1) Songwriting Portfolio plus 500-word commentary: 50% (learning outcomes 1,
2, 3, 4, 6, 8)
2) Group Performance: 20 % (learning outcomes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9)
3) Solo Performance: 30% (learning outcomes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9)
18. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
For this module, students require access to individual and group practice facilities.
These should be sound-proofed to avoid sound spilling into other teaching or study
areas, and should provide access to pianos, drums and keyboards, along with standard
amplification.
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
For the songwriting tasks, students will need access to sound recording and computer
technologies and music production software.
19. The School recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability equality
legislation, and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need
in its teaching. Within this module we will make reasonable adjustments wherever
necessary, including additional or substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment
methods for students who have declared and discussed their learning support needs.
Arrangements for students with declared disabilities will be made on an individual basis,
in consultation with the University’s disability/dyslexia support service, and specialist
support will be provided where needed.
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