This course explores the fundamental elements of musical sounds and works through practical, scientific, historical, and cross-cultural perspectives with the aim of inspiring students’ musical creativity. Topics range from the abstract or philosophical (such as interval ratios and “the music of the spheres”) to practical applications (such as tuning systems and the functions of dissonance in harmony). The first half of the course, “Basics and Beats,” focuses on dynamics and durations in music, including poetic and musical meters, rhythm, and syncopation. The second half of the course, “Tones and Modes,” explores pitch in terms of basic acoustics, melodic and harmonic structures (such as scales and chords, not limited to the major/minor keys), and notation. Students engage with these topics through readings, guided listenings, and short analysis papers. This course is required for Lang Contemporary Music majors/minors.

This course explores the fundamental elements of musical sounds and works through practical, scientific, historical, and cross-cultural perspectives with the aim of inspiring students’ musical creativity. Topics range from the abstract or philosophical (such as interval ratios and “the music of the spheres”) to practical applications (such as tuning systems and the functions of dissonance in harmony). The first half of the course, “Basics and Beats,” focuses on dynamics and durations in music, including poetic and musical meters, rhythm, and syncopation. The second half of the course, “Tones and Modes,” explores pitch in terms of basic acoustics, melodic and harmonic structures (such as scales and chords, not limited to the major/minor keys), and notation. Students engage with these topics through readings, guided listenings, and short analysis papers. This course is required for Lang Contemporary Music majors/minors.