This module deals in depth with the subject of composition for film and television. Students explore, through lectures and seminars, the essential technology and techniques that composers for Film and Television need to master. Subjects covered include the use of Main Themes, underscoring and the harmonic languages of soundtracks, in both big and small screen contexts. Coursework consists of several compositions to image, chosen to encourage musical diversity and exploration of compositional styles, together with a written commentary.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
This module will be taught through lectures, seminars and workshops. Lectures introduce the subject-matter, and there are opportunities to engage with visiting professionals from the industry. Workshops provide practical demonstration of techniques. Seminars provide the opportunity for analysis and critical evaluation of music listened to, as well as for the provision of formative feedback on independent work.
Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
---|---|---|
Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures, seminars and workshops | 33 |
Scheduled learning and teaching | 267 | |
Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 |
The assessment for this module is designed to test the students' ability to explore and understand the processes involved in composing and producing music for picture. The assignments that are set will enable both creative and analytical processes.
Assessment will be by several compositions for extracts of film of 7-8 minutes in total length chosen by the Module Leader. These will be submitted as recordings (synchronised to picture) and scores, and the assessment will be based on the complete production of each (including sound quality and production techniques as well as compositional content). Work will be required to be of a professional standard. A written commentary of 3,000 words containing a critical discussion and evaluation of the techniques used, and details specific to each extract will be submitted with the compositions.
Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
---|---|
1) Demonstrate a critical understanding of the roles of music in relation to picture: | Assessed summatively through the commentary. |
2) Demonstrate a practical knowledge of industry-standard electronic techniques for working to picture: | Assessed summatively by requiring the students to submit work that has been prepared and produced on particular software platforms. |
3) Demonstrate knowledge of the processes involved in writing music for the media: | Assessed summatively through the commentary. |
4) Demonstrate a professional approach to writing music for picture: | Assessed summatively through the compositions. |
5) Demonstrate a practical knowledge of both traditional and contemporary orchestral techniques for working to picture: | Assessed summatively through the compositions |
6) Work within the discipline of a brief and show adaptability in the realisation of the music for a project | Assessed summatively through the composition and the commentary, and formatively through feed-forward seminars |
7) Analyse sections of film music and discuss their relationships with the images | Assessed summatively through the commentary |
Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
---|---|---|
Coursework | Portfolio | 100 |
Total (to equal 100%) | 100% |
It IS a requirement that the major category of assessment is passed in order to achieve an overall pass for the module
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