New! Theory & Composition Class

NEW! Theory & Composition – 8 week summer course, starting Thursday, June 30, 3:30-5:00 p.m., Only 10 spots available, $199.00

Instructor: Albert Palmeter

The theory class will consist of the following: Interval training, Scales, Chords, Ear-Training, and how to write a melody (elementary composition) Each student will have their own keyboard to learn more about theory and writing their own music. Please bring your ipad or laptop and personal ear buds/headphones.

Please register by June 20, 2022 by contacting Beckie Hocker, Music Department at 503-718-6499 or [email protected]. The Finance department will mail an invoice for payment.

Course Dates: Thursdays: June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21 (no class), Mondays: July 25, August 1, August 8, August 15

Time: 3:30-5:00 p.m.

Location: Ground Floor of Motherhouse, Auditorium

Course outline:

The theory class will consist of the following:

1) Intervals:

Learn how to identify intervals
Learn how to read them quickly
Understand how they function in harmony

2) Scales:

Learn how to use tetrachords to find and construct major scales anywhere on the keyboard, easily and quickly
Understand why the major scale is called “major” and why the minor scale is so complicated with all its forms
Learn how to play the scales on a keyboard and coordinate both hands to do it
Learn the circle of fifths

Know the relationship between the different keys
Have a means to memorize the sharps and flats in each key

3) Chords:

Learn how to construct triads and seventh chords along with their inversions, including the different qualities or forms:

major, minor, augmented and diminished.

Learn chord nomenclature as well as their differing functions
Learn how to write and play them

4) Ear-training:

Learn how to identify intervals by ear

5) Elementary composition:

Learn how to write music starting from the most elementary 5 note melodies to more elaborate ones
Learn how to write chords to a melody
Learn how to compose a melody to harmony