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Prerequisite

This is an introductory course, so there are no prerequisite courses that you should have taken. 

Course Learning Outcomes

During this course, we will introduce you to music. This introduction will involve:

  • Respond to music including some analysis of  music.

  • Connect artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding.

  • Music creation and performance using music software or apps. 

Course Materials

All the content materials you need are included in the course. You do not have to buy any additional textbooks. You will need to use one of the following options for composing assignments within the course. Both MuseScore and Flat IO are free. See their descriptions below.

MuseScore

For this course, it is recommended that you have access to a computer that can download the free music notation program MuseScore. Link to Musescore download here. For the MuseScore 3 downloadable tutorial PDF; Go to Resource Page for PDF.  Additional tutorials are also available on the Resource Page.

Flat IO

Another music writing option for students using a Chromebook or other web based computer is Flat IO.

Flat IO is an Online Music Notation Software. Music writing right in your web browser or as an app on your mobile device. Select this link, to get started using Flat IO.

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Assignments

You will complete the following assignments during the course.

Reflection Journal Entries

Throughout the course modules you will be asked to reflect on concepts and ideas taught. You will see a Reflection Journal section with the questions you will find in the Journal. Go to the Course Resource page to find the Reflection Journal Instructions and download. Work on the Journal Reflections each time you see the reminder in the course. You will submit your Reflection Journal at 4 points in the course at the end of Modules 4, 8, 12 and 15.

Creative Composition Assignments

You will complete 4 creative composition assignments throughout the course. Carefully read the instructions before you complete the assignments.

Assignment 1: Chant or Consequent Composition

Assignment 2: Serialism Composition or Minimalist Composition

Assignment 3: Jazz Scat Improvisation

Assignment 4: Soundtrack

Quizzes and Assessments

You will complete graded Quizzes and Assessments to check for understanding throughout the course.

Exams

You will complete one final exam for this course. See the Exam Preparation page for details.

Grading

Your grade in this course will be based on these assignments and exams:

Assignment or Exam Grading Percent of Total Grade
9 Quizzes Computer 15%
13 Module Assessments Computer 25%
4 Reflection Journal Submissions Instructor 15%
4 Creative Composition Assignments Instructor 20%
1 Final Exam* Computer 25%

* You must pass the final exam with at least a 60% to earn credit for the course.

Grade Scale

Your letter grade is calculated according to these percentages.

A 93% - 100%
A- 90% - 92%
B+ 87% – 89%
B 83% - 86%
B- 80% - 82%
C+ 77% - 79%
C 73% - 76%
C- 70% - 72%
D+ 67% - 69%
D 63% - 66%
D- 60% - 62%
F (fail) 0% - 59%

Getting Help

Please use the help menu in this course to contact Academy of America or your instructor. You can find information about tutoring available to Academy of America students on the Tutoring website.

The Resources page offers a wide variety of services to support you:

  • Academic success skills coaching such as time management, study skills, test preparation, motivation, and more.

  • Course-specific support that includes live tutoring and on-demand resources.

Come find out how we can help you achieve your goals.

Course Policies

For information about how long you have to complete the course, resubmitting assignments, retaking exams, and other questions, please see Academy of America’s Policies.

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