Musical Literacy



Overview

This course will cover the basics of reading and writing down music and also, the theory that underpins it – notation, rhythm, melody, harmony and form – relating theory to practice with examples from over three centuries of repertoire. 

Theory grows from practice. Each generation of composers 'breaks the rules' and so gives rise to modifications of musical theory and notation. Nonetheless, at heart music theory is simply an attempt to explain our perceptions of music and to provide an efficient vocabulary for its discussion.

Each theoretical concept will be discussed with both its technical and expressive implications in mind and we will look at the way in which theories have changed over the centuries.

Whilst not aimed at a specific exam, the course will provide useful preparation for those taking Associated Board theory exams. 

Programme details

Courses starts: 24 Apr 2025

Week 1: Clefs and staff notation. Duration or rhythm – note lengths.

Week 2: Rhythm – dotted notes and rests. Clefs and staff notation - continued.

Week 3: Scales and keys – I. Rhythm – time signatures.

Week 4: Rhythm – grouping of notes. Scales and keys - II.

Week 5: Scales and keys – III. Rhythm - rests and grouping of notes.

Week 6: Rhythm – time signatures. Scales and keys - IV.

Week 7: Scales and keys – V. Rhythm – some more about rests.

Week 8: Rhythm – more on grouping of notes. Scales and keys - VI.

Week 9:  Intervals. Rhythm - syncopation.

Week 10: Intervals continued. Rhythm - bars of unequal length and irregular rhythms.

Certification

Digital badge

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be issued with an official digital badge from the Department for Continuing Education, University of Oxford. After the course, you will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to download your digital badge. You will be able to add your badge to your email signature and share it on social media if you choose to do so. In order to be issued with your badge, you will need to have attended at least 80% of the course.

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £285.00

Funding

If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit, you are a full-time student in the UK or a student on a low income, you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees. Please see the below link for full details:

Concessionary fees for short courses

Tutor

Dr Peter Copley

Peter Copley D.Phil, MA, B.mus is a composer, cellist and pianist. He is a visiting lecturer at OUDCE, the University of Sussex and for the Open University, where he has been a Research Associate for the music faculty.

Course aims

To teach basic music literacy - reading and writing down music - and the theory on which this is based.

Course objectives: 

  • To teach students to read music notated in the Western tradition.
  • To teach students to write down music, either by hand or using notation software.
  • For students to apply these skills to practical musical activities, such as singing in choirs, playing musical instruments etc.

Teaching methods

  • Lectures
  • Class discussions
  • Music examples, both live and recorded.
  • Students working together in small groups
  • Worksheets for students (optional)

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will be expected to:

  • Be able to read music notated in the Western tradition.
  • Be able to write down music either by hand or using notation software.
  • Be able to apply these skills to their own practical musical activity. This might include playing a musical instrument, singing in a choir, following a score or any other activity where the ability to read or write music would be advantageous.

Application

Please use the 'Book' or 'Apply' button on this page. Alternatively, please complete an Enrolment Form (Word) or Enrolment Form (Pdf)

Level and demands

No previous knowledge is required for full participation but the course can also work as a 'refresher' for those who have it.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support