Music Theory

Music theory directly furthers a student’s ability to understand and communicate full musical meaning. ISM theory classes build student musicianship, by teaching the language of music. With sufficient theory background, students learn and memorize faster, and generally sight-read better than students without theory knowledge. To develop the ability to hear and manipulate sound mentally, vital for effective musical performance, ear training is strongly emphasized in class. Well developed theory skill also forms the basis for student composition, and/or any styles of improvisation. In theory classes, students learn basic knowledge of note reading in treble and bass clefs, rhythmic values, and simple terminology. As the students progress, they are able to recognize and analyze complex harmonic and rhythmic applications in music. These classes provide the means by which students can approach any musical score or performance with intelligence, creativity and insight. Upper levels cover formal analysis, harmonic procedures, ear-training, and “inner-hearing” as students’ knowledge of music history and literature continues to broaden.

Composition

ISM seeks to build a community of composers and performers who are dedicated to promoting and supporting the creative process from the initial stages of work to performance. The purpose of studying composition is to encourage and enhance creative thinking in music. Core composition, and theory courses are essential to a composer’s development and are strongly recommended. In addition to creating original works, composition students are taught to analyze and write in musical styles that can be incorporated into their own works.

Students are encouraged to develop a personal style while studying a wide range of composition techniques.

Copyright © 2003-2007 International School of Music. All Rights Reserved