GRMUS 623P — Classical Ornamentation in Context

2 credits
Spring
Audrey Axinn

This course addresses the crafting of vibrant ornamentation in Classical works as well as a broader introduction into historically stylistic performance of this repertoire. Students will incorporate performance-practice principles regarding tempo, notation, and phrasing, creating a fresh take on Classical works as well as gaining insight into which types of phrases and sections of pieces invite ornamentation by performers. Drawing upon information from 18^th-century treatises, analysis of variation techniques in Haydn and Mozart’s works, and group improvisation exercises, students will develop their agility to embellish intervallic sequences as well as assemble a repertory of usable variations on typical Classical melodic patterns. By the semester’s end, students will be able to compose and/or improvise ornamentation that is organic to a composer’s musical language and that blends seamlessly into the composed score, creating unique and innovative ‘collaborations’ with great composers of the Classical era. Open to undergraduate/graduate piano, organ, string and wind majors.