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 18th-century treatises and analysis of variation techniques in Haydn and Mozart’s works, 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 perform with 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 keyboard, violin, cello, flute, and bassoon majors. Other instruments may enroll with the permission of the instructor.