Music Fundamentals

The perfect one-stop foundation course, Music Fundamentals takes the mystery out of the concepts of pitch, rhythm, intervals, melody, scales, modes, harmony and notation so they make ‘sense’. Unique to the Conservatorium, this practical approach to music theory and notation is invaluable to adults wanting to learn how to read music, sing or play an instrument. Levels 1, 2 and 3 are each 8 weeks in duration. Students may enrol for one level per term. Classes are offered during the day and in the evening. Enrol early as these classes fill quickly!

Level 1 provides students with the skills and knowledge required to understand and apply the basics of the language of music notation and begin the process of sight reading.

Level 2 extends the theoretical skills achieved in Level 1 and also begins an extensive study of harmony, with an historic look at this development, analysing triads and their inversions, and culminating in a thorough study of all 7th type chords. Cadences and minor scales are also covered.

In Level 3 students start to analyse contemporary harmony, modal scales and complex rhythmic concepts. An exploration of performance, composition and research techniques is also included, culminating in an overview of twentieth century genres. A brief discussion of the history of jazz, its evolution and influence on Western music is also presented.

In Spring we offer a special 5 week Level 4 course for those students who have completed Level 3 and who want to consolidate and refine their skills.

Entry: Level 1 - open to all beginners
Level 2 by past enrolment in Level 1 or equivalent
Level 3 by past enrolment in Level 2 or equivalent
Level 4 by prior enrolment in Level 3 only

Course fee: $370 per term (Summer, Autumn and Winter)
$240 (Spring – Level 4)
A workbook is available for purchase from the tutor at the first class

Course times:

Summer:
Level 1 Wed 10am -12noon OR Thurs 7.30-9.30pm
Level 2 Wed 12-2pm OR Thurs 5.30-7.30pm
Levels 3 & 4 not offered this term

Autumn:
Level 1 Wed 12-2pm OR Thurs 5.30-7.30pm
Level 2 Wed 10am-12noon OR Thurs 7.30-9.30pm
Levels 3 & 4 not offered this term

Winter:
Level 1 Thurs 2-4pm or Thurs 5.30-7.30pm
Level 2 Thurs 2-4pm OR Tues 6-8pm
Level 3 Wed 10-12noon OR Thurs 7.30-9.30pm
Level 4 not offered this term

Spring:
Level 4 Wed 10am-12noon OR Thurs 5.30-7.30pm
Levels 1, 2 & 3 not offered this term

Ear Training and Sight Reading

For instrumentalists and singers, this course provides a structured approach to the understanding and recognition of intervals and chords; scales, modes and melodic lines. You will develop practical skills in dictation and transcription, leading to a confident basis for sight-reading, improvisation and the development of melodic and harmonic line. Now offered as both a day and an evening class.

Entry:
Level 1 - Music Fundamentals 1 or equivalent
Level 2 - Music Fundamentals 2 or equivalent
Level 3 - Music Fundamentals 3 or equivalent

Course Fee:
$370 per term (Summer, Autumn, Winter)

Course Times:
Summer - Level 1: Wed 6.30-8.30pm or Thurs 2-4pm
Autumn - Level 2: Wed 6.30-8.30pm or Thurs 2-4pm
Winter - Level 3: Wed 6.30-8.30pm or Thurs 2-4pm

Music Composition

For students with an existing grounding in music theory, this course will equip you with the basic techniques and compositional principles to apply to your chosen style and creative goals. Each term is self contained, but students can develop their creative projects across the three terms if they choose.

Entry: intermediate level (guide: Music Fundamentals 3 or equivalent eg. AMEB Theory or Musicianship Grade 5)

Course Fee: $450 per term (Summer, Autumn, Winter)

Course Times: Wed 6.00-8.00pm