12-tone Composition Assignment MUS 313 Schedule   William Wieland
Dr. Wieland will introduce set theory and several 12-tone rows by master composers.
First 12-tone Composition Assignment
  1. Compose an ingenious row. A "nice melody" is not good enough. Ingenious traits could include combinatoriality, implied tonality, melodic motives, rhythmic and instrumentation possibilities, etc.
  2. Create a matrix with your row. Matrix Tips
  3. Begin composing for the class ensemble, a trio or quartet of good sight readers performing on instruments in the same key. Ideally, you will not perform your own composition. Keep it short and simple. (KISS.) Please write simple rhythms, since the melodic lines may be difficult. Compose MUSIC and try to make the ingenious features of your row discernable to the listeners.
  4. In a 10 minute conference with Dr. Wieland, demonstrate the potential of your row and the intent of your compositional process. He will ask you what is ingenious about your row and quickly proofread your matrix.
Second 12-tone Composition Assignment
  1. Matrix
  2. Composition with the Rows Labelled
  3. Brief Description of your Compositional Process
  4. Write your name on every sheet of paper.
Class Performances
  • As the class ensemble performs the compositions, the remaining students try to discern what is ingenious about the row and composition. The composer does not perform.
  • After a brief critique by the audience, the composer describes the row and compositional process.
  • The piece is performed once more.