Applied Composition Techniques and Distribution

This unit develops applied composition, arrangement, and production skills by exploring melodic, harmonic, rhythmic, and formal techniques and by introducing score preparation, workflow, and distribution channels. Students will combine ear training and instrumental techniques with practical file management, mixing concepts, and release strategies to produce performance- and marketplace-ready short works.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze melodic and harmonic techniques (pentatonic use, neighboring tones, appoggiatura, harmonic and melodic minor, cadences, and atonal elements) by identifying them in examples and incorporating at least three techniques into an original short composition
• Apply rhythmic and motivic devices (back/front phrasing, syncopation, effort shapes, jazz phrasing) and counterpoint to develop coherent musical sections and produce an arranged section with organized project files and a prepared score
• Demonstrate production and instrumental techniques by producing a mixed demo of an original piece that shows control of tone elements, sound selection for specific instruments (including free reed instruments), and basic mixing decisions
• Evaluate digital distribution and professional presentation options (Broadjam, CD Baby, DistroKid, Epidemic Sound), and create a release and performance plan for one composition that documents rights, platform choice, and event/performance logistics