Advanced Orchestration

This course will cover all the traditional topics of orchestration classes: analysis of the techniques used in successful works from the past, discussion of the characteristics of various groups of instruments and their role in building musical form, etc. The course will also explore the deeper understanding of orchestrational principles that our current knowledge of acoustics and our techniques of sonic analysis make possible. Thus, empirical and theoretical knowledge will be combined in an effort both to understand the masterworks of the past and to provide a framework for each composer’s future personal explorations. While the “Orchestration” class mostly focuses on the repertoire of the classical and romantic period, “Advanced Orchestration” will focus on the late romantic era and on the 20th and 21st centuries. The most recent techniques will also be studied, including micro-tonality, extended instrumental techniques, use of non-western or non-traditional instruments, live electronics and computer sounds. Practical questions such as notation, preparation of parts, rehearsing and performance issues will also be examined. Students will analyze selected excerpts from orchestral scores and will write sketches for various ensembles and orchestral formations.