Music Assignment

Being a good listener is important no matter what path in life you take.  One of the best ways to “study” music is by repeated listening.  You probably have a favorite book, movie, or song you like to listen to over and over again. When you repeat that activity you are able to pick up on something you might have missed the first time.  It is through repeated encounters that we gain familiarity and appreciation.

How to listen

1st time: Actively listen to the piece. Be Still and Be Quiet, No distractions!

2nd time: Listen and follow along with the provided listening guide from the module.

Next: Think about questions in your journal entry from what you have just heard

3rd time: Listen and fill out the entry form below while listening and reflecting.  

Rules and Requirements for Journal

1. You will need to fill out 5 separate journal entries from the list below. (Blank Journal Entry Form)

1. Focus Compositions of the Renaissance  5 must be from the Focus compositions or listening guides in this module. 2 pieces must be from the sacred music list and 2 from the secular music list, 
   • Sacred MuicLinks to an external site.
     • Ave Maria…Virgo Serena, by Josquin des PrezLinks to an external site.
     • Kyrie from “Missa Papae Marcelli” (Pope Marcellus Mass), by Giovanni Pieruigi da Palestrina Links to an external site.
     • A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” by Martin LutherLinks to an external site.
     • “Sing Joyfully Unto God,” by William ByrdLinks to an external site.
   • Secular Music 
     • “Fair Phyllis” by John Farmer
     • “As Vesta Was From Latmos Hill Descending,” by Thomas WeelkesLinks to an external site.
     • “Kemp’s Jig,” Anonymous danceLinks to an external site.

B. Journal Entry: In each Journal entry fill out the following information

• Composer: 
• Composition: 
• Time Period: 
• Genre: 
• Purpose of the piece or what is the piece about: 
• Reflection: Answer 3 reflection prompts from “C” below. 

C.  Answer at least 3 of the reflection prompts. Back up your reflection using musical terms and examples. Reflect. Points will be taken off if you just answer the question in a bullet point without explaining or examples of what led you to your answer. This will be at least 3 sentences per prompt. 

• What is the main message or mood of this music, based on your listening experience?
• Which music aspects work together to provide the message you heard?
• What changes seem to happen as the music moves forward? In these changes, what things do you notice about the message of the music?
• Do any of the changing music elements add to the emotion you feel in this music or the message, mood, idea, or storyline?
• Does the music remind you of anything? Back up with examples

2. Click Terms to use  Download Terms to usefor more examples of using terms when reflecting on the music. Also see Modules 1-3 for more terms to use when reflecting on the music. 

3. You will have up to 2 attempts and can resubmit. See rubric for grading.

Example:  Use for each Journal entry

Composer: Haydn 

Composition: String Quartet in D major, Op. 20, no. 4 (I: Allegro di molto)

Time Period:  Classical

Genre: string quartet

Purpose of the piece or what is the piece about: (Is there a purpose, was it written for something or about something?): 

The string quartet was written for entertainment.  It is designed for a small more intimate feel between musicians and the audience. 

Reflections:  At least 3 full sentences. Use musical terms (See below) and back up your thoughts with details of the music.

**Student reflections examples:  Use musical terms (See below) and back up your thoughts with details of the music. 

Which music aspects work together to provide the message you heard? (a piece from Middle Ages) 
“The a capella in this piece is mostly monophonic, bringing a sense of togetherness and adding an almost angelic sound to the singing. The conjunct melody makes it very easy to listen to making everything flow very smoothly. It is a very pleasing song to listen to that is easy on the ear.”

Does the music remind you of anything? Give examples and links if possible.
This piece reminded me of “Vuelie” by Frode Fjellheim because of the way there are different parts that at times slowly come together to create harmony across all the different voices. The voices then separate into their own parts again until they come into harmony together again. “Vuelie” does feature percussion unlike “Angus Dei” but the usage of the voices I believe can be compared in a number of ways. Both also sound perfect for a church setting.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=schn6IIJd-U