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Orchestration I

This introductory course to instrumentation and orchestration covers the basics of writing for orchestral instruments, while also introducing students to the creative process of orchestral thinking. Through a combination of online self-learning modules, in-class demonstrations and workshops with performers, class discussion and score analysis, and readings of the students’ work by diverse ensembles, the students learn the intricacies of idiomatically writing for orchestral instruments and typical orchestral ensembles.
Course #
MPATC-UE 1088
Credits
3
Department
Music and Performing Arts Professions

Learning Outcomes

  • Goal 1: Write effectively and idiomatically for the most common instruments of the orchestra 
  • Goal 2: Describe the foundations of orchestral balance and writing 
  • Goal 3: Create orchestrations for various small orchestral ensembles 
  • Goal 4: Identify a foundational set of best orchestration practices 
  • Goal 5: Identify, describe, and analyze from an orchestration point of view examples from the orchestral literature that relate to the topics covered in the class

Course Content Overview

  • Introduction to the Orchestra
  • Introduction to Strings
  • Individual String Techniques
    • Violin
    • Viola
    • Cello
    • Contrabass
  • Writing a String Arrangement from Piano. 
  • Chord Balance and Voicing
  • Introduction to the Woodwind Choir
  • Individual Woodwind Techniques
    • Flute
    • Oboe
    • Clarinet
    • Bassoon
  • Score and Parts Preparation
  • Introduction to Brass
  • Writing for Horn

Professors

  • Justin N Dello Joio
  • Molly Joyce