Short Learning Programme in Foundation Music Theory

Qualification Code

• 76998

Duration

• Semester course

Language Medium

• English

Target Group

The programme is designed for students with a Senior Certificate who lack specialized knowledge in music history and theory. This includes:

• Members of the choral music community in South Africa
• Professional or aspiring musicians without formal qualifications
• Individuals seeking foundational knowledge in music history and theory, and those aiming for entry into the Bachelor of Music degree.

Admission Requirements

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate

Purpose Statement

The purpose of the Music Foundations Short Learning Programme (SLP) is to:

• Provide music training to practicing and aspiring musicians, facilitating their participation in the music industry.
• Enable alternative access to the Bachelor of Music (BMus) degree, thereby increasing enrollment and offering a more relevant service to a diverse segment of society.
• Promote open access by removing barriers to admission to the BMus degree.

Modules

PRMF01Q - Foundations of Music History

Syllabus/Content:

• Study Unit 1: Introduction to Music History
• Study Unit 2: Writing about Music
• Study Unit 3: Musical Instruments
• Study Unit 4: Early Music and the Baroque
• Study Unit 5: Classical Music
• Study Unit 6: Romantic Music
• Study Unit 7: Twentieth Century Music
• Study Unit 8: Jazz and Popular Music
• Study Unit 9: African Music
• Study Unit 10: South African Music

PRMF02R - Foundations in Music Theory Part 1

Syllabus/Content:

• Notation of Pulse, Metre, Duration and Rhythm, including:
  • Beat, Tempo, Metre, Bars and Barlines
  • Time Signatures, Durational Symbols, Notes and Rests
  • Additional Time Signatures, Grouping Strong and Weak Beats
  • Rhythmic Dissonance, Articulation, Dynamics, Tempo
• Pitch Notation, including:
  • Clefs, Ledger Lines, Tones and Semi-tones
  • Accidentals, Intervals, Scales, Key Signatures, Root Position Triads

PRMF03S - Foundations of Music Theory Part 2

Syllabus/Content:

• Secondary Triads
• Roman Numeral Melody Writing
• Voice-Leading and Harmonic Progression
• Dominant 7th Chords
• Secondary Dominant Chords
• Passing, Auxiliary, Arpeggiated and Cadential 6/4 Chords
• Modulation

University of South Africa

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Overview:

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa and the longest-standing dedicated distance education university in the world. It is a public university with a global reach, enrolling nearly one-third of South African students.

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Services Offered:

Unisa offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Online learning platform:

Unisa provides a comprehensive online learning platform, myUnisa, which allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with lecturers, and participate in online discussions.

Student support services:

Unisa offers various support services to students, such as academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and disability support.

Library resources:

Unisa has a vast library collection, accessible both online and through physical branches, providing students with access to a wide range of books, journals, and other research materials.

Regional centers:

Unisa has regional centers across South Africa, offering students access to physical learning spaces, support services, and opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

As a distance learning institution, Unisa's campus experience is primarily online. Students can expect to engage with their studies through online platforms, participate in virtual discussions, and connect with fellow students through online forums. While there are limited opportunities for face-to-face interaction, Unisa offers regional centers and occasional events that provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers and faculty.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Accessibility:

Unisa offers flexible and accessible learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds and locations.

Global reach:

Unisa's online platform allows students from around the world to access its programs and resources.

Wide range of qualifications:

Unisa offers a diverse range of qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, covering various disciplines.

Affordable education:

Unisa strives to provide affordable education options for students, with various financial aid programs available.

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Academic Programs:

Unisa offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting Sciences

Agriculture & Environmental Sciences

Economic & Management Sciences

Education

College of Graduate Studies

Human Sciences

Law

Science, Engineering & Technology

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Other:

Unisa is committed to research and innovation, with a focus on addressing societal challenges and contributing to the development of Africa. The university has several research institutes and chairs, and its researchers are actively involved in various national and international collaborations. Unisa also has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach, working to make a positive impact on the communities it serves.