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  3. Figured Bass Realisation 1

Figured Bass Realisation 1 (MUSI40103)

HonoursPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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Students in this class will learn how to realise at their instrument a figured bass from the seventeenth or eighteenth century in a stylish and idiomatic fashion. We first learn how to read simple figures before progressing to more complex ones. Attention will be paid to correct voice-leading, melodic and harmonic improvisation, and differentiating between the predominant national styles. This subject will be of interest to any keyboardist or harmony-generating instrumentalist who wishes to refine their contrapuntal skills and knowledge as well as learn how to participate effectively in over two centuries of repertoire.

Intended learning outcomes


  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principal developments in basso continuo styles and techniques
  • Realise at sight a moderately difficult piece of basso continuo
  • Develop foundational practical skills in the performance practice issues related to basso continuo
  • Interpret stylistic and historical factors that have influenced the culture of figured bass realization from the seventeenth century to now
  • Evaluate and criticise source materials and secondary literature in this field, as well as critique contemporaneous figured bass realisations
  • Critique and evaluate contemporaneous figured bass realisations

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should have developed:

  • a receptive attitude to new ideas
  • the capacity for independent and critical reflection
  • knowledge, skills and practices required for independent critical inquiry and research-based writing and presentation
  • the ability to identify and critically analyse primary source materials

Last updated: 3 November 2022