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  3. Figured Bass Realisation 1

Figured Bass Realisation 1 (MUSI30257)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Southbank)

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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

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • 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.

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: 8 November 2024