- Year of study: Two semesters, autumn and spring
- Final assessment: Assessments from course coordinators
- Language of tuition: Norwegian/English
Course description
The course provides an introduction to basso continuo on guitar and other historical instruments.
Through both practical and theoretical approaches, the student learns to understand, apply, and perform basso continuo in accordance with the stylistic ideals of the Baroque period.
The course focuses on the use of the guitar in a historical context and includes insight into how the principles of basso continuo can be applied to lute, theorbo, and Baroque guitar.
Basic skills in guitar playing and music reading are required to follow the course.
Course coordinator: Piano, Accompaniment, Guitar and Accordion Department
Learning objectives
Upon completion of the course, the students is expected to
- have a basic understanding of the principles of basso continuo and its historical context
- be able to read and apply basso continuo in both simple and moderately advanced forms
- understand stylistic differences in continuo practice from various parts of the Baroque period
- have experience with different historical guitars and approaches to tuning, ornamentation, and improvisation
- be able to participate as a continuo player in an ensemble or accompany soloists
Overview
The students will have the opportunity to play and explore historical instruments, both originals and replicas, and to develop techniques in collaboration with the course instructor and fellow students.
Topics include:
Introduction to basso continuo
- Historical context and development
- The function of basso continuo in 17th- and 18th-century music
Notation and realization
- Reading of figured bass
- Harmonic analysis and improvisation
Instrument-specific techniques
- The role of the guitar in Baroque music
- Tuning patterns and historical accuracy
- Ornamentation and expression of affect
Practical work
- Playing exercises with soloists and ensembles
- Repertoire studies from the Baroque period, with a focus on works by composers such as Monteverdi, De Visée, Vivaldi, and Bach
Structure
There are weekly classes throughout two semesters, with a combination of group instruction, practical workshops, ensemble work, and individual lessons.
Course requirements
Participation in the scheduled lessons is compulsory. Absence of more than 20% will normally lead to failure of the course.
The student is required to participate in at least one performance, either in an ensemble or solo format.
Final assessment
The course requirements must be approved for the student to receive a final assessment.
The student is assessed in relation to the course's learning objectives. Final assessment is made by two internal examiners, one of whom is normally the course's coordinator. Final assessment is expressed as pass/fail.
New assessment
Students failing the course will have to apply to re-follow the course for a new assessment. Students may only re-follow the course if there are available places.