Songs in the Key of Wonder

MTH4148.01
Course System Home Terms Spring 2023 Songs in the Key of Wonder

Course Description

Summary

Songs in the Key of Wonder: In this songwriting seminar based on the classic 1973 release “Innervisions”, and the 1976 release, “Songs in the Key of Life”, students will examine the melodic and harmonic chord progressions that Stevie Wonder used in composing these landmark recordings. Using music theory, form analysis, and contrafacts (i.e., composing a new melody over a familiar song), students will inspect select songs while strengthening their theoretical tools. For the final, students will use these progressions to create their own original songs and/or instrumental compositions in the styling of Stevie Wonder. An end of term presentation of students prerecorded work will be scheduled on Bennington College’s radio ‘BRAD’. Live performance options can be presented at Music Workshop.

Prerequisites

Instructions in voice, keyboard, guitar, brass, wind, drum set, or composition is preferred. Auditions are by appointment Nov 17-22. Email mwimberly@bennington.edu to schedule.

Please contact the faculty member : mwimberly@bennington.edu

Corequisites

Music Workshop

Instructor

  • Michael Wimberly

Day and Time

Academic Term

Spring 2023

Area of Study

Credits

2

Course Level

4000

Maximum Enrollment

15