Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2024 - CA 249 D100

Selected Topics in Music I (3)

Songwriting Lab

Class Number: 7775

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    CA (or FPA) 140 and/or prior approval.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A specific topic in music which is not otherwise covered in-depth in regular courses. The work may be practical, theoretical or a combination of the two, depending on the particular topic in a given term. May repeat for credit. Students with credit for FPA 249 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

A creation course focused on songwriting. Students will work primarily individually, with some collaborative exercises and assignments. The aim of the course is to aid students in discovery of their own creative process in regard to making songs. The definition of "song" will be discussed and defined collectively by the group. Students will generate ideas through exercise and experimentation and will complete a small collection of songs by course end. No musical training is required.

Grading

  • Active participation and attendance 30%
  • Songwriting exercises and readings  40%
  • Song completion  30%

NOTES:

PARTICIPATION:
- Offer thoughtful contributions to class discussions
- Engage actively with all stages of the individual and collective creation processes
- Prepare thoroughly as needed for all presentations and working sessions 
 
ATTENDANCE:
- Attendance to all class time is mandatory and tardiness is not permitted.
- 3 late arrivals of more than 5 minutes equals one absence.
- Each un-excused absence lowers your grade by a full degree (A becomes A-).
 
GRADING OF CREATIVE PROJECTS
- Growth over the course of the term
- Originality / creativity / risk taking
- Attention to detail (both creative and practical)
- Collaborative strength (when applicable)
 

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.