Contemporay Arranging Techniques 2

This course is a continuation of Contemporary Arranging Techniques 1. It provides students with the necessary skills to write and orchestrate in diverse styles of music for ensembles consisting of a rhythm section, up to three mixed brass and reeds, lead vocal, and up to three background vocalists. Through interactive classroom learning, in-depth listening and analysis of exemplary stylistic models, arranging assignments, live performance of their charts and in-class critiques of their arrangements, students gain the ability to arrange in Latin, Brazilian, Afro-Cuban, and Afro-Caribbean styles. In the second half of the semester, styles involving a combination of sequenced virtual instruments and "live" vocal and instrumental performance will be emphasized (e.g., Contemporary pop-rock, R&B, and hip-hop). The course culminates in a complete song-length arrangement combining "live" and virtual instruments.