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Beginning composition students are encouraged to realize their musical conceptions. Basic concepts introduced include pitch and scale organization, meter, rhythm, interval, chord, tone color, motive, phrase, melody and texture. Rudiments of counterpoint, harmony, instrumentation and standard forms are considered, with emphasis on the balance between repetition and contrast. Specific exercises are given, but students are also encouraged to write freely and to develop a style of their own. Compositions are performed in class when possible. Prerequisite: some basic knowledge of standard music notation and a desire to compose.