This course will guide participants through the orchestration process, with an emphasis on achieving maximum brilliance, clarity, and expressivity. Each class focuses on a different section of the orchestra, using the techniques of renowned composers as models for study and practical application.
Class 1 – John Williams: Strings
Using the string section to create motion and musical interest from static chords, exploring texture, voicing, articulation, and rhythmic activity.
Class 2 – Alexandre Desplat & Aaron Copland: Woodwinds
Creating solo, ensemble, and rhythmic woodwind textures, with the addition of string ostinatos to provide movement, contrast, and support.
Class 3 – Bernard Herrmann & James Newton Howard: Brass
Writing effectively for brass, with an emphasis on chordal writing, ostinatos, accents, solos, rhythmic figures, balance, and orchestral power.
Class 4 – Danny Elfman: Full Orchestra
Bringing all the orchestral families together while exploring some of Elfman’s characteristic approaches, including unusual instrumental colors, dissonant harmonies, strong rhythmic writing, percussion, and dramatic contrasts in texture and register.
Prerequisites
Participants should have entry-level knowledge
of orchestral instruments and their basic capabilities, a basic understanding of orchestration and notation, and basic proficiency with Dorico, Sibelius, or MuseScore.
Dates (all times are ET)
30 minute online Introduction: Tuesday 12 January 2027 at 6pm ET
Class 1: Tuesday 19 January 2027 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm ET
Class 2: Tuesday 26 January 2027 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm ET
Class 3: Tuesday 2 February 2027 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm ET
Class 4: Tuesday 9 February 2027 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm ET
