Video Replay – Approaching the Teaching of Composition Pragmatically

Video Replay – Approaching the Teaching of Composition Pragmatically

David Paterson presents Approaching the Teaching of Composition Pragmatically and discusses:

  • Putting the art of composition into context
  • Role of the Teacher
  • Using extant models
  • Addressing curriculum requirements

I will be using an autoethnographic approach for the presentation of my ideas, which is designed to empower and validate a variety of teaching methods. I've heard many music educators state that teaching composition is the most difficult discipline to teach. I argue that this need not necessarily be the case. Through the lessons learned during my experiences as an educator and composer, I intend to present an approach to the teaching of composition that deals with the common challenges and potential barriers that face many teachers.

About the Presenter

David Paterson

David has become established as one of the next generation of critically acclaimed Australian composers with past commissions including: Introduction and Rondo for small orchestra (Sydney Symphony Orchestra Sinfonia) 2009, The Legend of Nintendo for String Quartet (Ensemble Urbane) 2012, Tasting Notes (Tarrawarra Estate Yarra Valley) 2014, Septet (Melbourne Ensemble for ABC Classics) 2020, Quartettsätze, Scherzo, and String Quartet No.1 (Australian String Quartet) 2016, 2020, and 2022 respectively. As a pianist, David has performed in many of the major concert halls and venues in Australia, Romania, and the United Kingdom as both a soloist and alongside a list of esteemed soloists and chamber groups. As a musicologist, David has presented his research at numerous international conferences from Adelaide to Cambridge. As a composer, his works have enjoyed multiple performances by eminent soloists, ensembles, and orchestras worldwide. And as an educator, David has taught at primary through to tertiary levels within both the private and public sectors as a passionate advocate for quality music education.

First Thursdays

These regular professional development sessions were originally the brainchild of MTA Member Annette Allerding, who wanted music teachers to be able to meet and share ideas. Originally named Keys, Cakes and Conversation (KCC) the group went online during Covid, and eventually reached numbers often in excess of 50 teachers, meeting each month on Zoom. The Music Teachers' Association of NSW is delighted to bring these sessions into our fold. We want the sessions to continue to be free to our members, but we also believe it is important to pay presenters for their valuable time. So we ask you to consider a giving a donation towards the costs if you are able. You will be given the option to donate when you book your place.

The event is finished.