This music course is an activity-based exploration of the deep relationship between music and mathematics. Students will investigate pitch, rhythm, and composition to see how musical phenomena can be described mathematically. Using mathematical strategies students will analyze musical compositions from ancient music, through the classical eras, up to today's popular music. Each activity is designed to help students hone their problem solving skills while mastering academic content.

Students engage in hands-on musical exploration to discover the physical workings of sound production and to use their knowledge to compose create their own compositions. Each musical exploration will be accompanied by an extension focusing on strengthening a specific math skill ranging from fractions to data analysis. No previous musical experience is required.

General Format - Students will engage in a math activity targeting a specific musical concept complemented by an extension activity focusing on a specific math skill. Each class will follow the general outline:

a. music exploration

b. math extension

c. reflection and discussion

Schedule - Musical Mathematics is a 20-hour workshop with a 2-hour meeting time.  

Student Responsibilities - Students will be shown proper handling of tools and instruments and will be expected to adhere to class guidelines.

In between each meeting, we ask that students continue to work on their math and music skills through problem sets we will provide. Students are expected to work independently and in small groups.  Students are expected to record their activities and problem solving methods.