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Contents & notes: what this topic covers
Under Elementary Composition, the JAMB Music syllabus expects you to study:
- 7. Elementary Composition
- (a) Setting of words to written melody
- (b) Recognition of suitable answers to given musical phrases
- (c) Two-part free counterpoint.
- SECTION C: HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF AFRICAN MUSIC
Study notes & guidance
Study Elementary Composition using a recommended Music textbook that follows the JAMB syllabus. Work through the contents listed above one by one, make brief notes in your own words, and then practise as many questions on this topic as you can — in Music, understanding and steady practice matter far more than memorising. Use the objectives below as a checklist: if you can do each one confidently, you have mastered this topic.
Objectives — candidates should be able to
After studying Elementary Composition, you should be able to:
- Identify suitable melody to given words, compatible, balanced or contrasting phrases.
- Identify the basic rules of two-part writing (counterpoint).
These objectives are from the official JAMB syllabus. Use them as a checklist — if you can do each one confidently, you have mastered this topic.
Source: official JAMB UTME Music syllabus (IBASS, jamb.gov.ng). Reproduced for study use. Last checked: 17 Sept 2026. Always confirm the current syllabus on the official portal.
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