Module: MUS4000-20 Performance 1

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Adam Biggs

Module Tutor Contact Details: A.Biggs@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module develops your performance skills on a principal instrument/voice. You will also develop aural, ensemble, score-reading, improvisation and directing skills and you are required to relate aural and stylistic awareness to performance in order to develop the critical and analytical skills required for effectively critiquing performance. The module also introduces issues of performance practice and repertoire from early music to the present day. The module is intended for classical, jazz and musical theatre performers.

The module aims to:

• Equip you with sound musicianship skills
• Work towards technical assurance on your instrument/voice
• Enable you to work successfully in large ensemble/choir rehearsals and public performances
• Extend your knowledge of repertoire and performance practice on your instrument/voice

2. Outline syllabus:

You have individual tuition on a first study together with weekly workshops to develop performance-related skills including sight-reading, sol fa, score-reading, ensemble playing, conducting, ensemble directing, improvisation and memorising. You will also explore issues to do with repertoire and performance practice in a weekly lecture - western art music, jazz, contemporary styles, and musical theatre repertoire and performance practice. Alongside the development of individual instrumental/vocal skills, you will gain experience in the preparation of concert performances, through weekly ensemble rehearsals, and will gain self-confidence, self-awareness and communication, through formative assessment in weekly workshops. The workshops will also develop skills in musicianship, through aural awareness exercises. Further, workshops/lectures aim to relate aural awareness and analytical insight to performance, in order to develop the critical and analytical skills required for effectively critiquing performance.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

• A weekly workshop - musicianship and performance skills
• A weekly lecture - Western art music, jazz and musical theatre repertoire and performance practice
• Individual instrumental/vocal lessons
• Ensemble rehearsal and performance

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Technical with presentation
• % Weighting: 80%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Ensembles (attendance pass/fail)
• % Weighting: 20%