Module: MUS5102-20 Stage Skills for Singers 1

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Maria Garcia

Module Tutor Contact Details: m.garcia@bathspa.ac.uk

Please note that this module is a pre-requisite for the Level 6 module MUS6101-20 Stage Skills for Singers 2.

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Stage Skills for Singers is an introduction for vocal performers to acting, stagecraft and performance etiquette. The aim is to introduce singers to the processes of acting required for vocal performance, including understanding physicality and gesture and the identification and interpretation of a character both in solo and ensemble work. You will work on a poem, monologue and small ensemble pieces as well as vocal excerpts/scenes from the musical theatre repertoire. You will also keep a reflective journal recording process, choice of repertory and writer and textual context. There is a presentation of work open to a student audience.

This module supports singers taking Opera Project 1.

The module aims to:

• Develop core acting skills in both solo and ensemble settings

• Explore the interplay between spoken and sung texts

• Develop a considered approach to rehearsal and performance processes

2. Outline syllabus:

Weekly workshops introduce:

• Identifying and interpreting a character

• Spoken voice health and projection

• The physicality of acting

• Understanding gesture

• Ensemble acting – choral clumping

• Vocal excerpts

• You will keep a journal reflecting on repertoire, text and process.

3. Teaching and learning activities

A weekly three-hour workshop where you will work on core acting skills and perform to the group each week. These sessions lead to regular formative assessment performances (F.1 and S.1) before a final summative performance at the end of the course (S.1).

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Performance

• % Weighting: 60%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Journal (c. 2000 words)

• % Weighting: 40%