Newcastle University

Aims

1. to engage in a high level programme of instrument or vocal performance
2. consolidate and develop musical technical, expressive and critical skills in performance practice.
3. demonstrate professional attitude and practice in preparation and performance.

Original Summary:
By the end of this module you should have acquired: knowledge of performance practice issues stemming from the studied repertoire; knowledge, including an appropriate degree of memorisation, of the pieces learnt during the year; awareness of professional performance standards (e.g. presentation, preparation, programme notes). Because of the nature of instrumental study, tuition primarily takes place in one-to-one sessions with an external (approved) instrumental / vocal tutor (assigned to the student by the module leader and/or one of the heads of instrumental studies). Students are also required to attend some internal sessions (workshops) which might consist of instrumental master classes, or guidance on performance formats etc. One-to-one tutorials are available with the module leader(s) in order for students to discuss their programmes. Time spent in supporting activities strengthens students' teamwork, and broadens their interpretative flexibility. Assessment: An interim recital, (20% ) and end of year performance of no more than 40 minutes duration, together with appropriate accompanying documentation (programme notes, self-assessment and teacher's report) (80%). In addition, formative assessment includes an initial programme proposal and an extended outline proposal.

Outline Of Syllabus

In a series 17 of one hour one-to-one lessons with a specialist instrumental or vocal tutor, supplemented by occasional workshops with Heads of Studies and guest tutors, as well as approximately 380 hours of private study, students prepare two public recitals: one 15 minute interim recital (Semester 1) and one 40 minute final recital (Semester 2). A performance diary, self assessment report and tutor's reports are submitted to the final assessment panel

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Individual lessons are the forum for the development of appropriate technical and interpretative skills. Group classes (master classes, ensemble rehearsals and performances, performance workshops etc.) provide forums for further developing a range of performing, rehearsing and ensemble skills.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The formative project proposals requires creative research and reflection and the formulation of a plan of study leading to two professional level performances. Public recitals provide a forum in which to display technical, musical, expressive and presentational skills developed in the course of the module.
Your tutor's report, self-assessment report, and performance studies diary will be available to the assessment panel for consultation at the time of your end-of-year recital.