Unit: Ensemble D1

Code: P1ED1
Points: 2

Unit Description:

This unit is the first of 2 Diploma level ensembles and provides an opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble.

 

Contemporary:

Through a range contemporary popular styles - such as blues, rock, jazz R&B and Latin- students will enhance their peformance skills. In addition, transposition, interpretation, sight-reading, ensemble direction, accompaniment and rehearsal techniques will be developed, in a small ensemble setting.

 

Classical:

The Classical ensemble units provide students with practical experience in the rehearsal, study and performance of ensemble music, including but not limited to chamber, guitar and vocal ensemble repertoire. Students will develop the fundamental skills required when performing with other musicians and explore interpretive and collaborative skills in a relatively independent setting. Throughout the course emphasis will be placed on the progressive development of skills such as accuracy of pitch and rhythm, effective phrasing, articulation, projection, vocal technique, tempo and balance.

 

Music Theatre:

The Music Theatre Ensemble units provide students with skills necessary for ensemble singing, back-up vocals and session singing. Students are taught sight-reading skills, vocal arranging, as well as group singing skills such as blending, internal balance and synchronicity of tone. Students perform in a large ensemble, in a specialised showcase ensemble and provide backing vocals for soloists. The different vocal techniques necessary for live singing and studio singing are developed.

 

Arts Management/Audio/Composition

Students from within the Arts Management/Audio/Composition departments have several options for ensemble units.

1.  ACAMPA vocal ensemble: The class will work on vocal skills, vocal styles, sight-reading, rehearsal techniques and ensemble performance. For Diploma and BMus students.

face to face practical workshop

2.  ACAMPA Afro-Cuban Ensemble: The class will explore a variety of Afro-Cuban styles focussing on rhythmic ensemble, sight-reading and rehearsal techniques. For BMus 3-6 students not undertaking another ensemble option.

3.  Contemporary or Classical Ensemble by audition If successful they are required to fulfil the requirements set out for those ensembles. (see details above)

4.  Electronic Music Ensemble – audition/interview with Head of Music Production. Student must have their own equipment and some experience. Students will develop skills and strategies for improvisation with electronics and computer software, and explore solutions to notation and documentation for this performance format.

5.  Recording Ensemble – by application to CMP co-ordinator (BMus 4,5 and 6 only). The focus is on teamwork - managing resources (people, studios, time, inevitable obstacles) to realise a recording project outcomes.

Pre-Requisites: None

Available To: Core for all Dip of Music students