Main Instrument C3 (Choral Conducting) (20cr)

Content

Type of course
Optional

Level of course
Professional studies

Objective of course
The student is capable of acting successfully as the artistic director of amateur choruses. The student has a sufficient conducting technique and musical skills to master demanding choral scores. The student is capable of independent and focused choral work, has the know-how to rehearse a choir efficiently, is capable of developing choral sound and planning the repertoire and activities of choirs. The student has a fair command of choral literature and understands the psychological laws governing choral singing. The student can utilise professional literature, research publications and his/her music analysis skills in developing his/her choral conducting skills. The student has the ability to approach information critically and has the capacity to draw conclusions from a scientific or professional basis. The student is capable of reflection, i.e. has the skill to assess his/her work analytically.

Course contents
Conducting technique: beat patterns, irregular rhythmic patterns, command of the use of the left hand, expressive and communicative use of conducting technique. Rehearsing a choir, giving the initial tones, warm-up, analysis of choral music and score-reading. A repertoire of 5-10 works that reflect different musical styles and periods and include demanding works as regards musical expression and form. Conducting and rehearsing with a capable chamber chorus.

Teaching methods
Individual lessons, group lessons, independent work and conducting the Näsin Ääni chamber choir.

Assessment methods
An examination in two parts. The first part includes playing a choral score written on four lines (normally SATB) a prima vista and giving initial tones. In the second part, the student rehearses a work new to the choir and conducts two to three pieces from the repertoire. The jury evaluates the examination and gives the student oral feedback. Peer review and self-evaluation.

Prerequisites
None

Required/Recommended reading
The level C repertoire for choral conducting. Other reading will be decided on during the course.

Name of lecturer(s)
Senior lecturer Kari Turunen.

Year of study
3.-4.

Semester
Autumn-spring

Language of instruction
Finnish