Course description
The course is held during Years 1 and 2 and offers an introduction to practice methods, occupational physiology, performance preparation and stage awareness.
Learning objectives
On completion of this course, the student is expected to
- be able to perform music in different settings and introduce it to an audience
- master appropriate techniques for learning and practising repertoire, performance preparation and preventing strain injuries
Contents
Occupational physiology:
- knowledge of and practical exercises in the correct use of the body to prevent strain injury
Practice methods:
- practice methodologies
- mental practice and memorisation
Stage awareness and performance preparation:
- practical stage training, feedback and discussion
- training in audience communication, both musical and verbal
- planning and executing performance situations
- mental techniques/strategies for preparing public performances/concerts
- concerts as a platform for learning
The NMH may also organise various voluntary courses / specialist seminars over the course of the year on topics such as musicians’ health, performance preparation, freelancing, industry knowledge etc.
Structure
A variety of working methods and set-ups will be used.
Occupational physiology:
- in groups in Year 1
Practice methods:
- in groups in the first year of the course
Stage awareness and performance preparation:
- lectures/workshops in small groups in Year 2
- coaching in smaller groups ahead of the exam concert in the fourth semester
Students are automatically enrolled for the course and exam in accordance with the progression described in the education plan.
For a summary of expected progression, teaching hours and structure, please see the “Structure” section of the relevant programme of study.
Course requirements
Attendance is mandatory. This means that if the student has 20% attendance or less, they will normally fail the course.
Final assessment
All course requirements must be met in order for the student to be given a final assessment.
The student will be judged on the basis of the learning objectives for the course. The final assessment is expressed in the form of a pass/fail and is determined on the basis of the student’s level of skill upon completion of the course.
If the student fails to pass, they must retake the course.
Last updated: 4 July 2019