This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module will focus upon the development of stagecraft skills (practical and artistic), supported by an understanding of psychological strategies which can streamline practice sessions and optimise performance. Students will study the key elements of professionalism in performance, including artistic communication/audience relationship; pace, choreography & stage management; control of technology; adjustment to context/venues. Skills and understanding are promoted through individual instrumental lessons and through performance workshops which provide a weekly forum for discussion and feedback. Students will work towards a 5-6 minute final performance assessment and submit a written review that critiques stagecraft issues (practical and artistic) in relation to 2 professional performances they have attended as audience members.
Total Contact Hours: 27
Private Study Hours: 123
Total Study Hours: 150
Main Assessment Methods
Contribution to Workshops – 20%
Written Review of Two performances (750 words) – 20%
Final Public Performance (5-6 minutes) – 60%
Reassessment Methods
- Like-for-like
Indicative Reading List:
Green, B & Gallwey, T. (2003). The Inner Game of Music. London: Pan Books
Harnum, J. (2014). The Practice of Practice: Get Better Faster. Chicago: Sol Ut Press.
Kageyama, N. (2017). The Bulletproof Musician Blog.
Available at http://www.bulletproofmusician.com/
Parncutt R. & McPherson, G. (2002). The Science and Psychology of Music Performance: Creative Strategies for Teaching and Learning. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Werner, K. (1996). Effortless Mastery: Liberating the Master Musician Within. New Albany: Jamie Aebersold Jazz.
Williamson, A. (2004). Strategies and Techniques for Enhancing Performance. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an awareness of key practical and artistic features of successful professional performances;
2. Demonstrate an appropriate level of performance skill on their principal instrument of study;
3. Communicate music using musicianship, technique and stylistic language;
4. Utilise a range of psychological techniques in their practice regime such as distributed practice, mental rehearsal and strategies for individual practice.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Be self-critical of work in progress, responding to the critical insights of others and investigating and assessing alternative methods and techniques;
2. Prioritise tasks and work efficiently on a project over an extended period of time;
3. Demonstrate flexibility of thought and an openness to new thinking.
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