Academy for Vocal Performance Course Descriptions
Course Title: Vocal Performance Ensemble .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Instructor placement approval required
Vocal Ensemble provides singers with the opportunity to participate in a collaborative vocal ensemble, focusing on the preparation and performance of choral and small group works. Students will explore a diverse range of repertoire, from classical and contemporary choral music to jazz, gospel, and world music. Emphasis will be placed on vocal technique, blending, harmony, and ensemble dynamics, as well as performance skills. Through regular rehearsals and guided instruction, students will develop their musicianship and stage presence, culminating in a live performance at the end of the course. This course is designed for vocalists seeking to improve their individual proficiency, develop a deeper understanding of choral music, and gain valuable performance experience.
Course Objectives:
- Develop vocal ensemble performance skills, including blending, intonation, and harmony
- Explore and perform diverse repertoire from various genres and musical traditions
- Enhance individual vocal technique within an ensemble setting
- Improve sight-singing and musical interpretation abilities
- Build confidence and stage presence through live performances
Course Title: Piano I .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Piano I is designed for students with little to no prior experience playing the piano. This course covers the fundamentals of piano playing, including basic music theory, note reading, proper hand positioning, rhythm, and technique. Students will learn to play simple melodies, scales, chords, and progressions, as well as develop skills in sight-reading and ear training. Emphasis is placed on building a strong musical foundation, fostering creativity, and encouraging personal expression through music. Students will have the opportunity to perform individually and in small groups, allowing them to gain confidence in their playing abilities.
Course Objectives:
- Learn the basics of piano technique, including posture, hand positioning, and finger movement.
- Read and interpret music notation, including treble and bass clefs.
- Develop rhythmic accuracy and timing through scales, chords, and simple pieces.
- Understand and apply basic music theory concepts, such as scales, key signatures, and chord progressions.
- Cultivate listening skills for musical interpretation.
- Perform beginner-level piano pieces with expression and confidence.
Course Title: Piano II .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Piano I or instructor approval
Piano II is a continuation of Piano I, designed for students with foundational piano skills who seek to advance their technique and musicianship. This course focuses on more complex repertoire, intermediate music theory, and further development of sight-reading, ear training, and expressive performance. Students will explore a wider range of styles, from classical to contemporary, while learning more advanced scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions. Students will refine their technical skills, develop dynamic control, and improve their ability to interpret musical compositions with greater depth. Individual and group performances will provide opportunities for students to showcase their progress and gain confidence as musicians.
Course Objectives:
- Master intermediate piano techniques, including complex fingerings, hand independence, and pedal use.
- Read and interpret more advanced music notation, including multiple key signatures and rhythmic variations.
- Explore intermediate music theory, including chord inversions, harmonic analysis, and modulation.
- Develop advanced sight-reading skills.
- Perform a variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and popular genres.
- Demonstrate increased confidence and expression in both solo and group performances.
Course Title: Ear Training I .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Ear Training I is designed to develop students' aural skills, enabling them to recognize, understand, and reproduce musical elements by ear. The course focuses on the fundamental aspects of pitch, rhythm, intervals, and chords through both listening exercises and vocal/instrumental practice. Students will learn to identify and transcribe melodies, harmonies, and rhythms, enhancing their overall musicianship and ability to perform, compose, and analyze music. Students will engage in sight-singing, rhythmic dictation, and melodic and harmonic dictation.
Course Objectives:
- Develop the ability to identify and sing intervals, scales, and basic chord structures.
- Improve rhythmic accuracy and recognition through clapping and vocal exercises.
- Transcribe simple melodies and harmonic progressions by ear.
- Enhance sight-singing skills using solfège and other techniques.
- Recognize and understand basic musical forms and structures through listening exercises.
- Build a strong foundation for further study in music theory and performance.
Course Title: Ear Training II .5 Credit
Prerequisites: Ear Training I or instructor approval
Ear Training II builds upon the foundational skills learned in Ear Training I, guiding students toward more advanced aural comprehension and musicianship. This course focuses on refining the ability to recognize and transcribe more complex musical elements, including advanced intervals, extended chord structures, and intricate rhythms. Students will also improve their sight-singing using more challenging melodic material and work with multi-part harmonies and modulations. Students will deepen their understanding of melodic and harmonic progression in various musical styles.
Course Objectives:
- Accurately identify and sing advanced intervals, scales, and seventh chords.
- Transcribe more complex melodies and harmonic progressions, including modulations and non-diatonic chords.
- Improve sight-singing skills with more challenging melodies in different keys and meters.
- Recognize and reproduce syncopated and compound rhythms through dictation and performance.
- Analyze harmonic progressions and voice leading in multi-part music.
- Strengthen aural skills essential for advanced music theory, composition, and performance.
Course Title: Music Theory I .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Music Theory is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts that shape Western music. This course covers essential topics such as notation, scales, intervals, key signatures, rhythm, harmony, and form. Students will learn to analyze and compose music using these principles, developing both their technical skills and creative abilities. Students will engage in composing, harmonizing melodies, and analyzing various musical works across different genres.
Course Objectives:
- Understand and apply fundamental music theory concepts such as scales, intervals, key signatures, and chords.
- Analyze musical structures, including melody, harmony, rhythm, and form.
- Develop skills in harmonization and voice leading.
- Compose simple melodies and harmonic progressions.
- Enhance aural skills through ear training, including interval and chord identification.
- Improve sight-singing abilities to connect theoretical knowledge with performance.
Course Title: Music History .5 Credit
Prerequisites: None
Music History offers an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse history of music, from ancient times to the present day. Students will journey through key periods such as the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern eras, learning about the evolution of musical styles, forms, and cultural contexts. By examining the lives and works of influential composers and musicians, students will gain insight into how historical events, societal changes, and technological advancements have shaped the development of music.
Course Objectives:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the chronological development of Western music
- Identify key musical forms, genres, and styles from different historical periods
- Analyze the social, cultural, and political factors that influenced the evolution of music
- Develop critical listening and analytical skills through study of representative musical works
- Explore the impact of major composers and performers on music history
Course Title: Songwriting/Theory .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
Music Composition/Songwriting offers students a hands-on introduction to the art of composition and songwriting, providing the tools to create original music across a range of styles and genres. Students will explore key elements of melody, harmony, rhythm, and song structure, while also developing their own unique creative voice. Students will compose original works, both instrumental and vocal, and learn techniques for writing effective lyrics, arranging, and orchestrating. This course is ideal for aspiring composers and songwriters looking to express their creativity and craft original music.
Course Objectives:
- Develop skills in composing original music and writing songs
- Understand and apply key elements of song structure, melody, harmony, and rhythm
- Explore lyric writing and its relationship to music
- Learn arranging techniques and how to effectively orchestrate compositions
- Refine compositions through peer review and guided instruction
Course Title: Dance Performance Ensemble .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Instructor placement approval required
Dance Ensemble provides an exciting opportunity for dancers to collaborate and create within a dynamic ensemble setting. Students will explore a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, hip-hop, lyrical, musical theater, and world dance forms, while focusing on developing their technical skills, artistic expression, and teamwork. Through regular rehearsals, students will learn choreography, refine their performance abilities, and participate in the creation of original works. Emphasis will be placed on collaboration, improvisation, and the creative process, culminating in live performances that showcase the ensemble's talent and creativity.
Course Objectives:
- Develop technical dance skills across multiple styles
- Enhance performance quality, including stage presence and expression
- Collaborate with peers to create original choreography and group works
- Engage in the creative process through improvisation and experimentation
- Participate in live performances, demonstrating growth as a dancer and ensemble member
Course Title: Acting I .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: None
Acting I is an introductory course designed to immerse students in the fundamental techniques and principles of acting. This course emphasizes the development of skills essential for effective performance, including voice control, body awareness, improvisation, character analysis, and emotional expression. Through a combination of exercises, scene work, and collaborative projects, students will learn to connect with their characters and communicate authentic emotions on stage. The course will also explore the basics of script analysis and the importance of collaboration in performance.
Course Objectives:
- Develop foundational acting techniques, including voice, movement, and improvisation
- Enhance emotional expressiveness and the ability to inhabit a character
- Learn to analyze scripts and understand character motivations
- Collaborate effectively with peers in scene work and group exercises
- Build confidence in public speaking and performance through regular practice
Course Title: Show Production .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: None
Show Production is an in-depth exploration of the creative and technical aspects of live show production. Students will learn how to plan, organize, and execute live performances, including concerts, theater productions, and other events. Key topics include stage design, lighting, sound engineering, set construction, and production management. Students will gain practical experience in coordinating all elements of a live show, from pre-production to performance. This course is designed for students interested in the behind-the-scenes work of live performances, offering valuable skills for careers in the entertainment industry, event management, and technical production.
Course Objectives:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the live show production process
- Learn the technical aspects of sound, lighting, and stage design
- Develop project management and organizational skills for event production
- Collaborate with a team to produce a live performance
- Understand the role of production in enhancing the audience’s experience
Course Title: Professional Preparation for Vocal Career .5 Semester Credit
Prerequisites: Advanced vocal proficiency
Professional Preparation is designed to equip aspiring vocalists with the essential skills and knowledge needed to launch a successful career in music. Students will explore various aspects of the vocal profession, including performance techniques, audition preparation, and the business of music. Topics covered will include vocal health, repertoire selection, marketing and branding for musicians, networking strategies, and the use of social media in promoting a musical career. Through practical workshops, individual coaching, and mock auditions, students will gain confidence in their performance abilities and develop a comprehensive plan for their professional journey. This course is designed for dedicated vocalists who are serious about pursuing a professional career in music and are eager to develop the practical skills necessary to succeed in the competitive music industry.
Course Objectives:
- Develop and refine vocal performance skills tailored for auditions and professional engagements
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the music industry and the business side of a vocal career
- Prepare a diverse repertoire suitable for various performance contexts and auditions
- Learn effective self-promotion techniques, including branding and marketing strategies
- Build networking skills and establish connections within the music community
Course Title: Capstone Project (Development and Graduation Exhibition) Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
Capstone Project is the culminating course for advanced arts students, allowing them to showcase their mastery through an individualized, large-scale performance or research project. Students will design and execute a personalized project that reflects their artistic growth, technical proficiency, and musical interests. Options include preparing a solo recital, conducting an ensemble, composing an original work, or completing a research project on a relevant topic. Throughout the course, students will receive guidance from faculty, engage in peer feedback, and present their project to an audience in a final performance or presentation. This course is designed for students nearing the completion of their studies to demonstrate their readiness for professional performance, teaching, or further academic pursuits in their chosen arts academy.
Course Objectives:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive capstone project that reflects individual artistic and technical abilities
- Apply advanced techniques and concepts in a professional setting
- Enhance project management and self-directed learning skills
- Present the final project in a live performance or academic presentation
- Reflect on personal artistic growth and professional development
Course Title: Repertoire Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
Repertoire is designed for an instructor to critique and mentor students who are close to or at performance level. The instructor gives technical and/or advice and the audience learns by listening, observing, and applying any suggestions to their own practice.
Course Title: Master Class Seminar Graduation Requirement
Prerequisites: Instructor approval required
This advanced seminar is designed for students, artists, and creatives seeking to refine their craft through in-depth exploration of artistic techniques, conceptual development, and professional practices. Each session features guest speakers, guest artists to conduct expert-led discussions, hands-on workshops, and critiques, allowing students to engage with various art forms and professionals. Through guided projects and mentorship, students will push the boundaries of their artistic expression while building a portfolio and gaining insights. The seminar also emphasizes networking, development, and expansion of their craft.