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The Teacher as Conductor (MUSI90144)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 1
Semester 2
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This subject introduces basic conducting skills including baton technique, rehearsal methods, score reading and preparation as they apply to wind, string, brass and choral music in both classical and popular styles.

The role of conductor as teacher will be explored in depth. Also covered are basic instrumental and vocal ensemble problems and solutions.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • demonstrate the basic mechanics of beat patterns, expressive facial and hand and body gestures;
  • rehearse and conduct an instrumental or vocal ensemble with confidence and conviction whilst understanding the principles to be followed in solving complex musical challenges;
  • demonstrate understanding and appreciation of the teaching and leadership skills needed to be a conductor; and
  • demonstrate an understanding of basic interpretive skills through body language,inflection, meter, dynamics and imagery.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • demonstrate skills in cooperation, communication and negotiation that allow for effective working of groups;
  • demonstrate the capacity for critical and independent thought and reflection;
  • demonstrate skills in evaluative thinking, and in the application of theoretical criteria to practical outcomes;
  • demonstrate analytical skills in the context of printed and aural materials; and
  • plan effectively to meet performance deadlines.

Last updated: 10 November 2023

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

None

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

None

Recommended background knowledge

Successful completion of an Orchestration subject at undergraduate level.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 10 November 2023

Assessment

DescriptionTimingPercentage

Preparation of weekly conducting tasks and contribution to discussion of set readings

Throughout the teaching period20%

Two written accounts of rehearsal observations

  • 500 words (each)
Week 820%

One practical test

  • 20 minutes
During the examination period40%

One viva voce test of approximately 10 minutes

  • 10 minutes
During the examination period20%
Hurdle requirement: 100% attendance is expected, less than 80% will result in a fail in the subject.Throughout the teaching periodN/A

Last updated: 10 November 2023

Dates & times

  • Semester 1
    CoordinatorLeon de Bruin
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hours24 hours, comprising one 2-hour lecture/workshop per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period28 February 2022 to 29 May 2022
    Last self-enrol date11 March 2022
    Census date31 March 2022
    Last date to withdraw without fail 6 May 2022
    Assessment period ends24 June 2022
  • Semester 2
    CoordinatorLeon de Bruin
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hours24 hours, comprising one 2-hour lecture/workshop per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period25 July 2022 to 23 October 2022
    Last self-enrol date 5 August 2022
    Census date31 August 2022
    Last date to withdraw without fail23 September 2022
    Assessment period ends18 November 2022

Last updated: 10 November 2023

Further information

  • Texts

    Prescribed texts

    Green, E. (1981) The Modern Conductor. Prentice-Hall.
    Farberman, H. (1997), The Art of Conducting Technique: A New Perspective. Warner Bros, Miami, Florida.
    A reading package will be available on the LMS prior to the commencement of the subject.

  • Related Handbook entries

    This subject contributes to the following:

    TypeName
    Specialisation (formal)Instrumental
    Specialisation (formal)Studio
  • Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students

    This subject is available to students studying at the University from eligible overseas institutions on exchange and study abroad. Students are required to satisfy any listed requirements, such as pre- and co-requisites, for enrolment in the subject.

Last updated: 10 November 2023