MUSC 133: Vocal Arts Ensemble II

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2026
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 72
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 18
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Total Student Learning Hours: 180
Prerequisite: Audition.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: No
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

Study and performance of intermediate contemporary vocal ensemble repertoire across multiple genres, including jazz, R&B, gospel, and commercial styles. Emphasis on healthy vocal technique, stylistic interpretation, blend, balance, rhythm section collaboration, and ensemble communication. Students develop performance skills through rehearsals, guided listening, and public presentations throughout the semester. Audition required. 54 lecture hours, 18 lab hours arranged.

Course Objectives

  • Demonstrate intermediate vocal technique appropriate to contemporary ensemble singing, including tone production, blend, and stylistic flexibility.
  • Interpret and perform intermediate repertoire from a variety of contemporary genres, applying stylistic characteristics specific to each musical style.
  • Analyze musical and stylistic elements of intermediate ensemble works through guided listening and in-class discussion.
  • Collaborate effectively in a vocal ensemble, demonstrating awareness of balance, rhythmic precision, musical expression, and communication with other singers and rhythm section players.

Major Course Content

  1. Contemporary Vocal Technique & Ensemble Fundamentals — tone, blend, vowel matching, articulation, and healthy contemporary vocal production.

  2. Stylistic Interpretation Across Genres — identifying and applying characteristics of pop, R&B, jazz, rock, commercial styles, and emerging vocal trends.

  3. Repertoire Study & Performance Practice — learning, rehearsing, and performing multi-genre ensemble literature in small and large ensemble settings.

  4. Rhythm & Groove Concepts — rhythmic accuracy, subdivision, syncopation, backbeat feel, and collaboration with rhythm section instrumentation.

  5. Guided Listening & Style Analysis — exploring influential vocal groups and artists; analyzing tone, harmony, phrasing, and production techniques.

  6. Musicianship & Rehearsal Skills — part learning, sectionals, score reading, memorization, rehearsal techniques, and constructive peer feedback.

  7. Ensemble Communication & Stagecraft — cueing, dynamic shaping, expressivity, microphone technique, and stage presence in contemporary performance settings.

Hours Arranged Content

  1. Sight Reading of Material
  2. Sectional Rehearsals
  3. Preparation for Final Performance
  4. Public Performances
  5. Group and self evaluation of public performance and personal growth
  6. Sight Reading Material for Future Performances

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Library research, internet research

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Personal journal, essays of composers and musical styles, performance critiques. Write a 2-page essay about jazz composers or performances.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Study musical scores. Memorize words and vocal parts. Listen to rehearsal tracks.

Instruction Type(s)

Lab, Lecture, Online Education Lab, Online Education Lecture