MUSP 120: Chamber Singers I - Beginning

• demonstrate a knowledge of vocal performance practices from a variety of vocal styles and periods
• demonstrate familiarity with major vocal compositions and composers
• demonstrate an ability to apply vocal skills in a chamber chorale setting
• improve sight reading and musicianship skills

1. Overview of Repertoire Available for Chamber Chorale Ensemble
2. Beginning Vocal Skills in a Chamber Chorale Setting
3. Introduction to Rehearsal Practices
4. Introduction to Performance Practices
5. Analyze Chamber Chorale Literature at the beginning level
6. Study Composers of Various Periods
7. Preparation for Essay Assignment
8. Selection of Repertoire for Public Performance
9. Evaluation of Performance at the beginning level

1. Sight-Reading of Material in Various Choral Styles at the beginning level
2. Sectional Rehearsals
3. Preparation for Final Performance
4. Public Performances
5. Group and self evaluation of public performance and personal growth

Application of course objectives and development of techniques required for successful completion of the laboratory requirements of this course are time intensive.  The student is responsible for demonstrating a practical competency of skills applied to approximately two hours of choral literature.  Sight reading, sectionals and full group preparation including accurately mastering then memorizing vocal parts, creating vocal unisons within each section, establishing appropriate phrasing, breathing techniques and dynamics, developing critical listening skills, use of appropriate tone and application of correct vocal production will be addressed.  Additional activities include expressing musical line, internalizing interpretation of lyric and developing relevant performance skills.  During the final weeks of the course laboratory hours include rehearsing, putting together, detailing and simulating concert presentation prior to a series of public performances.