Extended Diploma in Performing Arts - Music

Program Overview

The Extended Diploma in Performing Arts - Music equips students with advanced musical skills through courses in aural skills, world music, composition, and music theory. It prepares graduates for university music programs and careers in performance, composition, music education, and other music-related fields. The program emphasizes ensemble performance, world music exploration, and music production techniques.

Program Outline

Outline:

Subjects

• Aural Skills: This course provides students with essential skills for musical advancement and includes sight-singing, interval and chord recognition, rhythmic dictation, and recognition of style, genre, and period.
• World Music: Students explore and analyze cultural aspects of world music, learning to perform and compose in various world music styles.
They examine the influence of world music on Western composition.
• Composition: Students refine their musical ideas, understand the limitations and possibilities of instruments and voices, and develop clear notation and performance instructions.
They create a portfolio of compositions, including vocal, instrumental, and music for theatre.
• Repertoire Classes: Students broaden their knowledge of repertoire on their instruments, ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary music.
They plan balanced programs, considering different performing styles.
• History of Western Music: Students gain an overview of Western music history, developing the ability to experience and evaluate music, explore areas of interest in depth, and understand its meaning and significance.
• Music Theory: Students study music theory based on their skill level and prepare for Associated Board theory exams.
• Pop Ensemble (Pop Music Studies): Students develop ensemble performing skills, enhancing accuracy and musicality, and understanding balance of parts and communication during performances.
• Classical Ensemble (Classical Music Studies): Students focus on ensemble performing skills, exploring a diverse repertoire and styles, fostering collaboration and musicianship.
• Pop Styles (Pop Music Studies): Students immerse themselves in the history of Western pop and jazz music, studying key features of various genres and learning to compose and perform in these styles.
Improvisation and creative music techniques are also addressed.
• Recording and Sequencing: Students acquire knowledge of music production through hands-on recording and electronic music projects.
Topics include recording techniques, mixing, post-production, sound manipulation, composition, and the use of software.
• Hand Drumming: Students improve rhythm skills by practicing group performances of West African, Brazilian, and other world drumming traditions.
They develop pulse, rhythmic independence, and polyrhythm to support their principal instrument performances.
• Musicianship: Students learn intermediate to advanced keyboard skills and instrumental coordination through ukulele instruction.
These lessons enhance their ability to play chords, harmonize, and develop their musicality.

Careers:

The Extended Diploma in Performing Arts - Music prepares students for progression to music programs at universities and music conservatoires. Graduates may pursue a variety of careers, including:

• Performers
• Composers
• Arrangers
• Producers
• Music educators
• Music therapists
• Arts administrators
• Music journalists
• Music business professionals