Catalog Description

Formerly known as MUS 39
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 activity)
Description: Introductory study of efficient vocal production and performance. Beginning exercises for breath management, extending the vocal range, increasing vocal resonance and volume, and singing in an expressive manner introduced. Vocal exercises and solos are performed to demonstrate these skills. (CSU, UC)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Demonstrate free, coordinated tone supported by efficient diaphragmatic-costal breath management.
  • CSLO #2: Demonstrate a coordinated tone, pure vowels and accurate intonation by singing a slow scale.
  • CSLO #3: Perform a set of vocalizations demonstrating relaxed articulation of pure Italian vowels and selected consonants.

Effective Term

Fall 2025

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

54

Outside of Class Hours

54

Total Student Learning Hours

108

Course Objectives

Lecture Objectives:
1. Describe diaphragmatic breath management.
2. Define vocal register.
3. Define vocal resonance.
4. Define efficient posture for singing.
5. Describe stage deportment including common causes of nervousness and means of managing them.
6. Describe vocal and non-vocal exercises.
Activity Objectives:
1. Demonstrate diaphragmatic breath management.
2. Perform beginning exercises to extend the vocal range.
3. Perform beginning exercises designed to explore vocal resonance.
4. Demonstrate efficient posture for singing.
5. Perform vocal and non-vocal exercises.
6. Perform 3-4 vocal solos by memory.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • AA/AS - Fine Arts
  • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
    • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
      • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

        Articulation Information

        • CSU Transferable
        • UC Transferable

        Methods of Evaluation

        • Objective Examinations
          • Example: Describe and define terms and techniques related to the art of singing. Evaluation will be in the form of a written exam or quiz. It may also be evaluated by classroom discussion or group discussion. Example: Define Resonance.
        • Projects
          • Example: Research and present a project, either group or single, to the class on a vocal work, composer, performer or composition. Evaluation will comprised of written research paper and in class presentation using visuals and musical examples.
        • Skill Demonstrations
          • Example: a. Ability to demonstrate specific vocal techniques within the context of a performance of a song. Evaluation will include a rubric based on style of song, vocal clarity, accuracy of pitch and progress of student. b. Preparation and stage presentation of a selected song. Evaluation is based upon proper completion of piece in a concert setting.

        Repeatable

        No

        Methods of Instruction

        • Activity
        • Lecture/Discussion
        • Distance Learning

        Activity:

        1. Instructor will demonstrate several vocal exercises and ask students to describe the specific purpose of each one (i.e. breath management, range extension, etc.). Instructor will then have students practice each exercise.

        Lecture:

        1. Instructor will lecture on aspects of stage performance, including best practice and common challenges and strategies to overcome them. Students will be asked to reflect on their own performance challenges and identify which of the strategies presented would best suit their needs.

        Distance Learning

        1. Students will watch an instructor prepared demonstration of several vocal exericses. Students will then video record themselves practicing each one. Students will submit the video and a short written description of the purpose of each exercise (i.e. breath management, range extension, etc.)

        Typical Out of Class Assignments

        Reading Assignments

        1. Read one assigned article about the physiology of vocal production and summarize in a two page paper. 2. Read assigned article about the collaboration of lyricist and composer and summarize in a two page paper.

        Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

        1. Write a performance critique for one's own performance and that of others. 2. Write text analysis for songs being prepared. 3. Write critiques of cd performances by professional singers.

        Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

        1. Examine and perform diaphragmatic breathing. 2. Compare the vocal sensations of singing in different vocal registers. 3. Differentiate between the various timbres produced with the voice. 4. Prepare a song for performance through practice and memorization. 5. Practice performing selected vocal exercises. 6. Write a story about the song.

        Required Materials

        • Class Voice: Fundamental Skills for Lifelong Singing
          • Author: Brenda Smith and Ronald Burrichter
          • Publisher: Pavane Publishing, Inc.
          • Publication Date: 2023
          • Text Edition: 1st
          • Classic Textbook?: No
          • OER Link:
          • OER:
        • A Systematic Approach to Voice: The Art of Studio Application
          • Author: Kari Ragan
          • Publisher: Pavane Publishing, Inc.
          • Publication Date: 2020
          • Text Edition: 1st
          • Classic Textbook?: No
          • OER Link:
          • OER:

        Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.