Catalog Description

Prerequisite: Completion of MUS 39C with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 54 (18 lecture, 36 activity)
Description: In-depth study of specific elements of efficient vocal technique and performance. Includes breath management using an efficient onset and release, managing the performance, resonance balancing using consonants, and song analysis to prepare a vocal piece for performance. (CSU, UC)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Demonstrate proficiency in the development of a free, coordinated tone, dynamic and vocal range, resonance and phrasing supported by efficient diaphragmatic-costal breath management.
  • CSLO #2: Demonstrate continued progress in the elements of legato vocal technique utilizing proper attack and release of pure tones, correct intonation, changing pitch, volume, and timbre and flexibility and agility by performing varied styles of music.
  • CSLO #3: Apply the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to translate and correctly pronounce lyrics of an Italian art song in solo performance.

Effective Term

Spring 2021

Course Type

Contact Hours

54

Outside of Class Hours

54

Total Student Learning Hours

108

Course Objectives

Lecture Objectives:
1. Recognize breath management with an efficient onset.
2. Use specific consonants to enhance resonation.
3. Analyze the musical elements of a song in relation to the text.
Activity Objectives:
1. Coordinate breath management with an efficient onset.
2. "Think in action" while performing.
3. Use specific consonants to enhance resonation.
4. Perform 3-4 vocal solos demonstrating efficient vocal onset, managing the actual performance, efficient resonation, and expression.

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

        • Classroom Discussions
          • Example: Student will demonstrate specific vocal techniques within the context of performance of a song as discussed in class. Students will give constructive comments to each other under the direction of the instructor, discussion will be student led.
        • Projects
          • Example: Students will be assigned a vocalist to listen, research and report on. This project will be given in the form of an oral presentation.
        • Reports
          • Example: Students will be required to attend two vocal recitals or choral concerts and write concert reports on tone, diction, performance techniques and other concepts discussed in class.
        • Skill Demonstrations
          • Example: Student will demonstrate specific vocal techniques within the context of performance of a song as discussed in class. Students will give constructive comments to each other under the direction of the instructor, discussion will be student led.

        Repeatable

        No

        Methods of Instruction

        • Activity
        • Lecture/Discussion
        • Distance Learning

        Activity:

        1. Based on a previous lecture on Operatic Art song by the instructor, students will form small groups to identify and analyze their Opera Art song’s musical elements, specifically locating terms and articulation that would influence how they would perform their song. After this activity, students will report to the class with their findings in a group project identifying difference between German, Italian, and French operas.

        Lecture:

        1. Instructor will lecture on the elements of diction and drama and will ask students to identify specific elements in the operatic solo pieces they've been assigned.

        Distance Learning

        1. Instructor will present two contrasting Operatic style songs, guiding the class through appropriate performance issues, including vibrato placement, diction, historical context and common performance practices.

        Typical Out of Class Assignments

        Reading Assignments

        1. Research one opera and address the importance of diction in regards to language. 2. Read assigned articles about the opera and its origins and summarize in a four page paper.

        Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

        1. Write an analysis of a song to be performed. 2. Write a performance critique for one's self and for other singers. 3. Write an abstract on selected readings.

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

        1. Analyze a given piece in terms of its musical qualities and how they influence the interpretation of the song. 2. Listen to different singers and determine which type of onset is being used. 3. Listen to different singers and determine which consonant might enhance resonance. 4. Practice singing a specific vocal selection. 5. Memorize a vocal selection. 6. Practice performing selected vocal exercises.

        Required Materials

        • Singing and Teaching Singing: A Holistic Approach to Classical Voice
          • Author: Chapman, Janice
          • Publisher: Plural Publishing
          • Publication Date: 2011
          • Text Edition: 2nd
          • Classic Textbook?: No
          • OER Link:
          • OER:
        • What Every Singer Needs to Know About the Body
          • Author: Malde, Allen, & Zeller
          • Publisher: Plural Publishing
          • Publication Date: 2012
          • Text Edition: 2nd
          • Classic Textbook?: No
          • OER Link:
          • OER:
        • A Handbook for Diction for Singers: Italian, German, and French
          • Author: Adams, David
          • Publisher: Oxford University Press
          • Publication Date: 2009
          • Text Edition: 2nd
          • Classic Textbook?: No
          • OER Link:
          • OER:
        • 28 Italian Songs and Arias of the 17th and 18th Centuries
          • Author: Hal Leonard
          • Publisher: G Schirmer
          • Publication Date: 2016
          • Text Edition: 2nd
          • Classic Textbook?: No
          • OER Link:
          • OER:

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

        Available music and literature.