Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Discovering the Performer's Voice

• Unit Code

  ACT1004

• Year

  2016

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  1

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

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Description

This unit examines the fundamental skills required for the development of voice, speech, and singing for the professional actor. Students learn efficient vocal use, and how to develop breath support, body alignment, resonance and articulation. They will increase their proficiency in sight reading, the imaginative use of language and group and solo singing. On completion of this unit the student will be able to apply a basic understanding of vocal production in a variety of acoustic environments. They will understand vocal health, and basic vocal anatomy and physiology.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Accurately match pitch and maintain simple rhythmic patterns when singing.
2. Analyse the structure of language in texts in preparation for rehearsal and demonstrate an understanding of text in rehearsal and performance.
3. Identify and adapt idiosyncratic habitual vocal use.
4. Understand basic vocal physiology and anatomy.
5. Use voice efficiently and flexibly in different acoustic environments incorporating effective alignment, breath support, vibration, resonance and articulation.

Unit Content

1. Breath, alignment, vibration, resonance and articulation.
2. Direct audience address.
3. Group / choral singing.
4. Physiology and anatomy of vocal production.
5. Sight reading.
6. Spoken choral text.
7. The structure of language.
8. Vocal health.

Additional Learning Experience Information

Studio based voice and singing classes, Group classes and individual tutorials, Intensive week long workshop, Small group activities, pair work and solo exercises, Different acoustic environments will be utilised, Video recording for critical analysis and self reflection, Debriefing, feedback and class discussions, Self study with regard to alignment and breath, Specialist lecturers in singing.

Assessment

GS2 GRADING SCHEMA 2 Used for performance and/or practical based units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Text References

• ^ Rodenburg, P. (1992). The right to speak. Methuen.
• ^ Houseman, B. (2002). Finding your voice. Nick Hern Books.
• Berry, C. (2000). Voice and the actor. London: United Kingdom. Virgin Books.
• Linklater, K. (2007). Freeing the natural voice. (Rev. ed.). Hollywood: USA. Drama Publishers.
• McEvenue, K. (2002). The actor and the Alexander Technique. New York: USA. Palgrave Macmillan.
• Carey, D., & Carey, E. (2008). Vocal arts workbook. London: United Kingdom. Methuen Drama.

^ Mandatory reference

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