Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

Faculty of Education and Arts

School: WA 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

  Extending Vocal Knowledge

• Unit Code

  ACT2003

• Year

  2015

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  1

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

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Description

This unit develops the vocal skills and knowledge required for the actor to affect a smooth transition into performance by consolidating, defining and expanding the foundation vocal research accumulated in previous voice units. The actors voice develops strength, flexibility and range through exposure to accent and dialect, classical poetic text, heightened text, singing, and in public productions. The actor is required to develop an individual process for vocal warm-ups and approaches to text, and accent and dialect research.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Develop a process for researching and performing in an accent or dialect.
2. Research, source, rehearse and perform a theatrical song.
3. Use an efficient and flexible voice in rehearsal and performance.
4. Use the voice dynamically in response to complex verse and prose text forms.

Unit Content

1. Accent and Dialect analysis and research methodology.
2. Advanced use of breath, alignment, vibration, resonance, and articulation.
3. Sight reading.
4. Structured singing technique classes.
5. Text analysis.
6. Verse forms from the 14th to 19th centuries.

Additional Learning Experience Information

Studio based voice and singing classes. Group classes and individual tutorials. Small group activities, pair work and solo exercises. Different acoustic environments will be utilized; some classes will be in a theatre. Video recording for critical analysis and self reflection. Debriefing, feedback and class discussions. Self study with regard to physically consolidating studio work. 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

• ^ Shakespeare, W. Complete works.
• ^ Jack, A. Accent and dialect kit. WAAPA has copyright, not published.
• Jones, D. (2011). Cambridge English pronouncing dictionary. (18th rev. ed.). Cambridge: United Kingdom. Cambridge University Press.
• Ferguson, M., Salter, M.J., & Stallworthy, J. (1996). The Norton anthology of poetry. (4th ed.). NY: USA. W.W. Norton & Company, Inc.

^ Mandatory reference

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