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

  Vocal Skills 1

• Unit Code

  MTH1002

• Year

  2015

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  1

• Credit Points

  20

• Full Year Unit

  Y

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

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Description

This unit provides a technical foundation for students seeking a career in musical theatre by addressing vocal technique in song and speech.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the breathing system and the process of vocalisation in either song or speech.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic physiology of speech, and an awareness of personal speech areas needing attention and/or correction.
3. Present a personal repertoire of theatre songs and spoken pieces at a level of competence in vocal technique and interpretation.
4. Speak with calrity and expression.

Unit Content

1. SINGING TECHNIQUE - One-to-one lessons in singing technique, beginning at basic levels in areas such as breathing and voice placement. A range of practice exercises developed with/by the tutor.
2. SONG REPERTOIRE - Class teaching with a pianist and coach, learning and interpreting a range of musical theatre songs at a relatively undemanding level of musicality and voice range. Attention will be given to the stylistic and musical interpretation of each song.
3. SPEECH PHYSIOLOGY - Study of the basic physiology of speech and related practical exercises. Correction of vocal idiosyncrasies. Study of the International Phonetic Alphabet.
4. VOICE/SPEECH - Development of alignment, breath support, resonance, articulation, and flexibility of the vocal range. Text work using poetic and theatrical texts.

Additional Learning Experience Information

A combination of classes examining repertoire and individual singing lessons.

Assessment

GS4 GRADING SCHEMA 4 Used for undifferentiated pass/fail 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

• Berry, C. (1992). Voice and the actor. London: Virgin.
• Linklater, Kristin. Freeing the natural voice. New York: Drama Book Specialists.
• Houseman, B. (2002). Finding your voice. Nick Hern.
• Rodenberg, P. (1992). The right to speak. London: Methuen.
• McCallion, M. (1988). The voice book. London: Faber.

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