Academic Catalogs

MUS A214: Advanced Vocal Performance 2

Course Outline of Record
Item Value
Curriculum Committee Approval Date 10/19/2022
Top Code 100400 - Music
Units 1 Total Units 
Hours 36 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 9; Lab Hours 27)
Total Outside of Class Hours 0
Course Credit Status Credit: Degree Applicable (D)
Material Fee No
Basic Skills Not Basic Skills (N)
Repeatable No
Grading Policy Standard Letter (S), 
  • Pass/No Pass (B)

Course Description

This course is for advanced voice students who have completed Advanced Vocal Master Class 1 or have received instructor approval. Songs in English and other languages, with an emphasis on musical theater repertoire, performance techniques, and stage deportment. Daily practice is required. Transfer Credit: CSU; UC.

Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)

  1. Sing memorized solos from class repertoire in English, a third language (such as German, and French) and a native language with a range suitable to their voice type and correctly evaluate vocal styles of fellow students.

Course Objectives

  • 1. Sing with consistent, accurate intonation.
  • 2. Develop coordinated breath support to help stamina and increase control
  • 3. Recognize and perform in three major musical styles: folk, art, and musical theater
  • 4. Evaluate and manage his or her own performance anxiety
  • 5. Evaluate the performances of other singers
  • 6. Memorize and sing a minimum of two songs in each of the styles defined
  • 7. Perform songs and vocal exercises at a skill level equivalent to the second year, second semester of university achievement
  • 8. Continue the study of songs in a third language, such as German and French with advanced technical requirements

Lecture Content

A. Vocal Health and Development 1. Relaxation 2. Body alignment and use; Alexander technique for stage performers 3. Advanced breathing techniques 4. Vocalizing, vocal registers, ranges and qualities 5. Diction, intonation, rhythm B. Song Literature 1. Study of classical, folk, and musical theater repertoire 2. History of American musical theater 3. Understanding cultural context 4. Addressing challenges in presenting historical works in the modern day C. Communication with the audience 1. Advanced stage deportment 2. Acting techniques for singers 3. Games and exercises from the theater world

Lab Content

Master-class-style workshopping of in-class performances, with emphasis on:* Exploring more advanced repertoire, esp. in the genres of musical theater/opera* Demonstrating excellent vocal technique, intonation, support, etc.* Demonstrating high-level musicianship, accuracy, rhythm, etc.* Interpreting and expressing text with nuance and context* Creating and portraying increasingly complex characters* Rehearsing and performing with an accompanist* Making costuming and deportment choices* Slating and audition techniques

Method(s) of Instruction

  • Lecture (02)
  • Lab (04)

Instructional Techniques

Class lecture, individual performance and teacher instruction, public performance and group critique

Reading Assignments

As assigned from instructor handouts

Writing Assignments

Students must demonstrate proficiency in performing a variety of vocal music to the instructors satisfaction to complete the course.

Out-of-class Assignments

Students will need to spend at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week practicing vocalizations and assigned songs (approximately 2.5 hours per week). It is suggested that they dedicate some time each week listening to other vocal artists, analyzing their style and song repertoire. A variety of different artistic styles should be studied.

Demonstration of Critical Thinking

Class participation and attendance, class performance of course repertoire

Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration

1. Demonstrations of ability to apply vocal and musical skillsa. Performance of memorized vocal exercisesb. Performance of memorized songsc. Written review of upper division graduate or professional solo vocal recital2. Demonstration of Problem solving skillsa. Structuring and implementing practice and rehearsal sessionsb. Selection of songs appropriate for own voice

Eligible Disciplines

Music: Masters degree in music OR bachelors degree in music AND masters degree in humanities OR the equivalent. Masters degree required. Music: Masters degree in music OR bachelors degree in music AND masters degree in humanities OR the equivalent. Masters degree required.

Other Resources

1. Handouts and sheet music to be provided and distributed by the instructor