Academic Catalogs

MUS G150: Voice for Musical Theater 1

Course Outline of Record
Item Value
Curriculum Committee Approval Date 04/21/2020
Top Code 100400 - Music
Units 2 Total Units 
Hours 36 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 36)
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)
Local General Education (GE)
  • GWC Arts, Lit, Phil, Lang (GC)

Course Description

This course is identical to THEA G146. Formerly: Broadway And Opera Singing. This course teaches vocal technique, self-confidence in vocal performance and character development for singers, actors and dancers at an introductory level. Students sing songs from musical theater and/or opera in English and first languages. An audition is not required. Daily practice is required. A pianist accompanies the classes. Enrollment Limitation: THEA G146; students who complete MUS G150 may not enroll in or receive credit for THEA G146. ADVISORY: MUS G115, MUS G121, MUS G141, or MUS G142 recommended for those who do not read music. Transfer Credit: CSU; UC.

Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)

  1. Course Outcomes
  2. Demonstrate song and vocal exercises at a skill level equivalent to the first year of college or university achievement.
  3. Perform three songs in varied tempi and styles using appropriate technique at an introductory level.
  4. Improve vocal limits and potential while identifying signs of performance anxiety at an introductory level.
  5. Evaluate the performances of other singers at an introductory level.
  6. Compare defined vocal styles at an introductory level.

Course Objectives

  • 1. Demonstrate methods used for singing in a musical theater vocal style at an introductory level.
  • 2. Demonstrate breathing techniques at an introductory level.
  • 3. Demonstrate musical theater solo and ensemble vocal techniques at an introductory level.
  • 4. Demonstrate musical theater rehearsal techniques including working with a live accompanist and/or orchestra at an introductory level.

Lecture Content

Coping with Performance Anxiety at an introductory level Recognizing symptoms.Meditation Relaxation Response Visualization Controlled breathing Alexander Technique of body use Vocal Health and Development at an introductory level Relaxation Body alignment and use Breathing Vocalizing Vocal registers Ranges  Qualities Correct repertory selection Diction   Pronunciation Articulation Enunciation Intonation Pitch accuracy Repertory One (1) class song One (1) ballad vocal selection One (1) up tempo vocal selection Mock audition Song Study and Memorization at an introductory level Audiation, visualization, and other "inner games" Practice with accompanist Use of recorded accompaniments and reference materials Song Presentation at an introductory level Stage deportment Interpretation of text Expressiveness of voice, face and body Musicianship Intonation Rhythm Tempo Dynamics Visual self Costuming Makeup  Grooming

Method(s) of Instruction

  • Lecture (02)

Reading Assignments

Handouts from instructor Course syllabus Analysis and critiques of written materials (books, digital, online) as assigned

Writing Assignments

Analysis and critiques of visual materials (video, DVD, digital, online) as assigned Attendance at three (3) live vocal music concert performances for the purpose of written critical evaluation Written reviews of all in-class recorded performances

Out-of-class Assignments

A minimum of 40 minutes daily practice (4 hours weekly, divided) Analysis and critiques of visual materials (video, DVD, digital, online) as assigned Attendance at three (3) live vocal music concert performances for the purpose of written critical evaluation Reviews of all in-class recorded performances

Demonstration of Critical Thinking

Evaluation of daily activities and creation of a practice routine Comparison requirements of selected vocal repertory with own abilities Selection and review an approved musical or opera Attendance at three (3) live vocal music concert performances for the purpose of written critical evaluation

Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration

Demonstrations of ability to apply vocal and musical skills at an introductory level   a. Performance of memorized vocal exercises   b. Performance of memorized songs and/or arias Demonstration of problem solving skills at an introductory level   a. Structuring and implementing practice and rehearsal sessions   b. Selection of repertory appropriate for own voice Attendance at three (3) live vocal music concert performances for the purpose of written critical evaluation

Eligible Disciplines

Drama/theater Arts: Masters degree or Master of Fine Arts in drama/theater arts/performance OR bachelors degree or Bachelor of Fine Arts in drama/theater/performance AND masters degree in comparative literature, English, communication studies, speech, literature, or 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. Optional pre-recorded compact disks of accompanimentsOptional digital and/or online recordings of accompaniments.