Download Syllabus for Vocal Pedagogy

Syllabus for Vocal Pedagogy
(MUS 261.1 and 362.1)
Suzanne Kompass
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Artist lecturer in Voice
Vocal Pedagogy
Vocal Literature
CELL: 484-350-2989
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.suzannekompass.com
Music Office (Rose Panik): 610-861-1650
Hello and welcome to the world of vocal pedagogy. The course description outlines the
focus of this class. Exploring the magical workings of the physical voice, combined with
unique language in order to impart this in a lesson - is our ultimate goal.
Due to the intangible nature of the vocal instrument understanding the physiology is
essential. We will explore the use of creativity and the language of imagery to balance the
physiological aspects and thus achieve a strong foundation for imparting knowledge.
Course Description – Vocal Pedagogy:
The broad objective of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the
basics of teaching singing, including an introduction to basic anatomy and physiology of
the singing voice. This will lead to the development of a solid foundation for continued
learning in the theories and methods of vocal pedagogy.
The main textbook we will use is Clifton Ware’s Basics of Vocal Pedagogy: The
Foundations and Process of Singing. There will be additional resource books to enthral
and delight you. Real stories from the “real” world of singers.
As this course is one on one instruction I will be able to asses how quickly you are able to
move through your assignments.
I will be assigning weekly reading and projects.
We will also study teaching styles and singing from various eras.
Learning materials will be provided through the music library or from my personal
collection on reserve.
The voice is an instrument of the body. This same instrument is physically capable of
singing many styles. A healthy voice is grounded in the essential fundamentals of singing.
Fully prepared with a solid technique, the singer can then choose a style in which to
perform.
Pedagogy I
A survey of important teaching materials, both contemporary and historical, for the
student’s specific instrument or voice. In addition, study and discussion of typical
problems or difficulties unique to learning the student’s instrument or in vocal instruction.
Pedagogy II
Practical application of Pedagogy I. Under the supervision of an artist-teacher from the
music faculty, the student will teach weekly lessons on his/her instrument or voice to a
non-major (that is, another student who is not a music major or who will not be working on
his or her major instrument or voice). The student enrolled in the practicum is responsible
for securing another student to participate in these lessons. The studio instructor will
observe and critique the teaching experience, offering suggestions for improvement after
each lesson.
Areas of Evaluation
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Attendance 10%
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Preparation/Discourse/Reading 30%
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Contrast and Comparison of Methods 30%
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Journal 10%
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Quiz 10%
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Final Project 10%
Schedule of Lessons
All lessons are scheduled by arrangement. If for some reason I am not available for a
scheduled lesson time, the lesson will be made up at the mutual convenience of the
student and myself. If a student cancels a lesson due to illness, every effort will be made
to make up the lesson time. If in doubt, please call me by 9am and we can discuss the
nature of your absence.
Academic Honesty at Moravian College
Academic integrity is the foundation on which learning at Moravian College, Moravian
Theological Seminary, and the Comenius Centre is built. Students are expected to perform
their academic work honestly and fairly. More information can be found here:
http://www.moravian.edu/studentlife/handbook/academic/academic2.html
Moravian College is here to help : If you find yourself falling irreparably behind in a
course, please tell me and I will help in order to try and fix the problem. If not, please be in
contact with the Department Chair, who in turn will put you in touch with the Learning
Centre. Students who wish to request accommodations in this class for a disability should
contact Elaine Mara, assistant director of learning services for academic and disability
support at 1307 Main Street, or by calling 610-861-1510. Accommodations cannot be
provided until authorisation is received from the Academic Support Centre.