Melbourne Big Band 1

Subject 740-007 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 1 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

On campus
For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: One 2-hour rehearsal each week, plus attendance at 3 public concerts during semester
Total Time Commitment: 120 hours
Prerequisites:

The minimum level of performance required for this ensemble would be equivalent to AMEB grade 8 or a very high grade for VCE solo or group performance.

An audition is required.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: Not available to BMus students
Core Participation Requirements: It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit.
Subject Overview: The Big Band comprises 5 saxophones, 5 trumpets, 4 trombones, piano, bass, guitar and drums. Occasionally other instruments are employed for special projects, and for some concerts singers are also used. All positions are auditioned at the start of each year, and the timetable works so that students can take Big Band as well as Wind Ensemble or Orchestra. Each year the band performs at a range of venues including regular appearances at Wangaratta Jazz Festival. The music played covers a range of styles from the 30s to today, as well as student arrangements and compositions, and all students are encouraged to improvise.
Objectives: On completion of this subject students should be able to:
  • show technical development as ensemble musicians
  • participate with ability and self-confidence as a team member of a performing group
  • perform selected repertoire to concert standard
  • identify and exhibit specific knowledge of a range of ensemble repertoire
  • exhibit an informed respect for the values and principles of ensemble performance.
Assessment:

Punctual attendance at all rehearsals and participation in performances as directed (50%); a 10-minute practical test in the middle of the semester (25%); attendance and submission of a concert report of three public jazz concerts approved by the ensemble director (500 words each due end of semester) (25%).

Less than 80% attendance will result in a fail. All assessment components must be passed in order to pass the subject.
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills: On completion of this subject students should be able to:
  • demonstrate a capacity to think critically and independently
  • study selected repertoire relevant to the ensemble to performance standard
  • apply time and people management skills to rehearsal and performance planning
  • demonstrate teamwork skills in rehearsal/performance groups.

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