Band Direction

Subject MUSI90015 (2011)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2011.

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2011.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 9:00am - 4:00pm on each day of classes.
Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Recommended Background Knowledge: None.
Non Allowed Subjects: None.
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 course are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Contact

VCA and Music Student Centre
234 St Kilda Rd, Southbank

Tel: +61 3 9685 9322
Fax: +61 3 9685 9358
Web: www.vcam.unimelb.edu.au/contact_us.html

School of Music - Parkville
Conservatorium Building

Tel: +61 3 8344 5256
Fax: +61 3 8344 5346
Email via: http://music-unimelb.custhelp.com
Web: www.music.unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:

This course is designed to provide instruction in the vital aspects of the band director's role. It is a course in which most benefit is gained by careful study of preparatory materials, active participation in class, and individual work and practice. Instruction will include the essentials of repertoire selection, score study and rehearsal preparation, principles of conducting gesture, rehearsal techniques, and related issues for the band director. An ensemble will be available for students to conduct, to ensure that the practical application of the study is understood.

This subject is taught by Associate Professor Rob McWilliams, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.
Objectives:

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Choose appropriate repertoire and formulate an effective concert program;
  • Understand and execute effective score analysis and study methods;
  • Understand the key principles of conducting gesture and non-verbal communication; as applied to conducting and be able to demonstrate these in practice;
  • Rehearse and conduct an instrumental ensemble with competence and conviction;
  • Understand the requirements and strategies for ongoing improvement and development as a conductor.
Assessment:

Attendance and active participation (40%); Score analysis project (20%); In-class conducting practica (30%); Repertoire listening (10%).
Prescribed Texts:

A reading pack with relevant musical examples will be distributed prior to the first class.
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Related Course(s): Master of Music Studies
Master of Music Studies by Coursework(Performance/Teaching)

Download PDF version.