The course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of instrumental performance.
The course is the precursor to Instrument II.
Learning objectives
On completion of this course, the student is expected to
- have the instrumental skills needed to realise musical intentions
- demonstrate artistic expression and creativity
- have acquired a repertoire from different styles and traditions
- be able to work conscientiously, alone and together with others
- master appropriate techniques for learning and practising repertoire
Overview
The works should be carefully chosen to enable the student to build a repertoire that is as broad as possible based on their technical skill and interests. The student is expected to develop independence and evaluation skills when interpreting repertoire.
Most of the course is dedicated to:
Practising the instrument
- Learning repertoire.
- Technical exercises.
- Interpretation and presentation.
- Practice/interpretation techniques.
- Studying audio materials / recordings and literature. The student should choose the materials themselves under the guidance of their teacher.
Rehearsal and accompaniment (from 2nd year of study)
- Learning repertoire and rehearsing with an accompanist.
- Guidance on repertoire, including challenges relating to interpretation, ensemble play and the musical aspects of the work.
Forum and interpretation
- Historically informed performance, instrument and repertoire studies.
- Training in assessing and commenting verbally on own performances and those of others.
- Training in audience communication, both musical and verbal.
- Knowledge of what makes a good performance.
- Ensemble performance / sectionals.
- Audition training.
Orchestra and chamber orchestra (for students specialising in orchestral/band conducting
- Learning and performing orchestra / chamber orchestra repertoire in the most common musical styles for orchestra / chamber orchestra and other large ensembles from the 17th century up to the modern day.
Chamber choir (for students specialising in choral conducting)
- Learning and performing varied repertoire to include music from different periods and genres. Over a three-year period the repertoire should include at least one project with an orchestra/ensemble (NMH or external ensemble), one a cappella project, one contemporary project, one church music project usually with an ensemble (may also be a cappella or contemporary) and one opera project with ensemble.
Structure
A variety of working methods and set-ups will be used. Key are the student’s independent practice and study of materials (recordings, literature etc.) linked to the practice process. A number of concert and performance opportunities will be provided.
Instrument
- Weekly one-to-one lessons and classes with instrument teacher.
Rehearsal and accompaniment (from 2nd year of study)
- Individual sessions with an accompanist.
- Performing repertoire with an accompanist in principal instrument lessons, in forum and interpretation, classes, concerts and exams.
Forum and interpretation
- Weekly lessons and/or projects/workshops in instrument-based groups (strings, woodwind, brass etc.).
- Taught by multiple NMH teachers or by guest teachers.
Orchestra and chamber/wind orchestra (for students specialising in orchestral/band conducting)
- Project weeks culminating in a concert / concerts.
- At the start of each academic year a schedule will be issued detailing repertoire, seminars and rehearsal times, concerts, sectional coaches and conductors.
- A final rehearsal schedule and orchestra lists detailing each student’s participation will be published no later than three weeks before the project begins.
Chamber choir (for students specialising in choral conducting)
- Project weeks. Normally three choir projects per academic year with normally one to two concerts per project.
- At the start of each academic year a schedule will be issued detailing repertoire, seminars and rehearsal times, concerts, coaches and conductors.
- A final rehearsal schedule and choir list detailing each student’s participation will be published no later than three weeks before the project begins.
For a summary of expected progression, teaching hours and structure, please see the “Structure” section of the relevant programme of study.
Students are automatically enrolled for the course and exam in accordance with the progression described in the individual education plan.
Course requirements
1.1. Mandatory participation in the 2nd year of study
- forum and interpretation
Attendance will be monitored by the co-ordinator / coursetutor.
2. Mandatory participation in orchestra and chamber orchestra/choir
- Students specialising in orchestral/band conducting: mandatory and active participation in orchestra project in accordance with orchestra lists, rehearsal schedules and the orchestra committee’s prevailing guidelines; participation in at least one chamber orchestra project per academic year (applies to strings; wind players when the repertoire requires it).
- Students specialising in choral conducting: mandatory and active participation in two chamber choir projects per academic year.
3. Submit instrument report signed by instrument teacher, to include
- exam programme of 20 minutes’ duration (maximum 25 minutes)
- summary of repertoire studied (minimum 60 minutes’ duration)
- summary of performances (minimum one performance per academic year)
- summary of audio materials / recordings and literature studied
Deadline: The report must bedigitallysubmitted to the examinations office by 15 April in the fourth semester of the course to eksamen@nmh.no
Final assessment
The assessment is based on the learning objectives for the course. The final assessment is graded and is determined on the basis of a final recital at the end of Year 2. The assessment is carried out by at least two internal examiners, one of whom usually being the student’s instrument teacher. The examination committee should make a verbal statement on the student’s final recital.
Final recital
The final recital is usually held on the academy’s premises. The student and their instrument teacher should decide on the exam programme. In the event of a disagreement over the programme, the instrument teacher has the final say.
Duration: approx. 20 minutes of performance time (maximum 25 minutes).
In the case of re-assessment, the same procedures apply.