The course should enable the student to work independently on topics concerning theory and to relate them to their own practice. The course is organised into different modules.
The course is based on Musicianship I (EXMUS10).
Learning objectives
On completion of this course, the student is expected to
- demonstrate their ability to work independently on topics concerning music history, analysis, performance and musical thinking
- be able to relate theory to their own performance practice
- be able to convey and discuss relevant historical, theoretical and practical musical knowledge
- be able to apply material from artistic research and development
Overview
The course involves further specialisation in subject areas studied in Musicianship I (EXMUS10). The subject areas are organised into modules which look in depth at selected topics and are designed to give the students tools to allow them to work independently. Examples include use of source materials, analytics tools, insights into stylistic and historical attributes, reflection on and application of philosophical perspectives on music, and relating the theoretical contents of the modules to own practice.
The modules on offer may vary from year to year. The student should complete a total of four modules during the course – three obligatory and one elective.
Obligatory modules
- Norwegian music history: The module will provide a general introduction to Norwegian music history with particular focus on art music in the latter part of the 19th century and the 20th century.
- Historically informed interpretation: The module provides an introduction to performance practice from the High Baroque period to the Romantic era. Relevant themes include style, notation practices, ornamentation, instrument history, performance techniques, sound ideals, agogics, rubato, improvisation, aesthetic ideals etc.
- Musical aesthetics: The module provides an introduction to historical models which have had an impact on music as an object for aesthetics.
Elective modules
The students must complete one elective module. Available modules will be announced at the start of the academic year.
Structure
The course is organised into obligatory modules and elective modules from which the students should choose according to their respective interests. The tuition is organised into concentrated blocks and is primarily given as lectures, seminars and group work. There are reading lists and mandatory practical exercises for all modules. The structure and teaching format will be determined at the start of the academic year. Active participation is expected of the students.
For a summary of indicative workload, please see the “Structure” section of the relevant programme of study.
The students are automatically registered for tuition/supervision and assessment in the subject in line with the progression set out in the individual education plan.
Course requirements
Historically informed interpretation
- Attendance is mandatory. This means that a non-attendance rate of 20 per cent or more will normally result in the student failing the module.
- The student should give an oral/practical presentation.
Final assessment
All course requirements must be met before the student can be given a 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 three essays. The final assessment will place emphasis on the written assignment linked to the student’s chosen module. The assessment is carried out by two internal examiners
Essay
The student should submit three essays during the course. The topic for each essay will be set by the course tutor.
- One essay on Norwegian music history (approx. 1,500 words) should be submitted electronically by the date set by the course tutor, normally within two weeks of completing the module.
- One essay on musical aesthetics (approx. 1,500 words) should be submitted electronically by the date set by the course tutor, normally within two weeks of completing the module.
- One essay on the student’s chosen module (approx. 3,500 words) should be submitted electronically by the date set by the course tutor, normally within two weeks of completing the module.
The student will be given an overall assessment for the course at the end of the academic year.
New assessment
In the case of re-assessment, the same procedures apply.