The course is for principal instrument pianists on the classical bachelor programme in music performance and provides a basic introduction to musical shorthand notation and improvisation.
Learning objectives
On completion of this course, the student is expected to
- master musical shorthand notation, accompaniment patterns and transposition
- be able to apply theory on scales and styles when improvising
- be able to perform songs by ear
Overview
Depending on the student’s previous experience and future career plans, the course will cover
- accompaniment/playing with other instruments
- performing from shorthand notation
- transposition
- playing by ear
- improvisation
Structure
The tuition is given individually and/or in groups of up to four students.
For a summary of indicative workload and structure, 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 individualeducation plan.
Course requirements
At the end of the academic year the student should submit a repertoire list of at least 30 minutes’ duration, to include
- harmonised melodies displaying various accompaniment and rhythmic patterns
- transposition of harmonised melodies
- improvisation using different types of scales
- improvisation based on different styles
- songs by ear
Deadline: The repertoire list must be approved by the course tutor by 15 May in the second semester of the course.
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 course is assessed on a pass or fail basis according to one of the following options:
Option 1 (standard option)
Students who choose option 1 commit themselves to attending at least 80 per cent of the course. The students should also perform in at least one in-house concert each semester. The final assessment is made on the basis of an individual evaluation of the student’s level of attainment.
Option 2
The final assessment is made on the basis of a practical exam with at least two internal examiners in which the student performs an own-choice programme lasting approx. 15 minutes. The students will also be tested in sight-reading and basic transposition.
Any student who wishes to use option 2 must email eksamen@nmh.no before 1 February in the second semester of the course.
New assessment
In the event of a fail, the student must complete a practical exam as described under Option 2 above.