MUSIC 113Music Theatre--Class Voice I

1 credit · Music · Penn State

Group study emphasizing development of sound vocal and musicianship skills fundamental for music theatre. This class is designed for freshman BFA Musical Theatre majors and freshman BFA Acting majors and is the start of a year long exploration of vocal musical production for the stage. The purpose of this class is to lay introductory foundations in singing techniques and skills currently required for a career in the theatre. Students become familiar with the basic concepts of voice production, as well developing an understanding and awareness of vocal health issues. Additionally, students are exposed to a variety of musical theatre and classical sung repertory while they are encouraged to develop perceptive listening skills by interacting and responding to their peers in class and other performers. In MUSIC 113 , students are encouraged and required to develop an appreciation of all genres of sung performance from classical to contemporary. Another important element of the course is helping students develop the necessary vocabulary to respond in writing to vocal performance. Toward that goal, attendance at vocal events scheduled around campus and the community is required. These vocal events will include performances by professionals in many genres. Faculty will provide students with lists of approved events. To help students develop their music performance vocabulary, students are required to respond to some vocal events with written critiques. Aesthetically, students are encouraged to appreciate and practice vocal performance in a variety of stage genres. On the practical side, students learn effective practice skills, music reading, and appreciation of all areas of vocal performance. Students are evaluated based on readings, short writing assignments, evaluations of a number of memorized song performances, and classroom attendance and participation.