For all four years of the course there are two singing lessons per week, individual weekly sessions with a vocal coach and accompanist and a variety of Performance Classes.
Considerable importance is attached to these Performance Classes, which are masterclass-type sessions. Students choose and prepare repertoire which is then performed, under the expert guidance of a tutor. The classes build performance skills, confidence and experience and help build a strong supportive environment amongst peers.
All singers participate in two performances annually with the RIAM Chorale.
Singers in Year 3 and Year 4 have the opportunity to sing roles, understudy roles and participate in the ensemble of RIAM Opera productions.
The Academic components of the Vocal degree develop and foster the singer’s very particular musical requirements. Throughout all four years, you will receive sight-singing and aural training classes, 5 days a week. This systematic approach guarantees the development of one of the most important skills in a singer’s tool-kit – the ability to read a score at sight.
In Years One to Three, you will study a number of core modules: Harmony and Counterpoint, Aural training, Analysis and History. There are also shorter modules in Music Technology and Keyboard Skills. In Year four you have the opportunity to explore two specialist electives of your own choice: Dissertation, Composition, Music technology, Analysis or Conducting
Innovative professional practice seminars are incorporated into the degree to prepare students for a successful and healthy portfolio career in the 21st century.
Year 1
Italian is developed through both language classes and Baroque Performance Class. You will also study the International Phonetic Alphabet. During Song Class you will perform art songs in English, and Folk songs.
You will have training in Movement, designed to prepare you for stage work and Yoga to assist with posture and ease of movement.
Assessment
Year 2
As the voice develops students undertake more demanding repertoire and start the study of German in language classes and coaching in Lieder.
You will have the opportunity to perform repertoire in both Baroque Class and Song Class.
You will continue to have classes in Movement and Yoga.
In addition, you will have classes in Acting for Singers and an Opera Ensemble Class.
Assessment
Year 3
You will commence study of the French language and its repertoire –Mélodie.
Song Classes are extended to provide performance classes for Lieder, Mélodies and English and American Song taught by specialist tutors. There is more scope for peer assessment in these classes as the whole group is involved in the discussion of performances with the tutors providing guidance in discussions as well as direct coaching.
Acting Classes, Opera Ensemble Classes and Yoga Classes continue.
You may also have the opportunity to participate in a RIAM Opera production as a member of the ensemble or in a role if appropriate.
You will also receive individual vocal coaching from the RIAM’s visiting international artists and the opportunity to sing in public Masterclasses.
Assessment
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End of year (June) a 35-40 minute Recital Exam including German Lieder, French Mélodies, art songs in English and operatic arias in Italian, German and French to include 18th and 19th century repertoire.
Year 4
Year four is the culmination of the undergraduate course and there are some additional classes in this year. You will have an Aria Class, to include both Operatic and Oratorio repertoire.
The Song Classes in Lieder, Mélodies and English and American Song continue.
Yoga Classes also continue.
You will also have the opportunity to participate in a RIAM Opera production in a role or as an understudy if appropriate.
You will also receive individual vocal coaching from the RIAM’s visiting international artists and the opportunity to sing in public Masterclasses.
Assessment
The mid-year exam is replaced by a Voice and Orchestra exam in May. This can be a vocal cantata, a song cycle for voice and orchestra or equivalent repertoire.
In June you will sing a 50 - 55 minute Recital Exam. The programme should include all major vocal genres i.e. Baroque, Lieder, Mélodies, Art Song, 20th Century Song, Opera and Oratorio. Marks will be given for the construction of a balanced and interesting programme.
For a more detailed description of the course requirements, please refer to the BMusPerf Vocal Studies Handbook
