Subjects

Who is it for?

This subject is for students who enjoy playing notated works from different stylistic backgrounds. It is suggested that you would have been playing your instrument for at least 4 years or that you have learnt music from the AMEB syllabus approximately grade 5 level.

If you have a keen knowledge for developing performance technique and you enjoy responding to music then this is a subject for you to explore.

What do you do?

This course will be delivered by experienced VCE teachers supported by high- quality teaching materials including:

• interactive instructional content
• masterclasses
• online classes
• support from a community of passionate learners from across the state

You will work towards presenting a 20 minute performance which demonstrates a range of notated styles. To do this, you will explore, research and develop your instrumental skills in conjunction with your Instrumental Teacher.

This course will give you the opportunity to experience musicianship skills in a varied way. You will listen to a variety of musicians, extend your musicianship and analyse to develop an appreciation of how musical elements are used in music.

What skills do you need?

• ability to read music notation is essential
• experience with performing or have completed performance exams (e.g. AMEB or equivalent
• AMEB theory exams or equivalent
• ensemble experience – such as orchestras, choirs, bands, chamber groups

What skills do you develop?

You will develop:

• research and plan how a recital is prepared and performed
• technical skills on your chosen instrument
• knowledge on how to interpret and manipulate musical elements to suit the stylistic nuance of the repertoire
• listening and analysis skills
• musical language

Requirements

• you will need to purchase a text book ‘VCE Aural & Theory Essentials Student Workbook’ by Melinda Ceresoli.
• you need to have successfully completed Music Performance Unit 1 and 2
• access to a suitably qualified Instrumental Teacher: if you do not have access to this because of your regional/remote status, please contact VSV staff, as we may be able to help
• an instrument in good working condition
• access to broadband internet capable of downloading and uploading sizeable video files
• a place to practice
• a video capture device with audio recording is required. This could be an iPhone, video camera or similar
• access to a computer that can edit video and audio, as well as create music notation such as Musescore.
• Access to Auralia Online Ear Training Program. To be ordered via Campion Booklists 2024 for VSV.

Pre-enrolment form:

Part A: Student form – to be completed by student and guardian.

Things to think about

You can look at the prescribed list of works for your instrument on the VCAA website and talk to your instrumental teacher about preparing a recital for the subject.

There is a short end of year exam focussing on responding to music, using music language to notate and recreate.

Things you can do now

Develop a regular practice routine where you set small, achievable goals. Practice short exercises or drills which develop techniques such as:

• tone
• dynamic control
• articulation
• fingering
• listen to professional recordings of your chosen instrument

Record yourself playing and listen back to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Go to the VCAA website for more information about this subject.

VCE Music Repertoire Performance Units 3 and 4 (vcaa.vic.edu.au)