This module aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge relevant to ensemble direction, including leading skills, conducting technique, rehearsal and performance psychology, and preparation for rehearsing and performing. The module prepares students wishing to take a third year Independent Project in Performance with a conducting/directing specialism.

(LO1) Be able to communicate, verbally and nonverbally as appropriate, aspects of musical expression to an ensemble in the context of a rehearsal or performance

(LO2) Be able to identify aspects of ensemble performance in need of rehearsal and to communicate the issues to the relevant members of the ensemble

(LO3) Be able to prepare an ensemble to perform a specific piece and to lead them through the performance

(LO4) Demonstrate awareness of the conductor's role during performance and rehearsal.

(S1) Communication, listening and questioning respecting others, contributing to discussions, communicating in a foreign language (if appropriate), influencing, presentations.

(S2) Self-management readiness to accept responsibility (i.e. leadership), flexibility, resilience, self-starting, initiative, integrity, willingness to take risks, appropriate assertiveness, time management, readiness to improve own performance based on feedback/reflective learning

(S3) Problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, analysing facts and situations and applying creative thinking to develop appropriate solutions.

(S4) Team (group) working respecting others, co-operating, negotiating / persuading/ awareness of / interdependence with others

Specific content will vary according to student interest, but typical content might include:
- beating/indicating time and expression through gesture;
- preparing a rehearsal plan;
- working from rehearsal to performance;
- performance psychology;
- using the score;
- the relationship of parts to the whole ensemble

Teaching Method 1 - Large Group Learning/structured online activities
Description: Interactive demonstration-workshops for general content
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Small Group Learning/structured online activities
Description: Seminars focus on specific ensembles, rehearsal technique and small group work on conducting/baton technique
Attendance Recorded: No

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorials
Description: One-to-one support on conducting/baton technique and preparation for practical assessments
Attendance Recorded: No

Self-directed Learning: Completion of assessments.