The course consists of detailed exercises leading to increased mastery of chords, progressions, embellishments, and tonal relations. Students are initiated into problems and methodology in the science of teaching singing. The physiological, acoustical, and psychological aspects of singing are considered, and practical instruction is given in recognizing and solving problems related to these parameters of the vocal art. Through this study they develop their own methods of piano teaching with an emphasis on proper rhythms and sightreading geared toward the church musician. Emphasis is on the practical skills of scoring in order to enable students to cope with difficulties they will encounter as church musicians and music educators.
Interpretation is stressed.
The student, under the guidance of his applied music teacher, will prepare and perform in public recital an artistic rendering of a program of representative literature for his instrument or voice. This performance may be given only upon approval by the appropriate faculty advisor. A careful study of conducting techniques is combined with practical experience in directing groups in performance. Approval of the department head. Field projects will be undertaken during the final year of training.