Keyboard Accompanying
Curriculum guideline
Each keyboard student will be assigned a B.Mus. vocal or instrumental concentrator to accompany at the beginning of the semester. Each keyboard student will receive four half-hour individual coachings (private lesson mode) on the required scores for accompaniment during the semester, and will participate in three hours of accompaniment master classes (seminar mode) in two smaller groups of up to six students each, as arranged by the instructor(s). At the beginning of the semester all students will attend an introductory one-hour lecture (lecture mode).
Learning approaches to accompanying various genres of vocal and instrumental music (including concerto and opera score reductions, and basso continuo), as appropriate.
Learning various aspects of ensemble rehearsal and performance including intonation, rhythmic accuracy, phrasing, balance, texture, colour, and text expression (vocal), as well as developing sensitivity to harmonic and formal structures, awareness of stylistic issues, and attention to ensemble listening skills.
To develop a deeper awareness of ensemble techniques for the keyboard accompanist and to foster communication and musical understanding between performers.
Grades are based on the student’s regular preparation for individual coaching sessions (private lessons), and on their application of the ensemble principles learned in master class and/or recital, and in juries.
| Preparation for individual coachings (private lessons) (maximum of 4) | 60% |
| Performance accompaniment (minimum of 1, either in master class or in recital) | 25% |
| *Jury accompaniment | 15% |
*This portion of the grade will be given by the instructors present at the vocal or instrumental jury.
Students may be required to purchase one or more of the scores used during the semester.