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Faculty of Music
The Faculty of Music is the oldest and one of the largest music schools at any Australian university. With its distinctive balance of practical training and academic study, it produces comprehensively trained musicians who frequently take up positions of leadership in their fields.
The Faculty fosters excellence in advanced music education, contributes to musical scholarship and research in a wide range of fields, and supports the musical life of the community with public concerts and programs.
As the most richly endowed music school in Australia, the Faculty can offer its students an unequalled array of scholarships. Facilities include an excellent concert hall (Melba Hall), the historic Conservatorium of Music building, the Grainger Museum of rare musical instruments and materials, the Centre for Studies in Australian Music and the Early Music Studio. Activities funded by the Faculty include the annual Myer Free Orchestral Concerts and the Lyre-Bird Press (Editions de l'Oiseau-Lyre), one of the world's foremost publishers of scholarly musical editions.
The Faculty offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Students wishing to enter the music profession are directed to the Bachelor of Music (BMus) degree. This course is a flexible one, but contains a compulsory core of subjects that form the basis of the broad theoretical knowledge and advanced practical skill expected of a graduate musician.
BMus students take a common first year, and in later years add to the core a variety of subject patterns which prepare them for careers as performers, composers, teachers, musicologists, ethnomusicologists, music therapists, or in other related fields. The Music Therapy pattern contains all the requirements for registration with the appropriate professional body. The BMus degree is awarded at pass and honours level according to the quality of a student's results.
Students in the BMus normally take individual practical lessons, practical classes and ensembles, and all students participate in lectures, seminars, listening programs and tutorials. A series of Monday lunch hour and special evening concerts is conducted each year and is free to music students, who are expected to attend regularly. Details appear in the Concert Diary, available from the Faculty Office. Lectures by visiting scholars are presented regularly on Thursday mornings, and postgraduate students attend these as part of their obligations.
For music graduates of high achievement, specialised teaching and supervision is available in postgraduate courses leading to the Master of Music, Master of Arts in music, and the Doctor of Philosophy. A graduate diploma is available for music graduates seeking qualifications in music therapy (DipMusTherapy), or in guided imagery and music (GradDipGIM) and a Doctor of Music degree is also awarded.
The mission of the Faculty of Music is:
In order to achieve this, the Faculty is committed to excellence in all its activities, and seeks:
Applicants for admission to the BMus course are required to have achieved a VCE grade average of at least C in English.
In addition, all applicants are required to undertake an audition and a musicianship test in the Faculty of Music.
Knowledge of Music Theory and Harmony of at least Grade 5 AMEB level or its equivalent is necessary. Applicants must also have reached approximately Grade 7 AMEB standard or its equivalent on their instrument.
Entry to the Faculty of Music undergraduate combined Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Arts (BMus/BA) course requires an applicant to meet both the BMus and BA entry requirements. All prospective students should contact the Faculty for BMus entry details, an audition application form and information about the musicianship test.
The Degree Programs Manager is responsible for the administration of the BMus and all combined BMus courses, other than the BEd (Music), under the academic direction of the Dean and Deputy Dean. BEd(Music) students deal directly with Dr Ros McMillan, Faculty of Education. The Degree Programs Manager handles enrolment, re-enrolment, deferment, withdrawal, credit transfers, course changes, and many other matters. The Manager can also provide advice on course requirements, course planning, part time study, leave of absence, and HECS, and can refer students needing academic advice to the appropriate staff.
All arrangements for assessment are dealt with by this office, including extensions, special consideration, supplementary examinations and arrangements for students with disabilities. The Degree Programs Manager will also assist students with study problems by referring them to appropriate support groups such as the Horwood Language Centre or Learning Skills Unit. Students in the Faculty who have been admitted under special entry schemes, students with disabilities, and foreign students are particularly invited to introduce themselves to discuss any general concerns they might have.
Each September, continuing students are advised of the Course Planning procedure through which they choose subjects for the following year. Students who pass their course successfully for the current year are then sent an Authorised Enrolment Record together with all other re-enrolment materials. Students who do not successfully complete their year are not sent the Record, and must be available to call at the Faculty in December for an interview with the Program Manager or Deputy Dean to replan their course.
Instructions on completing the Plan are issued with the Plan forms, but the following general principles apply:
The Program Manager, Dean and all academic staff are available to students who need advice to plan their courses.
The Faculty's timetable is posted on the Faculty noticeboard prior to the commencement of each semester and copies are available from the Faculty Office. Before planning outside activities, students should be aware that they will have other course commitments not listed in the lecture timetable. Practical lessons are individually arranged by the end of the first week of first semester each year. Tutorials are arranged in the first week of semester and normally commence in the second week of semester.
To benefit from their time at the Faculty, students need to give their full attention to studying the repertoire prescribed by their teachers, and avoid external musical commitments which would inhibit their study time. Accordingly, they must seek the Dean's permission to participate in musical activities outside the Faculty, and such permission should be sought prior to making a commitment to the activity concerned. Commitments which clash with ensemble or class obligations will not be approved.
Students who wish to change their course, or subjects within a course, or change from one class to another, should consult the Program Manager in the first instance; in some cases an interview with the Dean or Deputy Dean will be necessary. A student requesting a change of Practical Study instrument will be auditioned on the proposed new instrument in order to determine whether there is evidence of a sufficient level of ability on the proposed instrument to make such a change practicable, and the appropriate level within the course at which study on the new instrument should commence. Normally such students will be required to complete a minimum of two years on the new instrument or the remaining years of their course, whichever period is the greater. Other recommendations may be made by the audition panel, but under no circumstances will a period of less than one year of study on the new instrument be recommended.
Students wishing to apply for credit from previous study should obtain an Application for Credit form from the Degree Programs Manager. Credit for previous study is usually determined by the Undergraduate Studies Committee when a student first enrols at the Faculty. In general, students will receive equivalent credit for academic subjects similar to those in the BMus taken in other music degree courses. Appropriate credit for practical subjects is granted on recommendation of the audition panel.
Students who wish to interrupt their courses even for a short period should apply through the Degree Programs Manager for leave of absence, stating reasons for the request. Students in the first year of the course are not permitted to take leave of absence. Leave of absence will normally be given to students in good standing for up to one year, and students who have received a full year's leave are required to inform the Faculty of their intentions for the following year before 30 November. A student interrupting a course without having sought leave of absence may be suspended from the course by the Academic Board.
Soon after enrolment, all new students will be interviewed and will play their instrument for the Dean and a panel of senior staff. Students are generally allocated to a practical teacher at this time, and those who have a preference to study with a particular member of the practical staff should therefore make it known at this interview. Ensemble allocation is also considered at this interview.
For BMus students, practical tuition is arranged on the basis of a 45-minute individual lesson each week of semester one and two, plus attendance at the Thursday 1.5 hour Concert Class. Group lessons and ensemble classes may also be involved to provide students with opportunities to perform before a group of their peers. Music Performance 1and 2 are taken by most students except those enrolling in Composition or the academic specialisation. Music Performance 3 and 4 are core subjects for students in the Music Performance specialisation, being restricted to those students displaying considerable promise as performers. Such students receive 1-hour weekly lessons and attend, in addition to Concert Class, a 2-hour Masterclass each Friday afternoon, at which distinguished visiting performers are often featured. A quota is applied to limit admission to Music Performance 3 and a result of 85% is normally required. In all these subjects, no work may be presented for examination more than once, except at supplementary examinations.
Experience gained through participation in ensemble rehearsals and performances is considered important by the Faculty. All BMus students must take part in choral, orchestral, or other ensemble activities as directed by the Dean. Students enrol in Ensemble for four years (one for music education and two for music therapy students, who then undertake ensemble work as part of specialised subjects). Each ensemble is directed by a member of staff, and entails up to four hours rehearsal per week plus additional rehearsal time prior to major performances.
Membership of the Faculty Orchestra is competitive and it is expected that all students who play orchestral instruments will audition for places. The Faculty Choir gives at least two performances a year of major choral works. All students not in the Orchestra are expected to participate in the Choir for at least one year. There is a range of other Faculty Ensembles open to second and later year students. Chamber ensembles and accompanying are also available as electives for BMus students. For further information, see under the relevant headings in Music Subjects.
The Faculty of Music has a selection of musical instruments including strings, woodwinds, brass and early keyboard instruments which are available for loan to current students, subject to the recommendation of your teacher and the approval of the responsible academic staff member or the Dean. Where a loan has been approved, most instruments are available for use within the building during the day by leaving your student card at the front office or on a fortnightly basis by completing the loan form and paying a deposit of $50. Certain valuable instruments require a deposit of $200 and a loan fee of $20 and are lent on a yearly basis. Once the responsible staff member has approved a loan you should contact Peter Liddelow, the Technical Manager, to arrange collection of the instrument.
Careful planning is required for a practical examination. The examination program requires prior approval by the Faculty. No later than August 1 (May 1 for Music Performance 3 and 4), you must obtain and complete a Practical Examination Program Approval Form, which must be signed by your teacher and returned to the Faculty.
Reliable estimates of playing times for each work are required, and your teacher will be able to guide you concerning the maximum and minimum allowable program times. A repertoire report form listing all repertoire you have studied in the current year must also be completed and passed to your teacher, who will add a teacher's report and return it to the Faculty prior to the examination. Duplicate copies of the music must also be arranged and brought to the examination room for the examiners. If part or all of the program is to be performed from memory (and this is standard on some instruments), you should discuss this well in advance with your teacher, so sufficient time for memorisation is allowed.
Prior to their examinations only, Music Performance 1 and 2 students may book to rehearse on the Tallis Wing or Heinze Room Steinways, whichever is appropriate, for one hour. Students appearing in Concert Class may rehearse on the 1981 Steinway for 20 minutes. The concert instruments in Melba Hall are the finest in Melbourne, and reserved strictly for professional recordings and public concerts; only Music Performance 3 and 4 students may book one of the two specified Steinways in Melba Hall prior to their examinations for one 2-hour rehearsal only. Note that the same restrictions apply to professionals performing in Melba Hall: the Faculty is determined to maintain the hall's reputation as the finest recital and chamber venue in the state.
The Building Supervisor is instructed to eject students using Conservatorium Steinways without approval, and the Faculty will take disciplinary action against a student making unauthorised use of Melba Hall. Booking of the pianos in Melba Hall and the Heinze Room should be arranged with the Concert Office. If a student with a booking finds a piano is locked, a key is available from the Building Supervisor or the Office; this should be returned immediately the piano has been opened.
The quality of your practical work at the Faculty will depend to a great degree on how and where you practise. Before you commence the course, review the location of your music room: it is vitally important to ensure you have free, unlimited access to a quiet room with acoustics suitable for practise throughout the course. The quality of your instrument is another important matter; an instrument adequate for childhood music lessons will not necessarily serve well in pre-professional training. You should discuss both your instrument and practise arrangements with your practical teacher at the earliest opportunity. How often and for how long you practise will depend on your teacher's policies, and you should also discuss this matter as soon as possible. How you organise each practise session is also vital: sometimes talented students have impaired their progress with repetition strain injuries and similar problems through ill-considered and unhealthy practise habits. The training of any muscles involves proper warm-ups, exercise and rest: in general, each practise session should be broken up into small segments separated by short rest breaks, each segment should begin with slow work and gradually warm-up towards rapid work. Good posture, the correct chair and sensible instrument supports should also be considered. At any time, the onset of muscular pains should immediately indicate a rest is required. Such pain is likely to mean possible injury unless care is taken.
The Faculty has a list of approved accompanists available from the Front Office.
The accompanist must be contacted well in advance (no later than the start of semester 2) to ensure adequate rehearsal can be arranged. Evidence of preparation with the accompanist is taken into account by the examiners.
Practical examinations, like public recitals, are treated as events advertised on a set date, and will not usually be deferred.
Students whose preparation has been affected by illness must generally proceed with their practical examination on the scheduled date, but apply for Special Consideration by examiners if the performance is affected.
Applications for deferment must be submitted to the Dean. These will only be considered if there are extenuating circumstances documented by a medical certificate.
Music Performance 3 and 4 examinations are open to the public. An audience is not permitted for any other practical examinations.
For details of music subjects and the music major available in the BA, see the Faculty of Arts Music entry in this Handbook.
For the BMus, course requirements and electives are listed below. Before enrolling, note that non-music subjects taught at times conflicting with music subjects must be avoided. Both the lecture timetable and Ensemble and Practical Class schedules should be checked - these are posted on the notice board early in each year. Music Performance lessons are individually arranged.
More detailed information about activities in the Faculty and Scholarships and Prizes is given in the Faculty of Music Student Guide, available from the Faculty of Music. The Degree Programs Manager, Faculty of Music, is available to clarify music enrolment matters, and advice on academic matters should be sought from the Deputy Dean or Dean.
The BMus course is designed to provide students with a perspective for the discipline of music and the specialist knowledge and skills that should prepare them for a professional career in music.
The Bachelor of Music course has as its objectives that graduates:
BMus(Performance) students are expected to study intensively the instrument with which they completed the entrance requirement without change or interruption for the duration of their course. Those who complete Music Performance 2 with excellent results may then proceed to Music Performance 3 then 4.
All students in the Music Therapy stream receive group tuition over two years in various instruments important to their work, and students in the Performance course pattern are encouraged to take a Second Practical Study (when available).
All BMus students take an intensive aural training subject, a program of ensemble work, a sequence of theoretical studies, and a comprehensive music literature requirement. In Ensemble they are allocated by the Dean to one or more of the Faculty's performing groups. Currently, these include the Faculty Orchestra, Choir, Chamber Choir, Baroque Ensemble, Contemporary Ensemble, Big Band, Early Music Ensemble and a number of others. These ensembles are dependent on attendance, and full participation is expected.
Attendance at public concerts is also regarded as important, and all BMus students are required to attend and write short reports on a minimum of ten concerts approved by the Faculty each year.
The first two years is common to all BMus students. In second year, students who wish to prepare for a career in music therapy, music teaching or composition follow the course prescribed for that specialisation. All other students take the compulsory BMus core and have a wide choice of subject combinations. Those preparing for careers in solo or orchestral performance may give their course an intensively practical orientation; those interested in musicology focus on academic subjects.
All candidates for the degree shall, during the four years of their studies, complete subjects in another faculty of no less than 25 credit points to a maximum of 50 points approved in advance by the Faculty of Music.
For electives, students may take a minimum of 25 points up to a maximum of 50 points of subjects in other Faculties (75 points for musicology students). In choosing these, students are urged to consider in particular foreign languages relevant to musical study, comparative studies in the arts, religion of philosophy, or subjects considering political, social or economic factors which affect the arts.
In addition, the following music elective subjects are available. The academic electives are available in years 3 and 4 and in the graduate programs. Each is worth 12.5 points. Academic electives are offered in rotation (four per semester):
Academic Electives
Applied Electives
While the Music Therapy course is largely fixed in its structure, there is considerable flexibility for all other students. Beyond the core subjects, students may focus their course according to their aspirations or interests into, at one extreme, an intensively practical study program or, at the other extreme, a largely academic degree.
Students are advised to consider their career interests and make their subject choices accordingly. In preparing for certain careers, the following patterns are recommended.
The first two years of the BMus, irrespective of the specialisation, are listed above. The specialisation years are as follows:
| Third year | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| 740-306 Music Performance 3 | 50.0 | |
| 740-385 Music Techniques 3 | 12.5 | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | 12.5 | |
| Either | ||
| 740-267 Chamber Music 1 | 12.5 | |
| or | ||
| 740-268 Keyboard Accompaniment | 25.0 | |
| and Electives | ||
| Fourth year | ||
| 740-406 Music Performance 4 | 50.0 | |
| 740-402 Ensemble 4 | 12.5 | |
| 740-480 Conducting | 12.5 | |
| Electives | ||
| Total Points | 400.0 | |
Students preparing for careers as composers or arrangers take Composition 1 in either first or second year, and choose applied electives involving technical skills. Some grounding in aesthetics, art history, mathematics or linguistics might also be desirable. A suggested pattern is:
| Third year | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| 740-327 Composition 2 | 25.0 | |
| and Electives | ||
| or | ||
| 740-427 Composition 3 | 50.0 | |
| Plus: | ||
| 740-385 Music Techniques 3 | 12.5 | |
| 740-342 Orchestration and Arrangement | 12.5 | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | 12.5 | |
| 740-312 Musical Acoustics | 12.5 | |
| Fourth year | ||
| 740-427 Composition 3 | 50.0 | |
| or | ||
| 740-435 Composition 4 | 50.0 | |
| Plus: | ||
| 740-480 Conducting | 12.5 | |
| 740-386 Music Analysis | 12.5 | |
| 740-402 Ensemble 4 | 12.5 | |
| Electives | ||
| Total Points | 400.0 | |
This course is designed for students seeking careers as music therapists in health or special education. The music therapy course combines training in appropriate musical skills with psychology, physiology, social and clinical studies.
Quota: Owing to the limited availability of clinical placements, a quota of 8 undergraduate students applies for entry to the third year of this course, based on the work in Applied Music Skills - Therapy and academic studies in year 2. Selection is determined at a meeting of the Board of Examiners in early December and students are advised by letter from the Dean whether or not they have been successful.
| Third year | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| 512-100 Psychology 1 | 25.0 | |
| 740-364 Applications of Music in Therapy A | 12.5 | |
| 740-340 Applications of Music in Therapy B | 12.5 | |
| 740-275 Clinical Practice in Music Therapy 1 | 12.5 | |
| 740-389 Clinical Practice in Music Therapy 2 | 12.5 | |
| 740-390 Music Therapy Methods 1 | 12.5 | |
| 196-103 Human Behaviour and Social Environment | 12.5 | |
| Fourth year | ||
| 740-459 Clinical Practice in Music Therapy 3 | 50.0 | |
| 740-458 Music Therapy Methods 2 | 12.5 | |
| 740-424 Music Therapy Methods 3 | 12.5 | |
| 740-366 Music Psychology | 12.5 | |
| 740-434 Music in Medicine | 12.5 | |
| Total Points | 400.0 | |
This course aims to provide specialist education and training in the performance of music principally of the medieval, renaissance and baroque periods on historical instruments and according to historical performance practices, together with the scholarly studies related to the discipline. In addition to this, it shares the common objectives of the Bachelor of Music course.
| Early Music Stream | ||
|---|---|---|
| Third year | Points | |
| 740-306 Music Performance 3 | 50.0 | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | 12.5 | |
| Electives | ||
| and | ||
| 740-241 Basso Continuo | 12.5 | |
| or | ||
| 740-239 Performance Practice (Early Music) | 12.5 | |
| Fourth year | ||
| 740-406 Music Performance 4 | 50.0 | |
| 740-402 Ensemble 4 | 12.5 | |
| Electives | ||
| and | ||
| 740-241 Basso Continuo | 12.5 | |
| or | ||
| 740-239 Performance Practice (Early Music) | 12.5 | |
| Total Points | 400.0 | |
This course is aimed at students who wish to prepare for a career in studio teaching.
| Third year | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| One of: | ||
| 740-306 Music Performance 3 | 50.0 | |
| or | ||
| and | ||
| 740-481 Performance Teaching | 12.5 | |
| or | ||
| 740-481 Performance Teaching and | 12.5 | |
| 740-359 Musicological Research Method 1 | 25.0 | |
| Plus: | ||
| 740-385 Music Techniques 3 | 12.5 | |
| 740-386 Music Analysis | 12.5 | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | 12.5 | |
| Electives | ||
| Fourth year | ||
| One of: | ||
| 740-406 Music Performance 4 | 50.0 | |
| or | ||
| 740-339 Performance Workshop 2 | 12.5 | |
| and Electives | ||
| or | ||
| Electives and | ||
| 740-431 Musicological Research Method 2 | 25.0 | |
| Plus: | ||
| Electives | ||
| 740-402 Ensemble 4 | 12.5 | |
| 740-426 Work Experience and Career Preparation | 25.0 | |
| Total Points | 400.0 | |
This course aims to develop students' understanding and knowledge of music, musical scholarship and research methods to prepare them as professional musicologists. Students will complete advanced seminars in music history, theory, research methodology and systematic disciplines such as analysis, aesthetics, historiography and palaeography. A dissertation presenting the results of a substantial project is the culminating point of the course.
Students choose this stream in preparation for careers in music criticism, librarianship, journalism, research, editing, radio and television music programming, or other branches of musicology.
| Third year | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| 740-359 Musicological Research Method 1 | 25.0 | |
| 740-385 Music Techniques 3 | 12.5 | |
| 740-386 Music Analysis | 12.5 | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | 12.5 | |
| *Electives | ||
| Fourth year | ||
| 740-462 Dissertation | 50.0 | |
| 740-431 Musicological Research Method 2 | 12.5 | |
| 740-402 Ensemble 4 | 12.5 | |
| *Electives | ||
| * Three of the five electives must be chosen from the Academic electives list. | ||
| Total Points | 400.0 | |
Students wishing to prepare for careers in music education transfer to the combined Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Teaching course at the end of their second year. They spend their first year in the Music course, then in second year study some education subjects which, if passed with good results, will lead them to transfer into the combined degree at the beginning of third year. The next three years are then spent in the combined course, including an internship in a school in the final year. Core subjects from the Bachelor of Music course are combined with training in applied music skills related to teaching, and studies in education. Graduates qualify for registration as specialist music teachers in primary and secondary schools in both classroom and instrumental methods.
The BMus/BA degree provides students with the opportunity to combine their music degree with a general education in the humanities, social sciences and the languages and cultures of other people. Students complete a minimum of 500 points, made up of a minimum of 225 points in subjects in the Faculty of Arts (50 at first-year level, 75 at second-year level, 100 at third-year level) and a minimum of 275 points with a maximum of 310 points from the BMus. The same subject cannot be counted towards both degrees.
A 'major' or specialisation in the Faculty of Arts consists of at least five subjects at second and/or third year level in an area of study, including any compulsory subjects prescribed by the relevant department. Students have the option of completing one or two majors or not completing a major if they find this restrictive, instead taking subjects from several areas of study. Areas of study are: American Studies; Ancient Greek; Anthropology; Arabic; Archaeology; Asian Studies; Australian Studies; Chinese; Cinema Studies; Criminology; English; English Language; Environmental Studies; Fine Arts; French; Geography; German; Modern Greek; Hebrew; Hellenic Studies; History; History and Philosophy of Science; Indonesian; Islamic Studies; Italian; Jewish Studies; Korean; Latin; Linguistics; Medieval Studies; Philosophy; Planning and Design; Political Science; Psychology; Russian; Russian Studies; Social Theory; Social Research Methods; Sociology; Spanish; Swedish; Women's Studies. The following subjects are available in first year only, and in some instances at second year level: Communication Skills; English as a Second Language; Vietnamese. For further information, please refer to the separate entries for Music and Arts in this handbook.
The combined course is administered through the Faculty of Music and normally takes five years of full-time study. To be selected into the combined degree, students need to satisfy the entry requirements of both courses.
| First year | |
|---|---|
| 740-136 Music Performance 1 | |
| or | |
| 740-227 Composition 1 | |
| Plus: | |
| 740-141 Music Techniques 1-1 | |
| 740-140 Aural and Keyboard Studies | |
| 740-102 Ensemble 1 | |
| One music history subject | |
| BA first year level subjects | |
| Second year | |
| 740-236 Music Performance 2 | |
| or | |
| 740-327 Composition 2 | |
| Plus: | |
| 740-129 Music Techniques 1-2 | |
| 740-202 Ensemble 2 | |
| Two music history subjects | |
| BA first year level subjects | |
| Third year | |
| 740-306 Music Performance 3 | |
| or | |
| 740-481 Performance Teaching | |
| and | |
| 740-331 Performance Workshop 1 | |
| or | |
| 740-427 Composition 3 | |
| Plus: | |
| 740-264 Music Techniques 2-1 | |
| One music history subject | |
| BA second year level subjects | |
| Fourth year | |
| 740-386 Music Analysis | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | |
| 740-229 Music Techniques 2-2 | |
| 740-385 Music Techniques 3 | |
| BA second year level subjects | |
| Fifth year | |
| BA third year level subjects | |
Either or both of the BA and the BMus may be taken at honours level. For BA(Hons) the course requires extra points and a sixth year of study; entry to the BA(Hons) component depends on the student's acceptance into a specific honours school or schools at the beginning of the third or fourth year of their BA course (see Faculty of Arts entry).
The BMus degree may be awarded with honours depending on the level of results the student earns in the third and fourth-year subjects of the degree.
The Faculty of Arts offers a Diploma in Modern Languages (see Diploma in Modern Languages). Language subjects are taken concurrently with an approved undergraduate degree in a sequence approved by the student's home faculty and the language department. The Diploma will normally add one year to the duration of the student's main degree course. Further information and application forms are available from the Faculty of Arts Office, telephone (03) 9344 5235.
This course is aimed at students coming to the University of Melbourne who have already had musical training and wish to continue with music study while taking a degree course in another discipline.
The course comprises a three year sequence of study in music, which students add to their existing degree studies. At the conclusion of the course they should have acquired advanced practical abilities that compare with the end of the second year of the Bachelor of Music course.
The Diploma in Music (Practical) is only available to students who have accepted an offer of a place or are re-enrolling in an undergraduate degree at the University of Melbourne. For further information contact the Degree Programs Office at the Faculty of Music, telephone (03) 9344 5256.
| Diploma in Music (Practical) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Points | |
| 740-146 Music Performance 1D | 12.5 | |
| 740-102 Ensemble 1 | 12.5 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| 740-246 Music Performance 2D | 12.5 | |
| 740-202 Ensemble 2 | 12.5 | |
| Elective | ||
| Year 3 | ||
| 740-346 Music Performance 3D | 12.5 | |
| 740-343 Ensemble 3 | 12.5 | |
| Elective | ||
| Total Points | 100 | |
Electives
25 points to be chosen from the following subjects (all worth 12.5 pts each):
Details of the method of assessment appear under individual subject headings, and include such forms as practical examinations, written assignments and examinations, ensemble attendance and tutorial presentations. Where components of assessment which are different from those listed are to be used, the details will be posted on Faculty noticeboard or advised in the course outline to students at the beginning of the semester.
In the BMus, the grade structure set out below is used for all subjects.
In some cases, where a mark of not less than 40 percent has been achieved by a student making a first attempt at a subject and who has not failed more than 25 percent of subjects in the current year, a Faculty Pass may be awarded. Such a pass does not permit the student to proceed to any subject for which the subject thus passed is a prerequisite.
Students must not seek to obtain an advantage in a Faculty assessment by unfair means. The University has strict rules about this, which may be found in Statute 12.2-3. There is no objection to examination pieces being performed widely by a student, or assignments and examination answers being discussed in a preliminary way with other students. What is not permitted is students performing at Faculty assessments practical work already studied for other examinations or courses, and students exchanging or making available to other students any working notes, drafts or final answers for Faculty assessments, whether prepared this year or previously.
For the purpose of the Statute, the following would be regarded as an advantage obtained by unfair means in the Music Faculty:
Submission of assignments in all subjects should be deposited in the appropriate locker in the Faculty basement by 5pm on the due date, unless stated otherwise. Students should keep a duplicate copy of the work in case of any dispute. Assignments submitted by post must have been posted to arrive at the Faculty of Music before the due date. Assignments will not be accepted if faxed.
A scholarly approach is expected in the preparation of papers and essays in all Faculty subjects. Students must therefore purchase a style manual, such as MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, Theses and Dissertations (New York: Modern Languages Association, 1988), and use it as the standard style manual in all Faculty subjects. A guide which summarises many of the fundamental points is available in the Music In Society course notes. Students may use the Faculty computer laboratory to prepare or laser print their work; those who have their own computer must ensure their word processing program has the formatting, footnoting and other facilities (e.g. foreign language diacriticals) required in the MLA style manual. Microsoft Word and Wordperfect, which are consistent with the style manual, are used at the computer laboratory. Students should also ensure that they can produce laser or letter quality print for their submissions; low quality dot-matrix is not acceptable.
Students are notified of assignment details well in advance and extensions therefore will not be granted without very serious cause. Under Statute 12.4, applications for extensions will generally be considered only on medical or other serious grounds. Students seeking an extension must see the Degree Programs Manager at least 3 days prior to the due date for the assignment. Doctor's certificates, etc. should be taken to your appointment. You should not approach lecturers or tutors regarding extensions as they have no authority to grant them.
Where work is submitted without an extension after the due date, lecturers may, at their discretion, choose to:
If the Degree Programs Manager has not been contacted by the due date the work may not be marked.
The Student Diary gives information regarding University examinations and the determination of disputes relating to assessment. Details of how examiners are to assess may be found in the directions of the Academic Board pursuant to Statutes 12.3.2, 12.3.9, 12.5.1 and 12.2.11; for further information, see the appendix in the Student Diary.
For the Faculty of Music, these are applied as follows:
Special examinations may be granted in any Faculty subject under the following circumstances:
It is possible for Honours to be awarded at a special examination, but the Record Card will show that a special examination was involved. After a special examination, no further examinations are granted to students who failed to sit or were further affected by illness, although in such cases an application for Special Consideration may be made within 3 days of the examination concluding. The Board of Examiners will then assess the students' performance and may take the new circumstances into account. A new application must be lodged in respect of such examinations; it is not possible to rely on an earlier application.
Supplementary examinations may be awarded for any subject in any year of the Undergraduate course by the Board of Examiners under Statute 12.4.3 if, after reviewing the student's progress in the year as a whole, the Board is satisfied that: (1) After taking the examination as scheduled a student's performance was not too far below the pass mark; and (2) The student had made a serious attempt throughout the year. If a supplementary examination is awarded, the Board will determine the form which the examination will take. The student may be required to submit additional work, to rely on late work already submitted, to revise and re-submit work, or re-take the whole assessment. Assessment will be on a pass/fail basis; Honours will not be awarded at a supplementary examination.
After a supplementary examination, no further examinations are granted to students who failed to sit or were effected by illness, although in such cases an application for special consideration may be made within 3 days of the examination concluding. The Board of Examiners will then assess the student's performance and may take the circumstances into account. A new application must be lodged in respect of such examinations; It is not possible to rely on an earlier application.
Students are urged to discuss any study problems they encounter with their lecturers or tutors. Those experiencing study difficulties as a result of illness, accidents, or personal or financial problems should seek advice from the Degree Programs Manager as soon as possible, in case some action under the Special Consideration provision is necessary. Depending on the nature and seriousness of the problem, the Degree Programs Manager may suggest that students call at the Student Counselling Service or the Financial Aid and Employment Office. Students may approach either of these Offices directly if they so wish. More detailed information about these services can be found in the Student Diary.
Special Consideration is governed by Statute 12.4.4-7. In brief:
When time permits, all academic staff are happy to explain to students concepts unfamiliar through lack of English. However, the Academic Board of the University has determined that Special Consideration cannot be granted to students on the grounds of disadvantage in their academic studies because of insufficient competence in English arising from their non- English speaking backgrounds. As a result, the Faculty of Music is not able to grant extra reading time in examinations or provide additional tutorial assistance in assignments to such students. Students in this category are urged to seek assessment at the Horwood Language Centre and enrol in any recommended programs following the assessment.
The Faculty Student Progress Committee may meet twice annually in June-July and December-January to consider records of students in the Music Course whose progress is judged unsatisfactory, to investigate the circumstances of such students' performance, to elicit any fact which may weigh in favour of the students, and to consider whether any action should be taken or any opinion given for the purpose of the Statute. 11.5 This Statute and the Student Dairy set out the principles governing student progress in the University.
In considering a case, the Committee normally takes into account personal, financial and study problems. Progress rules for students enrolled in the undergraduate courses of the Faculty of Music are set out below:
1. The progress of a student will be deemed to be unsatisfactory if the student: (a) fails three or more subjects in one year; (b) fails any two of Practical Study, Music Performance, Composition, Music History or Music Techniques in the one year; (c) fails any subject twice; (d) fails two subjects in each of successive years; (e) as a part-time student fails more than 50% of the subjects entered for in any one year; or (f) having failed to achieve a satisfactory result in any Practical Study or Music Performance subject, is unlikely, in the opinion of the examiners, to reach the level of proficiency required for that subject.
2. No student shall proceed to the third year of the course before passing all subjects of the first year nor to the fourth year before passing all subjects of the second year. Such a student will be advised in writing of any information before the Committee and given an opportunity to explain their performance in writing and/or in interview. After investigating the circumstances and giving the student concerned an opportunity to be heard, the Committee may: (a) award supplementary examinations; (b) specify the subjects for which the student may enrol in any subsequent year; or (c) report its opinion to the Academic Board that the student be suspended from the course. Students will be notified promptly of the results of the Committee's decision in writing. Students reported to the Academic Board are then advised of their rights to appear before the Board and copies of the relevant regulations are provided. Such students are given an opportunity of making an explanation to the Academic Board, which may then either suspend the student, limit the student's future enrolment, or permit the student to continue without restriction.
For graduates wishing to make a career change into music therapy, the GradDipMT provides a thorough study of the theory and practice of music therapy. The course takes 2 years full-time (4 years part-time) and on satisfactory completion, candidates are eligible to apply for registration as Music Therapists with the Australian Music Therapy Association (Inc). Advanced practical ability on an instrument and basic skills at singing while accompanying on the guitar are important, and are tested at the audition prior to admission.
For practising music therapists and health professionals with appropriate music background who wish to undertake advanced studies in the Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) method. The course takes two years of part-time intensive workshops, and on successful completion candidates are eligible to qualify for a fellowship of the American Association for Music and Imagery. Registration as a music therapist or other health professional is a prerequisite, and aptitude for the course is assessed at interview prior to admission
For music graduates and private studio teachers of some experience who work with individual instrumental students and who wish to undertake formal study to improve their teaching and performing skills to graduate level. The course is also offered in a 7-week full-time intensive mode in Jan-Feb. Applicants may have either a music degree or appropriate performance diploma (e.g. AMusA) with four years full-time teaching experience.
For practising composers who wish to acquire expertise in electroacoustic music composition. The course takes 1 year full-time and includes training in technology, composition and practical experience with the Faculty's electroacoustic studios. Ability as a composer and aptitude for the course are assessed by submission of a folio of works and an interview prior to admission.
For practising composers who wish to acquire and further their experience and expertise in music composition for instrumental and vocal media. The course takes 1 year full-time and includes practical experience with students and staff from the Faculty of Music. Advanced ability as a composer and aptitude for the course are assessed by submission of a folio of works and an interview prior to admission.
For practising composers who wish to acquire experience and expertise in music composition for film and television. The course takes 1 year full-time and includes practical experience with students from the Film and Television School of the Victorian College of the Arts as well as with professionals from the film and television industry. Advanced ability as a composer and aptitude for the course are assessed by submission of a folio of works, the completion of a music cue to a short film clip, and an interview prior to admission.
The Faculty offers a three-semester full-time or three-year part-time MMus degree course. All candidates take a major study in one of Research, Composition or Performance.
Research students may specialise in some branch of musicology, music education or music therapy. A thesis is required.
Composition students present a folio of original compositions, using a variety of resources and containing at least one composition of a substantial and sustained nature, with the possibility of additional work in research and coursework.
Performance students present two public recitals in which major works are performed and provide substantial program notes for each. Students also complete related coursework.
Entry to DMus degree candidature is open to graduates of at least five years standing. Acceptance is subject to the Faculty being satisfied that the candidate has attained appropriate distinction as a composer or scholar of music.
Examination is based on a submission of a body of compositions or scholarly publications which together would constitute a major contribution to music, or attest to a major original contribution to research into the theory, history and aesthetics of music.
The DMA is a professional doctorate which offers the opportunity to significantly advance musical interpretation and performance understanding in a chosen area. It takes 3 years full-time (18 months for MMus graduates), and combines coursework with advanced practical study and recitals, culminating in a doctoral thesis and lecture recital. An audition is required of all applicants.
The PhD is awarded by the University, not the Faculty. Details are available from the University's School of Graduate Studies.
Employment possibilities for music graduates vary between specialisations but are currently good.
Openings exist in both professional and semi-professional orchestras. Symphony orchestras and opera or ballet orchestras seek competent players and opportunities arise for casual players in choral accompaniment and amateur theatrical productions.
The world of the solo performer is a fickle one and suited only to those with a formidable command of technique, great physical stamina and an appropriate mental constitution. Some opportunities for professional piano accompanists exist.
Qualified music teachers are in demand in both government and private schools to teach general class music and to organise and teach in instrumental music programs.
Appropriately qualified private music teachers have little trouble building a practice, especially those using new technology such as the computer to assist in theory, training and creative music-making.
Composers and music researchers generally have limited opportunities but some find employment at tertiary institutions. Most supplement their income by teaching or acting as critics or journalists for the media.
Music therapy is a relatively new field in which graduates have gained secure employment in working with the mentally and physically handicapped and the aged in hospitals and other institutions.
Graduates contemplating a career in music will find it useful to study the changing scene. In times when funding cuts are beginning to affect many people, it is notable that sales of recordings, music, musical instruments and high quality sound reproduction equipment are booming.
Further information may be obtained from:
Degree Programs ManagerSearch : Index : Faculty of Music
Status: Official 1998 Last Modified: Tuesday October 21 17:12 SGML to HTML Conversion: Information Technology Services Authorised by: Academic Registrar Email Enquiries: Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au