course-details-portlet

MUSP4721

Ensemble Practice A

Credits 15
Level Second degree level
Course start Autumn 2026
Duration 2 semesters
Language of instruction English and norwegian
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Practical examination

About

About the course

Course content

This subject runs in a collaboration with The Trondheim Soloists, Trondheim Symphony Orchestra and Opera, Trondheim Vocal Ensemble, The Royal Norwegian Airforce Band, or other relevant ensemble.

The actual practice in the ensemble constitutes the main part of the academic content. The course deals with different aspects of ensemble playing, such as individual preparations, rehearsal situations, musical score understanding and leading a group.

The course can be included as an elective in the bachelor's degree in performance music - classical or Masters in Music Performance. The department assigns elective courses to students based on their prioritized preferences, as well as academic and resource considerations.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

The candiate:

  • has knowledge of the repertoire for the relevant type of ensemble.

Skills:

The candidate:

  • has developed the ability to understand the ensemble's inner dynamics, and find the balance between individual and collective initiative
  • can present and communicate music for an audience.

Learning methods and activities

About 3 ensemble projects in a total amount of about 125 hours work, including group rehearsals, and the students independent work.

Up to 8 hours group instruction in score reading etc.

6 hours tutoring with musician/singer from the professional ensemble.

Training in mock auditions (or equivalent)

The student prepares a report describing the practice, i.e. period, repertoire, supervisor, conductor, concert time and place, etc.

Compulsory assignments

  • Report from the internship
  • Satisfactory participation in both internship and instruction

Further on evaluation

Examination: Two weeks before the exam, the student will be assigned extracts from the repertoire they have been playing in the ensemble. The student must perform the extracts, and explain their musical choices based on the score and musical reflection/understanding. The performance and the musical reflection will be equally emphasized in the assessment.

All mandatory activities must be approved before the student can take the exam in the course:

- Minimum 80% satisfactory participation in practice and teaching.

- Submitted report for the practice

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
Music Performance (MMUSP)
Music Performance Studies (BMUSP)

Required previous knowledge

Requires admission to the bachelor's or Master of Arts in Music Performance and a qualifying audition.

Subject areas

  • Music Performance Studies

Contact information

Course coordinator

Lecturers

Department with academic responsibility

Department of Music

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Practical examination
Grade: Passed / Not Passed

Ordinary examination - Spring 2027

Practical examination
Weighting 100/100 Duration 20 minutes