BMus Vocal Studies

at Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

Year 1
 

For all four years of the course there are two singing lessons per week, and classes in Performance. Considerable importance is attached to these Performance Classes, which are masterclass-type sessions, bridging the gap between the studio and public performance situations. Students choose and prepare repertoire which is then performed, involving peer assessment, under the expert guidance of a tutor. The class builds performance skills, confidence and experience. It engenders active, positive self-reflection and critiquing, and helps build a strong supportive environment amongst peers. The whole group is involved in the discussion of performances, thereby benefiting vicariously from each individual’s experience. The expert tutor’s role is crucial in providing guidance in discussions, as well as more obviously direct coaching. Depending on repertoire, each student receives about 15 — 20 minutes as the performer, timetabled on a rotating basis. View the course overview here.
 

In Year One, Italian is developed through both language and repertoire classes. In addition students study the International Phonetic Alphabet. In each year singers have training in Physical Movement designed to prepare them for stage work. The unique Basis of Vocal Technique class is a three year course designed to methodically bring together and share the information and experiences acquired in the 1:1 lessons in the group situation under the guidance of an experienced expert. A major goal is interrelating theory and practice of vocal technique.
 

Students learn by observing one another, and from group discussion which engenders a very high level of reflection. The material is structured so that any gaps in the student knowledge base are identified and corrected as the course progresses. Students’ powers of observation, diagnosis, and prescription for improvement are developed.

Year 2

In Year Two as the voice develops students undertake more demanding repertoire and start the study of German in language classes and coaching in Lieder. The assessments require a Baroque aria (usually with ornamented DC) and Lieder as well as ‘own choice’ material. Students are also expected to offer folksongs, but with the developed technique of the classical singer. The continuing Basis of Vocal Technique classes are again in three sections:  1) Vowels and legato. Complex vowels and maintaining the singer’s formant; 2) The role of consonants in singing voice production; 3) Achieving agility and vitality. The trill and mordent. Introducing the messa di voce.

Year 3

French is commenced in the Year Three. Students must study both the language and its repertoire — Mélodie. The first assessment at the end of the first term is a DVD submission which has to demonstrate various specified aspects of vocal technique, spoken/declaimed song texts in the three languages studied (Italian, German and French) and a short performed recital. At the end of the year students perform a 25 minute solo recital which has to include French Mélodie and also an item in post-Romantic period style. This final year of the Basis of Vocal Technique class covers: 1) Range extension and voice unification; 2) The passaggio zone in differing voice types; 3) Technique and repertoire relationship explored. Problem-solving via repertoire.

Year 4

Year Four is the culmination of the undergraduate course and there are some additional classes in this year. Instead of the Basis of Vocal Technique class, students have classes in Oratorio repertoire and Opera Scenes the latter receiving a formal assessed performance. Two recitals are required, with the mid year one being 30 minutes and the final recital 35 minutes in duration. Choice of material is free, but programmes need to make a coherent balanced short recital with appropriate variety.

General Academic Entrance Requirements

• Scottish Highers — 3 passes (grade C or above)
• A Levels — 2 passes
• International Baccalaureate — minimum score of 24 with 3 subjects at Higher Level
   

Other Standards

A strong indication of potential is sought at the entrance audition for this programme. Successful applicants will normally be of a standard at least equivalent to Grade 8 with Distinction of the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music in their Principal Study. You can apply and audition without having obtained Grade 8 with distinction, however as an indication only, applicants are normally expected to have reached this standard in their performance.

Language of Study

The language of study is English. Applicants who first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of proficiency in English. We accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Level 6.0 (with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component) is required of applicants to the School of Music.

Direct Entry

Applications for direct entry beyond Year 1 will be considered on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with the Royal Conservatoire’s Recognition of Prior (Experiential) Learning policy. If you wish to apply for direct entry, please mark the point of entry on UCAS Conservatoires application as 2 or 3.

Mature Students

RCS welcomes applications from mature students, i.e. students over the age of 21 at entry to the programme. Whilst the selection procedures will still be applied, consideration will be given to appropriate artistic experience not normally expected in school leavers, which is deemed to compensate for any lack of traditional entrance qualifications. Successful mature applicants, as for all other applicants, must convince auditioning panels that they have the ability and potential to cope with the demands of the programme. Their progress, especially in the early stages of the programme, will be closely monitored and appropriate advice and support given.

International Students (Including EU)

£19,314