French Song Masterclasses

When & Where

23 January 2025 - 13 March 2025 ( 21 hours, 7 weeks )
Afternoon, Thursday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Yes
Tutor Susan Young
Course Code W24VSSA05A
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This course takes the form of seven masterclasses focussing on the interpretation of the French song repertoire with an expert vocal/language coach and an experienced collaborative pianist. The course is suitable for students of advanced level (at least Grade 8 or equivalent) and entry is via audition. Auditions for this course will take place on 9 January 2025, 2-5pm. To request an audition slot, please contact enquiries@morleycollege.ac.uk. Please prepare one French song of your choice for the audition, and bring along a copy of the music for the pianist, and one for the tutor.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Demonstrate an overview of the French Song repertoire
Exhibit a detailed knowledge of selected works studied during the term including an awareness of the piano writing
Show awareness of the suitability of chosen pieces for your voice
Apply increased practical performing skills for your chosen pieces, including expression of the text
Acquire more detailed language skills for enhanced performance and communication

Cost

Full fee

£355

Concession fee

£265

Click here for information on Fees, Funding and Concessions (including financial support)

Class format and activities

You will interact with the tutor and everyone else in the group, offering a spoken introduction to each of your songs, aiming for greater freedom, awareness and expression in performance. The meaning of the text, and how the vocal and piano writing combine will be key ingredients of the collaborative work. You will listen to, reflect upon, and discuss the introductions and performances of other singers in a positive, relaxed environment. Further listening, research, and other related art forms of the period may be shared to deepen and enrich your understanding.

Entry requirements

Places are limited for this course, and entry is through a successful a will take place on 9 January 2025, 2-5pm. Please prepare one song of your choice in French, and bring along a copy of the music for the tutor and one for the pianist. Please e-mail the Music Administrator Ann Cowling, ann.cowling@morleycollege.ac.uk to arrange an audition slot.

What you need to know before you enrol

The class is spread over three hours, and features a range of activities including physical and vocal exercises, performance of a variety of repertoire, and sharing feedback to singers when required. There will be a break in each class. Ideally, you should prepare three to four different pieces for the course, which could be memorised, although not essential. The word for word translation of your chosen songs, their meaning, and some confidence in how the vocal and piano lines parts combine and inform each other are key ingredients in preparation for this course.

What you need

Please bring a pencil/pen, a notebook and two copies of your music (one for the tutor and one for the accompanist).

What you can do next

Morley College offers a great variety of singing, opera and choral courses. Please visit our website for more information, and discuss with the course tutor.