Music Direction (8201R038)

bachelor's programme qualification

Specific admission requirements:

1) competence in reliable aural analysis not only in the area of tonal pitches and harmony at the level of the requirements for the subject of intonation taught at conservatories, but also in the areas of timbres, metro-rhythmic structures and directional hearing;

2) knowledge of music-theoretical disciplines in the extent of conservatory curriculum;

3) orientation in scores;

4) basic analytical orientation in musical styles and compositional techniques;

5) ability in independent critical judgement of a musical composition and its interpretation;

6) personality traits suitable for directing work, interpersonal skills.

A prerequisite for admission is successful completion of an aptitude test.

The aptitude test consists of:

1) a written examination, the contents of which are questions testing the above-mentioned requirements;

2) an oral examination and interview, during which the candidate must demonstrate the specified knowledge and skills, and at least an elementary orientation in the field of sound and recording.

Specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning:

The programme does not have any specific requirements for the recognition of prior learning.

The procedure for recognition at AMU is governed by Articles 89 and 90 of the Act on Higher Education Institutions No. 111/1998 Coll., as amended, and by the AMU Attendance and Examination Regulations (Articles 8, 14, 18).

Qualification requirements and regulations

Graduates of conservatories and secondary music schools may apply for admission, as may graduates with a complete secondary education who demonstrate the necessary level of theoretical and practical musical education. Students of the Music Faculty of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (HAMU) who have already been admitted to another study programme (in particular students of composition or conducting) may also apply for admission.

The Czech education system is governed by the Act on Higher Education Institutions, as amended (Act No. 111/1998 Coll.), and by the internal regulations of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague.

Field of study characterization

Music Directing is a highly specialised programme requiring a comprehensive musical education. It trains experts capable of directing a musical recording, capable of collaborating with the other members of a recording team (sound-master, sound director) and also capable of successfully guiding and correcting the performer?s delivery to meet the requirements of a professional music recording.

Key learning outcomes:

A thorough grounding in music theory will allow for deep insight into the structure of a musical work and the ability to analyse it. The ability to analyse an interpretive performance is cultivated and developed. In addition, the student becomes acquainted with the technical means of recording, and learns to evaluate the quality and character of a recording´s sound image. In the practical part of the curriculum at the Bachelor´s level, the student is familiarised with the functions and tasks of a music director and with teamwork in the practical realisation of a recording in the school studio.

Occupational profiles of graduates with examples:

A graduate of the Bachelor´s programme has mastered the process of recording a musical work in theory as well as in practice. His or her music-theoretical grounding allows for a deep and versatile understanding of a musical composition. He or she is able to analyse a performer?s execution, and compare and comment on it in an understandable manner. The same skills are applied in a practical recording in a studio.

Professional profile of a graduate of the Music Directing programme: music director in a radio or television taping, music director for making recordings for music media (CD, DVD, etc.). For the breadth and depth of musical education which this programme provides, however, there is also the possibility of applying one´s skills as a music editor or dramaturge (e.g. at radio stations, etc.).

Access to further studies:

The continuing Master´s programme in Music Directing at the Music and Dance Faculty of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (HAMU).

Examination regulations, assessment and grading:

Studies are assessed by credits and examinations stipulated by study plans. The student is informed of these through the information system.

The student registers for examinations using the information system or is informed of examination dates by the instructor of the main field, and is entitled to a second and third attempt to pass an examination. If neither of these attempts proves successful, the Dean may in exceptional cases permit a fourth attempt (before a commission).

The credit is an ungraded form of assessment of studies. It is allocated upon fulfilment of requirements stipulated for individual subjects and is recorded in the information system with the word „Credited“ (Z).

An examination is a graded form of assessment of studies, which tests knowledge and level of creativity in the relevant subject. In the main subjects, examinations are administered by a commission. An examination may be practical, written, oral, or involve a combination of these methods. Examinations are graded on the scale „A, B, C, D, E, F“.

Graduation requirements:

The student fulfils the requirements of the study plan.

The student passes the final state examination.

The State Bachelor´s Examination consists of the following parts:

- submission of the student´s creative projects (recordings realised independently);

- the diploma thesis and its defence;

- an oral examination consisting of questions concerning the issue of making a musical recording;

- an examination in the subject of History of Music.

Mode of study:

full-time

Qualification director or equivalent:

Jaromír HAVLÍK

Field of study is part of study programme:

• Art of Music – (B8201)

Qualification study plans

• Music Directing (Bc)