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    1. Studying at ZHdK
    2. Music
    3. MA Specialized Performance, Choral Conducting
    More: MA Specialized Performance, Choral Conducting

    Content and structure

    Course content.

    The course focuses on independent work with a range of ensembles in your specialisation of choice: oratorio choirs, vocal ensembles, opera choirs, ensembles for early and new music, etc. You will develop a repertoire from well-known, challenging works of literature. Moreover, collaborative work in the peer group, with the university’s own choral formations, in master classes and in internships with external choirs is essential for the development of artistic dialogue. By collaborating with other singers in different vocal formations, students also gain new ideas for their own vocal training, rehearsal work and programme design.

    Course structure.

    Core

    Students enjoy individual and group tuition in the Major, which is also consolidated with professional keyboard skills or voice training depending on their profile and prior education. Sound engineering and video documentation of the students’ own work as well as honing their own repertoire are an important part of their professional positioning and marketability. The module area is rounded off with mentoring from senior lecturers and external experts connected with the Major.

    Extension

    Assistantships with choirs and vocal ensembles of ZHdK as well as group courses in orchestral conducting further develop collaborative and social skills. Participation in internal and external master classes, competitions, concerts and international choral project weeks expand your network. Internships with partner choirs and institutions encourage potential specialization in individual areas of the job.

    Profile

    Students are able to develop a personal professional profile, consolidate their knowledge of audiovisual communication and production forms, social media, other digital platforms and company forms in this module area. Their individual profile is extended with elective areas that strengthen the specialisation or broaden its scope and encourage a general education. Learning and development steps are continually reflected on, supported and documented in a digital profile in mentoring sessions. 

    Graduation exam/project

    The final project consists of an interim examination and a public choral project, which is supplemented by a written paper. 

    Skills acquired in the course.

    • Perform an artistically compelling, broad repertoire consisting of a wide range of musical styles. 
    • Develop, plan and execute artistic concepts independently.
    • Handle a range of performance situations in diverse production conditions with ease.
    • Design performances for a variety of event formats with independence and originality. 
    • Apply your comprehensive knowledge of rehearsal and working techniques in a targeted manner when working with a range of choral formations and musical material. 
    • Apply basic knowledge of conceptual project work and music-related research methods in professional practice
    • Independent, critical reflection on music.
    • In-depth knowledge of music history, expert application of theoretical music concepts, terminologies and methodologies. 
    • Continually promote and critically reflect on your own artistic development
    • Develop skills in social interaction and mediation 
    • Work flexibly in a diverse and multicultural environment.

    Admissions requirements.

    The practical admissions requirements to be able to lead a choir include a good ear, excellent analytical music skills, in-depth knowledge of the human voice, suitable gestures, a natural demeanour, good communication skills and a friendly manner. Moreover, an independent, discerning view on the works in the repertoire as well as the ability to communicate it is an essential prerequisite in the work with professional choirs.

    Further requirements:

    • Ability to recognize and describe musical structures
    • Independence and personal responsibility
    • Ability to reflect and self-assess
    • Communication and social skills
    • A good command of German and English 

    Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

    Studying at ZHdK offers a wealth of unique benefits:

    • The Specialized Music Performance Master's is a lively degree programme with approx. 80 musicians. 
    • You will study in a lively musical city with internationally renowned, professional vocal ensembles and choirs as well as a range of opportunities for work experience placements. 
    • You will enjoy class tuition with conducting students from all degree programmes, which promotes the individual development and profile of the participants.
    • You will enjoy an inspirational environment with colleagues and partners from around the world for exchange and collaboration in a range of ensembles and choirs.
    • You will learn a lot in challenging projects with the diverse vocal formations of ZHdK.
    • You will benefit from outstanding infrastructure, live electronics and multimedia, audio productions with in-house sound engineers, historical instrument collections and an excellent library.
    • You will meet students from other artistic areas on a daily basis, make contacts and find stimulating collaboration. 
    • You will study at the Toni Campus – a public cultural and university campus for all artistic disciplines that is unparalleled in its dimensions anywhere in Europe.
    • You will have opportunities to undertake exchange semesters and various possibilities to explore other cultures thanks to ZHdK Music’s international network. 
    • You will gain extensive practical experience and have many opportunities to perform thanks to the diverse relationships with the regional cultural scene and its event organizations.