Duration
3 years
Intake dates
January
What does this course involve?
The Bachelor of Applied Music Degree at Box Hill Institute offers:
- ongoing opportunities for individual musical development
- a unique range of contemporary music specialisations
- expertise from specialists practising in industry
- state-of-the art recording and post-production facilities
- practical instruction including laboratory work
- learning in a supportive atmosphere.
The Performance stream specialises in:
- commercial music including jazz, popular and contemporary styles
- individual tuition plus technique classes
- second study instrument
- high practical content
- industry ensemble emphasis
- electives available from the other streams
- tuition by industry specialists.
Performance students in the Bachelor of Applied Music bring a diversity of contemporary music styles to Box Hill Institute. Where most music degrees require students to focus on jazz or classical styles, the focus of this course is on original and innovative performance. It is also recognised that there already exists a standard repertoire of functional performance styles that must be achieved to increase employability outcomes.
Playing in a wide variety of groups and solo situations, you will learn a range of repertoire for gigs, functions, recitals and events whilst developing your original material culminating in an extensive public recital/gig in the final year. Original work is encouraged but is supported by exposure to existing styles and conventions.
Supporting subjects incorporate technique classes, second study instruments, reading skills, improvisation, stagecraft, industry styles and ensembles. You will hone your craft with the ultimate aim of becoming a unique artist who has the versatility to perform in many situations and develop the innovation and creativity needed to become eminently employable in a rapidly changing and vibrant industry.
Entrance requirements
Australian Year 12 or equivalent with a pass. Relevant senior employment experience in industry will be considered.
English Language Proficiency
A minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 (Academic with no band less than 5.5).
A minimum TOEFL score of 550 for paper examination; 213 for computer based and 79 for Internet based.
Special admission requirements
• Evidence of music ability in the form of video tape, DVD or live audition (if possible).
• Completion of a supervised musicianship test (will be sent upon receipt of student’s application).
Cost
Aus $12,500 per year
plus amenities and materials fees.
What employment opportunities will I have?
There are many employment options within industries such as computer software, music synthesis and multimedia; advertising; writing and production; multimedia and live performance.
There are also pathways to teaching with the completion of a degree and further post-graduate study.
As a student, the Institute’s Employment Service is your first port of call for advice on gaining employment in this field, and can be contacted on
1300 BOX HILL (1300 269 445).
What further study options will I have?
Graduates of this course may apply for post-graduate study at other institutions. This includes post-graduate study in teaching and education.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Victorian Office of Higher Education.
Course Structure
The Bachelor of Applied Music is a three-year degree with four specialist streams: Performance, Composition Musical Theatre and Audio Production. You must apply for a specific stream but will have the option of taking electives from the other streams. All four streams are set in a contemporary music context and offer a comprehensive and innovative range of subjects designed to equip you for the contemporary music industry.
This is a unique degree offering you the opportunity to specialise for industry employment and/or prepare for post-graduate study, including teaching.
You will undertake core subjects at each year level of the degree. In addition each stream has specific subjects related to that industry area. There is the opportunity to also take an elective study area in each year.
Each stream has a specific focus and aims to engage you in an environment, which supports learning whilst creating an atmosphere conducive to industry-related work practices. In this way the course supports creativity and innovation against a background of principles, techniques and skills acquisition.
The Performance stream specialises in all genres of commercial contemporary music including jazz and musical theatre culminating in a major public recital in the final year.
Subject Details
First Year Performance stream subjects
Two electives should also be selected from the elective list
MUZ101 – Music language studies 1 - (52 hours)
This is the first of six units of Music Language Studies. In this subject students will study aural and theoretical concepts, knowledge and skills in the context of developments in early Western music. Links will be made between music from these periods and contemporary music. Topics covered will include aural and theoretical recognition, notation and performance of intervals, scales, chords, melodies, rhythms, and four-part harmony. Students will also demonstrate an awareness of stylistic conventions, form, analysis, major composers and historical and social contexts of early Western music up to, and including, the Baroque period.
MUZ102 – Music language studies 2 - (52 hours)
This subject will build on the aural and theoretical concepts, knowledge and skills developed in Music Language Studies 1, by examining the use of similar musical elements in jazz genres from the last century. Other topics will include aural and theoretical recognition, notation and performance of scales, extended chords, chord progressions, rhythms and melodies derived from conventions in jazz; further harmonisation and an awareness of stylistic conventions, form, analysis, major composers and historical and social contexts of jazz in the 20th Century.
MUZ103 – Music technology 1 - (52 hours)
Students will acquire conventional keyboard techniques and knowledge and skills that enable the keyboard to be used as a tool for studying musical elements and as an interface with computer software. Students will learn basic performance on the keyboard to enable input for MIDI with the purpose of realisation of composition.
MUZ104 – Performance platforms - (52 hours)
This subject provides a performance platform for students to develop technical and interpretative skills in preparing and performing (or producing) solo and ensemble works to an audience. Through collaboration, students will develop the necessary skills and stagecraft to direct a cohesive performance. Performance of established repertoire as well as original material will be supported by students who are developing an understanding of the operation of sound reinforcement and recording systems, staging and lighting as related to live performance. Students will also be involved in a range of workshops which could include: choir, a cappella groups, rhythm-sections, guitar, keyboard, percussion, woodwind, brass, Big Band, funk groups and student run ensembles.
MUZ113 – Industry styles 1 - (39 hours)
This is the first of six units designed to prepare musicians with the comprehensive competencies required to perform in a variety of commercial styles suited to celebratory functions, formal ceremonial occasions and events and informal social gatherings. Students will work in designated band groups developing arrangements and repertoire, as well as learning an instrument other than the students’ specialist instrument.
MUZ114 – Industry styles 2 - (39 hours)
This subject proceeds directly from Industry Styles 1. Students will consolidate and expand repertoire and explore further musical, organisational and behavioural demands and expectations associated with different functions. Students will continue to arrange music and expand upon their knowledge of instruments that are unfamiliar to them.
MUZ115 – Principal study 1 - (26 hours)
This subject is the first of six sequential, and developmental, units of study that will prepare students for employment as professional performing musicians in the contemporary music industry. Students will progressively develop and expand both technique and repertoire on a principal study instrument or voice. Programs of instrumental or voice tuition will be developed for each student after analysis of their competencies on entering the course. Lessons will be delivered in a combination of weekly individual lessons, technique classes and additional master classes.
MUZ116 – Principal study 2 - (26 hours)
Principal Study 2
Students will extend and expand upon established concepts, knowledge and skills in instrumental or voice performance. Content will progress sequentially from the previous unit under the direction of specialist teachers in individual consultations with students. Lessons will be delivered in a combination of weekly individual lessons, technique classes and additional master classes.
Second Year Performance stream subjects
Two electives should also be selected from the elective list
MUZ201 – Music industry studies 1 - (39 hours)
In this subject students will learn to plan, organise, prepare, facilitate and present music to discriminating audiences. Students will develop confidence in undertaking self-initiated and self-directed work: the critical evaluation of this work, and the fundamental principles in small business organisation, management and administration.
MUZ202 – Music industry studies 2 - (39 hours)
This subject continues directly from Music Industry Studies 1. Students will develop greater maturity in undertaking self-initiated and self-directed work: the critical evaluation of this work, and the principles of more complex business organisational structures. In addition, the basics of project management will be introduced as a means to evaluate long-term sustainability of the small-business enterprise model.
MUZ211 – Music language studies 3 - (52 hours)
Students will expand their aural and theoretical recognition, knowledge and skills through progressive assignments in transcribing music; expand their harmonic practice and develop more sophisticated musical analysis skills in the context of the common practices used during the Classical and Romantic periods of Western music. Other topics will include further development in aural and theoretical recognition: notation and performance of scales, chords and modes in prescribed inversions, tonalities and patterns; more complex rhythmic passages in simple and compound metre; harmonisation as a process for ‘voicing’; the use of extended and altered chords and part writing conventions.
MUZ212 – Music language studies 4 - (52 hours)
Focusing on the musical developments in the 20th Century, students will acquire aural and theoretical skills that extend beyond the conventions and imperatives of diatonic music. The study will incorporate music from both western art music and rock and popular music, and will include topics such as aural and theoretical recognition: notation and performance of scales, chords and modes; tonalities and patterns as exhibited in twelve-tone music; the use of modes and polytonality, contemporary harmonic devices and the use of polyrhythm and mixed metre.
MUZ213 – Industry styles 3 - (52 hours)
Proceeding from Industry Styles 2, this subject will extend students’ knowledge and understanding of commercial styles of music including fusion and contemporary world-music styles. Students will also focus on improvisation skills in a range of jazz and contemporary styles, performance presentation skills, stagecraft and expand upon their knowledge of instruments that are unfamiliar to them.
MUZ214 – Industry styles 4 - (52 hours)
This subject will further extend students’ knowledge and understanding of commercial styles of music including fusion and contemporary world-music styles. Students will also focus on improvisation skills in a range of jazz and contemporary styles, performance presentation skills, stagecraft and expand upon their knowledge of instruments that are unfamiliar to them.
MUZ215 – Principal study 3 - (26 hours)
Students will consolidate and extend concepts, knowledge and skills in contemporary performance, developing more advanced skills in both technique and repertoire on a principal study instrument or voice. Content will progress sequentially from the previous unit under the direction of specialist teachers in individual consultations with students. Lessons will be delivered in a combination of weekly individual lessons, technique classes and additional master classes.
MUZ216 – Principal study 4 - (26 hours)
Students will consolidate and extend concepts, knowledge and skills in contemporary performance, further developing their skills in both technique and repertoire on a principal study instrument or voice. Content will progress sequentially from the previous unit under the direction of specialist teachers in individual consultations with students. Lessons will be delivered in a combination of weekly individual lessons, technique classes and additional master classes.
Third Year Performance stream subjects
Two electives should also be selected from the elective list
MUZ301 – Research and application of industry principles 1 - (52 hours)
Using collaborative, investigative, planning and management methods students will acquire and apply knowledge and skills that prepare them for entry into the music industry. Students will develop a three-tiered project incorporating team-based event management and planning, the planning of a self-promotional CD and the planning of a solo public event, students will integrate knowledge and skills that underlie production and management processes in the music industry. Students will also draft a significant research project relevant to individual goals, preferences and expertise.
MUZ302 – Research and application of industry principles 2 - (52 hours)
The plans for the three-tiered project incorporating team-based event management, a self-promotional CD and a solo public event developed during the first unit of this subject will be implemented. Students will gain practical experience in the music industry in a variety of situations including the development of a related business plan and the delivery of a short series of lessons in their area of expertise. The production of a researched and substantiated body of work will provide students with knowledge in their major area of study as preparation to enter the music industry.
MUZ311 – Music language studies 5 - (52 hours)
Students will build upon concepts, knowledge and skills acquired in previous studies by examining the use of similar musical elements in musical genres of the 20th century. Students will acquire an understanding of both commonalities and differences in the ways elements of music are used in the creation of different musical styles. Historical developments in music theatre, cabaret and popular music will be examined with reference to social, political and cultural influences. Students will gain insights into ways in which common musical elements are used to achieve diverse aesthetic and expressive outcomes. Students will learn how to write for 2 to 5 parts using a variety of chord voicings.
MUZ312 – Music language studies 6 - (52 hours)
In this subject, students will gain a more global understanding of the musical forces shaping contemporary musical practice. Students will be expected to build upon concepts, knowledge and skills acquired in previous studies by examining musical languages from other cultures and acknowledging their historical context. The history and aural components of this subject will focus specifically on the Classical music of North India; and harmony component is a continuation of the Berklee School of Music system of harmonic analysis.
MUZ314 – Industry styles 6 - (39 hours)
This subject continues to apply the content and procedures developed during Industry Styles 5 and draw to conclusion the processes by which students become industry ready performers. Students will also work on developing public speaking skills, the exercise of physical freedom in relation to the instrument and philosophical insights into the role of the arts in society and culture.
MUZ315 – Principal study 5 - (26 hours)
Students will consolidate and extend concepts, knowledge and skills in performing contemporary commercial music. In this unit students will be directed toward developing professional performance demeanour and stage etiquette on their principal instrument or voice. The use of performance focusing and motivational techniques will facilitate confidence and individuality. Students will consolidate highly integrated aesthetic and expressive interpretation and creativity. Lessons will be delivered in a combination of weekly individual lessons, technique classes and additional master classes.
MUZ316 – Principal study 6 - (26 hours)
In this last of six units, students will expand repertoire, acquire further technical facility and consolidate professional performance demeanour and stage etiquette on their principal instrument or voice. Lessons will be delivered in a combination of weekly individual lessons, technique classes and additional master classes.
The unit will culminate with the performance of final, 30-minute recital.
MUZ313 – Industry styles 5 - (39 hours)
This subject will focus on the student’s expansion of repertoire, refining their skills in professional performance demeanour, stage etiquette, music management and performance direction. Students will acquire performance focusing techniques and motivational attitudes that underlie confidence and individuality. Knowledge of instruments other than their specialist study will be applied in performance.
Electives
MUZ252 – Negotiated project 1 - (26 hours)
This subject involves close discussion and planning sessions in consultation with a supervisor who will approve an independent project or a group project in which participants' individual roles are clearly defined. The project may involve the planning and implementation of a public performance event, the development of a significant music industry initiative, collaboration with an affiliated industry group in producing a significant work or event, scoring for film, recording songs and original compositions, producing recordings for other students or the production of a significant music resource.
MUZ253 – Negotiated project 2 - (26 hours)
This subject involves close discussion and planning sessions in consultation with a supervisor who will approve an independent project or a group project in which participants' individual roles are clearly defined. Project 2 can be an extension of the activity commenced in Negotiated Project 1. The project may involve the planning and implementation of a public performance event, the development of a significant music industry initiative, collaboration with an affiliated industry group in producing a significant work or event, scoring for film, recording songs and original compositions, producing recordings for other students or the production of a significant music resource.
MUZ152 – Digital audio platforms 2 - (26 hours)
This subject is recommended for those who wish to extend knowledge and skills learnt in Digital Audio Platforms 1. The subject explores a range of computer music systems and software. Content will change from year to year depending on the latest tools available to assist musicians develop their artistic product.
MUZ245 – Composition studies 1 - (26 hours)
Students will undertake a thorough grounding in the structural components of composition: with a particular focus on contrapuntal writing techniques as a foundation for continuing study. Students will complete a series of composition exercises culminating in a short work for small ensemble, chamber or string orchestra.
MUZ246 – Composition studies 2 - (26 hours)
Students will continue to build upon previous skills by composing and arranging for the four main instrumental sections: woodwind, brass, percussion and strings. Through exercises and analyses in voicing, texture, timbral density and defined stylistic convention, students will acquire practical abilities in composing and arranging for small jazz combos and vocal groups.
MUZ249 – Computer music production systems 1 - (26 hours)
Students will study the application of computer hardware and software to assist them in realising their musical ideas. Students will learn to manipulate MIDI and audio data; develop basic skills in the interactive control of the computer in real-time; develop an introductory knowledge in the concepts of sound design, and become familiar with issues in non-linear music making.
MUZ250 – Computer music production systems 2 - (26 hours)
Students will begin to acquire skills in computer music programming as a means to integrate prior knowledge with the demands, and opportunities, in the emergent areas of sound design for the multimedia and telecommunication industries. Areas of study include digital signal processing and the expressive integration of different media.
MUZ143 – Introduction to filmscoring 1 - (26 hours)
Students will develop philosophical and musical concepts of the aesthetic role and function of music used in films between 1920-1950s. Students will acquire the capacity to evaluate film scores with reference to established conventions, including compositional techniques, and their application in defined social, historical and cultural contexts.
MUZ144 – Introduction to filmscoring 2 - (26 hours)
Students will study post-1950s film music genres to evaluate the role and function of music in various dramatic contexts. Students will also acquire knowledge of the way in which music is synchronised to film, and then consolidate this knowledge with several assignments in composing and synchronising music to short film excerpts.
MUZ121 – Principles of songwriting 1 - (26 hours)
This subject provides an analytical overview of the musical devices and conventions that exist in popular song forms and genres. Analysis of elements such as: melody, structure, rhythm, harmonic progression and style will inform the student in the composition of songs in designated popular song styles.
MUZ122 – Principles of songwriting 2 - (26 hours)
Continuing directly from the previous unit, students will extend their abilities to compose songs within a variety of genres. They will further develop greater understanding of characteristic harmonic, melodic and rhythmic treatment of lyrics within various song genres, and learn to apply these conventions with their own writing.
MUZ221 – Principles of songwriting 3 - (26 hours)
Students will consolidate their writing skills in tandem with developing greater skills in recording and sequencing their musical ideas within various digital audio environments. More sophisticated mock ups of original ideas will be expected as well as complete realisations of songs both in printed and audio format. The art of collaboration will be introduced.
MUZ222 – Principles of songwriting 4 - (26 hours)
Students will integrate concepts, knowledge and skills acquired in the previous three units. Students will be required to craft complete arrangements of their original songs with fully notated instrumental parts and audio realisations. Collaboration with other writers is a requirement within this subject.
MUZ145 – Production principles 1 - (26 hours)
In this subject students will acquire the basic concepts of Acoustics as they relate to musical instruments and the environments in which they are played. Students will learn the core principles of recording with analogue and digital systems; theories of audio production and practice, live sound and live recording techniques in performance environments.
MUZ146 – Production principles 2 - (26 hours)
Consolidating and extending the concepts and knowledge acquired previously, students will further apply these principles in practise, using both analogue and digital recording methods as the basis for an introduction to mixing environments. Practical recording assignments make up a significant component of the course.
MUZ247 – Production styles 1 - (26 hours)
In this subject students will learn to apply principles of recording studio and session management; from pre-production and design, through to session engineering and production. Students will work with digital audio workstations undertaking various recording assignments. With reference to music recordings that exemplify the evolution of, and current practice in audio production, students will develop discrimination in identification of the use of a wide range of principles and methods of creative audio recording technologies and techniques.
MUZ248 – Production styles 2 - (26 hours)
Students will consolidate the skills and knowledge acquired to this point, developing greater independence in managing recording projects and fluency within the studio environment. More creative resources will be introduced; with access to an increasing number of external plug-in environments, for the analysis and the re-creation of seminal production ‘sounds’. Students will develop an appreciation of the techniques and aesthetic qualities inherent in internationally recognised award winning albums.
MUZ243 – Scoring for film and video 1 - (26 hours)
Through studying the compositional techniques of various film composers, students will acquire concepts, knowledge and skills, and apply these in scoring a series of short musical excerpts to accompany film sequences. Students will, in addition, learn how to synchronise their scores to digital film sequences.
MUZ244 – Scoring for film and video 2 - (26 hours)
Building on knowledge and skills acquired in the previous unit, the study of eminent Australian and international film composers will assist students to consolidate an understanding of the wide range of compositional techniques employed in scoring for film. Students will be required to compose and score a series of short film cues to a brief.
MUZ151 – Digital audio platforms 1 - (26 hours)
This subject is recommended for those who wish to extend knowledge and skills learnt in Music Technology 1. The subject explores a range of computer music systems and software. Content will change from year to year depending on the latest tools available to assist musicians develop their artistic product.
MUZ251 – Music publishing - (26 hours)
Students will focus on various music publishing software including advanced functions in Sibelius. Outcomes include the preparation of music scores to a publishable standard.
