CUSMPF13A: Plan and prepare a program for performance

This unit covers the planning and preparation of a program for performance. It deals with program selection, organisation, practising, rehearsing and performing and continuous performance evaluation. The program may be performed for a range of purposes including a live performance, an audition or a recording project.

 

Plan performance program

  • Confirm the purpose and function of the performance and what kind of audience and venue is proposed
  • Confirm appropriate accompaniment and/or other necessary resources to support the performance
  • Ensure that the integrity and balance of the performance program is appropriate to the performance context in terms of:
    • contrasts within the program material
    • number of pieces presented
    • duration of the total program including breaks
  • Apply comprehensive repertoire knowledge to program choices to ensure that the program is balanced and appropriate to the audience
  • Select items that are appropriate to performers' level of artistic and technical ability and personal style
  • Align personal presentation with the musical style, the audience and the occasion
  • Plan and confirm the timetable so that sufficient notice is given to colleagues and adequate private practice and rehearsal time allocated
     

Prepare the components of the program

  • Confirm the appropriateness of the program within the context of the engagement
  • Agree and confirm with the presenter or other appropriate parties that the nature and extent of own contribution is
  • accurately interpreted
  • Identify and obtain within budget appropriate support and/or ancillary resources required by the program
  • Maintain routine contact with the venue to ensure mutual understanding and confirmation of each other's requirements for agreed performance outcomes
  • Ensure that where required, promotional material is accurate, current and well presented and that it communicates the desired impression
  • Make all arrangements in good time and as efficiently as constraints allow
     

Study technical and stylistic content of music

  • Determine specific music content and content source and confirm with presenter and/or other appropriate parties as required for agreed performance outcomes
  • Isolate technically difficult sections of the music and practise systematically, both privately and in rehearsal, to obtain the required standard within the agreed time
  • Acquire the required level of familiarity with the material within time and given constraints
  • Adapt the style of the performance to the requirements of the music and performance context
     

Develop interpretation

  • Analyse the music to understand its scope, possibilities and underlying intention
  • Analyse the music to consider and try a variety of possible interpretations and identify and develop the most successful to suit the music and the context of the performance
  • Refine and develop interpretation in ensemble, where required, through affinity in rehearsal with other performers
  • Develop interpretation that is capable of expression within the constraints of acquired technical ability
  • Demonstrate awareness of the performing space and the audience in interpreting and performing the music
  • Sustain interpretation and expressive communication with the audience coherently and consistently throughout the performance