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UKZN Dip Music Perf. Classical or African Music & Dance or Opera or Choral Studies Requirements

The requirements for undertaking the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Dip Music Perf. Classical or African Music & Dance or Opera or Choral Studies .

Students who aspire to study Opera and Choral Studies at the Opera Studio and Choral Academy (OSCA) have an opportunity to gain much performing as well as academic experience during their years of study. Many of our graduates have been successful in securing bursaries for overseas study and are already highly regarded professional singers. The combination of extensive academic study together with stage and performance experience has enabled our students to hold their own with the best in the world. The following degrees and diplomas are offered which allow a student to specialize in either Operatic Performance or Choral Studies:

In addition, OSCA now offers a Music Foundation Programme to students who have been less fortunate in acquiring musical knowledge at secondary level.

The modules in all these degrees and diplomas are tailor made to equip a young singer or choral conductor with the necessary knowledge and experience to excel in the fiercely competitive world of classical music. Students study the history of vocal music from 400 AD to the present, in addition to music theory modules in all years of study; they participate in choral rehearsals and performances; they are taught how to become good voice teachers; they study the piano, which is an essential tool for a singer or voice teacher; they are taught how to move on stage; and they are given opportunities to appear in costume interpreting operatic roles. Perhaps most importantly, they are given a thorough introduction to the pronunciation and grammar of the main operatic languages, namely Italian, German and French.

Career opportunities after having studied at OSCA are many. A singer can either become a soloist or can be employed as a chorus member by any of the many opera houses in Europe or the rest of the world. Such soloist or chorus positions are highly paid and consequently sought after. If the singer prefers to remain in South Africa s/he can be employed here too, although such employment is often not of a permanent nature. However, many singers manage to make a comfortable living by being freelance artists in this country. Versatility is a key factor in creating a demand for yourself. Apart from performing, a graduate can also land a teaching job at one of the many schools or tertiary institutions throughout South Africa, and so help to prepare the next generation of great voices for which this part of the world has become renowned.

For more information contact:

Mr Andrew Warburton (phone: 031 260-2105)

However, if you meet the requirements and wish to apply to study this course. You can simply check the application processes.

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