Open University, Introduction to Baroque Vocal Music, 16.2.-25.4.2024

The repertoire is secular and sacred vocal music from the Baroque era (approx. 1590-1760). Teaching consists of group lessons where students form chamber music groups for each piece. Each participant primarily contributes with their own primary instrument. Participation takes place through in-person instruction. Active students are expected to commit to the course, attend all sessions, and perform in the final concert. The language of instruction is mainly English. The course can be taken multiple times, as the repertoire is different each time.

A student who has completed the unit is expected to:

• recognise the main styles of Baroque vocal music
• recognise features in the performance practice of various styles
• recognise the text-oriented approach employed with Baroque music
• be able to work with a Baroque ensemble
• have the capability to progress to further studies.

Completion and feedback: Active class attendance. The unit may be completed with variable content to a certain extent. Completion must be agreed separately with the teacher.

• 1) Performing at the concluding concert of the unit
• 2) Learning diary or report

Assessment by the teacher. Oral and/or written feedback.

Execution methods

• Group tuition in groups of at least 5 students, maximum 28 h (number of participants limited).
• Working in an ensemble of 2–5 students and performing with the ensemble (1–3 cr).
• Learning diary or report (1 cr).

A typical completion of this unit earns 1 to 3 cr.

This unit may be taken by both singers and instrumentalists (e.g. harpsichord players). Singers who wish to take this unit as active students must have completed Voice performance C or equivalent at the Sibelius Academy.