Choral Conducting
The subject of choral conducting comprises a number of specialisms, each requiring their own specific skills. Naturally, the basis of this course is formed by a thorough training in the technical skills as well as studying the choral repertoire through the ages.
Choral conducting students will participate as singers in projects of the Sweelinck Chamber Choir.
Section representative, Jos Vermunt
Teachers
Jos Vermunt section representative & principal subject
Maria van Nieukerken principal subject
Daniel Reuss principal subject
Benjamin Goodson regular guest teacher
Admission requirements
Audition candidates will be selected on the basis of a video recording to be submitted digitally via the application form. The repertoire for the recording is free of choice. Recordings must be received by February 1st at the latest.
The entrance examination consists of:
Theoretical part (25 minutes):
- ear tests
- level of instrumental or vocal skills
- piano skills: ability to play at least a Bach chorale
- insight into music literature, affinity with French, German, English
Practical part (25 minutes):
To rehearse a piece with a vocal group, for four voices at least, to be chosen from three given scores. Candidates will be tested for a.o. rehearsal technique, baton technique, vocality and personality.
Conducting students enrolled in this master's degree programme, which focuses particularly on the professional music environment, are prepared for the stringent requirements demanded by the current, multifaceted world of professional music.
Principal Study
In addition to the specific attention paid to matters relating directly to the principal subject - conducting technique, knowledge of scores and repertoire, rehearsal techniques -, research plays an obvious role here. To convey a score in a convincing manner to a choir, ensemble or orchestra, a thorough knowledge of the work - and therefore in-depth research - are essential. Within the framework of the master level subjects, the student can focus on a certain composition or composer, but also on historical performance, tuning or certain instrumental techniques.
During this two-year course, conducting students are given the opportunity of working with the CvA choirs, ensembles and orchestras, with which they will also work during the final project. The CvA will do its best to secure internships for the candidates during the course - e.g. in the form of an assistantship - with professional ensembles, choirs, orchestras and opera companies.
Other Subjects
Students may choose from a number of master level subjects and additional 'free space' electives. Information on research is provided separately.
Evaluation
To be determined at a later date.
Admission requirements
Audition candidates will be selected on the basis of a video recording to be submitted digitally via the application form. The repertoire for the recording is free of choice. Recordings must be received by February 1st at the latest.
- The candidate will perform a programme which may not exceed 60 minutes.
- The candidate must submit a proposed programme for the entrance examination to the CvA study secretariat before February 1st. The admissions committee will evaluate the proposed programme and make any necessary changes. Programme guidelines and requirements may be obtained from the representative of the section.