Music Ensemble Direction E-course

Course Director: Brendan Breslin

The 12 week E-Course in Music Ensemble Direction is for teachers and directors of instrumental groups and/or choirs who wish to develop their conducting skills, communication through body and language, and oversight of ensembles through goals, repertoire and other enhancing elements. The course has a practical application for school and instrumental teachers whether involved in conducting or not, as well as community ensemble leaders.

The course will include live and written components, as well as analysis through live lessons (online access required) and uploaded practice videos. The participants will develop an understanding of score analysis, repertoire and integral elements of ensemble instruments and voices.

The course will focus on the key skills for direction of any ensemble including the technique required for clear communicative conducting, analyzing and interpreting repertoire, general knowledge of the instruments and/or voices within the ensemble, and general practical applications such as strategy, rehearsal/venue considerations, evaluation, dealing with anxiety, and arranging music.

By completion of the course, participants will have a greater understanding of the various elements involved in music rehearsal and performance, and will have crafted core values in leadership, positive reinforcement and motivation. Participants can expect to have developed a skillset and understanding for what is most important before, during and after music performance.

Includes modules on Conducting, Musical Language & Form, Instrument / Voice Knowledge, Arranging, Rehearsal & Performance Strategy, Presentation.

Course dates: 12th February, 2018 - 7th May, 2018

Closing date for registering: 9th February, 2018

Requirements: An e-mail address and internet access, ability to read music, experience with an ensemble or ensemble repertoire is preferable. Participants will be expected to make themselves available on Sunday, 6th May, 2018 to attend the Royal Irish Academy of Music to direct a performing ensemble. This element is compulsory. This will include a rehearsal of a set work and Viva Voce based on this.

Award for course: Participants who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.

For more information, please contact: brendanbreslin@riam.ie

Student Testimonials

"The RIAM E-Course in Music Ensemble Direction has been an excellent resource for me, as a community brass band conductor. Instructor, Brendan Breslin, is approachable, personable and knowledgeable. Because Brendan is well able to adapt and present course material based on individual needs, the course is applicable to both professional musicians with solid musical backgrounds, as well to non-professional community musicians. The online lessons were tremendous! Well worth my time!"

Laurie Barrett, Bandmaster, Foxford Brass & Reed Band

“ A well presented and enjoyable conducting course. I really enjoyed working through it and it has made me focus more on the skills I need to get the best from my ensemble .”

Paul Hensey, Garda Band bandsperson. Musical Director, Athlone Youth Orchestra

"The Music Ensemble Direction E-Course is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who wishes to get into conducting. Brendan's guidance was second to none and, through continuous assessment, I gained the confidence needed to step in front of all kinds of ensembles. I would personally recommend this course to musicians of all levels.“

William Chester, Irish Defense Forces bandsperson, Barrack Street Concert Band