Module: Ensemble Performance 1

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Ensemble Performance 1
Module Code	MPA1057 (ITS: MC323)
Faculty	Theology, Philosophy & Music	School	Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	10

Description

This module will give learners the opportunity to explore a wide area of compositional and improvisational forms through the medium of ensemble playing. It will encourage learners in taking responsibility for ensemble interaction and repertoire. It will give learners a broad view of what it means to direct an ensemble in a professional contemporary jazz situation. Repertoire will be largely provided and decided upon by learners with the guidance of the lecturer. Preparation for the final performance will be discussed along with methods for building an effective programme of music.

Learning Outcomes

1. Effectively lead an ensemble in a 35-minute programme of music organised and directed by the learner
2. Take responsibility for repertoire, programming, personnel and arrangements
3. Build a convincing and coherent 35-minute set of music, including one piece in 4/4 swing
4. Show and develop leadership skills.
5. Engage with self-directed learning, and develop an awareness of how to express artistic ideas in the context of working with others

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Workshop	48	Weekly, A two-hour ensemble lecture/workshop, working with a lecturer on repertoire of the learner’s choice
Independent Study	202	Instrumental/vocal Practice, both individually, and with others
Total Workload: 250

Section Breakdown
CRN	11169	Part of Term	Semester 1 & 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Cormac O'Brien	Module Teacher	Conor Guilfoyle, Derek Whyte, Patrice Brun, Thomas Halferty

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Performance evaluation	End of Semester Public Performance Assessment Practicing and experimenting with material and musicians of the learner’s choice, with a special emphasis on original compositions	80%	Sem 2 End
Participation	Engagement with the material and others in the ensemble	20%	As required

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Learner-driven repertoire and content
Repertoire and content will be learner-driven, with a particular focus on original compositions. Learners will be encouraged to bring material, composed both by others and their own compositions, and in so doing create an environment where ideas can be tried out both individually and collectively. Over the course of this module, learners will:

- Develop rehearsal skills,

- Work together to construct a successful performance

- Develop repertoire of their choice

- Create repertoire appropriate to the ensemble

- Develop pieces for public performance

- Develop a group aesthetic around appropriate material and musical content

- Be exposed to varied repertoire provided by other ensemble members

- Develop an appreciation of what elements are required for successful public performance of a given piece of music

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Sher, Chuck: 2005, The New Real Book, Vol.1, Sher publications,
Crook, Hal: 0, How to Improvise, Advance Music, 186, 3892210314

Articles:
None

Other Resources

App: Biolcati, Massimo, 2014, iReal Pro, Technimo,