Lieder Masterclasses

About this course

The course explores German classical song through individually allocated coaching sessions with the tutor and accompanist. Participants examine how text relates to music, how vocal and piano lines interact, German pronunciation and the interpretation of performance markings. The wider group contributes questions and constructive feedback, alongside physical and vocal exercises and work on varied repertoire. Learners agree which of their chosen songs to present in an informal end-of-term performance, providing an opportunity to apply interpretative and performance techniques in front of an audience.

What you'll learn

• Survey German Art Song repertoire
• Analyse relationships between text, music, vocal lines and piano lines
• Apply German pronunciation and interpret performance markings
• Refine advanced singing and interpretation techniques
• Develop performance etiquette and communication with an audience

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for advanced singers at Grade 8 and beyond and entry is through a successful audition. Sessions combine individual performance work with observation, questions and peer feedback, and participants take part in an informal performance of selected repertoire.

• The audition requires preparation of a German song.
• Participants are expected to contribute to a group masterclass setting and an informal performance.

Before you go

• For the audition, prepare one German song and bring copies of the music for the tutor and accompanist.
• Bring two copies of the chosen piece to each class, along with any equipment needed for recording or making notes.