Outline

Overview

Rehearsals prepare the auditioned members of the Chamber Choir for a public concert(s) at the end of each semester. The music chosen covers compositions from Gregorian chant to the twenty-first century, and may include a baroque orchestra, or instrumental ensemble. Sight-singing skills, style and historical performance practice will be an emphasis in preparation for performances.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Performance
Credit points	3
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Paul Stanhope, paul.stanhope@sydney.edu.au
Demonstrator(s)	AIJA DRAGUNS, aija.draguns@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Paul Stanhope, paul.stanhope@sydney.edu.au
Practitioner(s)	Josephine Allan, josephine.allan@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Rehearsal participation Weeks 2-5 Ongoing assessment of preparation of musical material in rehearsal.	15%	Multiple weeks	During allocated class time - 2.30-5.30	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Music and movement rehearsals Weeks 6-9 Assessment of preparation of music and movement in rehearsal	20%	Multiple weeks	During allocated class time.	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Music and movement rehearsals Week 10-11 Continued preparation of memorised chorus parts in rehearsal situations.	20%	Multiple weeks	Duration of allocated class time	AI limited - refer to Canvas
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Early Feedback Task Perform a piece in a small group of 4-8 singers #earlyfeedbacktask	0%	Week 03 Due date: 19 Aug 2025 at 18:00	approx. 3 minutes of performance	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Week 12 Dress rehearsals Practical assessment of dress rehearsal phase of opera production.	20%	Week 12 Due date: 01 Nov 2025 at 23:59	As per rehearsal schedule	AI limited - refer to Canvas
Outcomes assessed:
Performance	Performance Week Assessment of opera chorus performances in Week 13.	25%	Week 13 Due date: 08 Nov 2025 at 23:59	Opera performances as per Wk13 Schedule	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Early Feedback Task: Perform a piece in small group of 4-8 singers
Ongoing assessment: Weeks 2-6 Assessment is undertaken continuously and holistically in this unit based on all aspects of preparation, participation and performance in the ensemble.
Ongoing assessment: Weeks 7-13 Assessment is undertaken continuously and holistically in this unit based on all aspects of preparation, participation and performance in the ensemble.
Sight Singing Exam: subsequent to completing required levels of a sight singing course online, students sit a short sight singing exam to confirm level attained.
NB if you are absent for a rehearsal, an alternative assessment for the week should be completed set unless a successful Special Consideration or Professional Leave application has been made.

Assessment criteria

Assessment grading

The following assessment criteria are used for performance work in this unit of study:

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Comprehensive and outstanding technical control and musical integrity in relation to developmental expectations. Musical individuality consistently projected to create a persuasive personal representation of the work. Performance flair indicative of soloist standard. A mark of 95 or above indicates extraordinary technical virtuosity and musical artistry.
Distinction	75 - 84	Hi standard of technique, musical and stylistic achievement. Consistently coherent and expressive performance. Some personal interpretation of the work suggesting soloist potential.
Credit	65 - 74	Confident technique with evidence of solid musicality and some stylistic achievement. Occasional lapses indicative of unresolved technical, artistic and/or stylistic issues. Projects potential for further development.
Pass	50 - 64	Satisfactory level of preparation and musical engagement. Some inconsistencies in musicianship, style and/or technique. Musical imagination and overall performance sense developing though some insecurity in this area. Attendance and punctuality sub-optimal
Fail	0 - 49	Unsatisfactory technical achievement and/or unsatisfactory level of musical and artistic engagement. Limitations may be of such a scale and consistency as to call into question the student’s future direction in the programme. Unsatisfactory attendance and tardy punctuality.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

A penalty of 5% of the maximum mark will be applied per calendar day the assessment is late. If students miss rehearsals without explanation/documentation, alternative assessments may be set. Absenteeism may be reflected in final marks.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Multiple weeks	Music rehearsals Weeks 2-5	Rehearsal (12 hr)
	Music Rehearsals weeks 6-9	Rehearsal (10 hr)
	Movement rehearsals, Weeks 6-9; 6-9pm Not an official part of the course, but a requirement to be a part of the opera.	Rehearsal (9 hr)
Week 01	Introduction, unit of study outline, expectations, auditions.	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 10	Week 10 rehearsals	Rehearsal (14.5 hr)
Week 11	Week 11 rehearsals (Sitzprobe week)	Rehearsal (6 hr)
Week 11	Week 12 rehearsals	Rehearsal (15 hr)
Week 13	Week 13 performances at NIDA	Performance (12 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Students are expected to attend 100% of timetabled activities for this unit of study, unless granted exemption by the Dean, Head of School or UoS co-ordinator most concerned or if documented by a Doctor’s certificate. The UoS co-ordinator may determine that a student fails a unit of study because of inadequate attendance. Alternatively, at their discretion, they may set additional/alternative assessments where attendance is lower than 90%.

Apply through the Special Considerations portal or apply for Professional Leave for documented absences. In case of poor health, please contact UoS co-ordinator and organise an alternative assessment.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 3 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 60-75 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Set repertoire to be picked up from libraryyyy at beginning of semester. Supply own tablet device if preferred.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. demonstrate accuracy of intonation
LO2. demonstrate vocal technique appropriate to ensemble situations
LO3. demonstrate choral blend through matching of vowel colour and attention to dynamics
LO4. demonstrate ability to sing in a number of languages
LO5. demonstrate rhythmic accuracy, coherence and the ability to follow the conductor and the resultant musical flexibility to achieve artistic goals
LO6. demonstrate ensemble skills (through paying attention to the above)
LO7. demonstrate stylistic skills related to repertoire
LO8. demonstrate sight reading skills
LO9. demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a high level of concentration during rehearsals and performances
LO10. demonstrate adequate preparation and professional conduct, including punctuality, full participation and responsibility for music scores, pencils and other appropriate materials required at rehearsals.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Updated assessments due to early feedback task legislation.

Additional information

Learning Support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time such as an assignment, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension. The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment or during the semester , you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Study commitment

Assessment

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Additional costs

Daily living expenses during any tour are up to the student to provide. Provide own iPad/tablet device if preferred.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Learning Support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Additional costs

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

ENSE1301: Chamber Choir (Advanced) 1

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Learning Support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Additional costs

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links