Outline

Overview

This unit allows students to further develop proficiency on one Chinese instrument in both small group and ensemble settings, and to continue to perform with the ensemble. Students will gain a deeper understanding of Chinese music by taking a more independent role in performing Chinese music, and completing their own Chinese music research project. This unit will provide students with a further opportunity to study non-Western musical performance and to have further engagement with analytical and conceptual approaches drawn from ethnomusicology. It will incorporate and further develop the performance skills that students have gained in previous study in earlier units, and promote the creation of a comprehensive performance-research based ethnomusicology pathway at the undergraduate level. It will help students from all specializations develop greater understanding of musical cultures outside the Western musical mainstream that usually forms the primary focus of their Conservatorium music studies. Some students taking this ensemble may be encouraged to undertake musicology units in the ethnomusicology pathway, or to consider honours proposals that have a focus on non-Western music.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Performance
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	PERF3607
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Catherine Ingram, catherine.ingram@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Lu Liu, lu.liu@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Brad Lucas, bradley.lucas@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Q&A following presentation, submission or placement	Research project: Part B 8-10 min oral presentation on research project and written submission (Part A), followed by 8-10 min Q&A. See Canvas for details.	25%	Formal exam period Due date: 19 Jun 2026 at 23:59	15-20 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Research project: Part A Methodology and results of small-scale research project designed and undertaken by student over the semester. Following submission of this written component (Part A), students deliver an oral presentation (Part B).	10%	Formal exam period Due date: 12 Jun 2026 at 23:59	2000 words or equivalent	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Performance project Progress in learning one traditional Chinese instrument	60%	Ongoing	n/a	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Weeks 1 & 2 tutor appraisal Tutor appraisal of student engagement and participation in group lessons in weeks 1 & 2 #earlyfeedbacktask	5%	Week 03 Due date: 09 Mar 2026 at 23:59	N/A	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
= early feedback task ?

Assessment summary

Performance project (60%) Students are assessed on their progress towards and achievement of a performance goal determined in consultation with their instrumental tutor in week 1. The goal will involve continued study of one chosen traditional Chinese instrument, and participation in all scheduled ensemble performances during the semester. The goal should also incorporate a more challenging performance task beyond the requirements of CME4: for example, this might be a solo performance in a concert or student seminar, or a small group performance in which the student takes a major role.
Weeks 1 & 2 tutor appraisal (5%): Tutor appraisal of student participation and engagement in the first two weeks of practical lessons (#earlyfeedbacktask)
Small-scale research project (35%) Students are supported to design and undertake a small-scale research project that relates to the instrument or repertoire studied in the ensemble, or an aspect of Chinese music that they personally find interesting. Projects may be wide-ranging and could focus on a Chinese instrument, composer, performer, genre, aesthetic principle, historical period, musical ritual or similar. They may involve library research, online research, interviews or other means of obtaining information as discussed with and agreed by the coordinator. Students will first submit Part A, comprising 2000 words or equivalent (10%). They will then give a presentation on their findings and engage in Q&A, comprising Part B (15-20 mins, 25%).

Assessment criteria

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

Fail: (Below 50%) Work not of acceptable standard.

Work may fail for any or all of the following reasons: Unacceptable paraphrasing; irrelevance of content; poor spelling; poor presentation; grammar or structure so sloppy it cannot be understood; failure to demonstrate understanding of content; insufficient or overlong word length.

Pass: (50%-64%) Work of acceptable standard.

Written work meets basic requirements in terms of reading/research; relevant material; tendency to descriptive summary rather than critical argument; makes a reasonable attempt to avoid paraphrasing; reasonably coherent structure; often has weaknesses in particular areas, especially in terms of narrow or underdeveloped treatment of question; acceptable documentation.

Credit: (65%-74%) Highly competent work demonstrating potential for higher study.

Evidence of broader understanding than pass level; offers synthesis with some critical evaluation of material; coherent argument using a range of relevant evidence; some evidence of independent thought, good referencing. A high credit (70-74) shows some evidence of ability to problematise and think conceptually.

Distinction: (75%-84%) Work of superior standard.

Demonstrates initiative in research and wide, appropriate reading; complex understanding of question and ability to critically review material in relation to underlying assumptions and values; analyses material in relation to empirical and theoretical contexts; properly documented; clear, well-developed structure and argument with some signs of literary style.

High Distinction: (85%-100%) Work of exceptional standard.

Demonstrates high level of initiative in research and reading; sophisticated critical analysis of evidence; high level engagement with theoretical issues, innovative use of reading/research material and impressive command of underlying debates and assumptions; properly documented and written with style, originality and precision.

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

Fail: (Below 50%) Work not of acceptable standard.

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.

Pass: (50%-64%) Work of acceptable standard.

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.

Credit: (65%-74%) Highly competent work demonstrating potential for higher study.

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.

Distinction: (75%-84%) Work of superior standard.

Excellent technical, musical and stylistic achievement. Consistently coherent and expressive performance. Some personal interpretation of the work suggests soloist potential.

High Distinction: (85%-100%) Work of exceptional standard.

Comprehensive and outstanding technical control and musical integrity concerning developmental expectations. Musical individuality is consistently projected to create a persuasive personal representation of the work. Performance flair is indicative of soloist standard. A mark of 95 or above indicates extraordinary technical virtuosity and musical artistry.

Oral presentations will be assessed against the following criteria:

Content

Shows evidence of broad research, taking into account a variety of sources

Clear argument, supported by relevant reasons and evidence 

Shows evidence of critical thinking about the topic, including:

Considers alternative views  
Where appropriate, questions assumptions implicit in the literature  
Draws meaningful connections between facts and / or concepts

Uses terminology accurately and appropriately  

Presentation

Is clearly expressed 

Is interesting and engages other students  

Makes appropriate use of examples and presentation methods relevant to the material presented (e.g. presentation software, handouts, recordings where relevant)  

Covers the topic effectively in the available time  

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.

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
Week 01	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 02	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 02	Introduction to the unit, and to planning and developing a project in Chinese music	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 03	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 04	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
Week 06	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
	Tutorial to support students in planning, developing, undertaking and presenting the results of an individual performance-based research project	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 07	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 07	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
Week 08	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 08	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
Week 09	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
	Tutorial to support students in planning, developing, undertaking and presenting the results of an individual performance-based research project	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
Week 12	Group lesson on one traditional Chinese instrument	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 12	Tutti rehearsal	Practical (2 hr)
Week 13	End of semester performance	Practical (2 hr)
Week 13	Tutorial to support students in planning, developing, undertaking and presenting the results of an individual performance-based research project	Tutorial (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Full (100 per cent) and punctual attendance is a requirement. Except in cases of illness or misadventure, failure to attend activities, classes or performances will be seen as failure to meet the requirements of the unit of study.

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 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

There are no set readings for this unit.

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 further improvement in musical performance skills and advanced proficiency on one traditional Chinese instrument
LO2. exhibit advanced skills in playing the instrument with and leading others in an ensemble context
LO3. demonstrate, with guidance, the ability to plan, undertake and present results of an individual small research project on Chinese music
LO4. act, understand, and take a emerging leading role in conveying to others, musical practices that illustrate clear awareness of musical and cultural diversity
LO5. demonstrate and articulate individual reflection on new musical experiences

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.

Assessment for practical skills has been clarified via detailed rubric (in Canvas) and early tutor appraisal (#earlyfeedbacktask). Assessment weighting has been slightly altered to better acknowledge students' effort in designing and undertaking the research project.

Additional information

It is the responsibility of the student to consult with their individual instrumental teacher for requirements of the performance component, and with the unit coordinator regarding the research component.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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

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

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PERF3608: Chinese Music Ensemble 5 (Advanced)

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

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

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links