Advanced Diploma in Music

Culture and Arts - Music

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose: The purpose of the qualification is to develop learners' ability to work independently on larger scale projects that require conceptual thinking and practical application of advanced theoretical concepts. It aims to advance knowledge in two of the specialist areas selected in the 3rd year of the Diploma in Jazz and Popular Music: Music Performance, Arranging and Composition in Jazz and Popular Music, Electro-Acoustic Music, and Music Education.

Rationale: There is a demand for specialist skills in Music, especially in the areas of Jazz and Popular Music performance, Composition and Arranging, Music Education, and Music Technology. Music practitioners play a vital role in Basic Education, and the qualification serves those learners who wish to enter the Postgraduate Certificate in Education to work as Music Educators in schools. The qualification provides a pathway for Undergraduate Diploma learners to access Postgraduate study.

Outcomes

Demonstrate advanced proficiency on a chosen musical instrument/voice (solo and Ensemble).
Demonstrate the ability to read music at an advanced level.
Show advanced knowledge of the principles of performance, Harmony, Arranging, Composition, Electro Acoustic Music and Music Education.
Be equipped with specialist knowledge of two of the following four specialisations: Music Performance. Arranging and Composition in Jazz and Popular Music. Electro-Acoustic Music. Music Education.

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria are demonstrated by the fulfilment of the desired outcomes met through successful completion of course-work components (assessed through a range of methods including tests, assignments and formal examinations, in written, oral form, performance and recital examination).

Integrated Assessment: The four 32-Credit modules are broken down into smaller subject areas which results in more than one assessment per module. Each of the subject areas are individually assessed. For example, in the Composition and Arranging module, a separate Composition portfolio and Arranging portfolio are individually assessed, and the final mark is an aggregate of the two marks. Assessments are undertaken at Module level, while the overall programme learning outcomes are automatically met as the student progresses from one semester to the next. There is weekly interaction with academic staff to discuss and assess the teaching and learning measures that have been implemented.

There are sub-minimum marks that learners have to attain at the end of the Diploma in Jazz and Popular Music for admission into the Advanced Diploma in Music. For example, a student will need to have attained an average of 60% in the 3 practical subjects comprising First Practical Study, Music Ensemble, and Workshop in Jazz and Popular Music to be admitted to the Performance major.

Formative Assessment:

Assessment of class preparation and participation
Individual and group written assignments
Individual and group oral presentations
Portfolios

Summative assessments are in the form of written examinations, portfolios, practical examinations, and recitals. These assessments all form part of the evaluation methods.

Qualification Details

Type: Advanced Diploma
NQF Level: 07
Min. Credits: 120
SAQA Source: More Information

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University of KwaZulu-Natal

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a public research university located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It was formed in 2004 through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. UKZN is one of the top-ranked universities in South Africa and is known for its excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. The university has multiple campuses spread across the province, including Durban, Pietermaritzburg, and Westville. Each campus has its own unique character and facilities, providing students with a diverse and vibrant learning environment. UKZN is committed to producing graduates who are academically competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive. It strives to promote innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among its students. The university also actively engages with local communities through various outreach programs and initiatives. Overall, the University of KwaZulu-Natal is a prestigious institution that offers high-quality education and research opportunities to students, contributing to the development and advancement of South Africa and the African continent as a whole.

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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.