Program Overview

Music Foundation Programme

The Music Foundation Programme is designed for students who have been less fortunate in acquiring musical knowledge at secondary level. The programme provides a foundation in music theory, history, and performance, and is tailored to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the fiercely competitive world of classical music.

Programme Details

Students study the history of vocal music from 400 AD to the present, in addition to music theory modules. They participate in:

• Choral rehearsals and performances
• Voice teaching lessons to become good voice teachers
• Piano lessons, which is an essential tool for a singer or voice teacher
• Stage movement lessons to learn how to move on stage
• Opportunities to appear in costume interpreting operatic roles

Language Studies

Students are given a thorough introduction to the pronunciation and grammar of the main operatic languages, namely:

• Italian
• German
• French

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities after having studied for this programme are many. A singer can either become a:

• Soloist
• Chorus member by any of the many opera houses in Europe or the rest of the world Such soloist or chorus positions are highly paid and consequently sought after. If the singer prefers to remain in South Africa, they can be employed there too, although such employment is often not of a permanent nature. However, many singers manage to make a comfortable living by being freelance artists in this country. Versatility is a key factor in creating a demand for oneself.

Teaching Opportunities

Apart from performing, a graduate can also land a teaching job at one of the many schools or tertiary institutions throughout South Africa, and so help to prepare the next generation of great voices for which this part of the world has become renowned.