Performance Practice
Performance Practice refers to how music should be performed based on its historical period and style. It's like a set of guidelines that help choir directors and musicians perform music in a way that's authentic to its original time period. For example, music from the Renaissance period would be performed differently than modern music. This knowledge is crucial for choir directors because it helps them make informed decisions about things like tempo, dynamics, pronunciation, and musical expression. You might also see this concept referred to as "historical performance" or "historically informed performance."
Examples in Resumes
Led collegiate choir in authentic Performance Practice techniques for Baroque repertoire
Conducted workshops on Historical Performance Practice methods for community choirs
Applied Period Performance principles in preparation of Renaissance music festival
Typical job title: "Choir Directors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Choir Directors
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Advanced Level Questions
Q: How do you approach teaching historical performance practices to a choir that's never performed early music before?
Expected Answer: A seasoned director should discuss methods of gradually introducing period-appropriate techniques, starting with basics like pronunciation and articulation, then moving to more complex elements like ornamentation and period-specific expression.
Q: How do you balance historical accuracy with modern audience expectations?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to maintain historical authenticity while ensuring the performance remains engaging for contemporary audiences, including practical examples of such decisions.
Intermediate Level Questions
Q: What are the key differences in performance practice between Renaissance and Baroque choral music?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain major differences in tempo, dynamics, pronunciation, and ornamentation between these periods in simple terms, with practical examples.
Q: How do you research the appropriate performance practice for a piece you're unfamiliar with?
Expected Answer: Should describe their research process, including consulting historical sources, recordings, and scholarly materials to inform performance decisions.
Entry Level Questions
Q: What is meant by performance practice in choral music?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic concept of performing music according to its historical period and style, with simple examples of how this affects interpretation.
Q: Name some basic elements of Renaissance performance practice.
Expected Answer: Should identify fundamental aspects like clear diction, lighter voice production, minimal vibrato, and basic understanding of period-appropriate tempo.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of different musical periods
- Fundamental conducting techniques
- Basic choir rehearsal management
- Simple period-appropriate pronunciation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed knowledge of multiple historical periods
- Advanced rehearsal techniques
- Period-specific ornamentation
- Historical pronunciation expertise
Senior (5+ years)
- Comprehensive historical performance knowledge
- Advanced interpretation skills
- Program development expertise
- Leadership in historical performance
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic musical periods and their characteristics
- Inability to demonstrate different conducting styles
- Lack of experience with various types of choral music
- No understanding of historical context in music
- Poor sight-reading skills
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