Description
Performance of vocal music is quite popular in Kenya, perhaps anchored in the background of traditional music and performance of associated dances. One of the largest musical events in the country is the Kenya National Music Festival. This is a one of a kind event that attracts students, teachers, trainers and music enthusiasts from all parts of the country. Solo and ensemble singing also form a significant part of music instruction in high schools and colleges that offer music as a subject in their curriculum. In addition, choral and solo singing is an important part of worship in many churches across the country. Most performers tend to rush in their preparation and therefore may end up with less than satisfactory performances. Based on the historical merits and value of pre-performance preparations, the main focus of this study was to determine to what extent Kenyan Art music performers engage in pre-performance study and background information and to raise discussions on how focused pre-performance study aspects of a piece of music directly impact the quality of performance of the piece of music. The study therefore sought to address the following: (i)In what ways does focused research and background information impact the rendition of vocal solo performances? (ii) What are the unique musical characteristics in a given piece of music (iii) What are the inherent technical demands in approaching the performance of the selected pieces (iv) How can the emerging issues be addressed
It is hoped that the discussions will enlighten the participants to realise that the incorporation of analysis of music pieces in preparation for performance helps to place the piece in its context and therefore enhances the effectiveness of the performance.
| Keywords | : Pre-performance research, vocal music, vocal music performance, Performance etiquette, Art music |
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