The curriculum is built around four key modules: Principles of Conducting, Orchestral Repertoire and Analysis, Score Reading and Musicianship Skills, and Instrumentation of the Orchestra.

Learn more about what’s in store for you!

Principles of Conducting 1
The Principles of Conducting focuses on fundamental conducting techniques including baton techniques and gestural awareness, score preparation, rehearsal strategies, and various approaches to conducting. All participants will have the opportunity to participate or observe the NAFA orchestra rehearsals where they will acquire first-hand experience working with a standard orchestra and the conductor. Students will be granted podium time in orchestra rehearsals during the course of study in which conducting an orchestra is part of the assessment process.

Orchestral Repertoire and Analysis 1
This module provides an overview of the development of standard orchestral repertoire. Relevant performance practice and stylistic issues will be discussed.

Orchestral Score Reading and Musicianship 1
Students will develop score reading skills and musicianship skills on the keyboard, topics will include transposition, sight-reading, harmonic analysis, meter changes, figure bass, and instrumental balance in standard orchestral scores.

Instrumentation 1
All students will attend a semester of instrumentation classes to enhance their understanding of standard orchestral instruments and various orchestration techniques.

Principles of Conducting 2
The Principles of Conducting focuses on advanced conducting techniques, rehearsal strategies, and various approaches to conducting. All participants will have the opportunity to participate or observe the NAFA orchestra rehearsals where they will acquire first-hand experience working with a standard orchestra and the conductor. Students will be granted podium time in orchestra rehearsals during the course of study in which conducting an orchestra is part of the assessment process.

Orchestral Repertoire and Analysis 2
This module continues to survey the standard orchestral repertoire. Relevant issues in performance practice and stylistic interpretation will be discussed.

Orchestral Score Reading and Musicianship 2
Students will continue to develop score reading skills and musicianship skills on the keyboard, topics will include transposition, sight-reading, harmonic analysis, meter changes, figure bass, and instrumental balance in standard orchestral scores.

Instrumentation 2
Students will continue to study the standard orchestral instruments and orchestration techniques.