Module manager: Dr Sam Flynn
Email: S.Flynn2@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
In this module you’ll learn approaches to directing an ensemble from a range of musical traditions: from conducting Western art music to ‘MD-ing’ musical theatre, jazz or popular music. You’ll develop skills that are essential whether directing ‘from the podium’ or from within an ensemble, namely technical, expressive and listening skills as well as organisation, communication and reflective skills. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
This module introduces you to ways of directing an ensemble from a range of musical genres – such as Western art music, musical theatre, jazz and popular music – such as conducting, musical directing, and bandleading.
In practical group sessions, you’ll take turns directing a ‘scratch ensemble’ (made up of you and your peers) in a variety of musical styles – receiving feedback from expert staff.
For the assessment, you will organise an ensemble to direct. This could be an existing ensemble (e.g. an orchestra, choir, or band) or your own group. You’ll choose the material that you rehearse and perform. You will not be marked on the quality of the performance (nor the size of the ensemble) but on the quality of your directing.
This module will equip you with transferable leadership skills for a career in music or beyond.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Apply appropriate technical and practical skills to show proficiency in musical direction.
2. Exercise critical musical judgement to analyse and develop an ensemble's performance.
3. Demonstrate artistic expression and interpretation, while situating repertoire in relation to stylistic conventions and contexts.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Demonstrate skills in organisation and prioritisation, showing an ability to adapt to circumstances.
5. Communicate practical information and expressive ideas clearly.
6. Reflect analytically on the relationship between plans and outcomes, and the implications for future practice.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 2 | 0.5 | 1 |
| Lecture | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Practical | 9 | 2 | 18 |
| Private study hours | 179 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 21 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Verbal formative feedback is provided in weekly practical sessions and in two 1-to-1 supervisions with a staff who specialises in the student’s chosen genre.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | A video excerpt of a rehearsal + a reflective commentary | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Students are normally required to organise their own ensemble for the module assessment. Students will confirm this with a suitable member of staff at the start of the module. Where filming a rehearsal with a full ensemble is deemed to be impractical, an alternative will be determined.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 14/04/2026
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