SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Practical Music 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
88765  Diploma in Practical Music 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Music 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 6  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
  • The programme will provide performance students access to the music industry.
  • The programme will provide musicians already active in the field of music performance (stake-holders such as the SANDF, National Symphony Orchestras and Wind Bands) access to an accredited qualification.
  • This programme will provide students in music performance access to higher learning and articulate to the Advanced Diploma: Music Performance or Bachelor of Music in exceptional cases through the ARPL route.
  • The student will emerge as a well-rounded individual whose unique potential has been developed at the required exit level.
  • The student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in solo performance/chamber music/accompaniment/choral conducting.
  • The student will be able to demonstrate theoretical competency.
  • The student will have requisite knowledge of repertoire and pedagogical skills relevant to the instrument of choice/voice.
  • The student will be equipped to contribute professionally, in a constructive and critical manner, within the diverse South African context.
  • The programme will develop students' theoretical knowledge and practical skills in their chosen field of Music which will facilitate their access to the music industry.
  • The programme will provide the students with basic experience in solo and ensemble performance and serve as a foundation for entrance into the professional field of music.
  • The programme will introduce students to the basic principles of critical and reflective thinking practices.
  • The programme offers students the chance to upgrade their academic qualifications with a view to accessing further studies in the field, thus enhancing access to higher education in Music.
  • The programme will provide students with knowledge of repertoire and pedagogical skills relevant to their practical specialization.

    Rationale:
    Gaining access to the Music Degree programme of Stellenbosch University traditionally requires preceding instrumental and theoretical study of at least 8 years, which is costly and generally not affordable to people from disadvantaged communities. Students who graduate successfully from the Bachelor of Music programme therefore usually come from economically affluent communities.

    Another tendency apparent in recent years is that many students with a high proficiency in performance, who have come through the community engagement programme of the Music Department of the University, do not have alternatives for further higher education studies. Although many of these students have never had the opportunity to study music formally and therefore do not have the necessary theoretical background to enrol for the Bachelor of Music programme, they have already-developed above-average practical skills through a multitude of existing community music schools, bands, churches and field bands. These above-average performance potential needs to be nurtured by means of a formal higher education other than a degree programme, such as the Higher Certificate and Diploma programmes which require lower levels of theoretical background and focus more on practical ability.

    The only institution in the Western Cape currently offering a Diploma: Music which is an alternative for such students is the University of Cape Town. However, most of the students who complete the community engagement programme come from the Boland and surrounding areas and would prefer instruction in Afrikaans. This will be offered according to the University's vision which promotes Afrikaans as a teaching language in a multilingual context. In addition to the above, the focus and purpose of the Performer's Diploma: Music offered at UCT differs from our proposed Diploma: Practical Music in the following ways:
  • UCT is focused on performance standard only and has less theoretical subjects than offered by our proposed Diploma.
  • More-over, UCT is currently offering their Performer's Diploma: Music at capacity.

    A Diploma: Practical Music is not only necessary but is vital, particularly since it will encourage more students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds to enrol for a higher education qualification in Music. The programme will provide students with the opportunity to focus on their practical studies, but theoretical subjects will form an integral part of the curriculum.

    This proposed diploma programme will give these students access to tertiary level study and will equip them with the necessary skills as well as an accredited qualification to pursue careers as professional musicians and to contribute to public performance, enterprise and education. Valuable skills will be made available to local communities as Diploma graduates will be able to work as professional musicians or take up other positions in the field of arts and culture. They will also be able to use the art of music in innovative and enterprising ways as, as a vehicle for self-renewal, empowerment and sustainability in South Africa. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners have achieved the equivalent of NQF Level 4 or 5 in a formal education environment.

    Access to the Qualification:
    In order to enrol for this Diploma programme, students should:
  • Be in possession of a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by UMALUSI with an achievement rating of 3 (Moderate Achievement, 40-49%) or better in four recognized National Senior Certificate 20 Credits subjects (of which one must be either English or Afrikaans).
  • Be at a minimum standard comparable to grade VII in the major instrument (voice) and grade III/IV theory of any of the Music Examination Boards.
    Or
  • Be in possession of the Higher Certificate: Music (SU). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    N 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    First Year:
  • Core modules, 108 Credits.
  • Elective modules, 12 Credits.
    Total first year modules: 120 Credits.

    Second Year:
  • Core modules: 96 Credits.
  • Elective modules: 24 Credits.
    Total second year modules: 120 Credits.

    Third Year:
  • Core modules, 104 Credits.
  • Elective modules, 24 Credits.
    Total third year modules: 128 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. The student will have been exposed to basic stage skills and cabaret performance.
    2. The student will:
  • Be able to accompany solo instruments and voice at performance level.
  • Be able to interpret and apply different musical style periods.
    3. The student will:
  • Be familiar with the fundamental aspects of studio management.
  • Be familiar with the basic principles of entrepreneurship.
    4. Students will:
  • Be familiar with the standard repertoire for chamber music formations.
  • Have had practical experience in the preparation, rehearsal and performance of standard chamber music works.
  • Have observed coaching sessions of students from academic years other than their own, thereby providing the basis for a measure of comparison.
  • Have had exposure to various chamber music formations, thus providing a basis for adaptation to different musical styles.
    5. The student will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognise new trends taking place in musical development.
    6. Students will have mastered the foundations of 18th and early 19th century theory of music.
    7. The student will:
  • Have comprehensive experience of ensemble playing (both sectional and tutti) by means of performance with one of the established ensembles of the Music Department.
  • Have comprehensive knowledge of aspects pertaining to ensemble performance: auditions, punctuality and discipline, consistent attendance and sectional leadership.
  • Have extensive practical experience of public performance with one of the established ensembles of the Music Department.
    8. The student will have:
  • An improved technical facility.
  • A better understanding of musical principles and style.
    9. The student will have:
  • An established technical ability.
  • A comprehensive knowledge of repertoire and styles.
    10. The student will have:
  • A more established technique.
  • Knowledge of repertoire and styles.
  • Practice in Ensemble playing.
    11. The student will have:
  • An established technical ability.
  • A better understanding of musical principles and style.
  • A comprehensive understanding of languages for Singers.
    12. Students will have developed their technical facility and understanding of style further.
    13. The student will:
  • Have extensive knowledge of the standard repertoire of all style periods relevant to the selected practical direction.
  • Be able to identify different style periods.
    14. The student will:
  • Have advanced teaching skills.
  • Have knowledge of technique and repertoire of the chosen practical route.
  • Have had supervision in the practical teaching of a learner.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
  • Students will demonstrate focused knowledge and skills in the area of their specialisations by means of simulated work environments, e.g. orchestral performance, conducting, accompaniment and chamber music.
  • Knowledge subsequently applied in the abovementioned examples reinforces the general principles governing these activities.
  • Students will have applied this knowledge and gained practical experience during the Diploma programme.
  • Students will be able to enter a number of career paths as indicated in the first bullet. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    Continuous Assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Practical demonstrations.
  • Assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    Continuous assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Practical demonstrations.
  • Assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    Continuous assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • A test in the first semester and an examination in the second semester.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    Continuous assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Practical demonstrations.
  • Assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
    Continuous assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Practical demonstrations.
  • Assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
    Continuous assessment based on:
  • Auditions.
  • Attendance.
  • Punctuality and discipline.
  • Individual contribution to sectional and tutti rehearsals.
  • Individual contribution to tutti performances.
  • Practical tests based on material studied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Weekly assessment at lessons.
  • Mid-year test.
  • Final Examination.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Weekly assessment at lessons.
  • Mid-year test.
  • Final Examination.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Weekly assessment at lessons.
  • Mid-year test.
  • Final Examination.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Weekly assessment at lessons.
  • Mid-year test.
  • Final Examination.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Weekly assessment at lessons.
  • Final practical examination at the end of the year.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:
    Continuous assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Practical demonstrations.
  • Assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14:
    Continuous assessment by means of:
  • Tests.
  • Assignments.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Demonstrations.
  • Observation of supervised teaching.

    Integrated Assessment:
    This programme makes use of both formative and summative assessment. The assessment is in line with the detailed guidelines contained in the University's assessment and internal/external moderation policies.

    Continuous assessment will also be used, which encompasses a minimum of 8 assessment opportunities per year module and 4 per semester module. Types of assessments will include tests, assignments, examinations and/or practical testing. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Diploma in Music (Practical), The University of Melbourne, Australia:
    The Diploma in Music (Practical) is studied alongside Bachelor of Music students, giving you the opportunity to build valuable friendships and networks in a challenging musical environment. Study areas cover music performance and ensemble studies and, via elective subjects, you will also gain a basic understanding of the historical and theoretical knowledge that forms part of advanced musical training.

    The Diploma provides you with the opportunity to engage in one-to-one instrumental or vocal tuition and is particularly designed for students interested in musical study but not wishing to commit to professional training in a Bachelor of Music.

    The Diploma in Music (Practical) consists of a sequence of six Music Performance subjects, a set of applied skills electives - which include ensemble and chamber music subjects - and two Academic/Music Studies elective subjects.

    You can choose to complete the Diploma within a three-year time frame, by taking some Diploma subjects within the breadth component of the main Degree. These subjects count towards both the Bachelor and Diploma programs.

    The Diploma in Music (Practical) is studied alongside Bachelor of Music students, giving you the opportunity to build valuable friendships and networks in a challenging musical environment. Study areas cover music performance and ensemble studies and, via elective subjects, you will also gain a basic understanding of the historical and theoretical knowledge that forms part of advanced musical training.

    The Diploma provides you with the opportunity to engage in one-to-one instrumental or vocal tuition and is particularly designed for students interested in musical study but not wishing to commit to professional training in a Bachelor of Music. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Preceding:
    National Senior Certificate as well as a pass mark in the (UNISA) Grade VII examination in the major instrument (or voice) and in the (UNISA) Grade IV/V examination in theory or any other comparable examination standard or Higher Certificate: Music.

    Next Level:
    The Diploma: Practical Music may, in exceptional cases (a Final mark of minimum 70% in each of the following: General Music Studies 391, Music Theory 321 and 351), articulate to the 2nd year of Bachelor of Music, with the understanding that the student fulfils the Bachelor Music entrance requirements in addition to the requisite audition.

    We envisage the introduction of an Advanced Diploma in future. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    All modules are internally moderated and all exit level modules are externally moderated. In addition, all practical modules will be externally examined in the final year. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Stellenbosch University 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.