Musical performance is the process or act of making music, of producing it with the voice, instruments or other objects capable of creating musical sounds. This process has become firmly established in Western culture over recent centuries and is made possible by the trained musician, who decodes a musical text from a score and renders it audible on one or more musical instruments.
In its origins, this practice can be traced back to the Middle Ages or the Renaissance, when it was not a specialised field but rather an inherent part of the composer’s role. Although it is certainly true that, from the very beginning, there were also performers of works created by others – that is, by composers.
Over time, there was a growing need for musical performers who specialised in bringing the compositions of others to life, who could work musical magic through their technical skills on an instrument or with their voice. However, it is also true that, at times, certain interpretative practices of others’ compositions included ‘additions’ that went beyond what was advisable and caused the original composition to lose its essence.
By the 20th century, performers had gradually come to respect the original musical text more and more, making a contribution that in no way deviated from what the composer had written. This role became firmly established in society and is here to stay.
Clearly, the performer is an essential musician. For it is the performer who, through their instrumental or vocal skill, fulfils the collective need to hear musical works from bygone eras. Without them, naturally, the works of the past ‘would cease to be alive in the present’.
This aspect adds value to musical culture, as it is rich in variety and styles, allowing us to listen to pieces from all eras and across various musical genres. The same applies to theatrical works, as we can attend performances of plays by playwrights from both the past and the present.
What is musical performance in classical and modern music?
Performance —that is, the recreation of a work —is a complex and irreplaceable art form, brought to life by numerous artists. The musical performer is a creator with a special gift for interpreting music. This special ability, naturally, requires practice to develop further and achieve musical excellence.
Nowadays, those wishing to study musical performance have a wide range of educational opportunities at their fingertips. Not only can they develop musically at conservatoires, but they can also undertake university studies in this field, just as in other disciplines.
At this point, it is essential to mention Alfonso X el Sabio University, as it is the first Spanish university to offer undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in Music. This presents a great opportunity for lovers of classical or modern music performance , as well as for those wishing to become orchestra conductors or music composition teachers, enabling them to enter the competitive music industry with the added advantage of a recognised higher education qualification that guarantees successful progression in their professional careers. Not to mention those wishing to study musicology.
It’s a great advantage that music lovers can pursue a degree! Music and performance are an inseparable pair that come to the fore whenever we witness a magical performance, whatever the genre.
Is musical performance your thing? If you finally decide to study this university degree to fulfil your great calling, you can pursue your university studies to become a performer in classical or modern music. It’s a unique opportunity to become a professional music expert – something you’ve always dreamt of – through the first undergraduate degree programme of its kind in Spain, offered at UAX.
You’ll learn from the very best lecturers and performers in Spain and Europe. And all this, thanks to a highly competitive and professional curriculum, dedicated to technical and interpretative development on your instrument, which will provide you with a comprehensive education of the highest standard, taught by a faculty of educators and concert performers of recognised national and international standing.
Throughout your studies, whether in classical or modern music performance, professors with PhDs, soloists and internationally renowned teachers will help you approach your musical studies with a fresh and practical approach, developing a methodology based on the voice, movement, interpretation, analysis, improvisation, comprehension and technique.
Furthermore, those undertaking this musical performance degree will be able to give concerts and recitals in venues across the Community of Madrid and at various venues throughout the country. They will also have the opportunity to take part in national and international competitions, thereby acquiring the skills necessary for their development as a ‘live’ performer.
Can you imagine yourself in the future doing what you truly love? With this course, you’ll take giant strides forward in classical or modern musical performance. Whatever your instrument and musical genre, there is a training programme tailored to your profile to help you make a qualitative leap in your musical development and guide you towards the longed-for happiness that music brings.
