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PRACTICE PERFORMANCE

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Risk assessments are crucial for maintaining a safe and productive environment, especially in creative settings where distractions and equipment use can increase the potential for accidents. For example, the caution slip sign reminds us to address hazards like wet floors immediately, reducing the risk of slips and injuries. Similarly, the yellow and black grip tape on stairs provides extra traction, minimizing the chance of tripping during busy rehearsals or performances. The no vaping or smoking signs highlight fire safety, essential in studios or venues with flammable materials, while the fire extinguisher ensures preparedness in the event of a fire. Neglecting risk assessments not only endangers physical safety but can disrupt creative work and lead to unnecessary setbacks. As an artist, understanding and implementing these measures protects both myself and others, allowing me to focus on my music without compromising safety.

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PRACTICE

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PRACTICE

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SPARK

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RISKS

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RISKS

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RISK ASSESSMENT

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What one new technique could help you develop your songwriting and/or instrumental/vocal skill sets?

CHORD PROGRESSIONS

If you don’t know, who does?

POTENTIAL IDEAS FROM DIFFERENT ARTISTS LIKE ASAP RCOKY AND RADIOHEAD

How did you develop your skill set so far?

EXPERIMENTING WITH CHORDS.

How can you now extend or add to this approach to achieve new goals?

ADDING VARIETY AND DEPTH INTO MUSIC BY EXPLORING DIFFERENT CHORD PATTERNS/STRUCTURES.

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This production class was invaluable in teaching me about different microphones and their uses. For my music, which includes rapping and piano, I decided to use a condenser microphone for its ability to capture rich, detailed vocals and the subtle nuances of piano tones. Learning about microphone placement and testing through this class allowed me to achieve professional-quality recordings on Logic Pro. Understanding how to select the right equipment has significantly enhanced my production process, helping me create songs that truly reflect my artistic vision. This knowledge has been a critical step in my musical growth.

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In the second SPARK class, we were introduced to the concept of cultivating the drive and creativity needed to write compelling, original songs. The lesson emphasised the importance of drawing from personal experiences to create music that feels authentic and emotionally engaging. We also analysed a well-known track, breaking down how the artist used dynamics to build tension and release throughout the song. During the theory segment, I learned how to construct basic major and minor chords, which I immediately started experimenting with in my own songwriting. This class laid the foundation for understanding both the technical and emotional aspects of artistry.

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I researched production techniques to enhance the quality of my work and make my performances stage-ready.

This included understanding EQ and compression to balance vocal clarity with the piano in a live or recorded setting. I studied layering techniques, such as doubling vocals or subtly adding harmonies, to create depth and richness in my songs. Timing tools like metronomes and digital audio workstations (DAWs) helped me refine rhythm and polish recordings. By integrating these production strategies into my rehearsals and performances, I was able to achieve a more professional and cohesive sound.

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Understanding the importance of safe working practices, I ensured my creative sessions were both productive and sustainable. I incorporated vocal warm-ups and cool-downs to protect my voice during extended practice periods. For piano work, I researched proper hand posture and wrist positioning to prevent strain or injury, particularly when playing repetitive arpeggios. Breaks were also essential, as I implemented the "50-10 rule" (50 minutes of work followed by 10 minutes of rest) to maintain focus and avoid overexertion. These practices not only supported my physical health but also improved my overall workflow and creativity.

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To support my project, I researched effective songwriting techniques used by established artists like Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole. A key method I applied was storytelling through lyrics, breaking a narrative into clear sections: verses for plot development, a hook for emotional impact, and a bridge for resolution. I also explored rhyme schemes and internal rhymes to add complexity to my lyrics, while ensuring the content stayed personal and authentic. Additionally, I experimented with emotional dynamics by writing in different perspectives, allowing my songs to convey a deeper connection with listeners.

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Finalising & Perfecting Performances, Brought all SMART targets together, finalising a cohesive and professional performance ready for showcasing.

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Fine-Tuning & Building Confidence, Simulated live performances, aligning with the SMART target of delivering a polished, stage-ready set

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Mastering Multitasking & Improving Stage Presence, Practiced full performances, addressing the target of building live performance confidence and multitasking skills.

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Polishing Transitions & Adding Dynamics, Focused on smooth transitions and expressive dynamics, working towards a cohesive performance for live settings.

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Exploring Complexity & Building Confidence, Practiced intricate left-hand patterns, advancing the target of mastering new piano techniques for richer accompaniment.

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Strengthening Performance & Timing

Used a metronome to refine timing, aligning with the goal of a stage-ready performance by improving synchronisation.

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Improved emotional delivery, contributing to the SMART target of writing and performing a storytelling song with dynamic expression.

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Developing Coordination & Expanding Techniques, Progressed on timing and flow diversity by rapping over faster tempos, aligning with the target to diversify my rap skills.

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Worked towards the SMART target of mastering arpeggios by focusing on smooth transitions and consistent rhythm during practice.

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In week 10, i brought everything together. I focussed on perfecting the finer details, such as working on the precise timing, vocal delivery & emotional expressions. I rehearsed full performances repeatedly, paying attention to consistency & ensuring every element from piano accompaniment to the rap flow felt seamless. I also recorded myself to catch any remaining areas for improvement. By the end of the week i had a fully polished performance, reflecting on the growth & effort i had put in for the last 10 weeks.

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In week 9 i focussed on fine tuning my performances. Smoothening out minor mistakes in timing & transitions, ensuring each section of my songs flowed seamlessly. i worked on maintaining consistent energy throughout my song, mainly focussing in on breath control & vocal clarity. To simulate a live setting, i practiced performing in front of small audiences, which helped boost my confidence, helping me adapt to the pressure of being watched. By the end of the week my performances felt sharper & much more cohesive. With only minor adjustments needed before finalising everything.

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Mastering Multitasking & Improving Stage Presence

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Mastering Multitasking & Improving Stage Presence

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This week i concentrated on mastering multi tasking by tackling faster tempos & more complex transitions between arpeggios & rap verses. I practiced performing entire songs without stopping, which helped me build stamina & consistency. Additionally, i began incorporating small gestures & movements to improve my stage presence, focussing on staying engaged & expressiveness while performing. By the end of the week, i could deliver more polished performances that felt natural and emotionally engaging, setting the stage for the final refinements in the coming weeks.

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In week 7 i focused on refining transitions between different sections of my songs, such as moving smoothly from verse to hooks while maintaining rhythm on the piano. I also started experimenting with dynamics, using softer & louder arpeggios to emphasise the emotional flow of my lyrics. My rapping became more expressive as i matched my delivery to the changing intensity of the piano. By the end of the week my performances felt much more cohesive & dynamic, showing clear progress in storytelling through both music & vocals.

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Exploring Complexity & Building Confidence

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Exploring Complexity & Building Confidence

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This week i challenged myself by incorporating more intricate left hand patterns on the piano, such as broken chords & octave jumps while rapping. These additions added depth to my accompaniment, but they required extra focus & precision. To handle this level of complexity i slowed down my practice sessions & continued to repeat these exercises until it felt natural. I also worked on sustaining vocal energy throughout longer verses. By the end of the week i could confidently perform a more complex piece, feeling that both my technical ability & confidence were reaching a new level.

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In week 5, i focused on improving my timing & stage presence. I practiced with a metronome to ensure my rap verses were perfectly in sync with the piano, working on both speed & timing of my transitions. I also began to rehearse in front of a mirror to improve body language & confidence while performing. By the end of the week i felt much more control during live practice sessions, with better synchronisation between my rapping & playing. I was more aware of my stage presence & starting to perform more confidently.

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This week i focused on adding expressiveness to both my piano playing & rap delivery. I practiced emphasising certain notes in my arpeggios to create a more dynamic feel & experimented with vocal inflection to match the emotional tone of my lyrics. My transitions between arpeggio patterns became smoother & i began incorporating simple variations to make the piano accompaniment feel less repetitive. By the end of the week, my rap flow felt more natural, being able to much more confidently convey emotion while maintaining rhythm/coordination.

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Developing Coordination & Expanding Techniques

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Developing Coordination & Expanding Techniques

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In week 3 i started experimenting with more complex arpeggio patterns & varying their dynamics to match the mood of my lyrics. My coordination improved as i practiced syncing my rap flow with the rhythm of the piano, gradually building up the tempo.

I also worked on maintaining consistent breath control, which helped me deliver longer verses without breaking the rhythm. By the end of the week, i was able to perform a full verse with polished arpeggio accompaniment, showing clear progress in multi-tasking.

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This week i focused on consistency & control, my arpeggios have become much smoother as i've worked on transitioning chords without hesitation. I've also improved my ability to stay in rhythm while rapping, especially during slower tempos. To build coordination, i practiced breaking down sections of a song & putting them together gradually. By the end of the week i could confidently rap over simple chord progressions without loosing focus, which feels like a big step forward.

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STRENGTHS:

Musical Skills: Strong piano playing ability with a current focus on arpeggios & multi-tasking while rapping.

Lyrical Talent: Dynamic, emotional & storytelling style of rap inspired by Busta Rhymes & K.DOT

Dedication: Consistent practice & determination to improve

performance experience: Background in hospitality roles have helped enhance stage presence & adaptability under pressure.

Creativity: Ability to write music that reflects personal experience & explored deep philosophical themes.

WEAKNESSES:

Coordination Challenges: Combing complex piano techniques with vocal delivery still needs refinement.

Breath control: May require more practice to maintain steady breath during longer rap verses.

Stage confidence: Limited experience performing live with both rap & piano.

Piano Repertoire: current focus on arpeggios may limit the range of musical styles being learnt.

Opportunities

University Environment:

Access to like minded peers. resource & performance opportunities to grow as an artist.

Collaborations: Networking with other musicians.

Live performances: Potential to perform at University events or open mic nights to gain exposure

Skills Development: Learning advances techniques both in rap & on piano to push artistic boundaries.

Social Media: Use platforms to showcase progress, share performances & build an audience.

THREATS

Time Management: Balancing University coursework with practice & creative pursuits.

Self Doubt: Potential to feel overwhelmed or comparing my work with others.

Creative Blocks: Risk of struggling wit writers block or lack of inspiration.

Competition: Facing Challenges standing out in saturated music industry.

Injury or Strain: Over practicing can lead to vocal strain or repetition strain injuries from piano.

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1. MASTER A SONG WITH RAP & PIANO

SPECIFIC: Learn & perform an original song using arpeggios on the piano while rapping

MEASURABLE: Record a polished performance within 2 minutes without mistakes.

ACHIEVABLE: Break the song into sections & practice them daily for 30 mins

RELEVANT: Combine skills & improve multitasking.

TIME BOUND: Complete the performance ready version within 4 weeks.

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1. What one new technique could help you develop your songwriting and/or instrumental/vocal skill sets?

Learning new techniques eg. Arpeggios whilst performing (vocals)

2. If you don’t know, who does?

Youtube content creators have helped me dramatically improve my techniques.

3. How did you develop your skill set so far?

Practicing vocal range, techniques on piano (arpeggios and playing in different timings/rhythms.

4. How can you now extend or add to this approach to achieve new goals?

incorporating the new techniques learnt (better vocal range & technique on piano) into my newer projects/releases.

LIST OF TECHNIQUES I NEED TO IMPROVE

PIANO:

CHORD PROGRESSIONS

DYNAMIC CONTROL

LEFT HAND PATTERNS

IMPROVISATION

RAP/VOCALS

BREATH CONTROL

FREESTYLING

DICTION EXERCISE

FLOW EXPERIMENTATION

STORYTELLING DEVELOPMENT

LYRIC ANALYSIS

COMBINED TECHNIQUES

SPLT PRACTICE

METRONOME TIMING

SLOW PRACTICE

LIVE PERFORMANCE SIMULATION

LOOPING PROGRESSION

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Contents Page

1. 1 Initial Ideas (LO2,LO3)

1.2 SMART Targets (LO1)

1.3 Spark - Week 1 (LO2, LO3)

1.4 Songcraft - Week 1 (LO2, LO3)

1.5 LPW - Week 1 (LO2, LO3)

1.6 Production - Week 1 (LO2, LO3)

1.7 Personal Technical Development - Week 1 (LO1, LO2, LO3)

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RED - WEEKLY SPARKS/TOPICS/THEMES.

GREEN - PROJECT MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES.

PURPLE - WEEKLY SESSIONS.

BLUE - PRODUCTION CLASSES.

YELLOW - PERSONAL TECHNIQUES, DEVELOPMENT & RESEARCH.

WHITE - WEEKLY RESOURCES TO BE ADDED TO THE BIBLIOGRAPHY.