Browsing by Author "Kierman, Sean"

Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Open Access
    Baroque and piccolo trumpet : an historical analysis with emphasis on performance practice and teaching techniques
    (1992) Postema, Darren Anthony; Kierman, Sean
    This dissertation is not only an historical comparison between the trumpets used in the baroque period and those used in our present century, but attempts to focus on how performance techniques have changed and the implications of these changes for trumpeters who wish to perform the baroque repertoire in an "authentic" style. The recent construction and availability of high quality prototype baroque trumpets, has enabled many to relearn the difficult art and has added yet another important dimension to the teaching pedagogy of trumpet.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Open Access
    An evaluation of aspects in the applied physiology of brass players
    (2008) Pheiffer, Marius; Kierman, Sean
    The study is based on the research of Arnold Jacobs, one of the most influential teachers and performers in the brass community. The first chapter gives a background and rationale to the study and a biography of Jacobs. The second chapter introduces the reader to concepts in anatomy and the physiology of brass players. The knowledge of anatomy is necessary to counter the misinformation circulating in the brass and musical community. One such topic is the notion of diaphragmatic support, one of the most misunderstood topics in brass playing. This dissertation tries to provide the correct anatomical information to the reader in order for him/her to make correct decisions with regard to efficient performance practice.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Open Access
    The sub-stage orchestral environment : the pits?
    (1992) Schuster, Pierre; Kierman, Sean
    The primary objective of this thesis is the exploration of the orchestra pit environment. Three analytical elements establish the purpose for this examination. First, a historical review serves as an essential guide to understanding how and· why the contemporary orchestra pit milieu emerged. Second, by relating this sub-stage environment to the rest of the auditorium, fundamental principles of design become evident. The success or failure of an opera pit depends directly upon these principles. Third, the examination of individual features of design in relation to these principles forms the basis for refined critical assessment. Since its inauguration in 1971, the orchestra pit at the Nico Opera House in Cape Town has undergone numerous alterations, affecting both the physical and acoustical environment. An analysis of the effects of these modifications demonstrates, and indeed confirms, the benefits of using a structured approach, as suggested above, when appraising a sub-stage environment. Inevitably this thesis deals at least obliquely with the interface between the building design and the human factor, and much of this implicates management and the decision-making process. It is hoped that this treatise will assist in establishing parameters for real decisions about pits for orchestras in the future.