University Certificate in Singing with Children

The certificate is aimed at students at our university enrolled on teacher training programmes (Bachelor’s and Master’s), the Bachelor’s programmes in Early Childhood Education and Sport, Health and Leisure Education, and the Master’s programme in Cultural Mediation.

Collaborations with arts and education programmes at other universities are currently being planned.

As singing is an important practical activity in lessons across many subjects – particularly language subjects – and, more generally, as a cross-curricular principle in primary schools, it is particularly important to treat children’s and young people’s voices responsibly. This certificate course will provide you with the fundamentals and methodological ideas on how to rehearse songs with children and young people at school and teach them in a way that is appropriate for their voices.

Even if you wish to train in the field of singing practice or children’s choir conducting, such a certificate can enhance the quality of your work and serve as a reference when applying to your preferred institution. Such institutions often lack music teachers or specialists with an affinity for music (which is provided here by the focus on singing).

An introductory seminar on children’s and young people’s voices focuses in particular on the fundamentals of developmental psychology and vocal physiology, as well as aspects of voice training and voice care. Through this seminar, you will gain a sound understanding of the vocal development of young people and the associated requirements in terms of (music) education. The seminar also provides an insight into research perspectives, opportunities for collaboration and specific formats (such as SingPause, choir/vocal classes, children’s musicals or singing projects).

Building on this, a methodological and didactic seminar offers concrete strategies and (teaching) models for working on songs in both extracurricular and everyday school settings. Topics covered include song selection, vocal coaching, age-appropriate arrangements, inclusive and differentiated approaches, and methods of musical instruction in mixed-ability learning groups. Particular emphasis is placed on linking theory and practice, as well as reflecting on your own attempts at teaching through the organisation and facilitation of regular/weekly projects in (partner) schools in the region.

Ensemble practice is another key component of the certificate: you will actively participate in vocal group activities, such as the university choir. In doing so, you will gain experience in the areas of choral voice training and methodology and improve your vocal skills through your own vocal practice under professional guidance.

The seminar programme is supplemented by 10 hours of practice-oriented insights into vocal work in and outside schools, for example through work shadowing or independent practical projects in schools, choir schools such as Cantus Juvenum Karlsruhe, or music education initiatives such as ‘Chormosaik Karlsruhe’. These components enhance the certificate’s relevance to future career paths and provide insights into specific subject areas such as programme design or rehearsal organisation.

The final assessment takes the form of a portfolio which documents your individual learning processes, reflects on them theoretically and demonstrates your pedagogical and artistic development.