Vocational Diploma in Popular Music (Film Music)

Offered by: Offered jointly by PRISM Foundation and partner universities 

Mode of Study: Part-Time
Awarding Body: Jointly by PRISM Foundation and partner universities
Benchmark: UGC Guidelines

🎼 Rationale

Film Music is a vital part of India’s cultural identity, yet until now lacked a formal syllabus. This diploma provides structured training in playback and professional singing, combining theory, practice, and industry exposure. Students learn vocal techniques, mic handling, breathing, diction, notation, ear training, and studio skills, alongside appreciation of diverse genres (Indian Classical, Folk, Western, Ghazal, Devotional, Bhajans, Film).

🎯 Aim & Objectives

• Build strong foundations in music theory, vocal usage, and singing skills.
• Train in notation reading, sight singing, breathing techniques, and ear training.
• Introducing professional and playback singing skills.
• Provide exposure to the music industry and interdisciplinary studies.

📚 Learning Outcomes

Knowledge & Understanding

• Explain Popular Music, musical notes, rhythm patterns, vocal usage, and film music context.

Practical Skills

• Perform vocal exercises, sing with pitch/rhythm, karaoke, and sight singing.
• Analyze music across genres and develop confidence in performance.

Transferable Skills

• Apply musical elements to reflect mood/emotion.
• Work individually and in teams, evaluate music practices, and use correct terminology.

📖 Course Structure

Semester 1 (30 Credits)

• General Education (12 Credits): Introduction to Music, Music Theory I, History of Music I, Popular Music
• Vocational Education (18 Credits): Music Practical I & II, Sight Singing I

Semester 2 (30 Credits)

• General Education (12 Credits): Music Theory II, Playback & Professional Singing, Film Studies I, Interdisciplinary Music Studies I
• Vocational Education (18 Credits): Music Practical III & IV, Sight Singing II, Performance Skills I

Total: 60 Credits | 2 Semesters | 15 weeks each | ~30 hrs/week

📝 Assessment

• Each module: 100 marks (Tests – 50, Final Exam – 50).
• Pass Requirement: Minimum 40% per module.
• Attendance: 75% mandatory.

🎤 Teaching Methods

Lectures, demonstrations, workshops, studio visits, group exercises, and performances.

📌 Student Support

Module notes, reference books, internet/computing facilities, music labs, workshops, staff guidance, and discussion lounges.

✅ Quality Control

Regular review of notes, papers, student feedback, consultative meetings, assessment boards, and exit feedback.