A comprehensive approach to reading choral scores.

The subject of the study is the process of reading choral scores during the course "Reading Choral Scores" in the field of "Art of Folk Singing," which involves its multifaceted exploration and the implementation of a whole range of combined and interrelated actions. On one hand, it is a detailed analytical perception of the sign-based notation system on a physical level, the pre-hearing of the read musical text by the inner ear, control and adjustment of the accuracy of the sound by the outer ear during reproduction, and a balanced application of technical skills in piano playing. On the other hand, it is a holistic perception of the development of melody, rhythm, and harmony of the choral score in the context of the folk song genre, the understanding of the formative elements and the inclusion of the song example in the traditional ritual complex, which contributes to the creation of an organic artistic image and the correct choice of performing techniques. The methodology of the research employs scientific methods related to the analysis of theoretical knowledge and its practical comprehensive application in the process of reading choral scores. The hermeneutic, formulaic, musicological analysis method, and practical method are considered. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that the process of reading the score is viewed not as a set of technical actions for reproducing the musical text on the piano but as a deep multi-level process that requires a range of professional knowledge, including from various fields of science that go beyond musical art—philosophy, cultural studies. The practical application of the hermeneutic method allows for studying the choral score by examining the peculiarities of its performance through the lens of authenticity while employing modern performing means. Immersion in the context of the folkloric-ethnographic complex through a formulaic method specific to folk singing helps to identify melismatic-rhythmic and poetic "formulas" in folklore samples that attune to the required emotional state and mode of intonation. Examples of structural elements in the analysis of traditional Russian folk songs are presented, including folk song examples from the Siberian region. The important role of using the traditional song folklore of the Russian people as the basis of the educational repertoire in training choirmasters of folk singing groups is noted. The authors have gathered folk song materials in published manuals. The prospects of using a comprehensive approach to reading choral scores in conjunction with the possibilities of modern computer technologies are argued.

choral score, choirmaster, Russian folk song, comprehensive approach, hermeneutic method, formulaic method, musicological analysis, practical method, musical notation, piano performance