Importance of Curricularisation of Masterclass Performances in South African Higher Education for Opera Singer Graduates.

Work-integrated learning (WIL), facilitated through masterclass performances, has emerged as an essential instrument for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enhancing the quality of education and the competitiveness of graduates in the professional world. However, there is limited knowledge about the importance of masterclass performances in enhancing WIL for opera singer graduates, especially in South African higher education. Firstly, this study applies the WIL framework for understanding the benefits and opportunities of masterclass performances in improving opera singer graduates' employability through WIL. Secondly, this study examines the potential role of adopting masterclass performances into South African higher education (music schools) curricula. The study defines masterclass performances for a curriculum providing students with working experiences in experiential learning. The study design includes a qualitative research method with critical discourse analysis. This study's findings have six themes: (a) importance of curricularisation of masterclass performances in South African higher education for opera singer graduates; (b) benefits of the masterclass for opera singer graduates, (c) successes of masterclass performances at international universities; (d) lesson for universities of South Africa from the masterclass performances (e) emerging trends in masterclass performances in improving WIL; and (f) Challenges facing curricularisation of masterclass performances in South African higher education. The findings reveal that masterclass performances in the curricula can assist opera singer graduates in improving their employability in the industry. This study concludes by affirming that the masterclass performances curriculum offers unique WIL and performative opportunities for opera singers, graduates in particular. The curricularisation of masterclass performances in South African higher education for opera singer graduates is instrumental in providing a comprehensive, practical, and well-rounded education that prepares students for successful careers in the opera industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]