Bachelors in Performing Arts Syllabus & Subjects 2023

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Sep 24, 2024 21:21PM IST

Bachelors in Performing Arts Syllabus & Subjects Overview

Bachelors in Performing Arts or BPA syllabus is divided into six to eight semesters based on the type of programme a student chooses to pursue. BPA subjects provide a solid foundation in both the theory and practice of performing arts. To succeed in the Performing Arts, including Dance, Theatre, and Music, candidates can enhance their real-life comprehension and ability through the BPA course. It places a strong emphasis on leadership and execution, which benefits students' self-esteem, interpersonal skills, and propensity for fruitful teamwork. Performing arts students can develop their skills and choose their BPA specialisation accordingly become successful in one of three disciplines — drama, dance, or music.

Among the major subjects taught in the BPA course syllabus are Hypothesis of Design, Basics of Structure, and Systematic Drawing. Also, there are several elective subjects to choose from, such as Dance, Journalism, and Music. Throughout each semester, students will learn important topics and techniques associated with the entertainment industry as part of the BPA curriculum. To be eligible to undertake the Bachelors in Performing Arts syllabus & subjects, students must obtain at least 50% to 60% aggregate marks in any stream. After graduation, candidates can work as a Drama Artist, Musician, Theatre Director, Community Arts Worker, and more. However, before doing so, students need to be adequately informed on the contents of the BPA syllabus and how varying between disciplines allows them to gain experience in a variety of entertainment-related techniques taught. This page discusses everything you need to know about the semester-wise BPA subjects, specialisations offered, course structure, best books, and so on.

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BPA Year Wise Syllabus

The Bachelors in Performing Arts is a three to four-year programme based on the course type and specialisation one chooses to pursue, indicating that there are two semesters annually. The tables that follow provide a thorough rundown of the semester-wise BPA subjects and syllabus that candidates will be instructed on over their entire three-year study plan.

First-Year BPA Syllabus

The following table outlines the first-year BPA subjects and their details:

Semester-ISemester-II
Analytical Study of Tala and ShastraAnalytical Study of Indian Classical Music
Folk MusicTala Studies
Fundamental Study of Hindustani MusicElementary study of Hindustani Music
Fundamental Study of TalaWestern Music
Intensive Study of RagaElementary Study of Tala
Rabindra SangeetRaga Studies
Raga Studies-

Second-Year BPA Syllabus

The following table outlines the second-year BPA subjects and their details:

Semester-IIISemester-IV
ChoreographyChandas
Dance on CameraMudras
History of DanceIndian Culture
New Media & Performance PracticeMovement Techniques
Technique of Dance-

Third-Year BPA Syllabus

The following table outlines the third-year BPA subjects and their details:

Semester-VSemester-VI
Basics of Camera Light and SoundScript Writing 
Basics of Vocal PracticeHistory of Western Theater
Body Movement and DanceTheory of Direction and Stagecraft Direction
History of Indian TheaterBasic Concepts of Film Making
Indian Culture and ArtFolk Theater Forms of India
Introduction to Indian TheaterFilm Theories
Theatre ProductionStagecraft and Design
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BPA Subjects

For three to four years, candidates should study a broad spectrum of disciplines and curricula related to BPA. The following is a list of fundamental BPA subjects that all students must undertake during the course:

GenreSubject
Dance
  • Chandas
  • Choreography
  • Dance on Camera
  • History of Dance
  • Indian Culture
  • Movement Techniques
  • Mudras
  • New Media & Performance Practice
  • Technique of Dance
Music
  • Analytical Study of Indian Classical Music
  • Analytical Study of Tala and Shastra
  • Elementary study of Hindustani Music
  • Elementary Study of Tala
  • Folk Music
  • Fundamental Study of Hindustani Music
  • Fundamental Study of Tala
  • Intensive Study of Raga
  • Rabindra Sangeet
  • Raga Studies
  • Raga Studies
  • Tala Studies
  • Western Music
Theatre
  • Acting
  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Basic Concepts of Film Making
  • Basics of Camera Light and Sound
  • Basics of TV Production
  • Basics of Vocal Practice
  • Body Movement and Dance
  • Communication Skills
  • Environmental Studies
  • Environmental Studies
  • Event Management
  • Event Management
  • Film Theories
  • Folk Theatre Forms of India
  • History of Indian Theatre
  • History of Western Theatre
  • Indian Culture and Art
  • Introduction to Indian Theatre
  • Mixed Martial Arts
  • Practical Knowledge of Basic Ragas
  • Practical Knowledge of Basic Ragas
  • Project on Commercial Advertisement
  • Project on Short Film
  • Script Writing
  • Sound Editing
  • Sound Recording
  • Stage Craft and Design
  • Theatre Production
  • Theory of Direction and Stage Craft Direction
  • TV Production
  • TV Production Lab
  • Yoga
Practical
  • Theatre session
  • Music sessions
  • Dance sessions
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BPA Common Subjects for All Semester

The following table highlights the common BPA subjects for all semesters:

Subject NameTopics CoveredPurpose
Dynamics of Dance, Music and TheatreDefinition of Abhinayas, Raga classification, Trinity of music, Viniyogas, Theatre design, Bharathanatya repertoire, explaining Dharmis, improvisation and imaginationThe goal is to offer students a deeper understanding of the three different art forms and give them the ability to select a speciality from among the three.
Indian TheatreYakshagana, Character Psychology, NatyaSastra, Analysing Indian plays, Types and theatre formsThis BPA subject offers a high degree of education in the theatre. It gives the candidates a platform to expand their knowledge while they develop their abilities.
Introduction to Performing ArtsDance forms, Music, TheatreThe aim is to provide students with a thorough introduction to many types of art, such as music fundamentals, theatre-related knowledge, and diverse dance styles.
Value-based Course in BharathanatyamDance form specificsTo familiarise students with dance styles and help them comprehend how human emotions interact. Provide candidates with an understanding of gestures and facial expressions.
Value-Added course in MusicDivyanamakeerthana, Asthapathi, Raga Malika, Bhajan, Patham, Classical musicIndividuals can learn many types of music and take up the topic that suits their interests if they are given an in-depth knowledge of music as a subject.
Elective 1Any language spoken abroad, such as French, German, Spanish, etc.To improve multidisciplinary programmes.
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Specialisations Offered in BPA

As discussed, candidates who enrol in the Bachelor of Performing Arts programme can specialise in dance, acting/theatre, and music instruction. The BPA course assists students in developing their real-world expertise and skills so they can succeed in the performing arts, acting, dance, and music, among other fields. In the final year of their graduation, students pursuing this programme must opt for a specialisation. Below is a list of specialisations candidates can choose from:

  • Bharatnatyam
  • Computer Graphics
  • Flute
  • Guitar
  • Hindustani Classical vocals
  • Kathak
  • Odissi
  • Sitar
  • Tabla
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BPA Entrance Exam Syllabus

Applicants for the BPA programme must pass the admission exams to be accepted into the academic programme. The exam's administering institute determines the necessary cut-off scores for admission. The last phase of the selection process will be open to those who clear the BPA entrance exam. The following is a discussion about the BPA entrance exam syllabus.

BHU UET: It includes topics such as Accountancy, Basic Mathematics, Business Management, Business Organisation, Computers, Current Economic Affairs, Economics, Financial Market Management, General Knowledge, General Mental Ability, Language Comprehension, Money and Banking, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, Statement Analysis, and so on.

IPU CET: Computer awareness, applied mathematics, knowledge related to physics and chemistry, applied mechanics, and analytical and logical reasoning are among the topics covered in this entrance exam.

JNUEE: Boolean Algebra, Computer Science, Current Affairs, Data Structures, English Grammer, General Aptitude, General Comprehension, General Science, History of India, Input/output devices, Integers and fractions, Modern Algebra and Matrix Theory, Numerical Analysis, Organisation of a computer, Representation of Characters, Statistics and Probability, etc.

NPAT: It includes topics such as Applied Grammar, Contextual Usage, Arithmetic, Sets and Functions, Logical Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Spatial Reasoning, Elementary Statistics and Probability, Reading Comprehension, Error Recognition, and more.

PUCET: Binomial Theorem, Cell structure and functions, Complex numbers and Quadratic Equations, Conic Sections, Equilibrium, Human anatomy and physiology, Laws of Motion, Linear Inequalities, Motion of System of Particles and Rigid Body Gravitation, Plant physiology, Properties of Bulk Matter, Redox Reaction, Sequence & Series, Status of Matter: Gases and Liquids, Straight lines, Thermodynamics, Work, Energy and Power, and more.

TISS BAT: Art/Music/Film, Averages, Awards, Current Affairs, Data Interpretations (Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, etc.), Economy, Environment/ Nature, Health, History/Geography, Integers/Fractions, Media/Advertisements, Politics/Constitution, Probability, Profit and Loss, Ratio Proportion and Variation, Simple/Compound Interest, Technology, Time, Distance and Work, and so on.

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BPA Important Books

Along with offering students a basic overview of the subject, the BPA best books also allow them to delve deeply into their area of specialisation. Online and offline accessibility is available to students to buy these course books. If students obtain the course materials before enrolling, they can make a well-informed choice by carefully reviewing the prerequisites of the course. Listed below are the important BPA books students can use as references:

Book Name

Author Name

Dance Kinesiology

Sally Sevey Fitt

The Moving Body: Teaching Creative Theatre

Jacques Lecoq, and Jean-Gabriel Carasso

Theatre and Everyday Life

Alan Read

What's the Story: Essays about Art, Theatre and Storytelling

Anne Bogart

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BPA Course Structure

There are six to eight semesters in a Bachelor of Design in Performing Arts course, which lasts between three and four years. The BPA course structure aims to offer students all the pertinent knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the performing arts. In addition to imparting theoretical knowledge, the BPA course's disciplines teach essential interpersonal and practical skills. A brief overview of the BPA course structure is provided below:

  • Core courses
  • Practicals
  • Project
  • Seminars
  • VI semesters
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FAQs about BPA Course Syllabus

What is included in the course structure of Bachelors in Performing Arts?

Bachelors in Performing Arts syllabus & subjects that are included in the course structure depend on the duration of the program which ranges between three to four years. Listed below are the commonly followed course structure of Bachelors in Performing Arts:

  • VI Semesters
  • Seminars
  • Project
  • Practicals
  • Core Courses

What are the best BPA specialisations?

The choice of the best BPA specialisations depends on factors such as the student’s academic needs, interests, course duration, and more. Listed below are a few common Bachelors in Performing Arts specialisations students usually opt for.

  • Tabla
  • Sitar
  • Odissi
  • Kathak
  • Hindustani Classical vocals
  • Guitar
  • Flute
  • Computer Graphics
  • Bharatnatyam

Does the BPA course syllabus include project-based learning?

Yes, the BPA course syllabus includes project-based learning that offers individuals the required training in this field. In addition to ensuring that students understand concepts from start to finish, students work on projects to reinforce their understanding.

Which are the top colleges that provide the best BPA course curriculum?

The top colleges that provide the best BPA course curriculum are Banaras Hindu University, Chhatrapati ShahuJi Maharaj University, Lovely Professional University, Amity University, Allahabad University, Bangalore University, Gujarat University, Parul University, Swami Vivekananda Subharti University, Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, Visva Bharati University, and so on.

Are the Bachelors in Performing Arts syllabus & subjects taught practically?

Yes, the Bachelors in Performing Arts syllabus & subjects are taught practically as the course emphasises practical learning. Students gain an understanding of Performing Arts techniques through practical sessions and seminars that expose them to a variety of tools and technologies.

What are the Bachelors in Performing Arts core subjects?

The Bachelors in Performing Arts core subjects are the Analytical Study of Indian Classical Music, Chandas, Choreography, Dance on Camera, Elementary study of Hindustani Music, Elementary Study of Tala, History of Dance, Indian Culture, Movement Techniques, Mudras, New Media & Performance Practice, Raga Studies, Tala Studies, Technique of Dance, Western Music, and so on.

What is the BPA course curriculum for Theatre specialisation?

The BPA course curriculum for Theatre specialisation includes the following subjects:

  • Stage Craft and Design
  • Introduction to Indian Theatre
  • History of Indian Theatre
  • Folk Theatre Forms of India
  • Basics of Vocal Practice
  • Acting

What is the BPA course curriculum for Dance specialisation?

The BPA course curriculum for Dance specialisation includes the following subjects:

  • Choreography
  • Dance on Camera
  • History of Dance
  • Movement Techniques
  • New Media & Performance Practice
  • Technique of Dance

What is the BPA course curriculum for Music specialisation?

The BPA course curriculum for Music specialisation includes the following subjects:

  • Analytical Study of Tala and Shastra
  • Elementary Study of Tala
  • Fundamental Study of Hindustani Music
  • Intensive Study of Tala
  • Raga Studies
  • Western Music

What subjects are taught in the Bachelors in Performing Arts course?

The following are the commonly taught subjects in the Bachelors in Performing Arts course:

  • Basic Concepts of Film Making
  • Choreography, World Music
  • History of Indian Theatre
  • Introduction to Indian Theatre
  • Project on Commercial Advertisement
  • Sound Editing
  • Western Music
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