Vocal technique begins with breathing. We teach about breathing as it happens organically – to have the student comprehend what happens naturally and how to utilize this mechanism to his or her advantage when producing a free, yet controlled tone. Everything is rooted in breathing, and we will focus on making sure nothing hampers the breathing (i.e. diminished posture, jaw tension, etc.), while encouraging clear and consistent vowels, even tone in all parts of the vocal range, developing dynamic range and vocal flexibility, and ultimately, an overall expressivity in the student’s singing.
Singing is about communication, and students will be taught that dynamics and articulation markings are expressive tools to help them make their artistic choices. No matter where they are in their technical proficiency, students will always be encouraged to make choices, be creative, be expressive, to communicate. Mastery of vocal technique simply allows a singer to have a larger range of expressive choices at their disposal.
Lastly, we think it is important to remember that a singer cannot divorce his or herself from the instrument. As teachers, we may need to address confidence issues, mental blocks, or emotional responses. Using a variety of teaching techniques, such as speaking pedagogically, using imagery, or demonstrating aurally, as well as encouraging them to ask questions, share concerns and experiment freely, reduces the chances of miscommunication or misunderstanding. The studio should be a safe-haven of self-discovery, and students will be encouraged to try many things, to think outside of the box, and to leave their personal critics outside of the door. With these concepts in mind, the student is equipped with all the necessary tools to continue their vocal and personal journeys on their own, and/or into their next phases of vocal study.
Singing is about communication, and students will be taught that dynamics and articulation markings are expressive tools to help them make their artistic choices. No matter where they are in their technical proficiency, students will always be encouraged to make choices, be creative, be expressive, to communicate. Mastery of vocal technique simply allows a singer to have a larger range of expressive choices at their disposal.
Lastly, we think it is important to remember that a singer cannot divorce his or herself from the instrument. As teachers, we may need to address confidence issues, mental blocks, or emotional responses. Using a variety of teaching techniques, such as speaking pedagogically, using imagery, or demonstrating aurally, as well as encouraging them to ask questions, share concerns and experiment freely, reduces the chances of miscommunication or misunderstanding. The studio should be a safe-haven of self-discovery, and students will be encouraged to try many things, to think outside of the box, and to leave their personal critics outside of the door. With these concepts in mind, the student is equipped with all the necessary tools to continue their vocal and personal journeys on their own, and/or into their next phases of vocal study.