Laura B SS Chapter 11

Laura B
Chapter Summary: The most important thing that we can do as a singer is be true to ourselves. In the music industry, others will attempt to put us in a box and expect certain repertoire based on our voice type and vocal quality. However, we should make sure that we are the determining factor and choose a repertoire that speaks to us, we enjoy singing, and at the same time is healthy in our voice. When auditioning, the author suggested that we visualize ourselves succeeding and what that would feel like before the audition. We should come into the audition with confidence, not over-the-top energy or apology. We need to go into it with the mindset that we are going to give everything that we have, as if we were performing for an audience and not for a panel of judges. The most effective way to learn repertoire is to follow the order of first studying the text, then speaking the text, speaking the text in rhythm, learn the pitches through playing them and listening to them, and finally singing it. Performing is more then singing. It is about feeling moved by the music and then expressing that to the audience. In order to have the most freedom of expression in artistry, we must ensure that we are organized time-wise and financially so that unneeded stress does not come into our rehearsals or performances.
Key Concept: Be true to yourself
Key Terms: fach system, repertoire, boxing yourself in, audition, positive visualization, expectations, "get the grill warmed up," "have church," audiation, marking, actors, organization, time management, financial management.
Making Connections: Another chalk full chapter. I loved the part about being true to who you are and finding your true voice. This is often a big challenge for me, because I have never really figured out what my true voice is. I feel like I am an expressive performer, but have formed many bad habits for expressive singing. It has made me scared to sing expressively because I am really trying to get over those habits. It was reassuring to me to read about going back to the basics and doing things that allow for the voice to be healthy.