Summary: Auditions are vital to a quality choir. When auditioning people, remember that vocal health is the most important thing, and therefore your decision should be what's best for each person individually. If this means you have to change your plans concerning selections to sing or the size of the ensemble, so be it. Just because the sound is collective doesn't mean that we should look pass the need to ensure thoroughly warmed up voices. The same vocalizes that were taught to apply to the individual can also be done in unison. Taking the time to do this will only make things easier down the road! It's also important to educate the members of the choir as much as you can about vocal health and technically correct singing. (If you can't convey yourself well collectively, try to make time available to spend time with the members in smaller groups) Although many aspects of individual singing correspond with choral singing, there are a few things specific to choirs. The obvious one: blend. The director needs to figure out a system that works best for them, but it is important to teach the members that feeling good while you sing is more important than how you sound (especially since we can't really hear what we sound like).
Key Terms: Blend. Intonation. Equal Temperament.
Key Concepts: Vocal health is number one! Voices can change, so be prepared to make adjustment when necessary. Warming up the voice is important in any setting.
Making Connections: I have a feeling that the only choir I'll ever direct will be ward choirs. I'm not thrilled about that prospect. But in an attempt to stay positive, I really liked that Oren discussed how blend can be achieved when singers focus on how they feel and not just what they hear. The point of singing, no matter what level of skill, should first be to enjoy making music. Since my talent pool will be greatly limited, it's a good reminder to me to think of moral rather than making a brilliant sound.
No comments:
Post a Comment