Caitlin Craig VRH 9/19

Luke Shepherd: Breath was low and deep the first half of the song, but I didn't see the down and outward release in the rib cage, and inner tube area.  He looked very rigid in his posture.  Intonation was spot on from  my recollection, his timbre sounded fairly free and light, but was definitely lacking the emotion.  Vowels did seem like the lacked the focus and precision.  Like Dr. Thomas Glen pointed out, it wasn't because he didn't know what the text meant, but rather because he wasn't giving it the love and passion his gives his musical theater music.  After he pointed that out, and asked Luke to sing again, there was certain spark to the piece that it had lacked before.  It became more real for the audience.  It was very neat to see and hear that tangible passion he had in his voice afterwards.  Overall, I think this was a really great experience for Luke to help him find his real voice, and be comfortable in expressing himself in a genre which he might not be as comfortable performing.

Elizabeth Tait: Liz's breathing seemed to be more contrived and difficult then I've seen before, which was probably due to nervous energy.  Liz's song really highlighted her agility and access to her high range, which I really envy, but it could be much smoother and freer if she stopped thinking about it so much (I do the same thing; it's often easier said then done, plus scary).  When she stopped trying to impress Dr. Glen, it was freer and much more released in all aspects of breath and timbre; I think letting go could have the same effect on her expression.  From watching Liz sing I know that she has a strong desire to connect with her text to tell a story, but her strong desire almost inhibits her ability to communicate with her audience in an effective way.  I often find that her expression is deep rooted and meaningful to her, but it doesn't always translate to her audience in the same capacity.  I think if she let go it could give her that vulnerability that she is lacking.  I see the fire in her eyes, I just want to feel that fire now...if that makes sense...

Two Principles of Singing by Thomas Glen:

1. Breath must always be generous and consistent (constant).
2. Vowels must remain the same throughout the entire range.