Voca People

I just saw this video and it is a great example of the flexibility and creativity of using the voice and the joy of singing together.  Our voices are instruments and when we train them properly, you can do amazing things like we see with the Voca People group.  Some of my students question why we 'have to be in choir,' which is a mandatory class at our school.  This is a perfect example of why... because our voices are incredible instruments and my job is to teach my students how to use them.  Anyone can learn this.  This type of training takes years and the first couple of steps for beginner singers is to learn to match pitch, body posture, and breathe correctly.  We get to develop our listening skills while singing in an ensemble and together we practice, practice, practice.  It's not easy to discipline ourselves and our voices, but together we will be stronger.  Sing together!

Broadway vs. Classical

Tonight I saw a great group of theatre students from Ecole Assiniboine perform Oklahoma.  As the awesome adjudicator, Johanna Hildebrandt, worked with this group, it gave me some great ideas about how to teach Broadway singing and our upcoming Annie rehearsals.  It got me thinking about the differences and how we will need 'change' our vocal instruments to fit the musical genre.  Here's a good video explaining the difference.

Here are also some great tips on how to use facial expressions and gestures when singing Broadway type songs

Taking Care of Your Voice

Oh oh.... Ms. Rempel has lost her voice.... Thanks to all the students and staff who helped out today :)

Now that winter is here and we are going to be doing lots of singing in the next 3 weeks, here are some VERY important tips for us to do to help us keep our voices healthy and strong.

• Your singing voice is an extension of your speaking voice.  Whispering is harder on your voice than singing.  Sing more, talk less!
• Get a lot of sleep, drink plenty of water, and participate in exercise
• Going in and out of changing climates (cold/dry/warm) irritates vocal cords.  Wear a scarf!
• Don't yell or scream
• If you have to clear your throat, do so gently, not in a harsh way

 DID YOU KNOW THERE IS FOOD THAT IS GOOD and BAD FOR YOUR VOICES?