Vocal Music Course Listing
Musical Theatre 1
Prerequisite: Vocal Technique 1, Acting 1 and placement verification
For the beginning actor/singer, this class introduces you to the fundamental techniques of performance on the musical stage. Development of your vocal technique and integration of your voice and body will help you in song interpretation and provide you with solid groundwork from which to further develop your musical theatre performance skills. Learn how to gain the confidence to “sell a song!” Material will be chosen from classic musical theatre (Rogers and Hammerstein, Berlin, Porter, Loesser, and others) for class work and performance.
Musical Theatre 2
Prerequisite: Musical Theatre 1 and placement verification
Learn solo, duet, trios and small ensembles from the more contemporary musical theatre repertoire (i.e. Sondheim, Weber, Maltby and Shire, and Wildhorn), receive personalized coaching on song repertoire, musical interpretation, characterization, proper pronunciation of languages, melody and diction. This class provides information the singer needs in creating individual interpretation and expression of song. You will also learn to incorporate singing in parts and dramatic movement, in addition to the art of blending as an ensemble while holding your harmonies. The skills of this exciting art form are essential for any performer who dreams of being on the Broadway stage!
Musical Theatre 3
Prerequisite: Musical Theatre 2, Vocal Technique 2 or written recommendation of voice teacher and placement verification
Further exploration of musical theatre styles, incorporating elements of vocal technique, acting and some advanced ensemble work. The focus will be placed on challenging the student to explore different types of characterizations through musical theatre roles.
NEW! Vocal Styles—2008: Jazz
Prerequisite: Vocal Technique 2 and placement verification
Take your vocal technique to the next level! This course is designed to allow the more advanced singer an opportunity to explore highly stylized and influential vocal genres that go far beyond the basic techniques of “singing.” Annual course topic will rotate, studying the rich stylizations and technique specifics of either Opera, Jazz or Madrigals. These three genres are the Western European vocal standards that are typically only offered for study at the post-secondary level. Coursework will cover the basics of each genre, including technique, history and the genre’s influence on other vocal styles.
For 2008, this course will explore vocal jazz. In addition to learning the history of jazz, students will have the opportunity to sing solos and ensembles using a variety of jazz techniques, including improvisation and interpretation.
Vocal Technique 1
Prerequisite: None
This class provides essential training for the young singer, as well as anyone who wants to become a better singer. You will learn all the basics of singing and deal with such fundamental questions as “Where is the voice?”, “How does it work?” and “What are my vocal possibilities?” Techniques for proper breathing, how to support the voice, proper diction and vowel formation, extending your range and finding the ideal resonance for your voice will be explored. You will learn how to sing for an audience, including correct posture, interpretation, and how to work with an accompanist through the use of folk songs and solos from musical theatre. Daily sessions include physical and vocal warm-ups, group work on vocal techniques, and individual coaching on solo pieces.
Vocal Technique 2
Prerequisite: Vocal Technique 1, or at least one year of private voice lessons and placement verification
This class is designed for the more experienced singer. The students in this class should be ready to work on solo repertoire from standard musical theatre, operetta and classical art songs. Emphasis will be placed on refining your vocal technique skills and finding the appropriate repertoire for your voice. Focuses include continued development of proper breath technique, voice support and control, body posture and alignment, increasing vocal strength and stamina, extension of vocal range, placement, resonance, pitch, diction and musical style. Learn to incorporate movement while singing with confidence and strength. Beginning level Italian Art Song will be explored.
Vocal Technique 3
Prerequisite: Vocal Technique 2 and placement verification
This class is an invaluable aid for anyone considering a professional singing career or someone who wants a really intensive vocal experience. Designed to polish a singer’s skills to performance level, you will learn how to prepare and present yourself for a performance or audition, regardless of musical style. You will learn the proper mental tools needed to show yourself off to best advantage. Learn to communicate at an audition with confidence, grace and style! The class is structured to combine coaching with group feedback and critique. Advanced vocal repertoire from classical art song, operetta and musical theater will be explored.