Classical singing: advanced workshop

About this course

This workshop examines classical song repertoire through vocal and physical warm-ups, individual presentations, group work, discussion, demonstrations and lecture. A termly repertoire focus provides a framework for exploring songs in different languages and styles, with attention to vocal colour, tone, text and musical interpretation. Participants research and prepare repertoire independently, experiment with suitable choices and present their work in class. Teaching also addresses communication with an audience, constructive evaluation and listening, with opportunities to work alongside an accompanist.

What you'll learn

• Perform songs from the studied repertoire from memory
• Apply variations of vocal tone and colour
• Interpret studied works with greater attention to text and music
• Evaluate vocal and performance technique in themselves and others
• Develop listening skills and aural perceptiveness

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for experienced classical singers working beyond fundamental techniques. Participants need a reliable vocal technique, confident musicianship, good knowledge of musical notation and previous experience singing in several languages. They should be prepared to sing before the class, contribute to discussions and regularly prepare repertoire independently.

• Previous experience singing in languages including English, French, German and Italian is vital for progression.
• Sight-singing is not required, but learners need to read notation and prepare songs in advance.
• Regular practice, research and memorisation are expected.

Before you go

• Bring a notebook and pencil.
• Bring sheet music as required, and a course book if needed.
• Learners are encouraged to obtain copies of the music they sing, which may be purchased or borrowed.