10 Saltus Stage
Vocal Focus
The singing voice is nature’s in-built musical instrument. Musical development relies heavily on the training of inner hearing, and so, the voice. Without the voice we have no evidence of inner hearing or the ability to listen to music. Singing is a joyful and sociable activity giving direct access to music without first having to learn the technical difficulties of an external instrument. Therefore, singing and active participation is the fastest way to learn and internalise music, and to develop musicianship skills. It is also the proof of accurate internalisation of rhythm and melody. Through unaccompanied singing and active participation a student can begin to acquire skills essential to all musicians: musical memory, inner hearing, true intonation and harmonic hearing. These skills are all worked on during secondary choir practice (Friday lunchtimes), where students learn to sing together, listen to each other and enjoy the social side of participation in music. Last term the secondary choir worked on an a capella version of Happy and also performed at Carols For All, singing descants for many of the carols. At present, the choir is working on an a capella version of Don’t Stop Believin’, and later on this term and next will be collaborating with Junior Jazz Band for an arrangement of Blame it on the Boogie by Jackson Five. At present we have a strong core of members for the choir, yet more students are always welcome (there are no auditions!).
While many people are gifted with a natural singing ability, it is important to learn how to sing properly in order both to protect your voice and to maximise it's potential. In singing lessons, students work on a wide range of activities always including technical work. Whether students wish to sing in the jazz style or the classical style, there are certain fundamentals common to both such as breath control, support, correct vocal placement, posture, diction, vowel formation, range, intonation and tone. This term, we have 5 students taking their ABRSM Grade 1 singing, covering a wide range of musical styles and periods.
While each individual student’s goals and natural vocal style are always a crucial factor for determining the direction of singing tuition, each pupil will be equipped with a strong foundation in classical vocal technique, allowing them to develop their singing ability in other genres of music.
I really enjoy being part of the music department at Saltus. I especially like the new programme that includes singing lessons. I am practicing songs for my grade 1 and learning techniques to improve my voice. My voice lessons have helped me improve my voice and have made me a better singer. I love singing in the Upper Primary choir. I also take cello lessons. They are very enjoyable, even though they are hard and my cello has been "sick"!. I have been able to learn quickly and I feel I am getting better every lesson. I really love singing and listening to music. Sometimes my family call me a jukebox!
Alyssa De Silva