Just to clarify a few things….

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Hello Voice Workers,

We’ve had queries from some of you on various topics: some would like more individual input on singing, and some want more help with understanding musical notation.

As Carol and I have announced in our sessions, we are very happy to work with you during our little vino intervals. And, please, if we’re having a conversation with someone else, do butt in and let us know you’re there and would like some of our time. I promise we will not be in the least offended. We’re Americans, after all, although we have learned to moderate our behaviour somewhat after 13 years here. 🙂

And, of course….

You are all more than welcome- nay, expected- to bring up any of your questions or concerns during the sessions, too! I mean, what else are we there for? As we’ve said before, we’re not a choir. The reason behind Lewes Voice Works (and this becomes clearer to both Carol and me as time goes by) is to continue to learn, to experience the joys of singing with others and, hopefully, to become more carefree and confident in your singing at whatever level you choose to do it. Besides, if you have a question or concern you can be pretty sure that someone else in the group is experiencing the same thing and will be grateful that you brought it up.  So, please don’t be shy.

I’ll have more musical posts going up here soon, including some of the rhythm examples and another piece of music or two, so stayed tuned.

Looking forward to seeing you all soon.

Best wishes,
P & C

7 thoughts on “Just to clarify a few things….”

  2. I was thrilled to have some one-on-one time with P&C recently. It felt special and very challenging to stand and sing in front of our two maestros – but they were very kind so, be reassured folks, it was fab.
    What was really quite amazing was to finally discover and experience using the breath from the lower abdomen and finding that there was lots of breath there. Astounding.

    Thank you 🙂

    Reply

  3. Hi Paul,

    Yes maybe a few coaching sessions is what I need to start me off. Don’t get me wrong I have no great desire to sing solo although I do enjoy singing in all its forms. It is more that even within the group I am having problems hitting the notes and feel I am straining things trying. I guess for whatever reason the higher register and by that I mean anything above middle C , just does not come easily to me. All down to technique I guess.

    Thanks for the advice perhaps you could email me with a suggested coaching session
    time.

    atb

    Richard

    Reply

  4. Hi Paul/Carol

    After struggling with the higher notes on the moon river piece again I thought I would do a bit of research on the whole getting higher notes thing which has become a real frustration for me and came across some articles referring learning to adduct the vocal cords. This article http://www.scribd.com/doc/34986687/Vocal-Lessons suggested these excercises and seemed to make sense. I would value your view on them if you have a chance to look at them sometime.

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi Richard,

      I’ve read through the adducting technique outlined here and, while I’m not opposed to trying different techniques to find a way forward (on the contrary, it’s the basis for good teaching), without someone coaching you on something like this it is very possible to get it wrong––I mean, misunderstand what’s being said, as it isn’t always clear or straightforward––and run off blithely down the wrong road. I do understand your frustration and desire to find that elusive upper range but these things are still best done with a good pair of ears nearby to guide you along. All singers have their coaches, me included.

      If you’re really keen, consider setting up a coaching time with me and/or Carol here at the house. We can discuss the adducting technique if you want and other possible approaches. LVW is more structured toward group rather than solo singing but a basic understanding of solo singing can also greatly improve your group experience.

      All best,
      Paul

      Reply

  5. Sheila, I’m so pleased that James has decided to stay with it! I’m glad Sunday was enjoyed. I enjoyed his turn behind the podium afterwards, as well. 🙂
    Many thanks and much love,
    Paul

    Reply

  6. THANK YOU FOR THAT, JAMES HAS DECIDED TO GIVE THE SESSIONS SOME MORE GOES, HE REALLY ENJOYED SUNDAY AND WAS QUITE ENTHUSIASTIC, SO YOU DID WE;;!!! love SHEILA THANK YOU

    Reply

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