Introduction to Vocals

What is the course about?

Come and join this singing course taught by Sally Alexander. Sally has twenty years’ experience as a professional entertainer of stage and workshop leader.

From the very basics of healthy singing, including posture, breathing and muscle tension release, to musical techniques such as timing, phrasing, pitching, tuning and tone, Sally will guide you with the essentials of vocal performance in just 8 weeks.

Is a pre-enrolment interview or assessment required for this course?

No pre-enrolment interview or assessment needed for this course

What level is the course and do I require particular skills, experience or prior qualifications?

This is a complete beginners course but also suitable for near-beginners who wish to cover basic aspects of singing.

It’s helpful if you can already hear notes from a piano/voice and sing them back at the correct pitch.
You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.

What will I cover on the course?

• The relationship between your body and your voice.
• A vocal warm up to help you get the most out of your voice.
• Breathing exercises to help you sing and sort out nerves!
• Songs from multiple genres such as classical, folk, pop and musical theatre.
• Group singing and singing as an ensemble.
• Harmonising with the tutor may be introduced in some songs.

How will I be taught and assessed? Will there be any work outside the class?

Sessions begin with a range of vocal warm ups, followed by song work as a group singing along with the tutor and working towards trying things in smaller groups, pairs and individually.

You are encouraged to practise daily and your tutor will suggest helpful things you can do between sessions to build on what you have learnt in class.

Are there any other costs or equipment I need to get?

It’s useful to have a notebook, pen/pencil and a folder for keeping music/notes organised

What will I achieve?

By the end of the course you should be able to:

• Feel confident singing in with others and individually, with and without support from accompaniment.
• Show an understanding of how the voice works at a rudimentary level.
• Demonstrate improved rhythmic awareness.
• Use good posture for singing.
• Display a basic understanding of efficient and effective breathing.
• Sing songs and rounds accurately in a group.
• Show some familiarity with music notation.

When I finish, what should I be able to do next?

By the end of the eight weeks, you’ll have developed an impressive foundational knowledge of singing and will be ready to perform with confidence. Your tutor will guide through the next steps