COURSE DESCRIPTION

Introduces the many aspects of singing  from the physical act through the aesthetic experience. The course is designed for the average singer who desires vocal improvement, and for the voice major as an addition to and extension of skills and knowledge necessary for artistic development. Introduces appropriate repertoire. Lecture 1 hour. Laboratory 2 hours. Total 3 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

The course provides the student with a rounded knowledge of singing from the elements of good, basic sound production to problems that arise in various periods of vocal literature. The student will also learn to perform as a soloist or as a group performer.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

Any student, regardless of musical background or lack thereof, may enroll in this course.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the course, the student will have learned basic techniques, diction, and vocal repertoire. These will be presented in a practical manner and will help the student in singing as soloist or as a group performer.

MAJOR TOPICS TO BE INCLUDED

1. Elements of proper breathing
2. Elements of sound production
3. Elements of voice placement
4. Elements of good diction (English, French, German, Italian)
5. Elements of phrasing and melody shape
6. Elements of effective presentation

1. Problems in teaching the novice singer
2. Discussion of recitals and application to class problems
3. Presentation of material to the novice singer