Working with the four tutors in a ‘masterclass’ situation, participants will work on their chosen songs whilst supporting others in the group to gain new insights into aspects of technique and performance that arise.
STANDARD: IMPROVER, CONFIDENT, SKILFUL
Resident: £572 Non-Resident: £435 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 25/318
Booking for Members opens at 9am on Thursday 12th September 2024
Booking for Non-Members opens at 9am on Thursday 3rd October 2024
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
What is the course about?
Benslow Music’s popular solo singing tutors, soprano Sarah Leonard and tenor Brian Parsons, together with our two pianists, Gavin Roberts and Stephen Gutman, who are also expert coaches, offer participants the benefits of their extensive knowledge. There will be technical, interpretative and presentational work, offering students a chance to hone their skills in a friendly and mutually supportive atmosphere. Please prepare four songs (more if you wish) of your own choice as fully as possible and also be prepared for fresh challenges.
Tutor websites: www.sarahleonard.me
What will we cover?
Warm-ups, technique, style, period, ornamentation, interpretation, diction, languages, characterisation, the intentions of the composer, repertoire and the importance of the communication of the poetry and music facially and vocally to create a complete performance.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
Perform your own pieces with more confidence in a concert on the final afternoon, having worked on any technical problems and interpretational ideas that come to light. Understand more about the voice and support system to enable you to address any difficulties that arise with future choices of repertoire.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Standard: Improver, Confident, Skilful
There is no specific level for this course, however we ask that participants are able to perform their songs accurately with or without the music. We encourage a non-competitive environment, a supportive and happy group where we all share a love of song and singing.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
Participants will be split into small groups in order for them to sing to and listen to all the others on the course. They will work with one tutor and pianist in each session and then swop around. This will introduce them to new repertoire of various styles and also to relate to interpretational and technical points that arise during the sessions. Input from participants is welcome.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
Participants choose their own repertoire of any style and learn in advance of coming on the course. They should bring a copy for themselves and one for the pianist. A third copy would be welcome for the session leader. Titles of chosen material should be given in advance, in time for the pianists to assess the difficulty of the songs being presented.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Comfortable clothing.
What previous participants said about this course…
“The two tutors and two accompanists make a great team – stimulating and very expert.”
“A brilliant and magical experience!”
“Excellent tuition, very supportive.”