It’s been a long time since my last post – life gets busy that way! But something has started recurring in my current teaching/coaching which is my cue to add a new tip! The subject of Brain Before Voice has
Tension vs. Intensity
It’s no surprise that often when we ask for intensity from our singers the result displays a greater degree of tension than when we began. That tension is usually displayed across the shoulders / chest and in the face, especially
The Breath Of Life
When we sing for any audience, breath is life – literally of course, but also the life of the sound depends on HOW we breathe. Leading breath of the song: breathe in the pitch, breathe in the vowel. Take natural,
Showmanship & Choreography
Another in my series for school teachers with barbershop groups, this topic covers some basic fundamentals of the Showmanship category…Choreography Choreo should be relevant, vocally supportive (or at least not detractive) and naturally expressive (not mechanical). Having a visual plan
Growth Mindset
Just read a great article on how different mindsets affect achievement. The Growth Mindset is one where intelligence and ‘talent’ are recognized as requiring a lot of effort and hard work to bring to fruition. A Fixed Mindset believes that
Building Unit Sound
Here’s one way of looking at Unit Sound. Listening Skills provide the foundation to all good ensemble singing. You need good ears to hear and adjust to the others in the group, but you’ll find that as you get better
How Do I Know If I’m Doing It Right?
I get this question a lot. If you have a good vocal teacher, he or she should help you identify the physical feeling associated with the ‘right’ way vs. the ‘wrong’ way. Also, if it feels more relaxed/lifted and ‘easier’
The Secret To Success
What is the secret to success? 1. Decide how you define success, then 2. Be totally committed to CHANGE in order to achieve it, then 3. BE successful, ALL THE TIME. For example, if my friend wants to succeed at