Great Performances: Watch These When You Can
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How Great Thou Art (Duet)
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On My Own (Solo)
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I Dreamed a Dream (Solo)
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Nessun Dorma (Solo)
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PVHS Group Voice Class
Click here to submit a Peer Review
Click here to submit a Journal Entry
Week 6 Review
Mikayla, Joy, Joe, Alesha and Sarah sang at the kite festival on Saturday. Great job! Mrs. Jacox left us this week so we wandered around on our own and tried to figure out what we are doing. We are close to finding out. This week (by today) you should have picked a new piece for the end of the year.
Journal Entry: What are you performing last in your genre of choice? Why did you pick that song? How well do you know it? What do you need to be successful? Also, please write a sentence or two to Mrs. Jacox about what you learned from her and your personal thoughts to her. I will make these into a quote book for her with a couple of photos of the class.
Week 5: Midterm Solos -- No Journal Entries this week.
Week 4 Review
What a fun and busy week it has been! Congratulations to the choir students who made it to state by performing so well at the region festival. Thank you to those who signed up for the Kite Festival. Reminder that if you would like 30 extra points added to your grade, then you can sing at a voice recital on Saturday May 9, 6:30, located just down the street at the Spring Gardens Assisted living Center. You must talk to me about being part of it before hand.
This week we talked about "low breathing" and why it is important. I had you all lay on the floor while we sang the vocal warm ups. You could feel the strength of your stomach lift you off the ground. I promise if you breath low in your abdomen your singing will improve and your nerves will settle. Your muscle memory will take over because of the increase of oxygen to your brain.
We talked about whether or not it's ok to close your eyes when you perform. I sang while demonstrating some examples for you. We had many different opinions and they were all valid!
We did some acting while singing our songs in front of one another. We saw that when Joy added some extreme anger to her song that her voice improved in tonality, diction, and expression. We saw Mikaela demonstrate love and caring in her focus and gestures while she sang. We heard Kasie sing and express "yearning" in the lowest part of her range.
I had you sing in groups and give feedback to one another. I hope that you have gained some new friends in these experiences of intense peer reviews.
JOURNAL ENTRY
1. In your own words...What are 3 reasons that we need to breath low while singing?
Hints: Should my shoulders be moving when I sing? Does breathing sound nice to listen to or kind of distracting? Will my phrasing be lovely if I breath in the middle of a word?
2. How does closing our eyes effect performing in a good or bad way?
3. Tell me about someone(anyone) who inspires you and why they are so great?
4th Quarter Week 3 Summary
Wahoo! Everyone has a song now! What great rehearsals this week on your pieces. It was good to work one-on-one with all of us. Ok. Next, you have this week and next to be ready for midterm performances on April 14 and 16. You will need to sign up for a time on Thursday (or next Tuesday) for your performance slot on the 14th or 16th. Make sure that you have performed for others in class and thet you are filling out peer reviews during class. For your journal this week:
1) Describe what things you specifically need to work on to improve your performance. Do you need conviction? Do you need passion? Do you need to memorize words or a few notes? What can you do to make it so that your performance is "compelling?" Look up the word compelling in the dictionary and copy and paste the definition as it would apply to music and singing.
Watch this performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rmFtJvh1rI Were you inspired? Why or why not?
Watch this performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-VcjEmVQ9U Were you inspired? Why or why not?
4th Quarter Week 2 Summary
You have picked music, you are working on learning it well and moving toward a compelling performance. You should have done and performed a Peer Review this week and completed the journal entry for this and last week. We talked about resonance and singers formant -- projecting, moving air, and opening resonance chambers. You should be working on a healthy, big sound including diction and emotional involvement.
Monday we discussed how we can tame our emotions. Our extreme emotions of fear, sadness, excitement, joy, etc can help us in an effective performance that has an impact on the audience. Wednesday, Friday we talked about resonance and the singers formant. We showed some interesting movies about resonance. Here are the links.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbiQbKQhVrQ
Skip to 4 minutes in: https://youtu.be/Pt4iSI2EGEk?t=247
In Your Journal Entry (week of March 23 to March 27) please address these thoughts and questions.
1. What emotion do you think is the hardest for you to express while singing and how might you overcome that hardship?
2. What can you do to improve your performance of the piece you are working on?
3. Compare the roof of your mouth to someone else that is willing to show you theirs. Tell me whose is taller and whose is shorter. Tell me any observations about your voice and your friends voice that are different when speaking or singing.
4th Quarter Week 1 Summary
-Making this class easy by not procrastinating! You will have from Monday to Saturday every week to submit your journal Entry, so no more excuses.
As for peer reviews, don't be afraid to tell somebody: hey, I want to hear you sing next time, so lets prepare to sing for one another and fulfull our peer review assignments. HINT: You do not have to sing for 6 different people for your peer reviews. You could sing for the same person 6 times and keep each other in check about whether you are getting better or not.
-How can you make this class easier on your life? Spend 15 minutes everyday working on one aspect of your song like notes, memorization, volume, diction, and correct breathing. I promise if you will actually discipline yourself to practice in small time increments you will find success and peace in preparation!
For your journal this week
1. What song have you chosen for this quarter?
2. Listen to these two performers sing the same song and tell me about their abilities as professional performers. Abilities that we all hope to achieve as performers.
Nat king Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaYLWSo4fYM
?What can he do that you would like to be able to do?
Nancy Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBmrDS2Zhaw&t=44
?How is it possible for her to have good resonance with such a small mouth? If you don't know we will talk about this, but take a guess..
END OF 3rd QUARTER
Week 8 Summary
We are 7 days away from final solo's. You should be practicing your pieces at home on a daily basis. We have noticed that some of you are not being as proactive in this solo process as you could be. If you need a recording from Mrs. Beard, Get in line and RECORD IT! If you have questions about homework, Get in line and ASK! We need you to be responsible for taking the initiative and getting all the tools you need to be successful.
In your Journal Entries this week, find out 2 countries your ancestors came from. Find some music from that country and post a link to me.
Hints: On Youtube type in (Your Country) Folk songs Example: Austrian Folk Songs
Hints: On Google type in (Your Country) Composers Example: Austrian Composers
Wikipedia will come up with a list of composers from your country. Pick a composer from the list and type that name into Youtube.
Add the URL links in your journal entries. Add some of your own thoughts on the music/words/tone quality/sounds/instruments/rhythms.
Week 7 Summary
We are two weeks away from the end of the quarter. Can you believe it? Our final quarter solos are not next week, but the week after, Monday and Wednesday. We have three more class periods (and 10 days total) for you to practice, practice, practice! We reviewed Intonation and Tone Quality this week: what they are and how they are similar (related) and different (compare and contrast).
In your journal this week, please watch and comment on the similarities and differences in tone quality between the first two singers (one male and one female) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZnpiM_a4GE
Week 6 Summary
On Monday we finished listening to mid-term solos. Wednesday and Friday you were looking for and picked your second art song. We discussed the difference between Tone Quality and Intonation and reflected on some other adjudication factors from the judging sheet.
In your journal this week, please include the following:
1) What is your NEW art song? Be thinking of what Broadway/Jazz song you would like to do because the time is coming FAST!
2) What did you learn about soloing in your first midterm solo?
3) List 3 things that you might do differently (better?) as you prepare this time.
4) Watch... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nuq8X4mn8P4 skip to 1:30
and evaluate the performance. What do you think about her expression? What did you think about the performance? How does this apply to you? (Trust me!! Every single one of you need to look more pleasant as you sing)
Week 5 Summary
This was our midterm solo week. No journal entry due, but you did complete 3 jury reviews on the midterm solos you completed.
Week 4 Summary
We saw some good performances this week. Shout out to Joy, Joe and Micaela! Did you learn something about performing? We sang together "How Can I Keep From Singing." Midterms are so close! We discussed character development and memorization. We got the handout with practicing tips and you are working on your piece right now -- we also set up the idea of Peer Reviews. You can enter those at any time! You cannot fail this class if you try! We are not judging you on your quality, just your best efforts. Give your best.
In your journal will you please include the following:
1) Are you ready for the midterm performance next week?
2) Are you using your practice time in class wisely? What else do you need during class time to be successful? If you were in charge, what would you do different?
3) Just as Micaela sang to us in a personable way, how are you going to relate to (connect with) the audience? Describe (there are no wrong answers here).
4) Choose a "mundane" activity (an everyday "boring" activity like washing dishes or making your bed) and sing your song while doing it. Tell me about your experience.
Week 3 Summary
Can you believe that it has been three weeks already? We are so excited with your progress. This is so fun! We learned two new songs including Beethoven's "Nature's Adoration" and the "Song of the Volga Boatman." You are working on your solo piece. Most of you have all of the resources that you need to succeed. Have you thought about your second piece this semester? We talked about performance factors and the Solo Adjudication sheet. Again, we are so excited for you!
Here are the questions for your JOURNAL entry for week three. <-- Click to enter your journal.
1. How many days left till you sing for Midterms?
2. How many minutes a day can you commit to practice your solo piece?
3. While singing your song are there any actions or movements you intend to make with your body? If so What are They?
4. Where will you be looking when you sing? What is the reason you chose to look there? (Hint) If your singing to a child you look down to their level, if your singing to the heavens, you look upward to them)
5. The State Performance Rubric lists "Tone Quality" and "Intonation" as important parts of singing. What is the difference between those two?
Week 2 Summary
Thank you for your journal submissions from last week. Many of you did not answer the questions listed on this page. Please answer all the questions thoughtfully. If you have not completed the first journal entry yet, please do, because you get 15 points towards your grade for those journal submissions. Everyday that they are late is -5 points.
This week has hopefully been helping you realize that finding the right music for YOU can be tedious because there is so much music to choose from. (Pep Talk) Don't be afraid to just start learning any music you like and give your own unique style! You want to become a better singer, so do what it takes to prepare music and get up in front of an audience. As you rehearse your art songs, watch yourself in the mirror to see how you look. If you are bored watching yourself, so is the audience. Everyone needs a minus track or accompaniment to practice at home with. Make sure you get this by recording accompaniment with Mrs. Beard ASAP.
Again if you have concerns or questions or need help, Mr. Reimer, Mrs. Jacox, & Mrs. Beard are here to be of assistance to you.
Journal Entry Week 2 (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM)
1. What is the title of your Art Song Choice and who is the composer?
2. What is one strength as a person in which you possess that can help you when performing in front of a crowd?
3. What are two techniques to performing/singing that you are working on right now as you prepare your music to sing in front of the class?
Week 1 Summary
What a great class. We know that it might be a little different from what you were expecting when you came in, but we have already learned so much. We are excited!
What you should have learned...
We COVERED: Places to find music (remember the hand out? Click here if you need it), How to choose a song, tempos, foreign languages. We learned "The Water is Wide" (what a great start!) and we watched the first few minutes of "What Makes a Good Tenor?"
We EXPECT (by the end of the week): You should have a pretty good idea of a song that you would like to use for your first solo. This should be an ART or FOLK song and COULD be in a foreign language or in English (in fact, we have modified the requirement for a foreign language -- you CAN do a FL, but do not HAVE to).
You MUST complete your Week 1 Journal Entry (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM) by Saturday night.
Journal Entry Week 1: This week you should include in your journal thoughts... (Remember that the minimum is 150 words).
1) What are your thoughts about this class? Are you nervous? Excited? Scared? What else?
2) Do you have any concerns that I can address?
3) Name one performer you find interesting and write a minimum of five sentences on your observations of them. Include a link (if you have one).
4) How do you think that this class (solo singing performance) will help you in your future?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-VcjEmVQ9U
4th Quarter Week 2 Summary
You have picked music, you are working on learning it well and moving toward a compelling performance. You should have done and performed a Peer Review this week and completed the journal entry for this and last week. We talked about resonance and singers formant -- projecting, moving air, and opening resonance chambers. You should be working on a healthy, big sound including diction and emotional involvement.
Monday we discussed how we can tame our emotions. Our extreme emotions of fear, sadness, excitement, joy, etc can help us in an effective performance that has an impact on the audience. Wednesday, Friday we talked about resonance and the singers formant. We showed some interesting movies about resonance. Here are the links.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbiQbKQhVrQ
Skip to 4 minutes in: https://youtu.be/Pt4iSI2EGEk?t=247
In Your Journal Entry (week of March 23 to March 27) please address these thoughts and questions.
1. What emotion do you think is the hardest for you to express while singing and how might you overcome that hardship?
2. What can you do to improve your performance of the piece you are working on?
3. Compare the roof of your mouth to someone else that is willing to show you theirs. Tell me whose is taller and whose is shorter. Tell me any observations about your voice and your friends voice that are different when speaking or singing.
4th Quarter Week 1 Summary
-Making this class easy by not procrastinating! You will have from Monday to Saturday every week to submit your journal Entry, so no more excuses.
As for peer reviews, don't be afraid to tell somebody: hey, I want to hear you sing next time, so lets prepare to sing for one another and fulfull our peer review assignments. HINT: You do not have to sing for 6 different people for your peer reviews. You could sing for the same person 6 times and keep each other in check about whether you are getting better or not.
-How can you make this class easier on your life? Spend 15 minutes everyday working on one aspect of your song like notes, memorization, volume, diction, and correct breathing. I promise if you will actually discipline yourself to practice in small time increments you will find success and peace in preparation!
For your journal this week
1. What song have you chosen for this quarter?
2. Listen to these two performers sing the same song and tell me about their abilities as professional performers. Abilities that we all hope to achieve as performers.
Nat king Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaYLWSo4fYM
?What can he do that you would like to be able to do?
Nancy Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBmrDS2Zhaw&t=44
?How is it possible for her to have good resonance with such a small mouth? If you don't know we will talk about this, but take a guess..
END OF 3rd QUARTER
Week 8 Summary
We are 7 days away from final solo's. You should be practicing your pieces at home on a daily basis. We have noticed that some of you are not being as proactive in this solo process as you could be. If you need a recording from Mrs. Beard, Get in line and RECORD IT! If you have questions about homework, Get in line and ASK! We need you to be responsible for taking the initiative and getting all the tools you need to be successful.
In your Journal Entries this week, find out 2 countries your ancestors came from. Find some music from that country and post a link to me.
Hints: On Youtube type in (Your Country) Folk songs Example: Austrian Folk Songs
Hints: On Google type in (Your Country) Composers Example: Austrian Composers
Wikipedia will come up with a list of composers from your country. Pick a composer from the list and type that name into Youtube.
Add the URL links in your journal entries. Add some of your own thoughts on the music/words/tone quality/sounds/instruments/rhythms.
Week 7 Summary
We are two weeks away from the end of the quarter. Can you believe it? Our final quarter solos are not next week, but the week after, Monday and Wednesday. We have three more class periods (and 10 days total) for you to practice, practice, practice! We reviewed Intonation and Tone Quality this week: what they are and how they are similar (related) and different (compare and contrast).
In your journal this week, please watch and comment on the similarities and differences in tone quality between the first two singers (one male and one female) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZnpiM_a4GE
Week 6 Summary
On Monday we finished listening to mid-term solos. Wednesday and Friday you were looking for and picked your second art song. We discussed the difference between Tone Quality and Intonation and reflected on some other adjudication factors from the judging sheet.
In your journal this week, please include the following:
1) What is your NEW art song? Be thinking of what Broadway/Jazz song you would like to do because the time is coming FAST!
2) What did you learn about soloing in your first midterm solo?
3) List 3 things that you might do differently (better?) as you prepare this time.
4) Watch... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nuq8X4mn8P4 skip to 1:30
and evaluate the performance. What do you think about her expression? What did you think about the performance? How does this apply to you? (Trust me!! Every single one of you need to look more pleasant as you sing)
Week 5 Summary
This was our midterm solo week. No journal entry due, but you did complete 3 jury reviews on the midterm solos you completed.
Week 4 Summary
We saw some good performances this week. Shout out to Joy, Joe and Micaela! Did you learn something about performing? We sang together "How Can I Keep From Singing." Midterms are so close! We discussed character development and memorization. We got the handout with practicing tips and you are working on your piece right now -- we also set up the idea of Peer Reviews. You can enter those at any time! You cannot fail this class if you try! We are not judging you on your quality, just your best efforts. Give your best.
In your journal will you please include the following:
1) Are you ready for the midterm performance next week?
2) Are you using your practice time in class wisely? What else do you need during class time to be successful? If you were in charge, what would you do different?
3) Just as Micaela sang to us in a personable way, how are you going to relate to (connect with) the audience? Describe (there are no wrong answers here).
4) Choose a "mundane" activity (an everyday "boring" activity like washing dishes or making your bed) and sing your song while doing it. Tell me about your experience.
Week 3 Summary
Can you believe that it has been three weeks already? We are so excited with your progress. This is so fun! We learned two new songs including Beethoven's "Nature's Adoration" and the "Song of the Volga Boatman." You are working on your solo piece. Most of you have all of the resources that you need to succeed. Have you thought about your second piece this semester? We talked about performance factors and the Solo Adjudication sheet. Again, we are so excited for you!
Here are the questions for your JOURNAL entry for week three. <-- Click to enter your journal.
1. How many days left till you sing for Midterms?
2. How many minutes a day can you commit to practice your solo piece?
3. While singing your song are there any actions or movements you intend to make with your body? If so What are They?
4. Where will you be looking when you sing? What is the reason you chose to look there? (Hint) If your singing to a child you look down to their level, if your singing to the heavens, you look upward to them)
5. The State Performance Rubric lists "Tone Quality" and "Intonation" as important parts of singing. What is the difference between those two?
Week 2 Summary
Thank you for your journal submissions from last week. Many of you did not answer the questions listed on this page. Please answer all the questions thoughtfully. If you have not completed the first journal entry yet, please do, because you get 15 points towards your grade for those journal submissions. Everyday that they are late is -5 points.
This week has hopefully been helping you realize that finding the right music for YOU can be tedious because there is so much music to choose from. (Pep Talk) Don't be afraid to just start learning any music you like and give your own unique style! You want to become a better singer, so do what it takes to prepare music and get up in front of an audience. As you rehearse your art songs, watch yourself in the mirror to see how you look. If you are bored watching yourself, so is the audience. Everyone needs a minus track or accompaniment to practice at home with. Make sure you get this by recording accompaniment with Mrs. Beard ASAP.
Again if you have concerns or questions or need help, Mr. Reimer, Mrs. Jacox, & Mrs. Beard are here to be of assistance to you.
Journal Entry Week 2 (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM)
1. What is the title of your Art Song Choice and who is the composer?
2. What is one strength as a person in which you possess that can help you when performing in front of a crowd?
3. What are two techniques to performing/singing that you are working on right now as you prepare your music to sing in front of the class?
Week 1 Summary
What a great class. We know that it might be a little different from what you were expecting when you came in, but we have already learned so much. We are excited!
What you should have learned...
We COVERED: Places to find music (remember the hand out? Click here if you need it), How to choose a song, tempos, foreign languages. We learned "The Water is Wide" (what a great start!) and we watched the first few minutes of "What Makes a Good Tenor?"
We EXPECT (by the end of the week): You should have a pretty good idea of a song that you would like to use for your first solo. This should be an ART or FOLK song and COULD be in a foreign language or in English (in fact, we have modified the requirement for a foreign language -- you CAN do a FL, but do not HAVE to).
You MUST complete your Week 1 Journal Entry (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM) by Saturday night.
Journal Entry Week 1: This week you should include in your journal thoughts... (Remember that the minimum is 150 words).
1) What are your thoughts about this class? Are you nervous? Excited? Scared? What else?
2) Do you have any concerns that I can address?
3) Name one performer you find interesting and write a minimum of five sentences on your observations of them. Include a link (if you have one).
4) How do you think that this class (solo singing performance) will help you in your future?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rmFtJvh1rI
4th Quarter Week 2 Summary
You have picked music, you are working on learning it well and moving toward a compelling performance. You should have done and performed a Peer Review this week and completed the journal entry for this and last week. We talked about resonance and singers formant -- projecting, moving air, and opening resonance chambers. You should be working on a healthy, big sound including diction and emotional involvement.
Monday we discussed how we can tame our emotions. Our extreme emotions of fear, sadness, excitement, joy, etc can help us in an effective performance that has an impact on the audience. Wednesday, Friday we talked about resonance and the singers formant. We showed some interesting movies about resonance. Here are the links.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbiQbKQhVrQ
Skip to 4 minutes in: https://youtu.be/Pt4iSI2EGEk?t=247
In Your Journal Entry (week of March 23 to March 27) please address these thoughts and questions.
1. What emotion do you think is the hardest for you to express while singing and how might you overcome that hardship?
2. What can you do to improve your performance of the piece you are working on?
3. Compare the roof of your mouth to someone else that is willing to show you theirs. Tell me whose is taller and whose is shorter. Tell me any observations about your voice and your friends voice that are different when speaking or singing.
4th Quarter Week 1 Summary
-Making this class easy by not procrastinating! You will have from Monday to Saturday every week to submit your journal Entry, so no more excuses.
As for peer reviews, don't be afraid to tell somebody: hey, I want to hear you sing next time, so lets prepare to sing for one another and fulfull our peer review assignments. HINT: You do not have to sing for 6 different people for your peer reviews. You could sing for the same person 6 times and keep each other in check about whether you are getting better or not.
-How can you make this class easier on your life? Spend 15 minutes everyday working on one aspect of your song like notes, memorization, volume, diction, and correct breathing. I promise if you will actually discipline yourself to practice in small time increments you will find success and peace in preparation!
For your journal this week
1. What song have you chosen for this quarter?
2. Listen to these two performers sing the same song and tell me about their abilities as professional performers. Abilities that we all hope to achieve as performers.
Nat king Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaYLWSo4fYM
?What can he do that you would like to be able to do?
Nancy Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBmrDS2Zhaw&t=44
?How is it possible for her to have good resonance with such a small mouth? If you don't know we will talk about this, but take a guess..
END OF 3rd QUARTER
Week 8 Summary
We are 7 days away from final solo's. You should be practicing your pieces at home on a daily basis. We have noticed that some of you are not being as proactive in this solo process as you could be. If you need a recording from Mrs. Beard, Get in line and RECORD IT! If you have questions about homework, Get in line and ASK! We need you to be responsible for taking the initiative and getting all the tools you need to be successful.
In your Journal Entries this week, find out 2 countries your ancestors came from. Find some music from that country and post a link to me.
Hints: On Youtube type in (Your Country) Folk songs Example: Austrian Folk Songs
Hints: On Google type in (Your Country) Composers Example: Austrian Composers
Wikipedia will come up with a list of composers from your country. Pick a composer from the list and type that name into Youtube.
Add the URL links in your journal entries. Add some of your own thoughts on the music/words/tone quality/sounds/instruments/rhythms.
Week 7 Summary
We are two weeks away from the end of the quarter. Can you believe it? Our final quarter solos are not next week, but the week after, Monday and Wednesday. We have three more class periods (and 10 days total) for you to practice, practice, practice! We reviewed Intonation and Tone Quality this week: what they are and how they are similar (related) and different (compare and contrast).
In your journal this week, please watch and comment on the similarities and differences in tone quality between the first two singers (one male and one female) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZnpiM_a4GE
Week 6 Summary
On Monday we finished listening to mid-term solos. Wednesday and Friday you were looking for and picked your second art song. We discussed the difference between Tone Quality and Intonation and reflected on some other adjudication factors from the judging sheet.
In your journal this week, please include the following:
1) What is your NEW art song? Be thinking of what Broadway/Jazz song you would like to do because the time is coming FAST!
2) What did you learn about soloing in your first midterm solo?
3) List 3 things that you might do differently (better?) as you prepare this time.
4) Watch... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nuq8X4mn8P4 skip to 1:30
and evaluate the performance. What do you think about her expression? What did you think about the performance? How does this apply to you? (Trust me!! Every single one of you need to look more pleasant as you sing)
Week 5 Summary
This was our midterm solo week. No journal entry due, but you did complete 3 jury reviews on the midterm solos you completed.
Week 4 Summary
We saw some good performances this week. Shout out to Joy, Joe and Micaela! Did you learn something about performing? We sang together "How Can I Keep From Singing." Midterms are so close! We discussed character development and memorization. We got the handout with practicing tips and you are working on your piece right now -- we also set up the idea of Peer Reviews. You can enter those at any time! You cannot fail this class if you try! We are not judging you on your quality, just your best efforts. Give your best.
In your journal will you please include the following:
1) Are you ready for the midterm performance next week?
2) Are you using your practice time in class wisely? What else do you need during class time to be successful? If you were in charge, what would you do different?
3) Just as Micaela sang to us in a personable way, how are you going to relate to (connect with) the audience? Describe (there are no wrong answers here).
4) Choose a "mundane" activity (an everyday "boring" activity like washing dishes or making your bed) and sing your song while doing it. Tell me about your experience.
Week 3 Summary
Can you believe that it has been three weeks already? We are so excited with your progress. This is so fun! We learned two new songs including Beethoven's "Nature's Adoration" and the "Song of the Volga Boatman." You are working on your solo piece. Most of you have all of the resources that you need to succeed. Have you thought about your second piece this semester? We talked about performance factors and the Solo Adjudication sheet. Again, we are so excited for you!
Here are the questions for your JOURNAL entry for week three. <-- Click to enter your journal.
1. How many days left till you sing for Midterms?
2. How many minutes a day can you commit to practice your solo piece?
3. While singing your song are there any actions or movements you intend to make with your body? If so What are They?
4. Where will you be looking when you sing? What is the reason you chose to look there? (Hint) If your singing to a child you look down to their level, if your singing to the heavens, you look upward to them)
5. The State Performance Rubric lists "Tone Quality" and "Intonation" as important parts of singing. What is the difference between those two?
Week 2 Summary
Thank you for your journal submissions from last week. Many of you did not answer the questions listed on this page. Please answer all the questions thoughtfully. If you have not completed the first journal entry yet, please do, because you get 15 points towards your grade for those journal submissions. Everyday that they are late is -5 points.
This week has hopefully been helping you realize that finding the right music for YOU can be tedious because there is so much music to choose from. (Pep Talk) Don't be afraid to just start learning any music you like and give your own unique style! You want to become a better singer, so do what it takes to prepare music and get up in front of an audience. As you rehearse your art songs, watch yourself in the mirror to see how you look. If you are bored watching yourself, so is the audience. Everyone needs a minus track or accompaniment to practice at home with. Make sure you get this by recording accompaniment with Mrs. Beard ASAP.
Again if you have concerns or questions or need help, Mr. Reimer, Mrs. Jacox, & Mrs. Beard are here to be of assistance to you.
Journal Entry Week 2 (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM)
1. What is the title of your Art Song Choice and who is the composer?
2. What is one strength as a person in which you possess that can help you when performing in front of a crowd?
3. What are two techniques to performing/singing that you are working on right now as you prepare your music to sing in front of the class?
Week 1 Summary
What a great class. We know that it might be a little different from what you were expecting when you came in, but we have already learned so much. We are excited!
What you should have learned...
We COVERED: Places to find music (remember the hand out? Click here if you need it), How to choose a song, tempos, foreign languages. We learned "The Water is Wide" (what a great start!) and we watched the first few minutes of "What Makes a Good Tenor?"
We EXPECT (by the end of the week): You should have a pretty good idea of a song that you would like to use for your first solo. This should be an ART or FOLK song and COULD be in a foreign language or in English (in fact, we have modified the requirement for a foreign language -- you CAN do a FL, but do not HAVE to).
You MUST complete your Week 1 Journal Entry (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM) by Saturday night.
Journal Entry Week 1: This week you should include in your journal thoughts... (Remember that the minimum is 150 words).
1) What are your thoughts about this class? Are you nervous? Excited? Scared? What else?
2) Do you have any concerns that I can address?
3) Name one performer you find interesting and write a minimum of five sentences on your observations of them. Include a link (if you have one).
4) How do you think that this class (solo singing performance) will help you in your future?
Mikayla, Joy, Joe, Alesha and Sarah sang at the kite festival on Saturday. Great job! Mrs. Jacox left us this week so we wandered around on our own and tried to figure out what we are doing. We are close to finding out. This week (by today) you should have picked a new piece for the end of the year.
Journal Entry: What are you performing last in your genre of choice? Why did you pick that song? How well do you know it? What do you need to be successful? Also, please write a sentence or two to Mrs. Jacox about what you learned from her and your personal thoughts to her. I will make these into a quote book for her with a couple of photos of the class.
Week 5: Midterm Solos -- No Journal Entries this week.
Week 4 Review
What a fun and busy week it has been! Congratulations to the choir students who made it to state by performing so well at the region festival. Thank you to those who signed up for the Kite Festival. Reminder that if you would like 30 extra points added to your grade, then you can sing at a voice recital on Saturday May 9, 6:30, located just down the street at the Spring Gardens Assisted living Center. You must talk to me about being part of it before hand.
This week we talked about "low breathing" and why it is important. I had you all lay on the floor while we sang the vocal warm ups. You could feel the strength of your stomach lift you off the ground. I promise if you breath low in your abdomen your singing will improve and your nerves will settle. Your muscle memory will take over because of the increase of oxygen to your brain.
We talked about whether or not it's ok to close your eyes when you perform. I sang while demonstrating some examples for you. We had many different opinions and they were all valid!
We did some acting while singing our songs in front of one another. We saw that when Joy added some extreme anger to her song that her voice improved in tonality, diction, and expression. We saw Mikaela demonstrate love and caring in her focus and gestures while she sang. We heard Kasie sing and express "yearning" in the lowest part of her range.
I had you sing in groups and give feedback to one another. I hope that you have gained some new friends in these experiences of intense peer reviews.
JOURNAL ENTRY
1. In your own words...What are 3 reasons that we need to breath low while singing?
Hints: Should my shoulders be moving when I sing? Does breathing sound nice to listen to or kind of distracting? Will my phrasing be lovely if I breath in the middle of a word?
2. How does closing our eyes effect performing in a good or bad way?
3. Tell me about someone(anyone) who inspires you and why they are so great?
4th Quarter Week 3 Summary
Wahoo! Everyone has a song now! What great rehearsals this week on your pieces. It was good to work one-on-one with all of us. Ok. Next, you have this week and next to be ready for midterm performances on April 14 and 16. You will need to sign up for a time on Thursday (or next Tuesday) for your performance slot on the 14th or 16th. Make sure that you have performed for others in class and thet you are filling out peer reviews during class. For your journal this week:
1) Describe what things you specifically need to work on to improve your performance. Do you need conviction? Do you need passion? Do you need to memorize words or a few notes? What can you do to make it so that your performance is "compelling?" Look up the word compelling in the dictionary and copy and paste the definition as it would apply to music and singing.
Watch this performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rmFtJvh1rI Were you inspired? Why or why not?
Watch this performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-VcjEmVQ9U Were you inspired? Why or why not?
4th Quarter Week 2 Summary
You have picked music, you are working on learning it well and moving toward a compelling performance. You should have done and performed a Peer Review this week and completed the journal entry for this and last week. We talked about resonance and singers formant -- projecting, moving air, and opening resonance chambers. You should be working on a healthy, big sound including diction and emotional involvement.
Monday we discussed how we can tame our emotions. Our extreme emotions of fear, sadness, excitement, joy, etc can help us in an effective performance that has an impact on the audience. Wednesday, Friday we talked about resonance and the singers formant. We showed some interesting movies about resonance. Here are the links.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbiQbKQhVrQ
Skip to 4 minutes in: https://youtu.be/Pt4iSI2EGEk?t=247
In Your Journal Entry (week of March 23 to March 27) please address these thoughts and questions.
1. What emotion do you think is the hardest for you to express while singing and how might you overcome that hardship?
2. What can you do to improve your performance of the piece you are working on?
3. Compare the roof of your mouth to someone else that is willing to show you theirs. Tell me whose is taller and whose is shorter. Tell me any observations about your voice and your friends voice that are different when speaking or singing.
4th Quarter Week 1 Summary
-Making this class easy by not procrastinating! You will have from Monday to Saturday every week to submit your journal Entry, so no more excuses.
As for peer reviews, don't be afraid to tell somebody: hey, I want to hear you sing next time, so lets prepare to sing for one another and fulfull our peer review assignments. HINT: You do not have to sing for 6 different people for your peer reviews. You could sing for the same person 6 times and keep each other in check about whether you are getting better or not.
-How can you make this class easier on your life? Spend 15 minutes everyday working on one aspect of your song like notes, memorization, volume, diction, and correct breathing. I promise if you will actually discipline yourself to practice in small time increments you will find success and peace in preparation!
For your journal this week
1. What song have you chosen for this quarter?
2. Listen to these two performers sing the same song and tell me about their abilities as professional performers. Abilities that we all hope to achieve as performers.
Nat king Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaYLWSo4fYM
?What can he do that you would like to be able to do?
Nancy Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBmrDS2Zhaw&t=44
?How is it possible for her to have good resonance with such a small mouth? If you don't know we will talk about this, but take a guess..
END OF 3rd QUARTER
Week 8 Summary
We are 7 days away from final solo's. You should be practicing your pieces at home on a daily basis. We have noticed that some of you are not being as proactive in this solo process as you could be. If you need a recording from Mrs. Beard, Get in line and RECORD IT! If you have questions about homework, Get in line and ASK! We need you to be responsible for taking the initiative and getting all the tools you need to be successful.
In your Journal Entries this week, find out 2 countries your ancestors came from. Find some music from that country and post a link to me.
Hints: On Youtube type in (Your Country) Folk songs Example: Austrian Folk Songs
Hints: On Google type in (Your Country) Composers Example: Austrian Composers
Wikipedia will come up with a list of composers from your country. Pick a composer from the list and type that name into Youtube.
Add the URL links in your journal entries. Add some of your own thoughts on the music/words/tone quality/sounds/instruments/rhythms.
Week 7 Summary
We are two weeks away from the end of the quarter. Can you believe it? Our final quarter solos are not next week, but the week after, Monday and Wednesday. We have three more class periods (and 10 days total) for you to practice, practice, practice! We reviewed Intonation and Tone Quality this week: what they are and how they are similar (related) and different (compare and contrast).
In your journal this week, please watch and comment on the similarities and differences in tone quality between the first two singers (one male and one female) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZnpiM_a4GE
Week 6 Summary
On Monday we finished listening to mid-term solos. Wednesday and Friday you were looking for and picked your second art song. We discussed the difference between Tone Quality and Intonation and reflected on some other adjudication factors from the judging sheet.
In your journal this week, please include the following:
1) What is your NEW art song? Be thinking of what Broadway/Jazz song you would like to do because the time is coming FAST!
2) What did you learn about soloing in your first midterm solo?
3) List 3 things that you might do differently (better?) as you prepare this time.
4) Watch... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nuq8X4mn8P4 skip to 1:30
and evaluate the performance. What do you think about her expression? What did you think about the performance? How does this apply to you? (Trust me!! Every single one of you need to look more pleasant as you sing)
Week 5 Summary
This was our midterm solo week. No journal entry due, but you did complete 3 jury reviews on the midterm solos you completed.
Week 4 Summary
We saw some good performances this week. Shout out to Joy, Joe and Micaela! Did you learn something about performing? We sang together "How Can I Keep From Singing." Midterms are so close! We discussed character development and memorization. We got the handout with practicing tips and you are working on your piece right now -- we also set up the idea of Peer Reviews. You can enter those at any time! You cannot fail this class if you try! We are not judging you on your quality, just your best efforts. Give your best.
In your journal will you please include the following:
1) Are you ready for the midterm performance next week?
2) Are you using your practice time in class wisely? What else do you need during class time to be successful? If you were in charge, what would you do different?
3) Just as Micaela sang to us in a personable way, how are you going to relate to (connect with) the audience? Describe (there are no wrong answers here).
4) Choose a "mundane" activity (an everyday "boring" activity like washing dishes or making your bed) and sing your song while doing it. Tell me about your experience.
Week 3 Summary
Can you believe that it has been three weeks already? We are so excited with your progress. This is so fun! We learned two new songs including Beethoven's "Nature's Adoration" and the "Song of the Volga Boatman." You are working on your solo piece. Most of you have all of the resources that you need to succeed. Have you thought about your second piece this semester? We talked about performance factors and the Solo Adjudication sheet. Again, we are so excited for you!
Here are the questions for your JOURNAL entry for week three. <-- Click to enter your journal.
1. How many days left till you sing for Midterms?
2. How many minutes a day can you commit to practice your solo piece?
3. While singing your song are there any actions or movements you intend to make with your body? If so What are They?
4. Where will you be looking when you sing? What is the reason you chose to look there? (Hint) If your singing to a child you look down to their level, if your singing to the heavens, you look upward to them)
5. The State Performance Rubric lists "Tone Quality" and "Intonation" as important parts of singing. What is the difference between those two?
Week 2 Summary
Thank you for your journal submissions from last week. Many of you did not answer the questions listed on this page. Please answer all the questions thoughtfully. If you have not completed the first journal entry yet, please do, because you get 15 points towards your grade for those journal submissions. Everyday that they are late is -5 points.
This week has hopefully been helping you realize that finding the right music for YOU can be tedious because there is so much music to choose from. (Pep Talk) Don't be afraid to just start learning any music you like and give your own unique style! You want to become a better singer, so do what it takes to prepare music and get up in front of an audience. As you rehearse your art songs, watch yourself in the mirror to see how you look. If you are bored watching yourself, so is the audience. Everyone needs a minus track or accompaniment to practice at home with. Make sure you get this by recording accompaniment with Mrs. Beard ASAP.
Again if you have concerns or questions or need help, Mr. Reimer, Mrs. Jacox, & Mrs. Beard are here to be of assistance to you.
Journal Entry Week 2 (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM)
1. What is the title of your Art Song Choice and who is the composer?
2. What is one strength as a person in which you possess that can help you when performing in front of a crowd?
3. What are two techniques to performing/singing that you are working on right now as you prepare your music to sing in front of the class?
Week 1 Summary
What a great class. We know that it might be a little different from what you were expecting when you came in, but we have already learned so much. We are excited!
What you should have learned...
We COVERED: Places to find music (remember the hand out? Click here if you need it), How to choose a song, tempos, foreign languages. We learned "The Water is Wide" (what a great start!) and we watched the first few minutes of "What Makes a Good Tenor?"
We EXPECT (by the end of the week): You should have a pretty good idea of a song that you would like to use for your first solo. This should be an ART or FOLK song and COULD be in a foreign language or in English (in fact, we have modified the requirement for a foreign language -- you CAN do a FL, but do not HAVE to).
You MUST complete your Week 1 Journal Entry (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM) by Saturday night.
Journal Entry Week 1: This week you should include in your journal thoughts... (Remember that the minimum is 150 words).
1) What are your thoughts about this class? Are you nervous? Excited? Scared? What else?
2) Do you have any concerns that I can address?
3) Name one performer you find interesting and write a minimum of five sentences on your observations of them. Include a link (if you have one).
4) How do you think that this class (solo singing performance) will help you in your future?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-VcjEmVQ9U
4th Quarter Week 2 Summary
You have picked music, you are working on learning it well and moving toward a compelling performance. You should have done and performed a Peer Review this week and completed the journal entry for this and last week. We talked about resonance and singers formant -- projecting, moving air, and opening resonance chambers. You should be working on a healthy, big sound including diction and emotional involvement.
Monday we discussed how we can tame our emotions. Our extreme emotions of fear, sadness, excitement, joy, etc can help us in an effective performance that has an impact on the audience. Wednesday, Friday we talked about resonance and the singers formant. We showed some interesting movies about resonance. Here are the links.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbiQbKQhVrQ
Skip to 4 minutes in: https://youtu.be/Pt4iSI2EGEk?t=247
In Your Journal Entry (week of March 23 to March 27) please address these thoughts and questions.
1. What emotion do you think is the hardest for you to express while singing and how might you overcome that hardship?
2. What can you do to improve your performance of the piece you are working on?
3. Compare the roof of your mouth to someone else that is willing to show you theirs. Tell me whose is taller and whose is shorter. Tell me any observations about your voice and your friends voice that are different when speaking or singing.
4th Quarter Week 1 Summary
-Making this class easy by not procrastinating! You will have from Monday to Saturday every week to submit your journal Entry, so no more excuses.
As for peer reviews, don't be afraid to tell somebody: hey, I want to hear you sing next time, so lets prepare to sing for one another and fulfull our peer review assignments. HINT: You do not have to sing for 6 different people for your peer reviews. You could sing for the same person 6 times and keep each other in check about whether you are getting better or not.
-How can you make this class easier on your life? Spend 15 minutes everyday working on one aspect of your song like notes, memorization, volume, diction, and correct breathing. I promise if you will actually discipline yourself to practice in small time increments you will find success and peace in preparation!
For your journal this week
1. What song have you chosen for this quarter?
2. Listen to these two performers sing the same song and tell me about their abilities as professional performers. Abilities that we all hope to achieve as performers.
Nat king Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaYLWSo4fYM
?What can he do that you would like to be able to do?
Nancy Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBmrDS2Zhaw&t=44
?How is it possible for her to have good resonance with such a small mouth? If you don't know we will talk about this, but take a guess..
END OF 3rd QUARTER
Week 8 Summary
We are 7 days away from final solo's. You should be practicing your pieces at home on a daily basis. We have noticed that some of you are not being as proactive in this solo process as you could be. If you need a recording from Mrs. Beard, Get in line and RECORD IT! If you have questions about homework, Get in line and ASK! We need you to be responsible for taking the initiative and getting all the tools you need to be successful.
In your Journal Entries this week, find out 2 countries your ancestors came from. Find some music from that country and post a link to me.
Hints: On Youtube type in (Your Country) Folk songs Example: Austrian Folk Songs
Hints: On Google type in (Your Country) Composers Example: Austrian Composers
Wikipedia will come up with a list of composers from your country. Pick a composer from the list and type that name into Youtube.
Add the URL links in your journal entries. Add some of your own thoughts on the music/words/tone quality/sounds/instruments/rhythms.
Week 7 Summary
We are two weeks away from the end of the quarter. Can you believe it? Our final quarter solos are not next week, but the week after, Monday and Wednesday. We have three more class periods (and 10 days total) for you to practice, practice, practice! We reviewed Intonation and Tone Quality this week: what they are and how they are similar (related) and different (compare and contrast).
In your journal this week, please watch and comment on the similarities and differences in tone quality between the first two singers (one male and one female) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZnpiM_a4GE
Week 6 Summary
On Monday we finished listening to mid-term solos. Wednesday and Friday you were looking for and picked your second art song. We discussed the difference between Tone Quality and Intonation and reflected on some other adjudication factors from the judging sheet.
In your journal this week, please include the following:
1) What is your NEW art song? Be thinking of what Broadway/Jazz song you would like to do because the time is coming FAST!
2) What did you learn about soloing in your first midterm solo?
3) List 3 things that you might do differently (better?) as you prepare this time.
4) Watch... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nuq8X4mn8P4 skip to 1:30
and evaluate the performance. What do you think about her expression? What did you think about the performance? How does this apply to you? (Trust me!! Every single one of you need to look more pleasant as you sing)
Week 5 Summary
This was our midterm solo week. No journal entry due, but you did complete 3 jury reviews on the midterm solos you completed.
Week 4 Summary
We saw some good performances this week. Shout out to Joy, Joe and Micaela! Did you learn something about performing? We sang together "How Can I Keep From Singing." Midterms are so close! We discussed character development and memorization. We got the handout with practicing tips and you are working on your piece right now -- we also set up the idea of Peer Reviews. You can enter those at any time! You cannot fail this class if you try! We are not judging you on your quality, just your best efforts. Give your best.
In your journal will you please include the following:
1) Are you ready for the midterm performance next week?
2) Are you using your practice time in class wisely? What else do you need during class time to be successful? If you were in charge, what would you do different?
3) Just as Micaela sang to us in a personable way, how are you going to relate to (connect with) the audience? Describe (there are no wrong answers here).
4) Choose a "mundane" activity (an everyday "boring" activity like washing dishes or making your bed) and sing your song while doing it. Tell me about your experience.
Week 3 Summary
Can you believe that it has been three weeks already? We are so excited with your progress. This is so fun! We learned two new songs including Beethoven's "Nature's Adoration" and the "Song of the Volga Boatman." You are working on your solo piece. Most of you have all of the resources that you need to succeed. Have you thought about your second piece this semester? We talked about performance factors and the Solo Adjudication sheet. Again, we are so excited for you!
Here are the questions for your JOURNAL entry for week three. <-- Click to enter your journal.
1. How many days left till you sing for Midterms?
2. How many minutes a day can you commit to practice your solo piece?
3. While singing your song are there any actions or movements you intend to make with your body? If so What are They?
4. Where will you be looking when you sing? What is the reason you chose to look there? (Hint) If your singing to a child you look down to their level, if your singing to the heavens, you look upward to them)
5. The State Performance Rubric lists "Tone Quality" and "Intonation" as important parts of singing. What is the difference between those two?
Week 2 Summary
Thank you for your journal submissions from last week. Many of you did not answer the questions listed on this page. Please answer all the questions thoughtfully. If you have not completed the first journal entry yet, please do, because you get 15 points towards your grade for those journal submissions. Everyday that they are late is -5 points.
This week has hopefully been helping you realize that finding the right music for YOU can be tedious because there is so much music to choose from. (Pep Talk) Don't be afraid to just start learning any music you like and give your own unique style! You want to become a better singer, so do what it takes to prepare music and get up in front of an audience. As you rehearse your art songs, watch yourself in the mirror to see how you look. If you are bored watching yourself, so is the audience. Everyone needs a minus track or accompaniment to practice at home with. Make sure you get this by recording accompaniment with Mrs. Beard ASAP.
Again if you have concerns or questions or need help, Mr. Reimer, Mrs. Jacox, & Mrs. Beard are here to be of assistance to you.
Journal Entry Week 2 (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM)
1. What is the title of your Art Song Choice and who is the composer?
2. What is one strength as a person in which you possess that can help you when performing in front of a crowd?
3. What are two techniques to performing/singing that you are working on right now as you prepare your music to sing in front of the class?
Week 1 Summary
What a great class. We know that it might be a little different from what you were expecting when you came in, but we have already learned so much. We are excited!
What you should have learned...
We COVERED: Places to find music (remember the hand out? Click here if you need it), How to choose a song, tempos, foreign languages. We learned "The Water is Wide" (what a great start!) and we watched the first few minutes of "What Makes a Good Tenor?"
We EXPECT (by the end of the week): You should have a pretty good idea of a song that you would like to use for your first solo. This should be an ART or FOLK song and COULD be in a foreign language or in English (in fact, we have modified the requirement for a foreign language -- you CAN do a FL, but do not HAVE to).
You MUST complete your Week 1 Journal Entry (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM) by Saturday night.
Journal Entry Week 1: This week you should include in your journal thoughts... (Remember that the minimum is 150 words).
1) What are your thoughts about this class? Are you nervous? Excited? Scared? What else?
2) Do you have any concerns that I can address?
3) Name one performer you find interesting and write a minimum of five sentences on your observations of them. Include a link (if you have one).
4) How do you think that this class (solo singing performance) will help you in your future?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rmFtJvh1rI
4th Quarter Week 2 Summary
You have picked music, you are working on learning it well and moving toward a compelling performance. You should have done and performed a Peer Review this week and completed the journal entry for this and last week. We talked about resonance and singers formant -- projecting, moving air, and opening resonance chambers. You should be working on a healthy, big sound including diction and emotional involvement.
Monday we discussed how we can tame our emotions. Our extreme emotions of fear, sadness, excitement, joy, etc can help us in an effective performance that has an impact on the audience. Wednesday, Friday we talked about resonance and the singers formant. We showed some interesting movies about resonance. Here are the links.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbiQbKQhVrQ
Skip to 4 minutes in: https://youtu.be/Pt4iSI2EGEk?t=247
In Your Journal Entry (week of March 23 to March 27) please address these thoughts and questions.
1. What emotion do you think is the hardest for you to express while singing and how might you overcome that hardship?
2. What can you do to improve your performance of the piece you are working on?
3. Compare the roof of your mouth to someone else that is willing to show you theirs. Tell me whose is taller and whose is shorter. Tell me any observations about your voice and your friends voice that are different when speaking or singing.
4th Quarter Week 1 Summary
-Making this class easy by not procrastinating! You will have from Monday to Saturday every week to submit your journal Entry, so no more excuses.
As for peer reviews, don't be afraid to tell somebody: hey, I want to hear you sing next time, so lets prepare to sing for one another and fulfull our peer review assignments. HINT: You do not have to sing for 6 different people for your peer reviews. You could sing for the same person 6 times and keep each other in check about whether you are getting better or not.
-How can you make this class easier on your life? Spend 15 minutes everyday working on one aspect of your song like notes, memorization, volume, diction, and correct breathing. I promise if you will actually discipline yourself to practice in small time increments you will find success and peace in preparation!
For your journal this week
1. What song have you chosen for this quarter?
2. Listen to these two performers sing the same song and tell me about their abilities as professional performers. Abilities that we all hope to achieve as performers.
Nat king Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaYLWSo4fYM
?What can he do that you would like to be able to do?
Nancy Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBmrDS2Zhaw&t=44
?How is it possible for her to have good resonance with such a small mouth? If you don't know we will talk about this, but take a guess..
END OF 3rd QUARTER
Week 8 Summary
We are 7 days away from final solo's. You should be practicing your pieces at home on a daily basis. We have noticed that some of you are not being as proactive in this solo process as you could be. If you need a recording from Mrs. Beard, Get in line and RECORD IT! If you have questions about homework, Get in line and ASK! We need you to be responsible for taking the initiative and getting all the tools you need to be successful.
In your Journal Entries this week, find out 2 countries your ancestors came from. Find some music from that country and post a link to me.
Hints: On Youtube type in (Your Country) Folk songs Example: Austrian Folk Songs
Hints: On Google type in (Your Country) Composers Example: Austrian Composers
Wikipedia will come up with a list of composers from your country. Pick a composer from the list and type that name into Youtube.
Add the URL links in your journal entries. Add some of your own thoughts on the music/words/tone quality/sounds/instruments/rhythms.
Week 7 Summary
We are two weeks away from the end of the quarter. Can you believe it? Our final quarter solos are not next week, but the week after, Monday and Wednesday. We have three more class periods (and 10 days total) for you to practice, practice, practice! We reviewed Intonation and Tone Quality this week: what they are and how they are similar (related) and different (compare and contrast).
In your journal this week, please watch and comment on the similarities and differences in tone quality between the first two singers (one male and one female) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZnpiM_a4GE
Week 6 Summary
On Monday we finished listening to mid-term solos. Wednesday and Friday you were looking for and picked your second art song. We discussed the difference between Tone Quality and Intonation and reflected on some other adjudication factors from the judging sheet.
In your journal this week, please include the following:
1) What is your NEW art song? Be thinking of what Broadway/Jazz song you would like to do because the time is coming FAST!
2) What did you learn about soloing in your first midterm solo?
3) List 3 things that you might do differently (better?) as you prepare this time.
4) Watch... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nuq8X4mn8P4 skip to 1:30
and evaluate the performance. What do you think about her expression? What did you think about the performance? How does this apply to you? (Trust me!! Every single one of you need to look more pleasant as you sing)
Week 5 Summary
This was our midterm solo week. No journal entry due, but you did complete 3 jury reviews on the midterm solos you completed.
Week 4 Summary
We saw some good performances this week. Shout out to Joy, Joe and Micaela! Did you learn something about performing? We sang together "How Can I Keep From Singing." Midterms are so close! We discussed character development and memorization. We got the handout with practicing tips and you are working on your piece right now -- we also set up the idea of Peer Reviews. You can enter those at any time! You cannot fail this class if you try! We are not judging you on your quality, just your best efforts. Give your best.
In your journal will you please include the following:
1) Are you ready for the midterm performance next week?
2) Are you using your practice time in class wisely? What else do you need during class time to be successful? If you were in charge, what would you do different?
3) Just as Micaela sang to us in a personable way, how are you going to relate to (connect with) the audience? Describe (there are no wrong answers here).
4) Choose a "mundane" activity (an everyday "boring" activity like washing dishes or making your bed) and sing your song while doing it. Tell me about your experience.
Week 3 Summary
Can you believe that it has been three weeks already? We are so excited with your progress. This is so fun! We learned two new songs including Beethoven's "Nature's Adoration" and the "Song of the Volga Boatman." You are working on your solo piece. Most of you have all of the resources that you need to succeed. Have you thought about your second piece this semester? We talked about performance factors and the Solo Adjudication sheet. Again, we are so excited for you!
Here are the questions for your JOURNAL entry for week three. <-- Click to enter your journal.
1. How many days left till you sing for Midterms?
2. How many minutes a day can you commit to practice your solo piece?
3. While singing your song are there any actions or movements you intend to make with your body? If so What are They?
4. Where will you be looking when you sing? What is the reason you chose to look there? (Hint) If your singing to a child you look down to their level, if your singing to the heavens, you look upward to them)
5. The State Performance Rubric lists "Tone Quality" and "Intonation" as important parts of singing. What is the difference between those two?
Week 2 Summary
Thank you for your journal submissions from last week. Many of you did not answer the questions listed on this page. Please answer all the questions thoughtfully. If you have not completed the first journal entry yet, please do, because you get 15 points towards your grade for those journal submissions. Everyday that they are late is -5 points.
This week has hopefully been helping you realize that finding the right music for YOU can be tedious because there is so much music to choose from. (Pep Talk) Don't be afraid to just start learning any music you like and give your own unique style! You want to become a better singer, so do what it takes to prepare music and get up in front of an audience. As you rehearse your art songs, watch yourself in the mirror to see how you look. If you are bored watching yourself, so is the audience. Everyone needs a minus track or accompaniment to practice at home with. Make sure you get this by recording accompaniment with Mrs. Beard ASAP.
Again if you have concerns or questions or need help, Mr. Reimer, Mrs. Jacox, & Mrs. Beard are here to be of assistance to you.
Journal Entry Week 2 (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM)
1. What is the title of your Art Song Choice and who is the composer?
2. What is one strength as a person in which you possess that can help you when performing in front of a crowd?
3. What are two techniques to performing/singing that you are working on right now as you prepare your music to sing in front of the class?
Week 1 Summary
What a great class. We know that it might be a little different from what you were expecting when you came in, but we have already learned so much. We are excited!
What you should have learned...
We COVERED: Places to find music (remember the hand out? Click here if you need it), How to choose a song, tempos, foreign languages. We learned "The Water is Wide" (what a great start!) and we watched the first few minutes of "What Makes a Good Tenor?"
We EXPECT (by the end of the week): You should have a pretty good idea of a song that you would like to use for your first solo. This should be an ART or FOLK song and COULD be in a foreign language or in English (in fact, we have modified the requirement for a foreign language -- you CAN do a FL, but do not HAVE to).
You MUST complete your Week 1 Journal Entry (CLICK HERE for the JOURNAL ENTRY FORM) by Saturday night.
Journal Entry Week 1: This week you should include in your journal thoughts... (Remember that the minimum is 150 words).
1) What are your thoughts about this class? Are you nervous? Excited? Scared? What else?
2) Do you have any concerns that I can address?
3) Name one performer you find interesting and write a minimum of five sentences on your observations of them. Include a link (if you have one).
4) How do you think that this class (solo singing performance) will help you in your future?
