A Masterclass? What is it and why should I (or my child) sing in one?

A Masterclass?  What is it and why should I (or my child) sing in one?  This is a very common question I receive as a voice teacher.  A Masterclass is exactly what it sounds like, a chance to work in a class (group) environment with a master (teacher) of the subject.

Many national conventions, Voice Foundation, National Association of Teachers of Singing, Music Educators National Convention, run masterclasses for those attending.  Some are large and for the whole convention, some are small and individualized focusing on one specific topic.  Teachers and singers can visit the masterclasses of the most interest to them in workshops made of all masterclasses such as are held at the Voice Foundation Convention.  Colleges often offer their music majors masterclasses or studio performance class on a weekly basis.  It unifies the studio, gives them a chance (and responsibility) to perform often and is an essential part to the performing experience.

In the independent voice studio, it is difficult to schedule a masterclass, but very important to the process of developing performing singers.  In a singing masterclass, students are given an opportunity to perform in front of others as if it is a real performance.  Then the teacher (or master) works with each individual on the song that was presented, teaching them in front of the other students or attendees. It is a great opportunity for all.  I try to plan a few each year in my studio.

The singer gets extra performance practice and more time with their current teacher (or visiting clinician).  They can work on getting over the nerves of singing in front of others in a comfortable environment.  They get practice emoting the text to an actual audience instead of to themselves in the mirror and experience what nerves may do to them.  The singer also gets practice at following direction of the new clinician and trying something out or work with their voice teacher in a different environment.

The audience gets to learn from watching the teacher instruct others.  They may learn something that the teacher has yet to say to them or hear it in a different way that clicks! They get to hear the difference in another singer's sound when the student follows instructions regarding interpretation or breath support. Or see the difference in a singer's appearance when communicating the text (and the change in the sound).   It is an educational opportunity in which much can be accomplished and learned!  Plus everyone gets to know one another a little more!

The teacher gets to teach many students at once and see how different students react to different instruction.  It also gives the teacher a chance to address specific ideas regarding singing that cannot be addressed in a regular lesson.  For example, I will often add a yoga component or acting games to a masterclass to show students how they can positively impact singing and performing.

I have recently begun asking my students what their favorite part of a masterclass is.  I have heard a variety of responses from "I learned I don't really have to be nervous to sing in front of others, if I just focus on what I am really saying in the song" to "Yoga has such an impact on freeing up my voice" to "I really enjoyed hearing the variety of repertoire sung by others."  Although the responses vary, one thought is ringing true:  Masterclasses are fun and you can learn a lot from singing in and attending them.  Read more about masterclasses at Susan Anders Brizick Voice Studio Happenings

The next time the opportunity presents itself, I encourage you to sing (or go to) that masterclass! You never know what you might learn.  Let me know some of your experiences with masterclasses and why you like them!

Spring in full bloom- How do you keep the practicing going? Create new goals to keep momentum

Spring is here and you want to get outside!  Who has time to practice?  We have all been bitten by the bug called spring fever and want to be outside.  I love being outside and have to keep myself focused too.  How do keep yourself practicing through spring and summer?  It's important and you may have a little more time in these months with less school work or shorter hours at work.

Here are some creative ways to do it:

1. Set new goals for yourself.
- Learn that new aria or song that you fell in love with.
- Get 4-6 audition songs of a variety of styles and tempi up to the level that you can pull them out for any audition
-Work on your stage fright by performing more often- volunteer to sing a solo at church, sign up for a singing class or summer program that includes a performance

2. Get involved in a summer program or summer production
- Not only will you have fun, but it will keep you motivated to practice and keep you singing
-Work on audition material for the program or production

3. Remember all that you learned and worked on throughout the year.  Don't let it wither over a few months of not singing.

4.  Try working on a new aspect of your singing.  Try a new style.  It may invigorate your soul.

5. Give yourself a break every so often. It is healthy to take a vacation (a week or two) not a 3 month holiday away.


Okay, I hear you- but it is so nice outside!  I'd rather.....

You can do this.  It is important to keep continuity (and yet allow yourself a short break or mental health days:-)  Use your time management and plan out a time when you will practice. What works best for you?

-Will it be right after you get up in the morning/before you go out to the pool?
-Will it be right after you get home from work and before you go outside to relax with your family?
-One or two days a week, practice silently at lunch by analyzing the text of that new song, clearly establishing those breaths, and memorizing it.
-Go outside and sing.  Practice in your backyard.  You never know whose day you may brighten or what bird may join you in song!

Try it and get creative.  We make sacrifices as singers and artists, but what we sacrifice the most is success if we do not keep up with our craft.  Enjoy your times (and days) in the sun, but be true to your musician and find time to keep up with your singing!

What are your ideas for how to keep yourself singing with spring fever and the lazy days of summer?

Yoga and Jogging Impact Singing But a Singer's Gym? Where you can work out all the glitches with other singers....

Yoga and Jogging Impact Singing But a Singer's Gym?  What a unique concept and it actually exists. Classical Singer featured a Singer's Gym in an article in June 2009. It is an intense audition only program which accepts 10 singers for 4 weeks to workout an aria and scene with other singers. It is intense and not something we all have time for, but we can learn a lot from it's model.  I am intrigued by its concepts are valuable tools to increase the authenticity of a performance

The Singer's Gym is a place to "work out, try things, experiment, fall and get up, and do it better the next time.  These are the things you need to do as you're strengthening yourself as a performer."  Ben Bernstein, co-director of the Singer's Gym in San Fransisco.  Why do we not create more of this opportunity on a smaller scale in studio workshops?

Think about it; as a performer, we have to learn to do each and every one of these things.  We should learn to do it in front of others besides our teacher and learn how we will cope with the learning process.  College environments provide a version of this opportunity to most voice majors through weekly masterclasses for each voice studio.  There is an opportunity to perform the song you are working on in front of the other students in the studio and feedback given by your teacher that day in front of the other students.  You work a little bit on the suggestions the teacher gives and get to watch others do the same.  This is a modified and skeletal version of the Singer's Gym, but a start in the process.  

Many students in private voice studios do not get this opportunity.  Sure the opportunity to perform in a recital is present, but the idea of a 'masterclass' is foreign to many.   As we guide our students in their singing endeavors, I think it is valuable to add masterclass opportunities either by means of a Saturday group class once a semester or an additional workshop which they can sign up to do.  By taking extra time to work on pieces in front of others you can do 2 things:  1. Get performance experience and 2. Get an opportunity to work on being engaged in what you are singing.  It is easy to say, pretend you are singing this love song to an imaginary character.  It becomes real when you actually put a person there to sing to.  When you add real people to the mix who are working on some of the same things, the dynamics and ability to really communicate the meaning of the music changes.  It is all about connecting with the musical piece you are singing and working it in different ways to truly express the music with your voice and your experience.  

In preparing music for performance (especially in my summer program), I try to incorporate some activities to help students truly connect to their songs from an emotional standpoint.  Research the opera, art song, or musical theater song so you know your character or poem.  Look at the text and find a descriptive word or emotion for each section.  Repeat that sentiment to yourself first before you sing each section and then internally as you sing each section.  Bring your own interpretation to the song- how can you make the topic something you can truly relate to?  All of this guidance is easier said then done.  Sometimes doing it with a group makes it easier.  I may try it in my next masterclass.  

The model of the Singer's Gym is in depth, but deserves some merit to include in our studios and encourage our very serious performers to explore.  In summary, each of the 4 weeks has a focus and involves individual and group work to truly get in touch with the character, meaning, and performance of a piece of music. Week 1 is devoted to studying the score and everything the composer put in it.  Week 2 is spent on 'space' and learning the awareness of the space around you and your function within it.  Week 3 is character work, including how to find and embody your character and week 4 focuses on onstage relationships.  The psychology of relationships of characters and of the individuals doing the work comes into play as to how the music is sung.  The whole program focuses on "grasping the idea that you have to know not only what happens in the aria (song), but what happens the moment before and the moment after, and in the accompaniment or orchestration.  Interpretation from their own distinct voice and person." Kathryn Cathcart.  

When we sing we are communicating something and need to spend time on that aspect of performance. It is directed by the instructions of the music written by the composer,text of the song or aria, and placement of the song within the larger overall work, but artistic license should allow for individual distinction and exploration.  The end result of spending this kind of time and dedication to preparing a performance equals one thing- an authentic and enjoyable performance.  Happy Singing!

Yoga is good for singing, but is jogging? How do you know what exercise you do is good for your singing?

Yoga is good for singing, but is jogging?  How do you make sure what exercise you do is good for your singing too?  Last week we discussed the many ways that yoga and finding balance are good for singing.  So is cardiovascular exercise including jogging, running, or fast walking! As long as you are generally in good health, now is a perfect time to add jogging to your exercise and singing regime.  You can add it outside to get that much desired fill of nature in spring!

Jogging is cardiovascular, it gets your heart and lungs working, increases circulation, lowers your breathing, and give you a positive outlook on life as a result of released endorphins.  All of these things take care of your overall health and have a positive impact on singing.  The better your lungs work, the better your breath control.  The stronger your overall body is, the better your endurance in performances.  The more positive your outlook on life, generally the more productive you are in practice, rehearsal and performance.

How do you make sure you avoid any negative affects of starting a jogging routine?

1.  Make sure you generally are in good health.
2.  Buy good running shoes.
3.  Jog on unpaved surfaces as much as possible (outdoor track, grass or stone paths, treadmill)
4.  Breathe through your nose!
    * The nose is a natural filter of dust, dirt, and pollen.  It reduces irritation of the lungs and upper respiratory system.
    * The nose filters air and adds humidity to your system.
    * Nasal breathing triggers the lungs to expand more fully and easily.  It encourages you to use deep   breathing that we need to sing.
    * If you have a stuffy nose, it generally opens up after a little bit of running due to adrenaline in your system.
5.  Embrace the emotional component or 'runner's high'.  Your brain function increases, your thoughts are clearer and you feel better about life!

After you run, try singing.  You should find that you are breathing easier, can sustain phrases well, and have a positive and creative attitude towards solving any singing puzzles you may encounter.  Not only are you doing something good for your physical and mental well-being, but your singing too!

Please let me know your thoughts about adding running to your routine and how it impacts your singing!

Yoga and Balance are synonymous. But how can yoga and balance related activities help your singing!

Yoga and balance- a synonym for those who do yoga.  But how can yoga and other balance related activities help your singing?

As an avid yogi, I often discuss the benefits of yoga for the singing voice to my students.  It calms your breath and nerves, opens up the body to breathe better, elongates your spine for better posture and therefore breath support.  A myriad of benefits.  Lets look at the science as to why!

In Make Your Unstable Life Work for You, Claudia Friedlander describes the science of how the balance of yoga can really help your singing!  I was fascinated with how she described what I use often in my studio.  I highly recommend what she has to say!  Let me try to explain it with a few references to her words (in italics):

Stand up and find your balance on one foot, bringing your other foot up to your calf or above your knee, and raise your hands above your head (tree pose).  Feel how you find balance and how your leg, hip, ankle adjust to keep the balance.  It is a series of continuous, incremental adjustments.  Find a sustained phrase from your repertoire that is challenging and sing it while in this pose.  You may find that this passage is now much easier to sing.  WHY?  Finding this balance has put your neuromuscular system on high alert making all motor activity that you engage in benefit.  It cannot lock up like your knees might or stop and start as the breath might because everything is going in to you keeping your balance.  This makes total sense.

As Friedlander states, Singing, like balancing, is a continuous activity.  The more you think about locking up a part of your body to balance, the more possible it is for you to fall over.  The more you think about holding pitches rather than continuing the breath through them, the more difficult they are to sustain.  Find activities that promote stability through continuous movement such as tree pose, walking the phrase, or pretending to throw a baseball with a slow follow through.

Balance and stabilization can:

- Enhance body awareness (improve your mind/body connection to your voice)
- Promotes good posture (free larynx, improve resonance, coordinate better breathing)
- Make you more comfortable and graceful moving on stage
- Stabilize your joints so that you can safely exercise and maximize your stamina (cardio and strength training)
- Teaches your neuromuscular system to create stability through continuous movement that impacts all of your physical activities

Singers should have a workout regimen that includes stabilization training to balance their muscles. Challenging your ability to keep your balance and maintain good posture throughout a series of movements prepares your body and your nervous system to perform movements requiring greater strength and fine motor coordination.  (Fine motor coordination that is essential to quality singing).

How do you do this?

A variety of activities but specifically Yoga, stability ball activities, and functional strength activities (keeping your balance on one foot while manipulating small dumbbells in bicep curls) are a few ways to get started.  As you exercise in these ways, you are challenging your body and brain to stabilize through movement.  This works on the neuromuscular control necessary to develop stability both physically and in your singing.

Secure vocal technique is characterized by stable, consistent tone production.  This requires superb coordination and balance of everything that contributes to singing.  Until you find this, you are tempted to lock up and stiffen things.  Like physical stability, vocal stability is the result of continuous directed movement.  The way to get it is to expose the instabilities in your technique so that you can improve overall balance in the voice rather than gripping.

In other words, use balance related activities and workout regimens to help you truly balance your vocal technique and release tension.  Give it a try, it's pure genius!

Continuity is the key to success in singing and music, but how do you find the balance?

Continuity is the key to success in singing, but how do you find the balance of practice, lessons, and the rest of life?

The key to success in any art is continuity, especially in music.  You fine tune that talent over and over to make it perfect.  Your muscles and your brain remember what to do to make that perfect sound and how it feels to truly make it the best it can be. Continuing lessons on a consistent basis and regularly practicing in between lessons paves the road to success.  But how do you balance that with the rest of your life?

There are two types of singers that should be addressed:  the voice student (young high school, middle school, college or adult student) and the professional singer.

The regular pattern of practicing and always making time for lessons in a weekly schedule can sometimes seem daunting to a singing student.  The continuity of lessons is pertinent to singing success. In addition to regular lesson attendance, one must practice in between lessons what the teach assigns (both exercises and songs) to maximize improvement.  If the student merely shows up on a regular basis but does not work on the vocalise or repertoire in between, progress slows.

It sounds tough I know, but you can find ways to schedule practice time into your daily routine. Write it in your planner.  Put a reminder in your phone for the time you said you would practice.  Schedule it as a break for studying for that math test.  Promise it is the one thing you will do for yourself that day as a busy mom.

Of course life happens and you have a busy week or intense tests at school or you need to help a family member.  That is expected.  But, make regular practice a part of your normal routine and let NOT practicing be the exception to the rule.  If you can't practice one week, commit to go to your lesson and let the teacher know.  There are still things that you can do and so long as it is not a regular occurrence, most teachers appreciate the honesty and work from there.

The instability of performing for a living can also be very tough to manage.  Finding the time to practice when you have very long rehearsals everyday or are travelling.  It can be intense, but there are things you can do.  Look at the music and hear how you sing it in your head.  Map out the breaths, analyze the text, make it a part of you mentally so then you can make it a part of you physically in rehearsal. Record yourself in practice (especially when it is a good one) and listen to it again and again so you know you are remembering it and 'singing' it correctly.  Work on learning the melody of new music by listening to it.  There are things that can be done, sometimes we just have to get creative.

How does this affect the rest of our lives?  Make time for other things that are important to you too.  It is essential to have balance in your life.  Exercise, spend time with family and friends, or doing another activity you enjoy.  It is all important.  Sometimes we have to make sacrifices as a musician and cut the time with friends down a little bit, or workout for 30 minutes instead of going to that 1 hour class or playing the whole game of baseball.  Find the balance that works for you that still enables you to get in your lessons and your practice time!  Music is something you will have for the rest of your life!

There are different ways of finding balance in your life with your practice, be creative and you will figure it out!  Stay tuned next week for how you can find vocal stability and fix instabilities in vocal technique through finding physical stability.

Musical Theater Productions Abound- What can YOU do to make sure you are a part of it next time?

High school and Middle School Musical Theater Productions are happening all over the place right now.  'Tis the season.  Go and watch them if you are not in them.  Practice and have fun if you are performing.  It is a fun season of the year and can get you motivated to work on your own singing!

What can you do to make sure you are a part of them (or a larger role in them) next year? Work on your TRIO of talents:  Singing, Acting, and Dancing.  All 3 combined make the balanced musical theater artist who will land that big role! One may be your forte or strength and then you focus and dabble in the other two when you are not in a show or over the summer or in between semesters in college.  Find a time when you can add an intensive program, camp, or add some lessons in the other areas.  If you are primarily a singer, take an acting class or dance class over the summer to learn more about a different aspect of musical theater performing.  If you are primarily an actor, research a way you can put a little bit of singing training or movement/dance into your year.  Perhaps you take singing lessons all year and take acting in the fall and dance in the spring to get it all in.  Of course doing all 3 would be great, but time is short with the quick pace of our world.  Explore how you can learn a little of each to improve your skills.  Many summer programs include a little of 2 or 3 of the talents.

We all have one strength out of the TRIO of talents, but all are needed to be a successful performer in musical theater (at schools and on Broadway).  You really must work the whole of the 3 part package for maximum success.  Have fun and happy performing!