Some tips and ideas for singers from the International Conference of Voice Teachers

A couple of weeks ago, the Warm Me Up team presented at the International Congress of Voice Teachers in Brisbane. As well as the opportunity to show singing teachers our favourite warm-ups, and the highlight of attending a workshop with Take6 (they are really cool!), we also attended presentations, workshops and panel discussions about all things singing.

Overall it was affirming to hear some of our favourite and most important elements of vocal practice underlined by the international presenters. In the next few blog posts we'll discuss some of the ideas and approaches that got us thinking. 

PHYSICALITY AND CONNECTION TO VOICE 

Both workshops we attended from Mary Saunders-Barton and Daniel Zangger Borch had a strong focus on physicality. In particular when the physicality of a singer gets in the way of the clear story telling of their song, and even sometimes hinders their vocal delivery.

As Daniel demonstrated, a physical move must be connected to the vocal performance. Our characters sing for a reason, and therefore they should move for one too. Movements and gestures have to come with the voice, not be an accessory to the singing.

So how can you ensure that your body is a part of your performance and not getting in the way? This is where the advice of a teacher or even a good honest friend would be invaluable.

For self-assessment you could try spending some time in front of a mirror or, even better, film yourself. Keep a close eye on your posture and stance and what your arms and hands are doing. Does anything look unnatural? Are your movements repetitive? Are they in unison with the emotions and thoughts the lyric is conveying?

In his session, Daniel asked one participant to sing without moving a muscle. She found this next to impossible. It’s a good exercise. Try it! Is it hard for you to do? If you’re a performer who likes to move around a lot this might be a good starting point – you can use this as a base and then add only the gestures that enhance your performance.