I must hear the tone of the student and discover if the student can produce and hold a singing tone. I have them sing a song for me. If they are already working on a song, they are free to do that song. If not, I can suggest a few to try.
We will continue to build upon many components that make a good singer, production of tone, breath control, enunciation, adding emotion to the music. We also learn how to prepare for an audition including how to draw your audience into the song. At this level, students often have particular songs they would like to sing and we will begin to incorporate them into the studies.
By now, we will have used the most basic of the vocal exercises to do warm -ups. Then, if the student exhibits
some flexibility we will start with the easiest of songs, one of the student's choice, or one that I suggest. We will start to identify the projected range of the student.
I would have already asked the student if they wanted to learn to read music, if so, I will begin to incorporate that into all lessons. We will continue work on the student matching tones I play/sing for them and we will begin to do vocal exercises.
We will identify the vocal range of the student. I will ask what the goals the student has for their studying. Are they working towards an audition for a performance, perhaps entry into a university or conservatory? We will quickly identify the strengths of the student's voice and and more importantly, the weaknesses. Where do we need to concentrate our studies?
If the student desires to go ahead with a recital, and we both feel they are ready, we continue to get them prepared vocally and begin memorizing their songs.
I will ask them to sing the arpeggios of the all major and minor chords.
If the student does not wish to prepare for a recital, we will discuss pursuing a recording of their major songs.
We really concentrate on building a reportoire of music. This can mostly be pulled from music the student likes, but I will push for inclusion of genres that I feel all singers should know.
We will begin to choose music that will showcase the student's skills. I want every vocal student to prepare for a 45-60 minute recital. We will continue with all vocal warm -ups and exercises to strengthen their voice. At this point the student should be able to sing songs from a variety of musical genres. We always continue proper breath work and breathing techniques.