Winter 2024

 Solo/Ensemble Classes

First class: all singers learn and participate in our engaging and skill-building vocal warm-ups, scales, diction, and expression exercises. Students then dance and sing through a collection of pre-selected songs (singers need not know the songs yet to enjoy even on the first day!). We end the class with a short "acting game" that encourages team-building and bonding. All students take are given a playlist with song selections and can listen and practice during the week. The playlist includes songs with the demo voice, and versions with the same song that are instrumental ("no voice").

Weeks 2-4: young singers choose solos to their liking and practice standing and singing in front of their peers as all still sing the songs together. Singers who are not comfortable singing a solo alone can choose one or two buddies to sing with.  All students learn the positive Young Singers Club Audience Manners to help create a very safe platform for each participant. Gradually and when they are ready, each student begins to sing their solo on their own in front ot the class. Students also practice two group numbers with dance choreography. Each singer gets to briefly work one-on-one with our friendly solo choreographer, while the other singers are taking turns "performing" for the class.  All classes through Week 8 begin with our special vocal warm-ups and end with fun acting games. Students continue to practice with the playlist at home or as they are driving in their cars.

Weeks 5-8: singers have a brief microphone techniques lesson and continue to practice group numbers and solos, as well as one-on-one choreography. Parents are invited to come in to be the "practice audience" (optional for parents). Singers perform their solos with live microphone. Gradually and when they are ready, each student sings their solo with the "no-voice", instrumental version. The voice teacher gives each singer specific positive feedback right after they perform. The students (and parents) happily absorb these brief and age-appropriate comments and instructions - these comments are tailored expressly toward each singer's strengths and abilities and become more sophisticated as singers continue on with lessons and classes at YSC. Subsequently students become more and more assertive, creative, and accomplished as they continue on with Young Singers Club classes and quarterly sessions. Singers can sign up to perform their solos in retirement home "practice performances" at two of the three weekend options that we offer. Retirement home residents LOVE our singers and are not looking for perfect performances! Every singer is adorable and precious to them. This is such a wonderful opportunity for your young singer to share his talent. It's a true community service and outreach opportunity and a way for your singer to give back to the community (and practice!). 

End of Week 8:  Singers perform their solos and group songs in special recitals.