Choral group to host workshops in Palatine
Chicago Master Singers will sponsor three choral workshops led by prominent vocal clinicians on June 9, 15 and 23, in Palatine. The workshops will run from 7 to 9:30 p.m. each evening. They are designed for singers who want to develop their choral, solo and audition skills. The workshops are open to the public and singers at all skill levels are welcome.
On Tuesday, June 9, Chicago Master Singers music director, Alan Heatherington, will lead "The Art of Auditioning and Basic Rehearsal Disciplines." This workshop will offer hints on how to prepare and execute a choral audition and how to demonstrate good vocal and choral disciplines in rehearsal and performance. Emphases will be on part-marking, personal preparation, approaches to rehearsals, knowing vocal and musical terminology, and remaining focused throughout rehearsals and performances.
"This workshop will be especially helpful to singers who are considering auditioning for Chicago Master Singers in August," said Chicago Master Singers soprano and board member, Sharon Starr.
Nationally known vocal soloist, voice teacher and Shiatsu practitioner, Jeffrey Horvath, will lead the second workshop on Monday, June 15, on "How to Sing Correctly, Using Your Whole Body." Horvath will discuss how the voice ages, the effects of alignment and posture on vocal production, how to breathe properly, and how to articulate words and rhythms without stopping the breath. Through demonstration and interactive participation this session will teach singers how to preserve their voices for years to come.
On Tuesday, June 23, "The Joys and Challenges of a Cappella Singing" will be led by Anne Heider, award-winning conductor, choral consultant, founder of the Bella Voce ensemble and associate professor emerita at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts. Heider will explore the joys and challenges of a cappella singing, with practice in the gentle art of listening while singing.
"Developing this skill will make performing the great polyphonic masterworks of Bach, Handel, Brahms and others immeasurably more satisfying," said Heider.
The workshops will be at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church, 1025 N Smith St., Palatine.
The cost to attend is $15 for individual workshops, or $40 for all three. Advance registration is recommended. For information and to register, go to www.chicagomastersingers.org.