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Over the past weekend, I've heard several of my theater students perform in difficult musicals. Teaching a "non-singer" how to sing might be one of the most gratifying aspects of my job.
As an example, I am going to lay out the vocal training of "Ryan" (not his real name). When he began voice lessons, it was out of desperation - he wanted a large role in a musical but was informed by his teachers that he could not maintain pitch and lacked a decent vocal range. His range WAS in fact limited - barely more than octave. His tone was scratchy and very pressed. Even worse, he could not stay in tune with a karaoke or accompaniment track. He needed serious help. Over the course of the year and a half, we did numerous exercises, songs, listening exercises....you name it, we did it. His hard work paid off. His range now spans two octaves, he sings on pitch with background tracks, and has several leading roles on his musical resume. He just applied for musical theater programs across the country and is getting excellent feedback (he will receive acceptance letters shortly). Taking a person who has no vocal training, an initially limited vocal range and ability, and turning them into a high-quality singer is a wonderful experience for both me and the student. I promise that anyone can truly learn how to sing well with the right instruction and work ethic. I saw two musicals this weekend - Clear Springs' production of Matilda and Clear Creek's production of Beauty and the Beast. Both shows included voice students in leading and supporting roles, as listed below. The amount of work these kids put into these shows is incredible and it shows with the final product. Beauty and the Beast Beast - Grayson Cogsworth - Alan Madame de la Bouche - Chloe Candlesticks - My Sons, Jackson and Grayson! Matilda Mr. Wormwood - Kylan Escapologist/Doctor - Blake Miss Honey - Lia (not pictured) Nigel - Madi Eric - Cassidy |
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