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From: Jenni
To: VOCALIST <vocalist>
Subject: Pre-adolescent voice lessons (WAS: receiving answers)
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>

> Or perhaps some of us in Florida are categorically opposed to formal vocal
> training for children who are not yet adolescents. To paraphrase Marie
> Antoinette: "let 'em take piano!"

I agree, of course, that the voice is not ready for the heavy technique
and training at such a young age. However, I give voice lesons to a couple
of sixth graders. They are not formal at all -- they are more a fun way
for them to learn music and cultivate their joy in singing. I work with
them on breathing a little, on good vowels a little, and other tidbits
when I can throw them in at an 11-year old level. They sing mostly theatre
songs, ("Do Re Mi" from _Sound of Music_ and the like), and they get used
to performing for family and friends.

My point is that I think that voice lessons can be tailored to fit the
age. I was concerned about starting to give lessons to these kids, but
then I realised that if I didn't, one of 2 things would happen: they would
lose interest in singing altogether, or find someone who will screw up
their voice. They may not be ready for the opera stage, but at least they
are learning something, and enjoying it immensely!


> I WOULDN'T suggest starting voice lessons so young. The voice has not
> yet developed. Might I suggest Piano or Violin as a musical
> springboard and then start trying the voice thing out at around 15 or
> 16. That's just my opinion though. I could be wrong.

Tim, I don't think anyone's opinion is WRONG. Yours is no more valid than
mine.


Have a fabulous day, everyone!

-- Jenni Glier, soprano

--
Jenni Glier Jenni-at-Glier.org | "Music is spiritual. The music business
http://Jenni.Glier.org | is not." -Van Morrison