Vocalist.org archive


From:  Domisosing@a...
Date:  Sat Nov 16, 2002  9:48 pm
Subject:  Re: [vocalist] Re: classical isn't the only way (was amplification)

Lloyd,

I didn't copy/paste your replies. However, I think many of your statements as
well as Randy's or mine, can be better understood if put into the correct
perspective.

Because of the sheer number of voices that I hear on a weekly basis, as well
as Randy and other teachers, one becomes quite familiar with what is being
taught as vocal technique. Although you and I can quibble about preferences
and aesthetics, I am at least comfortable with your own knowledge base on
vocal function, and know that your opinions/remarks will have some research
or knowledge that you can site as some of the basis for your reply.

However, through my own experience, this sort of knowledge and understanding
is very narrow indeed within vocal academia at large, and certainly becomes
nearly non-existent as it applies to anything outside legit styling.

I suppose in summary, my comments pertain to those teaching methodologies
that teach support, vowel modification, placement etc., as the way to to
learn how to sing, instead of the result or enhancers of the process. How
does one teach a student to support their voice if they don't have a balanced
onset to begin with? Why would one ask a singer to modify a vowel, if it was
a high laryngeal position causing the vowel to widen to begin with? Wouldn't
it make more sense to address the causal factors instead of the symptoms?

More, my great concern is not for those on this list because they are
obviously willing to ask questions and continually educate themselves. My
concern is for those teachers, myself included, who don't question the
validity of what they do, or worse, push their own musical preferences onto
their students, irregardless of the desires of the student.

Best,
Mary Beth Felker







emusic.com