Sing: Register This
I’m noticing a trend which I am attributing, in part, to how crazy the world has become. That is the tendency in even well-trained singers to detach from the physical sensation of singing. This is most noticeable as the voice…
Mechanics: Like Riding A Bike
One harsh reality about skills is that they are not permanent. If you stop working on something, it will slide — eventually out of reach. Even the ubiquitous adage about riding a bike is only partially true. Anyone who has…
Office Space: Something In The Air
Whether it is the crisp morning chill, or an impending, contentious election there is something in the air right now. Many of you are leaping forward in an attempt to do something productive. And others, are retreating into a "wait…
Mechanics: Stuck in Gear
This week, I went back to dance class (virtually). It had been a while. Moving is an excellent way to discover the parts of your body that just don't wanna. Three days in, I discovered sudden freedom low in my…
Office Space: Setting the Stage
One of my primary goals as a teacher is to help people towards clarity and confidence in speaking. This does not mean that the most direct approach is always best. Some conversations, and some people, require a little stage dressing.…
Mechanics: Contracts and Releases
We are here to talk musculature, not legal instruments but, in a way, the concept is the the same. One process binds and the other holds free. Neither is inherently good or bad. For the most part, the muscles in…
Flow: A Breath For Every Purpose
When we think of breathing well. (some of you sadly don’t do this enough) we often jump to taking “deep” breaths. But, what if the that isn’t the point? What if, it is more important to take a “just right”…
Office Space: In-Person
Today, I entered my actual office for the first time since March. Some of you have been enjoying this privilege for a while and others are safely ensconced at home. What strikes me is not the differences in the patterns…
Sing: Break It Down
When we are working on specific repertoire, it is tempting to start at the beginning and just run the piece. Even experienced singers can fall into this trap. Perhaps, they even isolate a difficult phrase or transition but then back…
Office Space: Charting A Path
Repeat after me: One cannot solve everything in one meeting. This is especially true with problems are multi-faceted and/or there are complicated personalities involved. What you need is a plan. How to see the board before you and chart your…