ChoralEd: Vocal Exercises, Ensemble Cohesion

In ChoralEd Episode 16 Vicki Bailey shares some vocal exercises for the development of ensemble cohesion.   Ms. Bailey suggests the use of kinesthetic movement as a means to enhance an ensemble’s collective musical experience.  Kinesthetic activities to internalize the pulse include gently tapping the shoulder of a neighbor or walking in tempo.  Additional kinesthetic activities include drawing the phrase with the arm or taking a step forward on the most important word(s) in a phrase.

The development of a collective ensemble breath may also further enhance ensemble cohesion.  To enhance ensemble breath, Ms. Bailey suggests the following exercises.

1. Sustained breathing, exhaling on a hiss (with a kinesthetic aid).
2. Conduct the ensemble asking students to follow your changing tempi, dynamics, and articulation in real time.
3. Clap on the rest to ensure accurate rhythmic alignment.

Ms. Bailey incorporates rounds in her ensembles to address specific ensemble cohesion challenges including tempo, balance, cut-offs, breath, and onset.  In addition, she suggests addressing ensemble cohesion challenges by creating vocal exercises based on the ensemble’s repertoire.

To watch ChoralEd, Episode 16 on YouTube click HERE