Micah Bland

As students enter the choral classroom, they often arrive from classes in which they passively listen to lectures or complete bookwork.  In contrast to these uninspired lessons, it is advantageous for teachers to incorporate at least one fun vocal exercise in each rehearsal to promote an enjoyable classroom environment.  ChoralEd, Episode 17 features a demonstration […]

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 […]

In ChoralEd Episode 12 and 13, Dr. Roger Hale and Angelica Brooks discuss vocal exercises for posture, breathing, and relaxation.  In Episode 12, Dr. Hale describes the anatomical features of our posture and breath.  This technical discussion is accompanied by exercises that improve student awareness of the head, neck, spine, body, and breath. In Episode […]

In Episode 11, ChoralEd begins a new series on vocal exercises.  For the first episode of the series, ChoralEd host Micah Bland shares some general considerations for incorporating vocal exercises in the choral rehearsal. In rehearsal, the vocal warm-up should not be taken for granted.  Vocal exercises provide conductors with a dedicated time in rehearsal […]

Choral directors that teach young singers regularly encounter vocal tones that require correction.  In pursuit of choral excellence and the vocal health of the student, it’s important to properly train these voices.  The following are some suggested strategies to implement when working with challenging vocal tones. Breathy/Airy Tone Before making corrections to a breathy tone, […]