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WHAT IS THE VOICE STRAW? WHY AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
A workshop with MINDY PACK,
creator of THE VOICE STRAW vocal training tool, for singers of all genres.
Must-have knowledge for singing teachers, and performers!
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Date: Sunday, SEPTEMBER 20, 2020 Time: 1-3 P.M.
Free VIRTUAL presentation Science and practical application to be presented! SPONSORED BY NATS REDWOOD EMPIRE CHAPTER To Attend: Email RedwoodNATS@gmail.com to receive the zoom link MEET MINDY
Personal Background Mindy has been performing since the age of eight. Her original goal in life was to be the world’s first “singing Heart Surgeon.” Unfortunately, medical school didn’t pan out; so, she decided to heal the world through music, and as a result, she has been studying different vocal techniques, voice science, and vocal health her entire life. Mindy has studied with many nationally and internationally renowned vocal instructors and was a vocal performance major at the University of Utah. Mindy is part of some incredible voice teams and music industry professionals throughout the world. Some of these teams consist of Laryngologists, ENT’s, Artist Development, Managers, Record Labels, Vocal Arrangers, Producers, Music Directors, and many others. Mindy holds a certificate in Clinical Vocology from The National Center for Voice and Speech. She also holds a certificate in laryngeal manipulation and in 2020 became a Licensed Massage Therapist. |
Creator of The Voice Straw
Mindy is the owner and creator of The Voice Straw. The Voice Straw is a vocal training tool for singers, actors, and speakers that helps relieve tension, strain, breathiness, cracking, and flipping in the voice. The Voice Straw is scientifically shown to improve technique for singers, voiceover actors, and anyone who relies on voice projection as part of their work. It’s a must-have tool for anyone looking to improve their sound and strengthen their voice!
Teaching Experience
Mindy has a full studio in Salt Lake City, Utah and a satellite studio in Los Angeles, California. She also has clients around the world via online sessions. Her studio has a roster of clients from the novice to the professional, all genres and styles, actors and voice-over artists, the injured or rehab voice, transgender, motivational speakers, and any other voice user seeking out her help. Clients are in all genres and styles of the music. Clients such as Brandi Carlile, Justin Timberlake, The Lumineers, Emily Sailers of the Indigo Girls, Halsey, Austin Mahone, Common, Royal Bliss, Tesseract, Nahko and Medicine for the People, and Pharrell Williams have seen the value of combining Mindy's technique and Vocal Tract Reconditioning for longevity of touring. Other clients have been seen on world tours, national Broadway tours, AMA's, Grammys, Saturday Night Live, International Award shows, YouTube Sensations, College Scholarship Winners, Reality TV Shows, Cruise Lines, and local and national performances to name a few.
Co-producer of Vocal Master Class Series
Mindy is currently the co-producer for the Vocal Master Class Series, A Conference for a Cause with Dr Reena Gupta and the Osborn Head and Neck Series which is a non-profit organization that provides ENT services to third world countries. For over 12 years Mindy has been in charge of education for an artist development camp in Los Angeles as well as International Teacher Training Programs. She is frequently asked to present at voice conferences for singers, actors, voice over professionals, video games, Speech Language Pathologies, ENT's and Laryngologists worldwide.
Mindy: the Performer
Not only is Mindy a technician she is also a performer, so she understands first hand the demands and stresses on artists. Mindy’s performance career has taken her all over the world. One of her most favorite was when she had the opportunity to perform with some of those considered “Broadway Royalty” on an Album by composer Scott Alan, “Live from Birdland”. Mindy has been both behind the director’s chair as well as on the stage throughout Utah.
In 2015 Mindy was awarded Best of Stage for Voice Instruction and has received Best of Salt Lake City for Private Music Instruction for the past five years.
Mindy understands how hard it is for artists to make connections to the music world. She is known to bring in top industry professionals not only to help her clients connect and network but also to help artists and musicians hone in on their skills and further develop themselves and their artistry.
Mindy is a member of the Pan American Vocology Association (PAVA) and The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS).
Mindy is the owner and creator of The Voice Straw. The Voice Straw is a vocal training tool for singers, actors, and speakers that helps relieve tension, strain, breathiness, cracking, and flipping in the voice. The Voice Straw is scientifically shown to improve technique for singers, voiceover actors, and anyone who relies on voice projection as part of their work. It’s a must-have tool for anyone looking to improve their sound and strengthen their voice!
Teaching Experience
Mindy has a full studio in Salt Lake City, Utah and a satellite studio in Los Angeles, California. She also has clients around the world via online sessions. Her studio has a roster of clients from the novice to the professional, all genres and styles, actors and voice-over artists, the injured or rehab voice, transgender, motivational speakers, and any other voice user seeking out her help. Clients are in all genres and styles of the music. Clients such as Brandi Carlile, Justin Timberlake, The Lumineers, Emily Sailers of the Indigo Girls, Halsey, Austin Mahone, Common, Royal Bliss, Tesseract, Nahko and Medicine for the People, and Pharrell Williams have seen the value of combining Mindy's technique and Vocal Tract Reconditioning for longevity of touring. Other clients have been seen on world tours, national Broadway tours, AMA's, Grammys, Saturday Night Live, International Award shows, YouTube Sensations, College Scholarship Winners, Reality TV Shows, Cruise Lines, and local and national performances to name a few.
Co-producer of Vocal Master Class Series
Mindy is currently the co-producer for the Vocal Master Class Series, A Conference for a Cause with Dr Reena Gupta and the Osborn Head and Neck Series which is a non-profit organization that provides ENT services to third world countries. For over 12 years Mindy has been in charge of education for an artist development camp in Los Angeles as well as International Teacher Training Programs. She is frequently asked to present at voice conferences for singers, actors, voice over professionals, video games, Speech Language Pathologies, ENT's and Laryngologists worldwide.
Mindy: the Performer
Not only is Mindy a technician she is also a performer, so she understands first hand the demands and stresses on artists. Mindy’s performance career has taken her all over the world. One of her most favorite was when she had the opportunity to perform with some of those considered “Broadway Royalty” on an Album by composer Scott Alan, “Live from Birdland”. Mindy has been both behind the director’s chair as well as on the stage throughout Utah.
In 2015 Mindy was awarded Best of Stage for Voice Instruction and has received Best of Salt Lake City for Private Music Instruction for the past five years.
Mindy understands how hard it is for artists to make connections to the music world. She is known to bring in top industry professionals not only to help her clients connect and network but also to help artists and musicians hone in on their skills and further develop themselves and their artistry.
Mindy is a member of the Pan American Vocology Association (PAVA) and The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS).
September Celebration of Women Composers Virtual Concert
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Please join us for a virtual recital celebrating women composers and poets and the hundredth anniversary of the women’s right to vote! We are very excited to have this opportunity to highlight a part of our musical Family whose recognition is long overdue. Virtual recital will be held on Saturday, September 26th at 7PM Please Email: RedwoodNATS@gmail.com by September 25th for a zoom invitation. |
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NATS All-Stars & Guests Vocal Concert
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Event: NATS All-Stars & Guests Vocal Concert
Date: Sunday, January 26th, 2020 Time: 4 p.m. Location: 600 First St. Sebastopol Space is limited, please email ewilkes@puc.edu to make your reservation. The concert is a benefit for the Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS, serving voice students of the North Bay area. Proceeds will subsidize NATS scholarships and educational opportunities. Suggested $30 tax-deductible donation. For more details contact ewilkes@puc.edu Join us to hear this once-in-a-lifetime event of future star singers!!! |
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NATS All-Stars & Guests Vocal Concert
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Event: NATS All-Stars & Guests Vocal Concert
Date: Sunday, October 20, 2019 Time: 3 p.m. Location: Paulin Concert Hall, Pacific Union College, (Angwin) The concert is a benefit for the Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS, serving voice students of the North Bay area. Proceeds will subsidize NATS scholarships and educational opportunities. Suggested $20 tax-deductible donation. For more details contact ewilkes@puc.edu Join us to hear this once-in-a-lifetime event of future star singers!!! |
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In this vocal concert, NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) features finalists and winners
of the NATS Singing Festivals, plus talented local North Bay singers and NATS instructors.
A wide variety of styles will be performed including Pop, Broadway and Classical.
of the NATS Singing Festivals, plus talented local North Bay singers and NATS instructors.
A wide variety of styles will be performed including Pop, Broadway and Classical.
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September 28, 2019 Eric Jackson Masterclass:Improve your Auditioning and Performing ProcessFREE Workshop Sponsored by NATS Redwood Empire Chapter
September 28, 2019 -- 2 – 5 p.m. Warren Auditorium in Ives Hall Sonoma State University www.NATSRedwoodEmpire.org |
Eric Jackson
As a Musical Theater Department graduate from the University of Michigan, Eric’s New York City performing credits include stage, television, film, and commercial work. On Broadway he was seen in the production of THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and was also an original cast member of Mel Brook’s musical YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN and in the original cast recording. He traveled nationally and internationally with touring companies of THE BOOK OF MORMON, DREAMGIRLS, RAGTIME, CHICAGO, THE SCOTTSBORO BOYS, and THE RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR. Off- Broadway he was seen in FINIAN’S RAINBOW at the Irish Repertory Theater and can be heard on their cast recording. He made his Carnegie Hall debut with the concert version of SHOW BOAT. He was a longtime performer with Lincoln Center’s The Little Orchestra Society and their young theater series LOLLIPOPS. He also played regionally in Theaters including Westchester Broadway Theater, Paper Mill Playhouse, Mains State Music Theatre, Weston Playhouse, and Pioneer Theatre. Eric's television appearances include “As the World Turns,” “Sex and the City,” “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” and numerous commercial spots. He can also been seen in John Turturro’s Film, “Romance and Cigarettes” and acted as a Stand-In in Sandra Bullock's movie “Two Week’s Notice.”
Offstage, Eric was a Co-Founder and Instructor of The Theatre Mafia- providing resources and classes to graduating performance students about the Business of Show. In addition he taught workshops and masterclasses in New York City with the Broadway Student Lab, Broadway Artists Alliance, and the Broadway Classroom. Eric has been a Guest at the University of Alabama, Birmingham and Siena Heights University. While in New York City, Eric co-develop the now licensed FINIAN’S RAINBOW, JR. and was Director for the Staged Reading of the new musical A WHOLE LOT OF TEETH. HIs other Directing credits include HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL at the JCC, BYE BYE BIRDIE at the Ann Arbor Civic Theatre as well as SWEET CHARITY and ELEEMOSYNARY at The University of Michigan
Eric first visited Sonoma, CA as a performer with Transcendence Theatre Company in 2011. In 2014, he became a full-time employee for the company and has since had the opportunity to have played a major role in casting and hiring, developing the Internship and Apprentice Program, participating in the Arts and Education programs, leading Community Outreach Events, conceiving of original productions, and participating in marketing and publicity. Since being voted as “Person to Watch (Male)” by BroadwayWorld SF for his work with Transcendence Theatre Company, Eric has developed and become Head of the theater company’s Props Department and Wardrobe Department. He has been the Costume Designer for “Fantastical Family Night” (2017) and “The Broadway Holiday Spectacular.” Eric has also created and Co-Directed two productions of “Fantastical Family Night” (’14 & ’15) and the “Gala Celebration.” He was also Creator and Director of “Fantastical Family Night “(2016), the theater company’s first two Holiday show productions of “Joy To The World, “ “Fascinating Rhythm” and "The Ladies of Broadway." Eric is currently the Creative Programs Manager for the Sonoma Community Center.
As a Musical Theater Department graduate from the University of Michigan, Eric’s New York City performing credits include stage, television, film, and commercial work. On Broadway he was seen in the production of THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and was also an original cast member of Mel Brook’s musical YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN and in the original cast recording. He traveled nationally and internationally with touring companies of THE BOOK OF MORMON, DREAMGIRLS, RAGTIME, CHICAGO, THE SCOTTSBORO BOYS, and THE RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR. Off- Broadway he was seen in FINIAN’S RAINBOW at the Irish Repertory Theater and can be heard on their cast recording. He made his Carnegie Hall debut with the concert version of SHOW BOAT. He was a longtime performer with Lincoln Center’s The Little Orchestra Society and their young theater series LOLLIPOPS. He also played regionally in Theaters including Westchester Broadway Theater, Paper Mill Playhouse, Mains State Music Theatre, Weston Playhouse, and Pioneer Theatre. Eric's television appearances include “As the World Turns,” “Sex and the City,” “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” and numerous commercial spots. He can also been seen in John Turturro’s Film, “Romance and Cigarettes” and acted as a Stand-In in Sandra Bullock's movie “Two Week’s Notice.”
Offstage, Eric was a Co-Founder and Instructor of The Theatre Mafia- providing resources and classes to graduating performance students about the Business of Show. In addition he taught workshops and masterclasses in New York City with the Broadway Student Lab, Broadway Artists Alliance, and the Broadway Classroom. Eric has been a Guest at the University of Alabama, Birmingham and Siena Heights University. While in New York City, Eric co-develop the now licensed FINIAN’S RAINBOW, JR. and was Director for the Staged Reading of the new musical A WHOLE LOT OF TEETH. HIs other Directing credits include HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL at the JCC, BYE BYE BIRDIE at the Ann Arbor Civic Theatre as well as SWEET CHARITY and ELEEMOSYNARY at The University of Michigan
Eric first visited Sonoma, CA as a performer with Transcendence Theatre Company in 2011. In 2014, he became a full-time employee for the company and has since had the opportunity to have played a major role in casting and hiring, developing the Internship and Apprentice Program, participating in the Arts and Education programs, leading Community Outreach Events, conceiving of original productions, and participating in marketing and publicity. Since being voted as “Person to Watch (Male)” by BroadwayWorld SF for his work with Transcendence Theatre Company, Eric has developed and become Head of the theater company’s Props Department and Wardrobe Department. He has been the Costume Designer for “Fantastical Family Night” (2017) and “The Broadway Holiday Spectacular.” Eric has also created and Co-Directed two productions of “Fantastical Family Night” (’14 & ’15) and the “Gala Celebration.” He was also Creator and Director of “Fantastical Family Night “(2016), the theater company’s first two Holiday show productions of “Joy To The World, “ “Fascinating Rhythm” and "The Ladies of Broadway." Eric is currently the Creative Programs Manager for the Sonoma Community Center.
April 6, 2019 ~ Feldenkrais Workshop with Karen Clark
Sonoma State University - Warren Auditorium. 1-4 PM
Singing and the Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education
with Karen R. Clark, contralto
Consistency and comfort in singing come from an intimate understanding of the relationships within the body.
The Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education®offers strategies for learning that can expand the singer’s palate of sensory awareness. Moshe Feldenkrais frequently commented that___we can now what we do, but, do we know how we do it?___
In this workshop/masterclass, singer, voice teacher and Feldenkrais Practitioner®, Karen R. Clark, presents three fundamental principles of teaching singing that find support in the Feldenkrais Method:
1) Vocal Technique is a structure through which the person may emerge
2) We can access the whole person through the voice
3) The Imagination is the singer’s most important musical muscle.
The first part of the class involves an Awareness Through Movement® group lesson.
After a break, the second half of the workshop Karen will coach selected singers to offer examples of in-studio application of Feldenkrais private lessons— called Functional Integration®. Our workshop concludes with discussion and references for further exploration.
Dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat or blanket if you have one.
Contralto, KarenR. Clark’s 20 year career as a Feldenkrais instructor overlaps with her 35 year career as a singer and voice teacher.
Karen's teaching philosophy supports the uniqueness of each individual; emphasizes a process for learning; and, enthusiastically appreciates that learning is lifelong. Karen’s singing is acclaimed worldwide for her performances and recordings in repertory ranging from medieval to modern music.
Recent recordings include the 2016 release of O Eterne Deus: Music of Hildegard von Bingen with Vajra Voices— the women’s vocal ensemble which Karen founded and directs; and, in 2019 Karen is featured on the Galax Quartet CD singing Joseph Schwantner’s song cycle— composed for Karen— Dream Drapery: Songs on Thoreau. Karen holds music degrees in vocal performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and has taught in universities to include, Princeton University, Sonoma State, UC Berkeley, and the USC Thornton School of Music.
with Karen R. Clark, contralto
Consistency and comfort in singing come from an intimate understanding of the relationships within the body.
The Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education®offers strategies for learning that can expand the singer’s palate of sensory awareness. Moshe Feldenkrais frequently commented that___we can now what we do, but, do we know how we do it?___
In this workshop/masterclass, singer, voice teacher and Feldenkrais Practitioner®, Karen R. Clark, presents three fundamental principles of teaching singing that find support in the Feldenkrais Method:
1) Vocal Technique is a structure through which the person may emerge
2) We can access the whole person through the voice
3) The Imagination is the singer’s most important musical muscle.
The first part of the class involves an Awareness Through Movement® group lesson.
After a break, the second half of the workshop Karen will coach selected singers to offer examples of in-studio application of Feldenkrais private lessons— called Functional Integration®. Our workshop concludes with discussion and references for further exploration.
Dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat or blanket if you have one.
Contralto, KarenR. Clark’s 20 year career as a Feldenkrais instructor overlaps with her 35 year career as a singer and voice teacher.
Karen's teaching philosophy supports the uniqueness of each individual; emphasizes a process for learning; and, enthusiastically appreciates that learning is lifelong. Karen’s singing is acclaimed worldwide for her performances and recordings in repertory ranging from medieval to modern music.
Recent recordings include the 2016 release of O Eterne Deus: Music of Hildegard von Bingen with Vajra Voices— the women’s vocal ensemble which Karen founded and directs; and, in 2019 Karen is featured on the Galax Quartet CD singing Joseph Schwantner’s song cycle— composed for Karen— Dream Drapery: Songs on Thoreau. Karen holds music degrees in vocal performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and has taught in universities to include, Princeton University, Sonoma State, UC Berkeley, and the USC Thornton School of Music.
January 2019 NATS Fundraiser Concert
The Joy of Song
Would you like to enjoy a beautiful afternoon of music — AND support our local Sonoma County musicians?
2019 NATS Singing Festival and Scholarship Audition
Saturday, February 16th in Ives Hall at Sonoma State University
The Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS is holding an adjudicated Singing Festival on February 16, 2019.
Any students of Chapter voice teachers are eligible to participate in the Classical Category, the Musical Theater Category, or both.
Adjudicators will complete evaluation forms for every singer to help them with their vocal development.
At the end of each division, the adjudicators will choose one or more singers of exceptional quality, regardless of the category they entered. These singers will be invited to return for a competitive Vocal Recital at 5:00 p.m. These finalists will perform at the recital to be considered for a cash prize.
At the evening recital, the adjudicators will pick several winners. Winners will be announced and will receive cash prizes. Runners-up will receive finalist certificates.
The Division categories and the Vocal Recital are open for public audience. Audience members are welcome to applaud but should never enter or exit while a singer is performing.
If you would like to sing in the Festival, please fill out the entry form. To be eligible for the competitive Vocal Recital, you must have studied with your teacher at least 5 months. There is no such requirement for simply singing in the Festival.
Entry forms must be received by February 4, 11:59 p.m.
Rules for Festival Entrants
1. Prepare and memorize two songs, with a maximum time of 8 minutes for both songs combined.
2. You are required to bring an original copy of your music, in addition to photocopies given to the accompanist.
3. Arrive 15 minutes before your assigned group time to register.
4. You may use our assigned accompanist or bring your own.
5. Be prepared to announce yourself, each song and its composer.
6. There is a $35 entry fee for each student for each category entered. If a singer enters both the classical and the musical theater categories within their division, they will be required to pay two entrance fees, one for each category.
7. The invitation to perform in the competitive Voice Recital at 5:00 p.m. is at the discretion of the adjudicators.
8. If asked to sing in the 5:00 p.m. Voice Recital, please confirm at the registration table that you will sing that evening; you MUST appear and sing to be considered for a cash prize.
9. There are four divisions with two categories per division (Classical & Musical Theater):
Division I: Ages 10-14
Division II: Ages 15-18 (still in High School)
Division III: Post High School ages 18-24
Division IV: Ages 25 and above
Any students of Chapter voice teachers are eligible to participate in the Classical Category, the Musical Theater Category, or both.
Adjudicators will complete evaluation forms for every singer to help them with their vocal development.
At the end of each division, the adjudicators will choose one or more singers of exceptional quality, regardless of the category they entered. These singers will be invited to return for a competitive Vocal Recital at 5:00 p.m. These finalists will perform at the recital to be considered for a cash prize.
At the evening recital, the adjudicators will pick several winners. Winners will be announced and will receive cash prizes. Runners-up will receive finalist certificates.
The Division categories and the Vocal Recital are open for public audience. Audience members are welcome to applaud but should never enter or exit while a singer is performing.
If you would like to sing in the Festival, please fill out the entry form. To be eligible for the competitive Vocal Recital, you must have studied with your teacher at least 5 months. There is no such requirement for simply singing in the Festival.
Entry forms must be received by February 4, 11:59 p.m.
Rules for Festival Entrants
1. Prepare and memorize two songs, with a maximum time of 8 minutes for both songs combined.
2. You are required to bring an original copy of your music, in addition to photocopies given to the accompanist.
3. Arrive 15 minutes before your assigned group time to register.
4. You may use our assigned accompanist or bring your own.
5. Be prepared to announce yourself, each song and its composer.
6. There is a $35 entry fee for each student for each category entered. If a singer enters both the classical and the musical theater categories within their division, they will be required to pay two entrance fees, one for each category.
7. The invitation to perform in the competitive Voice Recital at 5:00 p.m. is at the discretion of the adjudicators.
8. If asked to sing in the 5:00 p.m. Voice Recital, please confirm at the registration table that you will sing that evening; you MUST appear and sing to be considered for a cash prize.
9. There are four divisions with two categories per division (Classical & Musical Theater):
Division I: Ages 10-14
Division II: Ages 15-18 (still in High School)
Division III: Post High School ages 18-24
Division IV: Ages 25 and above
PAST EVENTS
Musical Theater Today with Joshua BaileySaturday afternoon, October 20th, 2018
2:00 - 5:00 P.M. |
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The Voice Department of the Santa Rosa Junior College, along with the Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS invites you to join us for our upcoming Fall Masterclass and Seminar:
Musical Theater Today with Joshua Bailey Saturday Afternoon, October 20th 2-5 PM Admission is Free Former Adjunct professor at New York University, Joshua Bailey has worked with Broadway producers, casting directors, and performers. He continues to work with Trancendance Theater and is the vocal director for Inspiration Morn in Shanghai, China. |
Joshua will be presenting on the current musical theater industry expectations and the common misconceptions in modern musical theater. This seminar is a must for teachers who want to help their students prepare to work and perform in todays musical theater industry, and for students who want current and accurate information on what they need to do to prepare for a career in musical theater.
"Joshua is aware of the newest trends in vocal performance and uses innovative methods to support his teaching technique. He understands and finds solutions for the individual problems of the singer." - Kim Moke, Euopean Vice President, Musical Theater Educators Alliance
Location:
Bette Condiotti Studio Theatre
Spreckels Performing Arts Center
5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park, CA
This vocal workshop is for anyone interested in performing
or teaching musical theater vocal technique.
Open to all ages and skill levels.
You can find out more about Joshua at: https://www.joshuabaileyvoicestudio.com
"Joshua is aware of the newest trends in vocal performance and uses innovative methods to support his teaching technique. He understands and finds solutions for the individual problems of the singer." - Kim Moke, Euopean Vice President, Musical Theater Educators Alliance
Location:
Bette Condiotti Studio Theatre
Spreckels Performing Arts Center
5409 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park, CA
This vocal workshop is for anyone interested in performing
or teaching musical theater vocal technique.
Open to all ages and skill levels.
You can find out more about Joshua at: https://www.joshuabaileyvoicestudio.com
Vocal Insights with Rhoslyn Jones
Saturday afternoon, May 5, 2018
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
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The Voice Department of SSU, along with the Redwood Empire chapter of NATS
Invites you to join us for our upcoming Spring Masterclass: Vocal Insights with Rhoslyn Jones Saturday afternoon, May 5, 2018 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Admission is Free Hailed as a "delicious diva" and lauded for her "unforgettably powerful voice", Canadian lyric soprano Rhoslyn Jones is a commanding presence on both the concert and operatic stages of the world. Equally passionate about teaching, Ms. Jones is on the vocal faculty at Sonoma State University. She also has a flourishing private studio and is the head of the Summer Vocal Workshop at the University of British Columbia, as well as an Artist in Residence at the School of the Arts in San Francisco. |
Green Music Center, Room 1028
Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA
For Directions: http://sonoma.edu Click on Maps & Tours
$5 Parking permits must be displayed on vehicle dashboard
You can find out more about Rhoslyn Jones at: http://rhoslynjones.com
You can find out more about this event at: https://www.natsredwoodempire.org
Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA
For Directions: http://sonoma.edu Click on Maps & Tours
$5 Parking permits must be displayed on vehicle dashboard
You can find out more about Rhoslyn Jones at: http://rhoslynjones.com
You can find out more about this event at: https://www.natsredwoodempire.org
2018 NATS Singing Festival and Scholarship Audition
Saturday, February 10th in Ives Hall at Sonoma State University
The Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS is holding an adjudicated Singing Festival on February 10,
2018. Any students of Chapter voice teachers are eligible to participate in either the Classical Category or the
Musical Theater Category, or both. Adjudicators will fill out evaluation forms for every singer to help them in
their vocal development.
At the end of each division, the adjudicators will choose one or more singers that they felt were of
exceptional quality, regardless of the category they entered. These singers will be invited to return for a
competitive Vocal Recital at 5:00 p.m. and these chosen singers must perform at the recital to be considered
for a cash prize. At the evening recital, the adjudicators will pick several winners. Winners will be announced
and will receive cash prizes. Runners-up will receive finalist certificates.
Both the Festival and the Vocal Recital are open to the public. Audience members should never enter or exit
while a singer is performing.
If you would like to sing in the Festival, please fill out the entry form. To be eligible for the competitive Vocal
Recital, you must have studied with your teacher at least 5 months. There is no such requirement for simply
singing in the Festival.
Entry forms must be received by February 1, 11:59 p.m.
2018. Any students of Chapter voice teachers are eligible to participate in either the Classical Category or the
Musical Theater Category, or both. Adjudicators will fill out evaluation forms for every singer to help them in
their vocal development.
At the end of each division, the adjudicators will choose one or more singers that they felt were of
exceptional quality, regardless of the category they entered. These singers will be invited to return for a
competitive Vocal Recital at 5:00 p.m. and these chosen singers must perform at the recital to be considered
for a cash prize. At the evening recital, the adjudicators will pick several winners. Winners will be announced
and will receive cash prizes. Runners-up will receive finalist certificates.
Both the Festival and the Vocal Recital are open to the public. Audience members should never enter or exit
while a singer is performing.
If you would like to sing in the Festival, please fill out the entry form. To be eligible for the competitive Vocal
Recital, you must have studied with your teacher at least 5 months. There is no such requirement for simply
singing in the Festival.
Entry forms must be received by February 1, 11:59 p.m.
Saturday, September 16th @ 1:00 PM 2017
Animating Your Arias: Creating the Essence of a Believable Character
Presented by Francine Landes
We’ll explore:
We’ll explore:
- How to develop a character: Finding the life of your character/role
- Techniques in creating the emotional life of a character
- How to embody the character with believable choices
Saturday September 16th 1:00-4:00 PM
Warren Auditorium/Ives Hall
Sonoma State University 1801 E Cotati Ave, Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Admission is Free
(Please be sure to buy the necessary parking permit for your dashboard.)
Francine Landes earned her B.F.A. from Julliard and an M.A. from Colombia. She has been teaching, directing, and choreographing throughout the world, and has worked in film, television, and theater, from Broadway (a Tony Award) and the New York Shakespeare Festival, to the San Francisco Opera Company. Her passion for acting has extended to all aspects of her life, including teaching, where she’s committed to creating the same joy for actors as she’s felt her entire life. She has taught acting, character embodiment, and movement for actors on the faculties of University of California Berkeley, Princeton, Columbia, and Wesleyan Universities and the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. She is a Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner and a member of SAG/AFTRA and AEA.
Warren Auditorium/Ives Hall
Sonoma State University 1801 E Cotati Ave, Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Admission is Free
(Please be sure to buy the necessary parking permit for your dashboard.)
Francine Landes earned her B.F.A. from Julliard and an M.A. from Colombia. She has been teaching, directing, and choreographing throughout the world, and has worked in film, television, and theater, from Broadway (a Tony Award) and the New York Shakespeare Festival, to the San Francisco Opera Company. Her passion for acting has extended to all aspects of her life, including teaching, where she’s committed to creating the same joy for actors as she’s felt her entire life. She has taught acting, character embodiment, and movement for actors on the faculties of University of California Berkeley, Princeton, Columbia, and Wesleyan Universities and the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. She is a Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner and a member of SAG/AFTRA and AEA.
Saturday, May 6th @ 1PM 2017
Vive la langue Française!: French Lyric Diction for Singers
Presented by Susan Witt-Butler
· Hone your expertise on the rules and sounds of French Lyric Diction
· Learn the IPA symbols to accompany them
· Learn some of the nuances of French musical phrasing.
· Learn how French vowels are formed.
Presented by Susan Witt-Butler
· Hone your expertise on the rules and sounds of French Lyric Diction
· Learn the IPA symbols to accompany them
· Learn some of the nuances of French musical phrasing.
· Learn how French vowels are formed.
Helpful tools to bring:
Hand mirrors * Curiosity* French chanson or aria you would like to explore.
This workshop is appropriate for those looking to be introduced to French Lyric Diction and for those who are looking to review or brush up their knowledge.
As a member of the San Francisco Opera Chorus for over 30 years, Susan Witt-Butler coached for numerous French operas with the language experts at the SF Opera. As professor of Voice and Opera, she taught French lyric diction at CSU East Bay and SSU.
Saturday afternoon, May 6, 2017
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Sonoma State University (room to be announced later)
Rohnert Park, CA
Admission is FREE
For directions: http://sonoma.edu – Click on Maps and Tours
(Please be sure to buy the necessary parking permit for your dashboard)
For the latest workshops, auditions, and news, find us online: https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodEmpireNATS/
http://www.natsredwoodempire.org
Hand mirrors * Curiosity* French chanson or aria you would like to explore.
This workshop is appropriate for those looking to be introduced to French Lyric Diction and for those who are looking to review or brush up their knowledge.
As a member of the San Francisco Opera Chorus for over 30 years, Susan Witt-Butler coached for numerous French operas with the language experts at the SF Opera. As professor of Voice and Opera, she taught French lyric diction at CSU East Bay and SSU.
Saturday afternoon, May 6, 2017
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Sonoma State University (room to be announced later)
Rohnert Park, CA
Admission is FREE
For directions: http://sonoma.edu – Click on Maps and Tours
(Please be sure to buy the necessary parking permit for your dashboard)
For the latest workshops, auditions, and news, find us online: https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodEmpireNATS/
http://www.natsredwoodempire.org
Sunday, February 26th at 5PM
2017 Scholarship Winner's Recital
Warren Auditorium, Sonoma State University
Thank you to all our volunteers, judges, and to all the singers who participated this year. You were a great group!
Congratulations to our 2017 Scholarship Winners:
Lucia London
Morgan Vermeulen
Thalia Paquet
Katya Lynch
Ellie Condello
Abigail Heidbreder
Sarah Foster
Megan Fleischmann
You can see them perform at the winner's recital on February 26th, at 5PM in Warren Auditorium at Sonoma State University.
“Sing! The world needs your music in it.”
Congratulations to our 2017 Scholarship Winners:
Lucia London
Morgan Vermeulen
Thalia Paquet
Katya Lynch
Ellie Condello
Abigail Heidbreder
Sarah Foster
Megan Fleischmann
You can see them perform at the winner's recital on February 26th, at 5PM in Warren Auditorium at Sonoma State University.
“Sing! The world needs your music in it.”
Saturday, February 25th 10-4
2017 Scholarship Auditions
Rules for entry and entry forms can be downloaded here:
Friday, November 4th at 7:30 PM
An Evening with Sandy and Richard Riccardi
Come to the party!
Sandy and Richard are here to make you scream with laughter and tap your toes to their all-original, all-comedy cabaret, describing their cracked and bushwhacked road to marital bliss, social consciousness, and menopause. With well over 5 million views on YouTube, their unique juxtaposition of modern, socio-relevant lyrics and tune-smithy jazz piano/vocal arrangements will charm your socks off.
Arrive at the party as early as 6:30 PM
Show starts at 7:30 PM
Suggested Donation $35
Limited Space - Please RSVP to: CDurand@ChristaDurand.com
To get the address to hosts’ residence in Cotati.
National Association of Teachers of Singing
Redwood Empire Chapter Fundraiser
These concerts are part of a series of Salon style concerts that raise funds to give scholarships to singers of all ages.
You can find out more information about the whole series at:
https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodEmpireNATS/
If you are unable to attend but would still like to send a donation, you may send it to our chapter’s treasurer:
Mary Beard, 2293 Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
Sandy and Richard are here to make you scream with laughter and tap your toes to their all-original, all-comedy cabaret, describing their cracked and bushwhacked road to marital bliss, social consciousness, and menopause. With well over 5 million views on YouTube, their unique juxtaposition of modern, socio-relevant lyrics and tune-smithy jazz piano/vocal arrangements will charm your socks off.
Arrive at the party as early as 6:30 PM
Show starts at 7:30 PM
Suggested Donation $35
Limited Space - Please RSVP to: CDurand@ChristaDurand.com
To get the address to hosts’ residence in Cotati.
National Association of Teachers of Singing
Redwood Empire Chapter Fundraiser
These concerts are part of a series of Salon style concerts that raise funds to give scholarships to singers of all ages.
You can find out more information about the whole series at:
https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodEmpireNATS/
If you are unable to attend but would still like to send a donation, you may send it to our chapter’s treasurer:
Mary Beard, 2293 Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
Sunday, October 23rd at 3PM
Isn’t it Romantic?
National Association of Teachers of Singing
Redwood Empire Chapter Fundraiser
Isn’t it Romantic?
Join us for a passionate lecture-performance that draws you into the lives, loves and music of an extraordinary circle of friends, including the woman at the heart of it all: Clara Wieck Schumann.
You might need a handkerchief and the music will never be just pretty sounds again, but a vivid and unforgettable doorway into a world of hope, joy, tragedy and tenderness that touches the essence of what devotion and friendship is all about.
Performed by Mezzo-Soprano, Bonnie Brooks and Kayleen Asbo, Storyteller & Pianist, with special guest Susan Witt-Butler, Soprano
Sunday, October 23rd at 3PM
Please RSVP to: bonniemezzo@comcast.net
or Laurieharpandvoice@gmail.com
You will be sent the address and directions to the performance in Sebastopol. Suggested donation $35
Bonnie Brooks is a well-loved singer in Sonoma County and the Bay Area, and is an exciting and dynamic classical and contemporary performer. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Kenyon College in Ohio and studied voice at the Mozarteum Conservatory of Music in Salzburg, Austria. She has performed principal roles with many opera companies including Pocket Opera, Cinnabar Opera Company, Northbay Opera, Sonoma City Opera and Redwood Empire Lyric Theater. She frequently appears as a concert soloist with the Sonoma County Bach Choir, Santa Rosa Symphony, Sacramento Metropolitan Orchestra, Oakland Symphony Chorus, Napa Valley Symphony, and North State Symphony.
Last fall, Bonnie released a jazz CD called “You Are The Song In Me.” Bonnie is an experienced and well-known vocal instructor and coach and is a co-founder of the Redwood Empire Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing.
Kayleen Asbo is a passionate scholar: a cultural historian, musician, writer and teacher who weaves myth, music, psychology, history and art with experiential learning. A faculty member of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music for seventeen years, Kayleen also teaches regularly for the Osher Life Long Learning Institutes at UC Berkeley, Sonoma State University and Dominican University. Her classes on a wide array of topics ranging from Depth Psychology to Dante to Contemporary Classical Music have been hailed as "inspirational", "fascinating and compelling", "transformational" and "truly life changing".
These concerts are part of a series of Salon style concerts this fall.
These concerts raise funds to give scholarships to singers of all ages.
You can find out more information about the whole series at:
https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodEmpireNATS/
If you are unable to attend but would still like to send a donation, you may send it to our chapter’s treasurer:
Mary Beard, 2293 Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
Redwood Empire Chapter Fundraiser
Isn’t it Romantic?
Join us for a passionate lecture-performance that draws you into the lives, loves and music of an extraordinary circle of friends, including the woman at the heart of it all: Clara Wieck Schumann.
You might need a handkerchief and the music will never be just pretty sounds again, but a vivid and unforgettable doorway into a world of hope, joy, tragedy and tenderness that touches the essence of what devotion and friendship is all about.
Performed by Mezzo-Soprano, Bonnie Brooks and Kayleen Asbo, Storyteller & Pianist, with special guest Susan Witt-Butler, Soprano
Sunday, October 23rd at 3PM
Please RSVP to: bonniemezzo@comcast.net
or Laurieharpandvoice@gmail.com
You will be sent the address and directions to the performance in Sebastopol. Suggested donation $35
Bonnie Brooks is a well-loved singer in Sonoma County and the Bay Area, and is an exciting and dynamic classical and contemporary performer. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Kenyon College in Ohio and studied voice at the Mozarteum Conservatory of Music in Salzburg, Austria. She has performed principal roles with many opera companies including Pocket Opera, Cinnabar Opera Company, Northbay Opera, Sonoma City Opera and Redwood Empire Lyric Theater. She frequently appears as a concert soloist with the Sonoma County Bach Choir, Santa Rosa Symphony, Sacramento Metropolitan Orchestra, Oakland Symphony Chorus, Napa Valley Symphony, and North State Symphony.
Last fall, Bonnie released a jazz CD called “You Are The Song In Me.” Bonnie is an experienced and well-known vocal instructor and coach and is a co-founder of the Redwood Empire Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing.
Kayleen Asbo is a passionate scholar: a cultural historian, musician, writer and teacher who weaves myth, music, psychology, history and art with experiential learning. A faculty member of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music for seventeen years, Kayleen also teaches regularly for the Osher Life Long Learning Institutes at UC Berkeley, Sonoma State University and Dominican University. Her classes on a wide array of topics ranging from Depth Psychology to Dante to Contemporary Classical Music have been hailed as "inspirational", "fascinating and compelling", "transformational" and "truly life changing".
These concerts are part of a series of Salon style concerts this fall.
These concerts raise funds to give scholarships to singers of all ages.
You can find out more information about the whole series at:
https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodEmpireNATS/
If you are unable to attend but would still like to send a donation, you may send it to our chapter’s treasurer:
Mary Beard, 2293 Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95407
2016 College Voice Symposium
September 24th, 1-4 PM @ Maria Carrillo High School
What comes next for a performer after High School ?
Finding the right college can be a daunting task. Non biased information about schools and voice programs can be difficult to find. This Symposium is designed to help North Bay music students and their parents navigate this difficult and extremely important transition from high school to college.
To find out more information or to register, please go to:
http://www.joshuabaileyvoicestudio.com
What comes next for a performer after High School ?
Finding the right college can be a daunting task. Non biased information about schools and voice programs can be difficult to find. This Symposium is designed to help North Bay music students and their parents navigate this difficult and extremely important transition from high school to college.
To find out more information or to register, please go to:
http://www.joshuabaileyvoicestudio.com
Upcoming Workshop!
Auditioning 101: How to Audition for Maximum Impact
Presented by Elly Lichenstein, Artistic Director at Cinnabar Theater in Petaluma.
Over the years, Elly has auditioned literally hundreds of singers to cast in her productions at Cinnabar. She has a very rich background from which to bring plenty of good advice and helpful pointers to our students!
For more information on Elly and her credentials, click on this link: http://www.cinnabartheater.org/who/
What: Master Class with Elly Lichenstein
Where: Warren Auditorium/Ives Hall, SSU campus in Rohnert Park
When: Saturday afternoon, Sept. 10, from 1 - 4 p.m.
Over the years, Elly has auditioned literally hundreds of singers to cast in her productions at Cinnabar. She has a very rich background from which to bring plenty of good advice and helpful pointers to our students!
For more information on Elly and her credentials, click on this link: http://www.cinnabartheater.org/who/
What: Master Class with Elly Lichenstein
Where: Warren Auditorium/Ives Hall, SSU campus in Rohnert Park
When: Saturday afternoon, Sept. 10, from 1 - 4 p.m.
Save the Date!! April 5, 2014 is our spring workshop/master class!
And please print out copies of the flyer and spread them around to your students and anyone else who might be interested!
We are highly pleased to have baritone Eugene Villanueva present our spring master class this coming April 5th, and thankful to Bonnie Brooks for letting us know of this special opportunity for our chapter! Eugene is having a remarkable professional career so far (check out the attached flyer or his website-also listed on the flyer), and he will be based out of northern California for several weeks this spring as he does his West Coast recital tour.
A particularly nice human interest angle...Eugene studied voice with Bonnie Brooks when he was in high school! After that, he went on to work with several other notable teachers, including Marilyn Horne, Thomas Hampson, Leo Nucci, Renato Bruson, Mirella Freni, Giuseppe Sabbatini, and Donata D’Annunzio Lombardi.
Master class details...
1. Eugene will plan to work with six students from our chapter: three from SSU, and three from independent vocal studios. This master class will be geared toward more advanced students. So please have your best students start polishing a couple of their Italian art songs so that they'll be ready for you to nominate for participation in this master class.
****More information on the nomination process to follow soon...also, the room location at SSU is still to be decided.
2. The master class focuses mainly on the Italian style, tradition and interpretation. Participants would have an opportunity to learn and identify many of the essential Bel Canto techniques found in some of the most beloved Italian songs, which will ultimately serve the maturation and development of their vocal technique!
3. Appropriate repertoire for this master class can include the 17th and 18th century Italian art songs, or Donizetti, Bellini, Donaudy,etc. However, if your students already know or are willing to learn an art song by F. Paolo Tosti, please have them prepare that. Eugene likes to coach singers on Tosti rep because he is widely regarded in Italy as the best composer-teacher of technique and style for Bel Canto, Verdi and Verismo.
Here are a few suggested Tosti song titles for your consideration:
Ideale
Sogno
Non t’amo più
Tristezza
L’ultima canzone
La serenata
A vuchella
Ridonami la calma
Preghiera
L’alba separa dalla luce l’ombra (Quatto canzone d’Amaranta)
Che dici, o parola del saggio (Quattro canzone d’Amaranta)
Vorrei morir
Chitarra Abruzzese
Ave Maria
English alternatives:
In the Hush of the Night
Goodbye!
Pierrot’s Lament
First Waltz - Canto Popolare Abruzzese
Hello Redwood Empire chapter members,
I hope you all got a chance to read the "Save the Date" email that went out several days ago. We feel like we have a very special opportunity with our spring workshop this time, in that our presenter Eugene Villanueva is a highly impressive up-and-coming young baritone in the process of building an international performing career, and thus will have many valuable insights to share with all of us as we watch him work with our students!
This occasion has an even more special angle because it's a case of 'local boy makes good!" Eugene grew up in Rohnert Park and still has family there; our colleague Bonnie Brooks was his first voice teachers back in high school!
The location will be Green Music Center, Room 1028, at SSU. The updated flyer with this information is attached.
The workshop will heavily emphasize style and interpretation, but will also include some technical tips when they can be helpful.
Here's how to nominate your students to participate in the master class (keep in mind that this is an excellent opportunity for your male students to coach with a man!):
1. Please nominate only your advanced, 'moving towards a career' students. (Since we try to gear our spring workshops toward us teachers for purposes of increasing our knowledge and exposing us to more pedagogical tools for our studio work, we'd like the nominees to be at a high enough level of technique and artistry that they can quickly respond to this professional's technical guidance and interpretive ideas, and we teachers can then learn from observing that.)
2. Please choose an Italian art song (if possible, Tosti is encouraged!) or aria that's not too long, since that will mean more in-depth time to work on the song. Eugene will only have about 25 minutes to work with each singer, and would like to cover as much artistic ground as possible in that time.
3. Using a smartphone, please video-record your student singing the Italian art song that they would wish to work on at the master class. Email the video clip to either Susan Witt-Butler (sopwitt@sbcglobal.net) or Vaida Falconbridge at vaidafalconbridge23@hotmail.com. The nominations will be forwarded to Mr. Villanueva who will make the final choices.
4. The deadline for submitting video nominations is Monday, March 24. Six singers will be selected from the nominees and announced via email to the entire chapter by Wednesday March 26. Three students from SSU will participate, and three from independent studios. Eugene will also see these video nominations and help select the students he will work with.
(Note: private coaching sessions with Eugene Villanueva also available.) We anticipate getting quite a few nominations for this master class, and not everyone will get the chance to coach with Eugene on April 5. However, he will be in the area for a several weeks this spring, and is available for private coaching sessions at very reasonable rates. If you would like more information on this, please let me know, and I can put you in touch with him.
Best regards,
Vaida
We are highly pleased to have baritone Eugene Villanueva present our spring master class this coming April 5th, and thankful to Bonnie Brooks for letting us know of this special opportunity for our chapter! Eugene is having a remarkable professional career so far (check out the attached flyer or his website-also listed on the flyer), and he will be based out of northern California for several weeks this spring as he does his West Coast recital tour.
A particularly nice human interest angle...Eugene studied voice with Bonnie Brooks when he was in high school! After that, he went on to work with several other notable teachers, including Marilyn Horne, Thomas Hampson, Leo Nucci, Renato Bruson, Mirella Freni, Giuseppe Sabbatini, and Donata D’Annunzio Lombardi.
Master class details...
1. Eugene will plan to work with six students from our chapter: three from SSU, and three from independent vocal studios. This master class will be geared toward more advanced students. So please have your best students start polishing a couple of their Italian art songs so that they'll be ready for you to nominate for participation in this master class.
****More information on the nomination process to follow soon...also, the room location at SSU is still to be decided.
2. The master class focuses mainly on the Italian style, tradition and interpretation. Participants would have an opportunity to learn and identify many of the essential Bel Canto techniques found in some of the most beloved Italian songs, which will ultimately serve the maturation and development of their vocal technique!
3. Appropriate repertoire for this master class can include the 17th and 18th century Italian art songs, or Donizetti, Bellini, Donaudy,etc. However, if your students already know or are willing to learn an art song by F. Paolo Tosti, please have them prepare that. Eugene likes to coach singers on Tosti rep because he is widely regarded in Italy as the best composer-teacher of technique and style for Bel Canto, Verdi and Verismo.
Here are a few suggested Tosti song titles for your consideration:
Ideale
Sogno
Non t’amo più
Tristezza
L’ultima canzone
La serenata
A vuchella
Ridonami la calma
Preghiera
L’alba separa dalla luce l’ombra (Quatto canzone d’Amaranta)
Che dici, o parola del saggio (Quattro canzone d’Amaranta)
Vorrei morir
Chitarra Abruzzese
Ave Maria
English alternatives:
In the Hush of the Night
Goodbye!
Pierrot’s Lament
First Waltz - Canto Popolare Abruzzese
Hello Redwood Empire chapter members,
I hope you all got a chance to read the "Save the Date" email that went out several days ago. We feel like we have a very special opportunity with our spring workshop this time, in that our presenter Eugene Villanueva is a highly impressive up-and-coming young baritone in the process of building an international performing career, and thus will have many valuable insights to share with all of us as we watch him work with our students!
This occasion has an even more special angle because it's a case of 'local boy makes good!" Eugene grew up in Rohnert Park and still has family there; our colleague Bonnie Brooks was his first voice teachers back in high school!
The location will be Green Music Center, Room 1028, at SSU. The updated flyer with this information is attached.
The workshop will heavily emphasize style and interpretation, but will also include some technical tips when they can be helpful.
Here's how to nominate your students to participate in the master class (keep in mind that this is an excellent opportunity for your male students to coach with a man!):
1. Please nominate only your advanced, 'moving towards a career' students. (Since we try to gear our spring workshops toward us teachers for purposes of increasing our knowledge and exposing us to more pedagogical tools for our studio work, we'd like the nominees to be at a high enough level of technique and artistry that they can quickly respond to this professional's technical guidance and interpretive ideas, and we teachers can then learn from observing that.)
2. Please choose an Italian art song (if possible, Tosti is encouraged!) or aria that's not too long, since that will mean more in-depth time to work on the song. Eugene will only have about 25 minutes to work with each singer, and would like to cover as much artistic ground as possible in that time.
3. Using a smartphone, please video-record your student singing the Italian art song that they would wish to work on at the master class. Email the video clip to either Susan Witt-Butler (sopwitt@sbcglobal.net) or Vaida Falconbridge at vaidafalconbridge23@hotmail.com. The nominations will be forwarded to Mr. Villanueva who will make the final choices.
4. The deadline for submitting video nominations is Monday, March 24. Six singers will be selected from the nominees and announced via email to the entire chapter by Wednesday March 26. Three students from SSU will participate, and three from independent studios. Eugene will also see these video nominations and help select the students he will work with.
(Note: private coaching sessions with Eugene Villanueva also available.) We anticipate getting quite a few nominations for this master class, and not everyone will get the chance to coach with Eugene on April 5. However, he will be in the area for a several weeks this spring, and is available for private coaching sessions at very reasonable rates. If you would like more information on this, please let me know, and I can put you in touch with him.
Best regards,
Vaida