By E. Perryman
The fall 2020 semester at Wagner has wrapped. Last January, I started teaching adjunct voice at Wagner before everything hit the fan with Covid. Even though we’ve been remote since March, I’m really enjoying living a musical mash up of boomwackers by day and German lied by night.
Takeaways after semester 2:
1. Body Language Is King
I’ve gathered many vocal rudiments along the way but the body work I explored with Patt O’Neill has laid the foundation filter for my insights as I guide others.
2. Read between the lines
Finding the right approach isn’t always clear cut. It definitely isn’t a one size fits all. The path to growth has emerged out of routine, awareness, and experimentation.
3. Don’t overthink it
Easier said than done. Please find that released onset/on pitch vibration/high position/diaphragmatic breath/independent tongue/flexible support/spacious palate lift…..but don’t think about it. Alrighty then.
4. All for one and one for all
Aligning vowels ain’t for the faint hearted.
WEEK 1 YES! I’ve got that “ay” vowel right where I want it! It matches my other vowels!
WEEK 2 WTF. Where’d I leave my “ay” vowel? Bueller? Bueller? Anyone?
5. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy
These Wagner kids have a great work ethic. My habits in undergraduate school had a bit less rigor. I blame it on Barry Manilow Downen at Boomers.
But sometimes it’s also been a good idea to take it easy that day on the Bel Canto gospel……..best to get a burrito and chill.
Onwards and upwards.
#akintsucrooner
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