CYT VOICE Class Benchmarks

Whether you sing in your church choir, along with Rock Band, or just in the shower, singing can be fun!  Learn how to put those pipes to use with good technique and style. In this interactive class students will learn the fundamental concepts and training of the voice. Learn proper posture and breathing techniques, phrasing and how to stay on pitch.

Benchmarks:
Identify the function of the diaphragm
Describe the vocal instrument, ie: how it works from diaphragm to producing sound
Demonstrate proper posture
Identify and demonstrate 6-8 proper warm up techniques
Identify and demonstrate proper breathing technique
Identify and describe use of diction and articulation when singing
Describe and demonstrate staying on pitch, how to not go flat or sharp when singing pitches
Identify and demonstrate phrasing
Identify different sensory elements that create a mood, emotion or idea in a musical selection
Prepare and perform two music selections using techniques learned in class

Voice 2

Pre-requisite: 1 voice class
Take your vocal expertise to the next level and explore analyzing your character and how they would deliver a song. Whether you want to perform Bubble-gum pop, sweeping ballads or country blue grass, these techniques will strengthen your voice and performances. Incorporate acting/character skills in your songs and perform pitch-perfectly at showcase.

Benchmarks:
Review of Voice I Benchmarks
Identify different sensory elements that create a mood, emotion or idea in a musical selection
Develop character backgrounds on songs that are being prepared
Discuss and demonstrate stage presence and acting through song
Prepare and perform two music selections using technique learned throughout class

Voice 3  - Harmonies

Harmonize together! This class breaks down the process of harmonizing with another vocalist. Learn solfege, blending, character relationships and creating basic chords within a duet or trio!

Benchmarks:
Review of Voice I and II Benchmarks – proper posture, breathing, articulation
Describe and demonstrate solfege and how it is used to sight read music
Listen for and demonstrate blending within a duet or trio
Create harmonies by identifying the Root, the 3rd and the 5th of given chords; progressing to more developed chords and more complex harmonies
Demonstration character relationships between characters in duet or trio
Prepare 1-2 duets or trios incorporating techniques learned throughout course

Voice 4  - Choral

Choral music has existed for centuries and is one of the best ways to enhance your ear training and knowledge of music. In this class learn to sing more advanced choral pieces ranging from Baroque choral pieces to Broadway show-stoppers to American Spirituals.

Benchmarks:
Identify soprano, alto, tenor and bass lines in music
Describe and demonstrate solfege and how it is used to sight read music
Listen for and demonstrate blending within group singing
Demonstrate singing 2-4 part harmony
Create harmonies by identifying the Root, the 3rd and the 5th of given chords; progressing to more developed chords and more complex harmonies
Locate repeated patterns throughout music in your own voice part as well as other voice parts.
Demonstrate proficient articulation and diction
Identify and deomstrate the following: catch breathing, group dynamics, counter melody, Italian tempo, dynamic, and articulation markings
Describe the role of a conductor and identify their gestures
Prepare and perform 2-3 choral pieces, ranging in theme, voice parts, and musical genre.