VOCAL TECHNIQUE WORKSHOPS & MASTER CLASSES

Vocal technique Workshops and Master Classes are available for university and independent voice students, choral groups, production cast members, etc. Sessions are ideal for any group or ensemble of singers who wish to enhance their understanding, and thereby, improve their overall vocal abilities. Workshops can be tailored for students as young as age 12 (with some exceptions for exceptionally gifted younger students), in which case the technical terminology is simplified and the entire process is more "active" and age-appropriate. There is no adult upper age limit.  If you can phonate, you can participate!  All workshops include verbal instruction, vocal demonstration, hard-copy packet handouts, powerpoint visual aid presentation (via projection system), Q&A periods, and active participation amid attendees. 

Workshops can vary with regard to types of sessions.  The shortest recommended duration is 3 hours.  Many organizations benefit most from a two-part session consisting of one initial 3hr session, followed by a 2hr or 3hr session after a lunch break, or on the following day.  Fees vary based on workshop duration selected.

WHAT WILL PARTICIPANTS LEARN?

Workshop participants and private students gain a deeper, clearer understanding of "how it all works", equipped with a tool box full of information and exercises that may be used to address any inquiry about one's own personal vocal and breathing mechanics. 

Initial terms that are introduced, defined, explored and discussed include: Volition, Respiration, Phonation, Resonation, Articulation.  These terms and their definitions provide the language foundation for further communication throughout the workshop.

Other anatomical aspects that are addressed and explained include:  Lungs, rib cage, intercostals, diaphragm, abdominals, etc. with regard to breathing.  Also: Significant intrinsic muscles, important cartilage structures and functional ligaments and tissues of the larynx, trachea, as well as various components and structures of the resonator (human head)... all with regard to phonation and resonation.

Articulation is also discussed with regard to its enhancement through the study of IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet).  This includes a fascinating exploration of the "spacing and placing" of the infinite number of vowels and consonants used by humans around the world.  

And, of course, a myriad of very specific vocal exercises are introduced, explained, demonstrated and applied with clear and helpful instruction as to why the exercise is helpful for a certain intrinsic laryngeal muscle group (through isolation of that group), or helpful for the overall synergy of several muscle groups (as with a blended vocal exercise). 

In addition, vocal pathologies are discussed (cysts, nodes, polyps, paralysis, etc.) as well as the sources and ramifications of congenital conditions vs. vocal abuse.  Other issues often addressed via Q&A periods include allergies, vocal fatigue, general illness, etc.

Beyond the technical realm, there is the beauty of artistry and interpretation.  This, of course, is why we do what we do!  Such limitless choices of dynamics, range, tone quality and color, may only be achieved with a voice and breathing system that is functioning at its fullest and most healthy potential.  Cooper's Vocal Technique Workshop and/or participation in the Cooper Voice Studio (private lessons) will provide the necessary tools to help you achieve that potential and enjoy the true freedom of the purest, most exciting form of vocal expression! 

For booking and information, contact Jennifer Cooper at godivaproductions@gmail.com or call 240-237-8318. 

TESTIMONIALS

"In addition to learning how the vocal mechanism works - breathing, phonating and the activity of the physical apparatus - Jennifer also outlines for the singer the scope and the limits of the human voice: what the individual singer can expect to be able to do vocally. There is never a dull moment in Jennifer's presentation, and questions are always welcomed and responded to with clarity. Singing can be very subjective and can be overwhelmed with misinformation and misunderstanding: Jennifer alleviates all of the mystery. It is a joy to be in her presence, to hear her sing, and to respond to her as a model of professional vocal technique." 
Joe Richter
Prince George's County Public Schools
Vocal & General Music Supervisor - Retired
Voice Teacher, Mentor Teacher, Singer - Currently

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"I left the workshop  wanting more and feeling motivated to dedicate time throughout the week  to vocal exercises.  What always seemed tedious and boring became  significantly easier to understand and more exciting to execute.  Can't  wait to have Jen back again to pick up where we left off and in fact would opt for a full day rather than a half-day of workshops!"

Laura Lawson, St. Maries Musica - Workshop Participant, 2012 

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"I learned more about the voice in two  hours than I had learned in 50 years of singing.  The exercises that  Jennifer showed us are really helping me, and her insight into and  instruction in vocal care was eye opening.  I'd recommend her workshop to all serious singers, whether stage performers, band singers, or  choral singers.  She covers it all!"

Bob Boyd, St. Maries Musica - Workshop Participant, 2012    

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