Contemporary Vocal Workshop

Intermediate-Advanced Course

Comments from Students
Teacher
Schedule & Fee
Enrolment

The Contemporary Vocal Workshop is specially designed for the amateur blues, r’n’b, folk, soul, gospel or pop singer. Although the classical tradition of vocal training has in the past proven useful, it does not necessarily address all the vocal demands of contemporary music, and many students reach the end of the road with their teachers still asking a lot of questions, such as: How do I sing louder? How do I sound more mainstream? How do those artists do that, and how can I?

This workshop, which includes both solo and group singing in 2-, 3- and 4-part harmony, will introduce some essential techniques, specific to contemporary vocal styles, that will help you to:

Develop your breathing and support
Find your ‘belt voice’
Learn about vocal riffing and embellishment
Address voice qualities and vocal ingredients relevant to particular contemporary styles
Maintain vocal health

The workshop will also include preparation with an accompanist, and (although this is not required) participants can showcase some of the material they have worked on in a final performance, open to the public. Participants are encouraged to invite family and friends along!

Although this workshop is an introduction to contemporary vocal styles, it is not intended for voice beginners and is not merely a ‘sing-along’. (Go to Introducing Singing for Adults for information on our beginners course.) Undertaking this course assumes that you have the time to practise consistently, are prepared to perform in front of others and will regularly attend.

Aoife is available to speak by phone with those interested in participating in this workshop. Please let us know by email or phone if you would like her to contact you.

The Contemporary Vocal Workshop is one of our group courses. Private, partner, group and intensive lessons in popular and contemporary singing styles are also available. See Departments & Faculty - Voice (Singing) for more information.

Comments from Students

'Cannot fault one thing about it. I do think the teacher makes the whole experience for you, and ours is absolutely amazing – huge energy, humour and skill!'
– E. Kennedy

'The feedback I have received was excellent. I've learned how to hit the high notes and sing songs properly.'
– M. Doran

'Warm, friendly environment with excellent teacher – fantastic for building confidence.'
– E. Kennedy

'Fantastic course. I enjoyed the learning as well as making new friends along the way.'
– M. Doran

'The class was a wonderful mix of practical techniques and fun.'
– S. Kavanagh

'A positive, fun course. I learned loads.'
– S. McCabe

Aoife Doyle, Teacher

Aoife Doyle Aoife grew up in a musical family and played fiddle, whistle and sang from an early age. She received her diploma in performance from the London Guildhall School of Music in 2005, and in 2008 she received a BA in Jazz Performance from Newpark Music Centre. Aoife studied vocal technique with Sheila McCarthy and more recently with vocal technician and former ENT surgeon Tom Wilson. Throughout her training she has developed her own technique, learning about the physicality of the voice and how to find one's natural voice and style while keeping the vocal chords healthy. With this extensive experience, she has developed a unique teaching approach that demystifies vocal technique for students. Aoife has extensive experience – both as performer and teacher – in a wide range of vocal styles, including contemporary, folk, jazz, blues, Irish and world. She has worked as a professional vocalist since 2000, collaborating on a number of albums and performing in venues including the National Concert Hall, Cork Opera House and arts centres around Ireland. She also has her own band and is soon to release her debut solo album.

2013-2014 First Term Schedule & Fee

Schedule to be confirmed.

Tuition Fee: €270

Enrolment

Enrolment for this course requires a completed enrolment form and full payment of tuition fees. (Go to Enrolment & Booking Form Downloads for a 2013-2014 General Enrolment Form.) Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, based on the date of enrolment. Early enrolment is recommended, as places are limited to ten.

Purchasing this course as a gift? Go to Enrolment & Booking Form Downloads for a Gift Certificate Booking Form.

Waltons New School of Music