Sight singing is the skill of turning written music into sound (and song), by making sense of such elements as rhythm, intervals, key signatures and phrasing. Anyone who has ever studied voice or sung in a choir – knows the importance of sight singing. But where do you begin? Many good singers and choristers don’t yet know how to read music. Sight Singing Made Easy is an intensive ten-week course which combines essential music theory (treble and bass clefs, notes and note values, time signatures, frequently used terms and signs) with a practical approach to sight singing informed by the ‘Kodály Method’ of ear training.
Through this course, which is especially useful for voice students and choristers, students will simultaneously develop their music reading skills and practical sight singing – incorporating such elements as pitch, tuning, rhythm and solfege (do-re-mi, etc.). As one is learned, so is the other. While a lot of ground is covered each week and homework given, the approach is both enjoyable and student-friendly. This course is for anyone who has ever wanted to pick up a song or a piece of sheet music and sing. It’s easier than you think.
Students are advised to purchase William Appleby’s Sing at Sight book (available from Waltons music shops) before the start of the course.
Sight Singing Made Easy is one of our group theory courses for beginners. Private, partner, group and intensive sight singing, music theory and singing/voice lessons are also available for students at all levels, from beginner to advanced. Go to Music Theory & Sight Singing or Departments & Faculty - Voice (Singing) for more information.
First Term Schedule & Fee
To come.
Gwen Dukes, Teacher
Gwen Dukes began her musical study with piano and received a Dip.Mus.Ed from the DIT Conservatory of Music, a B.Mus.Ed from Trinity College Dublin and an M.Phil from DIT; she is currently doing a Ph.D with Kingston University London. She also has an ATCL diploma in piano and ALCM diploma in concert flute. Gwen has been teaching piano and music theory for over a decade and has been a keyboard player and vocalist with numerous bands, as well as the Gardiner Street Gospel choir, with which she performed for six years. Her most recent instrument is the cello. In addition to Sight Singing Made Easy, Gwen currently teaches piano and music theory at the New School.
Enrolment
Enrolment for this course requires a completed enrolment form and full payment of tuition fees. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, based on the date of enrolment. Early enrolment is recommended, as places are limited.
Purchasing this course as a gift? Download a gift certificate booking form.
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