Event

Contemporary A Cappella Wokshops

Presenter

Vocal Australia
Amelia Alder and Chris Blain

Description

WORKSHOP 1: GETTING STARTED
Includes introduction to a cappella styles and introduction to beat-boxing / vocal percussion.
Date: Wednesday 27 June

WORKSHOP 2: ARRANGING FOR A CAPPELLA
An exploration of some proven methods for arranging contemporary a cappella in four - eight parts as well as an interactive workshop devise new original arrangements.
Date: Thursday August 2

WORKSHOP 3: SONGWRITING
A complete package that explores the process of writing, arranging, scoring and performing original a cappella music from start to end. Participants will work in groups to explore, devise and create original songs which will be arranged into 4-8 part harmony and performed for exploratory purposes. We will explore solid processes for everything from brain-storming themes to texturing vocal backing parts.
Date: Wednesday 14 November

COST (per workshop)
$130.00 (members)
$190.00 (non-members)

TIME
9.30am - 3.30pm

VENUE
Statewide Resources Centre
150 Palmerston Street, Carlton
Melway reference — Map 2B:H6
Google Map

Booking essential
Lunch is provided

DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION FORM

FULL DETAILS OF WORKSHOPS

WORKSHOP 1 : GETTING STARTED
Wednesday 27 June

SESSION ONE: INTRODUCTION TO A CAPPELLA

In this session we will delve into the history of unaccompanied singing, whilst exploring its current incarnations in an interactive session. We will cover many styles of vocal harmony, using demonstration pieces to feel first hand what the differences are. We will also examine uses of a cappella music in current popular media - a great avenue through which to get your students and/or choristers enthused about singing.

SESSION TWO: INTRODUCTION TO BEAT-BOXING / VOCAL PERCUSSION

One of the most striking differences between the a cappella of yester-year and today's exciting offerings is the use of vocal and body percussion. We will examine the basics of how to create sounds and construct rhythmic patterns with just the voice. We will look at the production of basic drum kit sounds, learn some modes of notation, and examine some great teaching methods through creative group activities.
You should attend this session if:

You have or would like a strong choral music program at your school or in your community
You would like to get more boys involved in singing programs at your school or in your community
You would like some tips on how to engage students and singers with vocal harmony
You enjoy singing vocal harmony and would like to know more
If you’re not sure whether this session is right for you, please email info@vocalaustralia.com

WORKSHOP 2: ARRANGING FOR A CAPPELLA
Thursday August 2

SESSION ONE: ARRANGING METHODS

This session will explore some proven methods for arranging contemporary a cappella in four - eight parts. We will explore the whole process from conception to completion with an interactive example piece through a step by step process. Explore handy tips on software use, resource collection, support avenues and more.

SESSION TWO: VOCAL MIXUP

Vocal MIXUP is an interactive workshop to put our new arranging methods to good use. Participants will work in groups to devise original arrangements of well-known a cappella songs using the skills they have learned in the arranging session. No prior experience or scoring or notation required.

You should attend this session if:
You enjoy singing vocal harmony and would like to know more
You would like to be able to arrange music that appeals your class, group or choir
You have a basic knowledge of music theory
You would like to speed up and refine your arranging process
You would like assistance in teaching your year 12 music students

If you’re not sure whether this session is right for you, please email info@vocalaustralia.com

WORKSHOP 3: SONGWRITING
Wednesday 14 November

This complete workshop package will explore the process of writing, arranging, scoring and performing original a cappella music from start to end. Participants will work in groups to explore, devise and create original songs which will be arranged into 4-8 part harmony and performed for exploratory purposes. We will explore solid processes for everything from brain-storming themes to texturing vocal backing parts.

You should attend this session if:
You enjoy singing a cappella music and would like to write your own
You have tried to write songs in the past but have got "stuck" along the way
You have a basic knowledge of music theory
You would like support and tips on writing original music
If you’re not sure whether this session is right for you, please email info@vocalaustralia.com

Biog

Vocal Australia aims to develop, grow, support and nurture the a cappella singing scene in Australia, through the production and provision of education, events and resources. Vocal Australia sees an improved and developed Australian culture and community, which embraces expression and creativity through group harmony singing.

Vocal Australia's Key Goals:

• To develop and promote the vocal music scene in Australia;
• To connect groups and singers, fostering collaboration and competition;
• To support new and established a cappella groups with musical, planning, business, touring and performing assistance;
• To grow the Australian a cappella scene through education programmes in schools, universities and communities; and
• To promote the best of Australia vocal music internationally.