For a while there, most excuses in the world - especially in the South, started with the words, "Because of Covid." Although, with a Southern accent, it usually comes out, "Cuz' uh Covid."
I grew up in Alabama, and I do luv me a Southern accent.
When I visited recently, I asked my musician brother, "Why are there so many great musicians in the South?"
He thought for a while and said, "Ya know, I think it's the Bible Belt, and so many people go to church every week."
In a church setting, it's ok to sing loud - to raise your voice in song. It's ok to play the piano, guitar, or any instrument, loudly. You're there to play loudly and to make "a joyful noise."
Heck, I grew up going to church every week - my daddy was an Episcopal priest, and we had an operatic baritone that was our song leader. I was about ten years old and used to imitate him at church. My Mama would look at me with a raised eyebrow and say "Don't make fun!"
I would say, "I'm nawt!" (As any 10-year-old would say, no matter the accusation.)
Being the Son of a Preacher Man was... interesting - but more on that later.
This is not an email about anyone needing to go to church, but when people gather and raise their voices in song, it makes you a better singer.
And we're here to make you a better singer.
So, if you're not the church-going type, or everyone mumbles the songs softly in your church, here is a recipe to fast-track your voice to greatness:
Join a great choir.
I think a community choir that sings with other ensembles, like a local orchestra is one of the best. They almost always have great conductors, they work on challenging classical music, and you'll get decent vocal instruction and a weekly opportunity to practice.
If you join a choir, you'll have a good reason to work on your voice between rehearsals.
You'll want to improve your voice because parts of the repertoire will be difficult for you. Difficult is good!
Great boxers work with great trainers.
Great singers work with great teachers.
No matter your goal, you want to work with the best.
My students have been "doin real good" lately. Some symptoms of improvement are:
Singing ranges are expanding
Singing with confidence
Getting cast in local shows
Placed in local choirs
And, just singing the way they've always wanted!
It's so cliche to say this, but, Amazing Things are Happening!
Click here for more info: www.singwithjosh.com
Best,
Josh